About this spice farm tour
Zanzibar's nickname, the Spice Island, goes back to the 19th century, when clove plantations spread across the island under Omani rule. Cloves are still grown here, alongside many spices you probably use at home without having seen the plant.
On a working farm in the countryside outside Stone Town, a farm guide cuts, crushes and passes around leaves, bark and seeds, and you guess what they are before you are told.
Highlights
- Cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, cardamom, vanilla, black pepper and lemongrass on the plant
- Seasonal fruit tasting
- How spices are used in Swahili food and local remedies
- An optional Swahili lunch on the farm
Spice farm tour itinerary
Timings are a guide.
- StartPickup from your hotel.
- 30 minDrive into the countryside (time depends on your hotel zone).
- 1 hr 30Guided walk around the farm with tastings.
- 30 minFruit tasting, and lunch if you chose the lunch option.
- EndOptional browse at the farm stall, then drive back to your hotel.
Your private options
Private farm tour
Your own guide and vehicle.
With Swahili lunch
Lunch on the farm after the tour.
With Jozani Forest
Make it a full day in the south.
All our Zanzibar activities are private: only your group takes part. Upgrades are quoted on request.
Transfer from your hotel
The tour price above does not depend on where you stay. Getting to the start is priced separately, per vehicle for up to 6 guests, return. If you stay near the start, pickup is included.
| Your hotel area | Trip starts at | Return transfer |
|---|---|---|
| Stone Town & airportStone Town, Shangani, Mbweni, airport area | Stone Town | Included |
| West coastFumba, Chukwani, Bububu, Mtoni | Stone Town | $90 |
| South-east coastPaje, Jambiani, Bwejuu, Michamvi, Dongwe | Stone Town | $110 |
| North coastNungwi, Kendwa | Stone Town | $130 |
| North-east coastMatemwe, Kiwengwa, Pwani Mchangani, Pongwe | Stone Town | $120 |
| South tipKizimkazi, Makunduchi | Stone Town | $130 |
Not sure of your area? Tell us your hotel name and we confirm the price. See all transfer prices.
What's included
- Transport from Stone Town
- Farm guide and farm entry
- Spice and fruit tasting
- Bottled water
- Swahili lunch (lunch option)
- Pickup from hotels in the Stone Town & airport area
Not included
- Transfer from other areas (see transfer prices below)
- Purchases at the farm stall
- Tips
Add-ons
- Swahili lunch
- Combine with Jozani Forest
- Combine with a cooking class
Children and groups
Very good for children. Paths are flat and the tasting keeps them busy. Group rates are available for six or more travellers.
Booking and cancellation
Send us your date, number of travellers and hotel. We confirm availability and the full price in USD before you pay. Changes and cancellations follow our booking terms. If weather or sea conditions make a trip unsafe, we reschedule or refund it.
Spice farm tour FAQs
Will I be pushed to buy spices?
Most farms end at a small stall selling spices and oils. Buying is entirely optional, and we ask our farm hosts to keep it that way.
Is it suitable in the rainy season?
Yes, but paths can be muddy. Bring shoes you don't mind getting dirty.
Can I do this and Jozani on the same day?
Yes. The Spice Farm and Jozani Forest day is one of our combination tours.
Make it a full day
This trip is part of our Spice Farm & Jozani Forest Day.