About this seaweed farming visit
Along the south-east coast, from Paje to Jambiani, rows of wooden stakes and lines in the lagoon are seaweed farms. Most of the farmers are women, and seaweed has become an important income for many coastal families.
At low tide you walk out with a farmer, see how the seaweed is tied and harvested, then visit the village to see how it is dried and used.
Highlights
- Walk the lagoon with a seaweed farmer
- How seaweed is planted, harvested and dried
- Village walk with a local guide
- Products made from seaweed
Seaweed farming visit itinerary
Timings are a guide. This trip is timed to the tide, so we confirm exact times when you book.
- StartMeet in Paje or Jambiani, timed to low tide.
- 1 hrWalk out to the farm plots with a farmer.
- 45 minSee drying and processing in the village.
- 45 minVillage walk: school, mosque (exterior) and daily life.
- EndReturn to your hotel.
Your private options
Private visit
Your own guide and farmer host.
With Kuza Cave
Add a cave swim.
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 | Paje / Jambiani / Michamvi | $110 |
| West coastFumba, Chukwani, Bububu, Mtoni | Paje / Jambiani / Michamvi | $130 |
| South-east coastPaje, Jambiani, Bwejuu, Michamvi, Dongwe | Paje / Jambiani / Michamvi | Included |
| North coastNungwi, Kendwa | Paje / Jambiani / Michamvi | $140 |
| North-east coastMatemwe, Kiwengwa, Pwani Mchangani, Pongwe | Paje / Jambiani / Michamvi | $130 |
| South tipKizimkazi, Makunduchi | Paje / Jambiani / Michamvi | $80 |
Not sure of your area? Tell us your hotel name and we confirm the price. See all transfer prices.
What's included
- Local guide and farmer host
- Contribution to the farmers' group
- Bottled water
- Pickup from hotels in the South-east coast area
Not included
- Transfer from other areas (see transfer prices below)
- Purchases
- Tips
Add-ons
- Kuza Cave
- Cooking class in the village
Children and groups
Good for children who can walk in shallow water. Water shoes are essential because of sea urchins. 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.
Seaweed farming visit FAQs
Why does the start time change?
The farms can only be reached at low tide. We give you the exact time when you book.
What should I wear?
Water shoes, a hat and clothes that cover shoulders and knees for the village walk.
Who benefits?
Part of your fee goes directly to the farmers who host you.