Kuza Caves Jambiani Zanzibar

Kuza Cave is a geological formation with a long, fascinating history. The Jambiani area, where the cave is located, was and still is characterized by countless underground rivers that sneak beneath a relatively flat landscape. Some 250,000 years ago, the constant erosion of these underground rivers flowing between two hard layers of limestone caused the upper layer to weaken and buckle. From this collapse, Kuza Cave was born.

The new access to the revealed river created an easily accessible source of freshwater, which attracted animals and humans alike. Bones found strewn about the cave and surrounding area proves that giraffes, zebras, and waterbuck frequented it. And the marks on the bones, inflicted by sharp tools, indicate humans were present, too.

The cave has long been a sacred space for the local people. For thousands of years, they’ve journeyed to this spot within the Earth’s underbelly to hold ceremonies and pray. It’s still a place of religious worship and is closed to the public when ceremonies are in progress. When the cave is open (which it usually is), it offers a surreal, peaceful glimpse into a wondrous underground world.

Know Before You Go

Kuza Cave has been the site of ancestor worship for thousands of years. It is, therefore, possible that access to it may be restricted due to a ceremony that’s only open to locals. However, these ceremonies are rare. On a regular basis, visitors can report to the Kuza Cave Culture Centre, which will provide a guide to the cave and a short but informative lecture on the cave. Half of the proceeds fund educational programs in the village.

Things to do at the Kuza caves Jambiani Zanzibar

Cave Visit

Swim in the healing fresh water. Enjoy the peaceful jungle. See artifacts from the cave and a timeline of Swahili history going back to the beginning of our story as humans originating in East Africa.

Drumming + Dancing

We have talented performers living on-site. They are trained in traditional dance and a wide variety of drumming styles.

Book ahead to enjoy a lesson or drum circle

Lunch + Swahili Cooking Lesson

Join us in the new open-plan kitchen. Learn how to gently blend Zanzibar spices and make fresh coconut milk curry.

Depending on ingredients, the menu might include seafood curry, Urojo, (Zanzibar soup), Cutlass, or Chapati.