Mamas of Zanzibar: Unique Cultural & Culinary Experience
5.0
45 Ratings
Zanzibar

Immerse yourself in the local lifestyle of Zanzibar and indulge in delicious traditional cuisine with Mamas of Zanzibar. Experience a non-touristy, authentic, and engaging cultural adventure!

Duration: 4 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • V6X8+CP5 - 09:00 Arriving + Greet and Meet
    09:15 Menu Introduction + Day Routine
    09:30 Heading to Local Market
    10:15 Back at Pishi HQ to prepare for cooking
    10:30 - 11:30 Prepare cooking Items + Cooking Classes
    11:30 - 12:00 Free time as we arrange for lunch + Explore the neighbourhood + Discover the boutique Shop + Henna Painting
    12:15 Lunch…
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What's Included
  • Authentic hands-on training by a traditional Zanzibari woman
  • Finish with a delightful home-cooked lunch
  • Complimentary glass of juice included
  • Explore the local fish market
  • Take-home easy-to-follow recipes
  • Variety of drinks available
  • Tasty snacks provided
What's Not Included
  • In-vehicle air conditioning
Meal Options
  • Fresh Fish - Fish from the local market
  • Grounded Cassava Leaves in Coconut - Served with Rice
  • Sweet Banana in coconut
Additional Information

Ever dreamt of immersing yourself in the native lifestyle of Zanzibar, bonding with the charming locals and savouring the mouth-watering Island dishes? Hope for an authentic and less commercialized Zanzibar adventure?
Welcome aboard to Mamas of Zanzibar :-) Here, we reveal a side of Zanzibar which is typically untouched by travellers - a community life…

