Ngezi Forest Reserve
In far northeastern Pemba, dense and wonderfully lush Ngezi is one of the last remaining areas of indigenous forest that once covered much of the island, and as close to rainforest that you’ll get anywhere on Zanzibar. Protected by a 1476-hectare reserve, the forest is a true double canopy, complete with vines providing swings for the monkeys. The entrance gate and visitor centre is 5km west of Konde, on the main dirt road to the Kigomasha Peninsula.
From the visitor centre, two nature trails tunnel through the forest, and off-trail walks are allowed. All visits must be done with a naturalist guide, some of whom speak English. Most visitors follow the Joshi Trail (Tsh16,000 per person), which takes about an hour and is good for spotting birds, red colobus monkeys and Pemba flying foxes (especially in the early morning and late afternoon). The ruins of the sawmill that stood here until the 1960s can still be seen.
Home to rare bird species, endemic flora, and the iconic Pemba flying fox, this forest is a haven for nature lovers and conservationists. The forest reserve features well-maintained walking trails, towering trees, and a rich biodiversity that makes every visit a unique discovery. The experience walking through a double canopy tropical rainforest makes is a real adventure and spiritually uplift in this environmentally challenged world.
