Zanzibar is a coral island with unique landscapes shaped by thousands of years of natural formations. Across the south and west, caves and hollow excavations hold fascinating stories of nature, culture, and tradition. Some caves are filled with fresh water, others served as hiding places or sites of healing rituals, and many are now popular stops for adventurous travelers.
With Ikhwan Holidays Tours & Safaris, you can explore a range of these incredible caves, each offering a different kind of experience.
Kuza Cave – The Underground Oasis
Located in Jambiani village on Zanzibar’s southeast coast, Kuza Cave is one of the island’s most beautiful natural attractions. For centuries, this cave provided fresh water to local communities, and today it invites visitors to swim in its clear, cool, turquoise pool.
- Swim in the natural fresh-water lagoon inside the cave
- Combine with a forest walk to see monkeys and mangrove ecosystems
- Location: Jambiani, Southeast Coast (approx. 1.5 hours from Stone Town)
- Duration: Half-Day (or Full-Day if combined with forest tour)
- Bring a towel, swimsuit, and sunscreen
- Lunch can be enjoyed in Jambiani or Paje village (or carry a packed lunch)
Just 20 minutes’ drive from Jozani Forest, Ngonga Cave is a dry cave without water, but with deep cultural significance. Local villagers use the cave for traditional healing rituals, connecting to ancestral spirits to overcome hardships.
Visitors can:
- Explore Ngonga village life with a local guide
- Learn about traditional healing practices and beliefs
- Visit Jozani Forest nearby for a combined full-day cultural & nature tour.
- Note: This cave is more about culture & heritage than physical adventure.
Located near Jozani Forest, the Zanzibar Butterfly Centre is East Africa’s largest butterfly enclosure. Established as a community project, it supports conservation and sustainable livelihoods by breeding endangered species of butterflies.
Highlights:
- Walk among free-flying butterflies in a lush enclosure
- Learn about local conservation efforts
- Combine with nearby Mize Cave and Pete Village cultural experiences
- A wonderful addition to a family-friendly day trip in the Jozani area.
About 40 minutes from Stone Town, Mangapwani Cave (also called “The Lost Goat Cave”) is a massive underground chamber with fresh water. Historically discovered by farmers and herders, it is believed to connect to the sea through underground cracks.
- Explore the deep limestone cave
- Learn how locals used it as a vital freshwater source
- Combine your visit with a Stone Town Tour, Spice Tour, Prison Island, or snorkeling nearby
- Car & Driver on Disposal – For comfort and flexibility, Ikhwan Holidays Tours & Safaris provides a private car with driver and guide, available at your appointed time.
- Flexible itineraries – Half-day or full-day depending on cave combinations.
- Pickup available from Stone Town or beach hotels.
- Authentic cultural insight with local expert guides
- Comfortable transport with professional drivers
- Flexible combos – mix caves with forest walks, spice farms, or cultural tours
- Support capturing memorable moments
