Tangawizi Spice Farm Zanzibar | A Must Visit
Zanzibar is known for its beaches and its marine life. But its reputation was established way back in the 17th century when it was at the forefront of spice trade. It was known for its quality of nutmeg, cinnamon and cloves. In the olden days, spices and who controlled it, determined the strength or vulnerability of a regime.
Even in today’s world, spices are vital to the cuisine of Zanzibar. Every dish incorporates spices in such a beautiful way that the food is redolent with multiple flavours. The spice cake and the broth called the Zanzibar Mix come to mind. Both celebrate the culture of the country as much as they do the deliciousness of the dishes.
A good way to explore this fragrant and fascinating world is to embark on a spice tour. On a tour like this, you can travel through the spice plantations and indulge your senses. Most times, the spice tour starts in Stone Town and the market at Darajani. Here, you’ll become more familiar with each spice, some of which may seem exotic to you.
Another way to do it is to spend a day on a spice farm. Close to the historic Stone Town is one of the best-known farms, Tangawizi Spice Farm. The farm offers visitors a close look at these tiny treasures of the land. Among the many spices on offer are ginger, cardamom, turmeric, black pepper, vanilla, cloves, chillies, nutmeg.
Depending on whether the visit is professional or personal, the Tangawizi Spice Farm will tailor-make the tour for you and your companions. The Farm encourages direct contact for queries and is happy to consider special requests.
The visit educates visitors on the cultivation and procurement of the spices – every stage from stem to plate is explained.
Spices are not the only thing you’ll see and taste here. Fruits like mango, papaya, custard apple, pineapple, star fruit, citrus fruit and bananas are also here. What’s more, you’ll even see the rare coffee bush on the property.
The tour has many other things to enjoy – you can buy a whole bunch of spices, enjoy a cup of spice-filled tea or coffee, or even opt for the optional lunch. Imagine tucking into a delicious meal, surrounded by plantations and perfume, cross-legged in the shade. The artistes on the Farm paint your hands in the traditional art of henna. Choose your own design or get them to get creative on their own.
Do keep a few things in mind. One- depending on when you visit, you’ll see the spices and fruit that are in season. Two- if you are considering the lunch option do make a reservation so it’s convenient for them to plan the meal.
The Farm is near the Dole Mosque and is easily reachable by taxi or car. Head to the Tangawizi Spice Farm to be part of an indelible Zanzibar experience. It’s one you’ll remember for quite a long time.