Tazari chameleon Reserve — Attraction in Unguja

Avoid this so-called "reserve" at all costs; it's animal cruelty. They claim to operate a conservation effort, but it's essentially a petting zoo. Throughout the day, tourists flood in, and the handlers thrust one of the five chameleons into each visitor's hand or onto their head. One visitor dropped a chameleon, and the handler simply picked it up and handed it back.

Furthermore, there's a cage with two monkeys, small and visible from all sides. Every few minutes, the handler opens the door and allows tourists to enter. The monkeys appeared stressed to me. In addition to the monkeys, there was a bushbaby in the cage. It tried to hide at the top of the cage but had no chance. Bushbabies are nocturnal and hide during the day. Unfortunately, they can't exhibit their natural instincts here.

Additionally, they have a concrete cell (approximately 1 x 1 meter) where a lizard is kept without water or soil. It's simply pathetic.

I had envisioned something entirely different - a reputable sanctuary for endangered chameleons. The handlers speak little English and cannot provide reasonable answers to questions.

For me, it's clear:...

Great quick stop if you are in Nungwi or Kendwa. They have a cave exploration and a chameleon exhibition. We went foe the chameleons. The price is $5 to enter per person and Pelo showed us around and had a really cool and relaxed vibe that made us feel comfortable. We saw about a half dozen different small chameleons, gor a chance to feed one of them and even saw some baby chameleons. Definitely worth the time and money to throw on any itinerary if you are in Nungwi or Kendwa and want to see something other than the beach. Just 10 minutes outside of town so the ride there and back was $5 total for 2 people each way on a bodaboda so $20 all together travel and entry fees.

The guides said that they keep the chameleons there for 2 months then take them to the forest to live and that many of their chameleons come from the lands of farmers who are clearing bush on their property using slash and burn methods so this helps to preserve the...

We visited Tazari Chameleon Reserve in Zanzibar, Tanzania, and it was a fantastic experience. The road to get there is a bit bumpy, but it’s worth it! The reserve is small but very welcoming, and the staff were incredibly friendly. Entry was $5 per person, and after paying, one of the staff members guided us through the reserve.

At first, we were asked to try spotting the chameleons ourselves—it’s surprisingly challenging! Then, he showed them to us and passionately explained all about these fascinating creatures and the important protective measures they’re taking to safeguard them from local threats. It was clear he truly loves and cares for the animals.

We also got the chance to handle the chameleons, including the young ones, under careful supervision. Overall, it was an unusual and highly rewarding 5/5 experience. No need to book in advance—just show up, and they’ll take great care of you. Highly...