Spice Tour

In 1818, Omani Arabs came to Zanzibar to survey the island’s spice farming potential. The tropical climate and the fertile soil on the west coast provide perfect conditions to grow spices, such as clove. Over time, other spices such as cinnamon, cardamom and ginger were imported and made Zanzibar famous as “Spice Island”. In the late 19th century, clove had its biggest boom and following the end of the slave trade, spices became the main source of income for the island. Spices were however, not just an important commodity on the trade routes, but are still used in traditional food dishes and as a cure for ailments or to dye traditional fabrics used for weddings, ceremonies and other festivities.

The island’s spice trade may have lost its economic significance, but the connection of Zanzibar and spices has remained essential in daily life. The spice tour is a guided tour through the spice plantation of Kizimbani. It is a sensory experience, where participants have the opportunity to learn about the various spices of Zanzibar, see how they are grown, touch, taste and smell them. Spices which you can see are ylang-ylang, vanilla, clove, nutmeg, cinnamon, pepper and ginger. Your guide will explain their uses in Zanzibar cooking and their role in the medical and cosmetic field.

At the end of the tour you will have the possibility to buy the different spices and will receive little souvenirs made out of palm leaves.