Tumbatu Mystique Of Zanzibar

Overview

This truly is a unique experience! Tumbatu is one of Zanzibar’s best kept secrets. As for the vast majority it’s forbidden to set a foot on it. To enter the island, you need special permission from the elders of the community on Tumbatu. People call the Watumbatu – inhabitants of Tumbatu – aloof and unfriendly. The reason is, just because they are living as a very close, self- supporting community. You won’t find cars or scooters and Tumbatu has only one road to walk on within the island. On Tumbatu did the Shirazi built the first stone building in the entire region in the 11th century.

Tumbatu is a very special excursion and only possible based on the trust of the elders with their community of Tumbatu. Hence, we would like to provide some extra information, of which you should pay close attention:

• 1. You may have to walk knee deep in the sea, while entering the boat or reaching the island. It depends on mother nature, meaning on the tides. Therefore, you need waterproof shoes and clothes which can be wet, but no beach wear!
• 2. The Watumbatu are very religious and do not accept our type of clothes. You must wear a Kanga around your hip and for women a scarf/ Kanga to cover your hair! NOT allowed is beachwear or shoulder free T shirts! Best is a wide trouser or long pair of shorts with a Polo Shirt or T Shirt!
• 3. As we are alot on or near the sea without a shade, sun protection and a hat are very important! Sun protection and a hat/ cap.
• 4. Photographs are only allowed after you get the permission from our guide. No photographs without permission.
• 5. Based on the type of the excursion, we are not able to serve you a normal lunch. Therefore, please note that we only provide packed lunch with soft drinks. Only packed lunch with soft drinks.
• 6. As you probably heard, it is very rare to get permission for Tumbatu, therefore we expect you to follow the rules of the guide and show respect at any time. Many of the Watumbatu have never been on Unguja! Show respect to the Watumbatu always and follow the rules of the guide.