November 6 – Zanzibar
For our first day in Zanzibar we slept in a little, went out for breakfast, and headed for Jozani forest.
To start off, here are a few facts about Zanzibar that I learned. Zanzibar is made of two primary islands (Unguja and Pemba) along with numerous small islands, their population is around 1.8 million, and Zanzibar is known as a spice island as one of their main industries is growing spices such as clove, cinnamon, cardamom, and black pepper.
Jozani forest is the only national park in Zanzibar and it is home of an endangered species of monkey, the Zanzibar red colobus. The only place in the world this species lives is Unguja. As we drove up, we could see one swinging from the trees. After a short walk, we could see a whole group of monkeys! I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I certainly did not expect to find monkeys so quickly.
This group was composed of approximately 20 monkeys. Some were quite young and still riding under their mom’s bellies to move around.
While we watched and photographed, they chattered, jumped from tree to tree (missing occasionally and crashing down to the forest floor, but they didn’t seem to mind), chased each other, napped, and ate leaves.
While watching this group, a family of Sykes monkeys also came into the area. Sykes are similar in size, but don’t have the cool hair-do and are mostly grey and black.
Both types of monkey were quite habituated and were comfortable with us being around. A few times they approached and got within arms length. After hanging out with these two groups of monkeys for a couple of hours, we left them to their afternoon nap.
On our way back, we stopped at a road side stand and got some coconuts so we could try fresh coconut water or, as our guide told us it is locally called, Zanzibar juice.
We got our coconuts partially peeled so we could finish cracking them later and enjoy them at the air Bnb. The Zanzibarians make it look easy, but trust me cracking through a coconut was tough! I used a large kitchen knife, but when we asked for help from a local, he pulled out a machete. No wonder I struggled!
Mom and I watched the sunset with our feet dipped in the pool.
To end the night, I attempted night sky photography from our air Bnb. I figured it would be dark pointing out over the ocean. Unfortunately, I was wrong and there was too much light pollution for the star light to compete with. Another night, another location, I will try again!
Thanks for wandering with me,
Julie
J Cork Photography 