Zanzibar is often referred to as the Jewel of East Africa, and it rightfully earns this title thanks to its stunning beaches, azure waters, and vibrant marine life. For snorkeling enthusiasts or those simply wanting to explore the underwater wonders, Zanzibar boasts a myriad of snorkeling spots that promise unforgettable experiences. The average sea temperatures in Zanzibar is friendly for swimmers, snorkelers, and divers too. The sea in Zanzibar islands is warm enough, it ranges from 25 °C (77 °F) in August to 29 °C (84 °F) between December and April. During snorkeling, it is advised that you stay hydrated.
The good news is that snorkeling is typically done in relatively shallow waters, which helps ensure the safety of participants. The average depth for snorkeling is usually around 3 to 10 feet, although this can vary depending on the location and specific snorkeling site. Here’s a guide to the best snorkeling locations, what you can expect to see, when to go, and other essential tips for a successful adventure.
1. Mnemba Island/Mnemba Atoll
The jewel of the Indian Ocean, Mnemba Island and its surrounding atoll, is renowned for pristine coral reefs. The snorkeling here is spectacular, offering encounters with colorful schools of fish, starfish, Moorish idols, snappers, turtles, and even the occasional dolphin. The crystal-clear waters boast incredible visibility, making it a prime spot for underwater photography and exploration. Mnemba Island is located close to the main island of Zanzibar, with short boat trips available from various places, like Kendwa and Nungwi. The island is a conservation area, and fishing is prohibited near it, ensuring the preservation of the delicate marine ecosystem. The coral reefs surrounding Mnemba Island are vibrant and healthy, providing a stunning backdrop for snorkeling.
2. Nungwi and Kendwa Beaches
Located on the northern tip of Zanzibar, Nungwi and Kendwa Beaches are more than just gorgeous coastlines; they are perfect for snorkeling. With shallow coral reefs just a short swim from the beach, snorkelers can easily access vibrant reefs bustling with life. Look out for starfish, sea urchins, and a dazzling array of tropical fish. Nungwi and Kendwa beaches in Zanzibar are excellent locations for snorkeling, though Kendwa is generally considered to have better snorkeling opportunities. Nungwi has a shallow reef and is a good spot for families and those seeking a variety of marine life, while Kendwa is known for its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life. Mnemba Island, located a short distance from Nungwi and Kendwa, is a popular snorkeling destination with pristine coral reefs and abundant marine life. You can also snorkel in the natural tidal pools behind Nungwi Beach, where turtles often swim.
3. Tumbatu Island
Tumbatu Island is an island located in Fumba ward of Kaskazini A District in Unguja North Region, Tanzania. A hidden gem, Tumbatu Island offers less crowded snorkeling experiences. The waters here are teeming with life, showcasing diverse coral formations and marine species. Tumbatu Island is a great place to truly immerse yourself in nature and enjoy a quieter snorkeling adventure. Tumbatu Island in Zanzibar is a popular destination for snorkeling, offering a vibrant underwater world and a chance to see diverse marine life. The island is known for its shallow coral reefs and clear waters, making it accessible and enjoyable for both experienced snorkelers and beginners.
The island boasts beautiful, flourishing coral reefs with a variety of soft and hard corals. Snorkelers can encounter a range of marine species, including sea turtles, colorful fish, octopuses, and more. The reefs are shallow, making them suitable for snorkeling without requiring scuba diving. You’ll likely travel to Tumbatu Island by boat, with a guide to point out interesting sights. You’ll have the opportunity to snorkel in the shallow waters, exploring the coral reefs.
4. Blue Lagoon
True to its name, the Blue Lagoon is a paradise for snorkelers. Surrounded by stunning turquoise waters and rich underwater ecosystems, this spot provides an incredible opportunity to see a variety of fish, anemones, and even an occasional octopus. The calm waters make it ideal for swimmers of all levels. It is one of those places where you can swim with hundreds of fish and simply enjoy the diversity of underwater life. This excursion to the Blue Lagoon is tide-dependent; low tide and calm waters are usually the best conditions for the best visibility.
5. Chumbe Island
Chumbe Island is a private island in the Mjini Magharibi Region, Tanzania, off the coast of Mjini District. It is situated in the Zanzibar Channel. The island is known for its ecological innovation and exceptional coral reefs. The Chumbe Lighthouse is also located on the island. Home to a protected marine park, Chumbe Island is a snorkeling paradise. Its reefs are among the best-preserved in the area, showcasing extraordinary coral gardens and a wealth of marine life. Chumbe Island is an award-winning private nature reserve. It has one of East Africa’s most diverse coral reefs and is perfect for snorkeling. Visitors often encounter fish species that are unique to the region, making it a must-visit for serious snorkelers. An enchanting private island perfect for a wedding! Excellent team, delicious food, amazing nature, and snorkeling.
