A different Zanzibar, far from the beaches: red dirt tracks, forests of palms and mango trees, rice fields and small villages where children run out to wave as you pass.
On a quad bike, with an experienced local guide in front of you, you explore secret paths that tourist buses never reach. It is a mix of adrenaline and calm: moments of speed on the open tracks, slow stretches through the forest, stops to look around and take photos.
No previous experience is needed. After a short briefing and a test ride, you set off for about four hours of adventure, and you are back at the villa in time for a late lunch by the pool.
It is the perfect half day for families with teenagers, groups of friends or anyone who wants to see the real island, and it fits easily into a beach holiday: back by lunchtime, pool in the afternoon.
Your driver takes you to the best quad company on the island. Helmets, goggles and a short safety briefing first, then a few minutes of practice on a test track until you feel confident.
The quads are automatic and easy to ride. Children and anyone who prefers can ride as a passenger.
Easy to ride, impossible to forget.
The trail leaves the road and dives into the green: palm groves, banana plants, cassava fields and tall grass. After the rains the tracks turn into red mud and every puddle becomes a splash.
Your guide knows every path and adapts the route to your level, with faster stretches for those who want speed and slower ones to enjoy the landscape.
Every puddle becomes a splash.
Along the way you cross small villages where life goes on as it always has: women carrying water, men repairing nets, children playing football barefoot.
There is time to stop, say jambo and take a few photos, always with respect. Then back to the base and your driver takes you home.
Your driver takes you to the best quad company on the island.
Ride through a fascinating forest where you feel the calm of the nature around you, on trails that seem forgotten by time.
Away from the crowds, discover villages and corners of the island that few visitors see.
Clothes you do not mind getting dirty, closed shoes and sunglasses.
Water, sun cream and a change of clothes for the drive back.
Drivers must be adults; children ride as passengers with a parent.
Helmets are always provided and the guide adapts the speed to the group.
From March to May the tracks are muddier – and more fun.
Ask before photographing people in the villages; most will happily say yes.
Times are indicative and can be adjusted. Tell us if you are travelling with children, if you have food preferences or if you would like to add a stop: we tailor every day to you.
Red colobus monkeys, the long beach of Jambiani and lunch at The Rock, a restaurant in the sea.
Swim with sea turtles, climb an ancient baobab and swim in the natural pool of a cave.
Snorkel with turtles and dolphins, lunch on board, sail home at sunset.