There's more to Zanzibar than the glossy-travel-mag photos of endless white beaches. On this private tour, you'll discover the heart of the island's culture. You'll meet the local community in Muyuni Village and visit the mystical Ngonga Cave, hearing all about its history, before taking a tour around a spice farm.
First up is a trip to Muyuni Village, on the south of the island. You'll be immediately struck by how important tradition is to the community here, as you're invited to watch their ancient crafts of rope making, basket weaving, and makuti plating – weaving palm leaves into a roof. You'll call in at the village school before heading to Ngonga Cave, a sacred place, where the Muyuni people connect with their ancestors. Weave through the passages of this limestone cave to reach a chamber where you'll witness a witchcraft healing ceremony. It's an uplifting mix of singing, drumming and dancing that's believed to restore harmony and spiritual wellbeing.
Next, you'll arrive at a local spice farm, where you'll learn all about how exotic aromatics are grown. Vanilla, cardamom and nutmeg are three of the spices produced here, and you'll find out all about them from the experts, tasting as you go. Your guide will give you the lowdown on how these spices are used in local dishes, medicine and ceremonies, too.
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