6. Nakupenda Beach
Known for its idyllic sandbanks and clear waters, Nakupenda Beach is a favorite for day trips. The shallow waters provide a fantastic setting for snorkeling, where you can spot a variety of fish and vibrant coral. The setting is picturesque, making it a great place to relax after exploring underwater. Nakupenda Beach in Zanzibar is a popular destination for snorkeling due to its clear, calm waters and vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. It’s a short boat ride from Stone Town, making it an accessible day trip for exploring the underwater world. Snorkeling tours often include a visit to Nakupenda Sandbank, where you can relax, swim, and sunbathe on the pristine beach before venturing out to explore the reefs.
The reefs around Nakupenda are teeming with colorful fish, coral, and other sea life, offering a spectacular underwater experience. A short boat ride from Stone Town makes Nakupenda Beach a convenient and easily accessible day trip destination. The best time for snorkeling is during the morning or afternoon when the sea is calmer and visibility is better.
7. Prison Island
Located just off the coast of Stone Town, Prison Island is rich in history and marine beauty. The waters around the island are home to large coral reefs, famed for snorkeling. Curious sea turtles and colorful fish abound, providing an exciting underwater adventure. Prison Island in Zanzibar is called that because of its history as a holding place for rebellious slaves and later as a quarantine station. While the island was intended to be a prison in the 1860s, it was primarily used for quarantine, not as a prison. The island’s name reflects its intended purpose, even though it never fully served as a prison in the traditional sense.
Prison Island (also known as Changuu Island) in Zanzibar offers snorkeling opportunities in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island. The coral reefs and diverse marine life provide a great experience for snorkelers. Tours to Prison Island often include a visit to the giant tortoise sanctuary and snorkeling in the reef. A key attraction of Prison Island is the sanctuary for Aldabra giant tortoises. You can see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. A boat ride takes you to Prison Island, which is located about 25 minutes from Stone Town.
8. Safari Blue
A popular excursion, Safari Blue combines snorkeling with an eco-tour of the surrounding waters. The experience typically includes visits to secluded snorkeling spots where the water is teeming with marine life. Rarely have visitors reported less than spectacular views of coral gardens and myriad fish. It is called Blue Safari because of the ocean’s blueness that you feel during the tour. The tour includes guided snorkelling with quality kit, dhow sailing, sandbank stop, swimming in a mangrove lagoon, and a delicious seafood buffet lunch. It is a whole day playing with the ocean in the Menai Bay Conservation Area. The Menai Bay Conservation Area is located in Menai Bay, west southwest coast of Unguja, Zanzibar.
9. Stone Town Reef
For those staying in Stone Town, the nearby reef offers an excellent escape. Easily accessible, this snorkeling spot is often overlooked, but it provides a diverse array of marine life. Local guides often accompany visitors to ensure a safe and informative experience. Stone Town Reef refers to the coral reef located around the historic Stone Town area on the island of Unguja, Zanzibar, Tanzania. This reef is a popular destination for divers and snorkelers, known for its diverse marine life and unique coral formations. The reef provides opportunities for both beginner and experienced divers to explore vibrant coral reefs, encountering various fish species and potentially even turtles or reef sharks.
What is Snorkeling Like in Zanzibar?
Snorkeling in Zanzibar is characterized by warm waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life. The underwater visibility generally ranges from 10 to 30 meters, depending on the location and weather conditions, making it an enticing destination for both novice and experienced snorkelers. Water temperatures are typically inviting, hovering around 25–30 degrees Celsius (77–86 degrees Fahrenheit).
What Wildlife Might I See?
So, if you’re contemplating whether snorkeling tours are worth the investment, the resounding answer is yes. These tours not only provide access to an underwater paradise but also ensure that your experience is safe, enriching, and unforgettable. While snorkeling, you can expect to see a wealth of marine species, including:
- Over 500 species of fish
- Sea turtles
- Dolphins
- Rays
- Sea urchins and anemones
- Various coral species
When is the Best Time for Snorkeling in Zanzibar?
The ideal time for snorkeling in Zanzibar is during the dry season, which runs from June to October and again from December to February. During these months, the visibility is at its best, and the weather is conducive for water activities. Additionally, be mindful of the tides and currents, as they can vary. Discover, explore Snorkeling in Zanzibar, photos, map, video, prices, costs, holidays, trip, packages, vacation, reviews, destinations, travel suitable for family, honeymoon/couple, individual solo, or senior travelers.
Things to Consider during Snorkeling in Zanzibar
Tour Companies: Opt for reputable tour companies that prioritize safety and environmental conservation. Ensure they follow ethical practices and have trained guides.
Marine Life: While it’s tempting to get close to marine animals, remember to respect their space. Avoid touching coral; it’s delicate and vital to the reef ecosystem.
Visibility: Consider checking local weather patterns and recent reports on visibility before heading out. Different locations can have varying conditions on any given day.
Final thought
Zanzibar is a snorkeling paradise filled with unforgettable experiences waiting beneath the waves. With its breathtaking aquatic landscapes and abundant marine fauna, it’s no wonder that Zanzibar has become a top destination for snorkeling enthusiasts. Whether you’re swimming amid vibrant coral gardens or observing sea creatures in their natural habitats, snorkeling here is a treasure trove of adventures. Prepare for an incredible journey, and don’t forget your camera to capture the mesmerizing beauty that lies just beneath the surface!
