TUMBATU ISLAND CULTURAL TOUR

– The Hidden Zanzibar

TUMBATU ISLAND CULTURAL TOUR – The Hidden Zanzibar

Discover the Real, Untouched Zanzibar Just off the northwest coast of Zanzibar lies Tumbatu – a small, secret island where time has stood still. No cars, no hotels, no tourists. Only pure Swahili culture, ancient ruins, and the most welcoming people. This is not a beach tour, this is a real cultural experience with Karibu Kwetu Zanzibar. Best for travelers who want to see the REAL Zanzibar beyond beaches.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Visit a conservative and authentic Swahili village that is closed to mass tourism See 12th Century Shirazi Ruins of Makutani Palace Meet local fishermen, women making rope, boat builders & farmers Taste local Swahili lunch in a village house Support the community directly – 100% local experience Private traditional dhow boat from Mkokotoni

FULL ITINERARY – What to Expect8:30 AM – Pickup & Drive to Mkokotoni

We pick you up from your hotel. Scenic 1-hour drive to Mkokotoni Fishing Village (northwest).9:30 AM – Traditional Dhow Crossing

Take a local fishing dhow (20-30 min) to Tumbatu Island. Enjoy the ocean views.10:00 AM – Village Welcome & Cultural Walk

Our local Tumbatu guide will welcome you. Please dress respectfully (covered shoulders/knees – we will advise). You will walk through the village:

Visit the ancient Makutani Ruins & old mosque

See how local women make traditional coconut ropes

Visit the local school and traditional houses Learn about Tumbatu's unique history – they have their own small government! 12:30 PM – Authentic Swahili Lunch

Enjoy home-cooked lunch – fish, rice, chapati, vegetables cooked with love by a local family.2:00 PM – Return to Mkokotoni & Hotel

Sail back and drive to your hotel. Arrive around 3:30 PM.

IMPORTANT TO KNOW – Please Read

Tumbatu is a very conservative Muslim community. This is what makes it authentic. To respect their culture:

No bikinis / short shorts on the island

No alcohol on the island

Photos of people ONLY with permission

Your guide will brief you before entering

This is not a party island. It’s a respectful cultural visit.

PRICE INCLUDES

✅ Hotel pickup & drop off

✅ Private car & boat

✅ Professional local guide from Tumbatu

✅ Village entrance fee & community contribution

✅ Authentic Swahili lunch & water

✅ 24/7 Support by Karibu Kwetu Zanzibar

Does NOT Include: Personal expenses & tips

TOUR DETAILS

Duration: Half Day – 6 Hours (8:30 AM – 3:30 PM)

Departure: Daily from anywhere in Zanzibar

Difficulty: Easy walking, some sun

What to Bring: Modest clothes, sunscreen, hat, cash for souvenirs

PRICE INCLUDES

✅ Hotel pickup & drop off
✅ Private car & boat
✅ Professional local guide from Tumbatu
✅ Village entrance fee & community contribution
✅ Authentic Swahili lunch & water
✅ 24/7 Support by Karibu Kwetu Zanzibar

Does NOT Include: Personal expenses & tips

TOUR DETAILS

Duration: Half Day – 6 Hours (8:30 AM – 3:30 PM)

Departure: Daily from anywhere in Zanzibar

Difficulty: Easy walking, some sun

What to Bring: Modest clothes, sunscreen, hat, cash for souvenirs