Zanzibar and its lesser neighbors, Pemba and Unguha, have been known in the past as “The Spice Islands” because of their spice production. This is not to be confused with the islands made famous by Captain Cook and currently known as “The Spice Islands”, which are actually the Maluku Islands in the South Pacific.

When the spice and tea trade abandoned the long, dangerous overland route known as “The Silk Road” and took to the sea, the Portuguese found Zanzibar well-situated with climate, cheap labor and easy sea access for growing spices for Europe. The Omanis expanded the spice plantations when they took control in the 19th century, making it famous for its clove production. It was said that sailors could tell they were approaching Zanzibar because of the scent of cloves in the sea air.

Today, spice production is distributed throughout the world and Zanzibar largely produces spice, herbs and fruit for its own population and for tourists. Spice farm tours remain a staple on visitors’ itinerary.

We visited a private spice farm near Mgare, which was actually a spice, herb and fruit farm. Our tour was part botany and part showmanship. Below is a sampling of what we found.