Splash Zanzibar is locally owned and operated by Abdi Kassu and Lukumaan Ali, two Zanzibar natives. Growing up together on the island of Unguja, the two friends long dreamed of having their own tour company to be able to share their love of Zanzibar with visitors. Touring the island with either of these wonderful guides feels like a day out with a long time friend. Abdi and Lukumaan are both knowledgeable about the ins and outs of the island, and you couldn’t find a pair with better connections throughout Zanzibar! On every street corner you’ll see these two greeting friends, family and acquaintances as they guide you through the labyrinth of Stone Town. While touring the city with these locals, you truly experience the friendliness and warmth of the spice island of the Indian Ocean.
Abdi Kassu
Born and raised in Unguja, Abdi has been a licensed tour guide for over 10 years. Fluent in both Kiswahili and English, Abdi easily navigates the island and can help visitors to explore and communicate in even the most rural beach town. On top of guiding vacationers through Zanzibar, Abdi has spent the last 4 years working with a local NGO, assisting volunteers and students spending anywhere from 2 weeks to 1 year working on the Island. This unique experience means that Abdi is awesome at arranging visas, work permits, transportation, and even long term housing. While hosting all of these volunteers Abdi has learned even more about his home and is a walking encyclopedia of Zanzibar knowledge! Whether you are curious about local cuisine- his specialty is yellow curry prawns- or just need a sim card for your phone, Abdi knows the price, the best shop to go to, and the owner of the shop! During your visit to Zanzibar don’t be surprised if you run into Abdi all over Stone Town where you’ll see him lending a hand to locals and tourists alike.
Lukman Ali
Lukman realized at a young age that he loved to share the history and culture of Zanzibar with visitors to the beautiful spice islands. This passion led him to give up his career as a local fisherman and focus entirely on welcoming travelers to Zanzibar. In addition to being a phenomenal tour guide and amateur comedian, Lukman is a master of languages – he speaks fluent Kiswahili, Italian, English, French, and even a little German! For those interested in venturing beyond the local history and spice tours, and getting a taste of the country life, including the secluded island of Pemba, Lukman is the perfect guide!