Maruhubi Palace Ruins & Spice Planation
-
Port
Zanzibar, Tanzania
-
Activity Level
Moderate Activity
-
Excursion Type
All
-
Wheelchair Accessible
No
-
Starting At (prices in USD)
$140
-
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
-
Duration
Approximately 3½ Hours
-
Meals Included
Meals not included
There was a time when the archipelago of Zanzibar produced 90% of the entire world's clove supply. Karafuu (or cloves) were introduced to the island in 1818, and the combination of the rich soil and warm climate saw a vast number of plantations develop virtually overnight. Soon, other spices such as cumin, ginger, pepper, cinnamon, cardamom, and many others, were also cultivated here, lending Zanzibar its 'Spice Island' nickname.
Leave the pier and drive past the house of Dr David Livingstone. This is where the explorer lodged while planning his expeditions into African interior. You'll visit the Maruhubi Palace, built as the Sultan's harem and later destroyed by fire.
Heading into the countryside, you'll take a look at, and have a taste of, the spices grown here. The great variety of spices and plants grown here are used in food flavoring and preparation, as well as in cosmetics, dyes and traditional medicine. A local boy will climb up a tall coconut tree while you are walking through the spice area. Note how he uses his legs to shimmy back down the swaying palm -- this is quite an impressive feat. Be sure to sample some of the edible fruits. Spice packets are available for purchase from rustic stalls.
Visit the Persian baths at Kidichi, built by the first Sultan for his Persian wife, before you return to the pier.
Please note:
Wear comfortable walking shoes. Tour requires walking on unpaved surfaces in the countryside. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. In the tropics, the temperature and humidity can be quite high. Wear light, layered cotton clothing; bring a sunhat and sunglasses. Zanzibar is a very special place and keeping it so means that change will happen only at the pace that suits the people that live here. You can show your respect for local custom by dressing conservatively. The local people are very appreciative when visitors are respectful of this dress code: bare shoulders, midriffs and thighs are not acceptable; wearing long sleeves and minimum of capri-length pants or skirts is optimal. Photography of police officers or persons in uniform is not allowed. The order for sights visited may vary. Please obtain permission before taking photographs of the local people. Your guide will assist you with this.