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Location
V6X8+8H Zanzibar
Our Home. Enter the road to Ngalawa Hotel at Meli Nane. Follow the dirt road past the bump, on the first turn, go right. Head down the small slope, right infront there is a house with a red gate. Please call us when you reach here to come collect you.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
5.0
(45 Ratings)
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Ladyexecutivekat
May 14, 2025
The power of food to bring cultures and people together - an amazing experience! - A simply amazing experience of entering a community as an outsider and feeling instantly welcome. The sense of sisterhood is strong, although the Mamas take care to make the men feel just as welcome. It was such a privilege to be treated as a friend, to go shopping with the Mamas at the nearby open market, and then be coached through meal prep. Maskat, the founder, is lovely and generous, with her home, her culture, and in sharing her story. It felt like an intimate cultural immersion, culminating in a wonderful meal. It's an experience like no other. I highly recommend this to anyone, especially Westerners, visiting Zanzibar.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Makkus003
Apr 26, 2025
Unique traditional cooking & culture experience - MAMAS OF ZANZIBAR The mama’s of Zanzibar had a warm welcome for us and all people where so kind, friendly and little kids where greating so nice with a sweet smile. You will get in touch with all traditional clothing and a market tour to purchase all ingredients necessary for the cooking. You will get all local insights for main fruits, vegetables and fish. Each step and cooking equipment will be explained cause it’s so unique when you are using it yourself preparing the traditional dishes. The final dishes are tasted so amazing and authentic that is totally different from you get in hotels, a must try! The mama’s producing and selling their own unique spice mixes for the cooked dishes. All in all is this experience so unique and amazing also with the story behind this I can recommend this to anyone who wants to have an unfiltered and authentic look & feel into the Zanzibar life and cuisine! Also suitable for families with kids. STONE TOWN TOUR After the Mama’s of Zanzibar a driver will bring you to Stone Town and a guide will tell you all about the history of the town and the island including a visit to the museum of slavery. Our guide Imran was very good, sympathetic, very knowledgeable and patient. He will take care of you during the tour and adapts if you want to see or buy something specific. Really great experience. All in all one day for both experiences give you a really nice impression how Zanzibar is like, about the life, food and people. I totally recommend this tour! Thanks again Mama’s! 😊
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Ivam272
Apr 26, 2025
Heartwarming & Authentic Experience with the Mamas of Zanzibar - My experience with the Mamas of Zanzibar was one of the most meaningful and memorable parts of my trip. It was so much more than just a cooking class—it was a deep cultural exchange filled with warmth, laughter, and learning. We began by visiting the local market to buy fresh ingredients, guided by the wonderful women who shared their knowledge and stories with us. Then we dressed in beautiful traditional kangas, which instantly made us feel part of the community. Cooking side by side with the Mamas was pure joy—we prepared a delicious Swahili meal together, filled with spices, flavors, and love. What makes this experience truly special is the mission behind it: by participating, you’re directly supporting the empowerment of women in Zanzibar, providing them with income and independence. It felt amazing to be part of something so positive and impactful. After a delicious lunch, we continued with a fascinating tour of Stone Town, guided by Imran, who was knowledgeable, engaging, and passionate about the rich history and culture of Zanzibar. This experience is a must for anyone who wants to go beyond the surface and connect with the real heart of Zanzibar. It was uplifting, inspiring, and unforgettable. I left with a full belly, a happy heart, and a deeper understanding of this beautiful place and its people.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Michelleq2025
Feb 5, 2025
Very welcoming experience and lovely food - Fantastic experience , wonderful Mammas welcomed with juice and snacks , took us to the local market to buy produce. Helped to prepare ingredients cooked on the stoves , then sat to enjoy our lunch
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Zakeishas2020
Dec 24, 2024
The Most Authentic Experience in Zanzibar - Our time with Moma’s of Zanzibar was nothing short of incredible and truly the most authentic experience we had during our stay. This cooking class went far beyond preparing meals it was a journey into the heart of Swahili culture and traditions. From the moment we arrived, the ladies warmly welcomed us and dressed us in traditional Swahili garments, explaining the rich cultural significance of each piece. This thoughtful introduction immediately immersed us in their world. They then guided us through a vibrant local market, teaching us how to select the best fruits, vegetables, and spices. Every step felt authentic and engaging, making us feel deeply connected to the local community. Back in their traditional kitchen, we were introduced to the intricate art of Swahili cooking. Using charcoal ovens and clay pots, we learned to prepare dishes entirely by hand, from grinding spices with a mortar and pestle to kneading dough on wooden boards. The ladies demonstrated each step with care, explaining the history and techniques behind every dish. Cooking over open flames required patience, precision, and effort, giving us a profound appreciation for the hard work that goes into every meal. This experience was more than just a cooking class it was an eye opening lesson in culture, resilience, and tradition. The dedication of the women of Zanzibar, their artistry, and their warmth left a lasting impression on us. Moma’s of Zanzibar is an absolute must for anyone looking to experience the true spirit of Zanzibar. Thank you for a day we’ll never forget!
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Expedition533680
Dec 18, 2024
Fabulous Mamas - This was the friendliest and most charming introduction to Zanzibar’s real family and culture. I’m so grateful for the time we spent cooking and chatting with the Mamas… great food for the tummy and soul.
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Nicole_h
Oct 7, 2024
Thank you!! Everyone should Experience this tour while in Zanzibar. 100000/10. - I would travel far and wide to experience this tour again. Maskat and the mamas made me feel like family.
Review provided by Viator
Samantha_m
Sep 25, 2024
Fabulous experience…best thing we did! - We had a fabulous morning with marvellous mamas, so friendly and welcoming. We shopped at the market for our ingredients then all prepared the most delicious meal. If you’re considering booking, do it! You won’t regret it!
Review provided by Viator
Deanna_h
Sep 22, 2024
Unforgettable experience!! - The Mamas of Zanzibar Cooking Experience was absolutely incredible from start to finish. From the moment we arrived, everyone was so warm and welcoming, making us feel like part of their community. The day started with a walk to the local market, which was such an authentic experience. We picked out the freshest ingredients, learning about the local produce as we went along. What made the experience even more special was returning with the mamas to actually prepare the food ourselves. They were so patient and knowledgeable, guiding us step-by-step through traditional Zanzibar recipes. Along the way, they shared their personal stories and the rich history of their culture, adding so much depth to the experience. The food we made was beyond delicious—flavorful, vibrant, and authentic. I can't express enough how amazing it felt to be a part of this. I would recommend this 1,000 times over to anyone who loves food, culture, and unique experiences. Truly unforgettable!
Review provided by Viator
Fehintolaa5
Oct 9, 2024
Good experience, don't wear nails - I enjoyed this experience, although I could have enjoyed it more if I got to cook. Unfortunately, they didn't allow me to do as much with my friend because I had on fake nails. I cook at home with my nails, and while I understand the potentially hygienic implications of fake nails, I believe a disclaimer should have been included while booking. I was wearing press ons. If I had known beforehand, I would have removed them. Or, I could have skipped altogether.
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Check Availability
From $114
From $114
up to 10 guests
1 - Adult
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Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).