🐠 Why Snorkelling in Zanzibar Is Unforgettable
Zanzibar is world-renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, vibrant coral gardens, and abundant marine life. From gentle reef edges to hidden sandbanks, snorkelling here offers something for every swimmer — whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned explorer.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the best snorkelling spots in Zanzibar, what you can expect to see at each, and practical tips to make the most of your visit.
🌊 1. Mnemba Island Marine Park
🐟 What Makes It Special
Mnemba Island is often the top pick for snorkelling in Zanzibar because of its protected marine reserve, clear water year-round, and thriving reef ecosystems.
Mnemba Island is widely regarded as Zanzibar’s most iconic snorkelling destination, celebrated for its protected marine reserve and exceptional water clarity. The reef surrounding the island is alive with colour, where coral gardens stretch beneath calm turquoise waters and schools of tropical fish glide effortlessly through the shallows. Thanks to strict conservation measures, visibility here is often excellent, making Mnemba ideal for both first-time snorkellers and experienced ocean lovers seeking a pristine underwater environment.
🐢 What You’ll See
- Green and hawksbill turtles
- Schools of colourful reef fish
- Moray eels and octopus
- Soft and hard corals
- Occasional dolphins off the drop-off edges
📍Best Time to Go
Morning snorkelling is best (calmer waters and better visibility).
👉 Tours to Mnemba Island usually include boat transfers and light refreshments.
Pro Tip: Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral ecosystems.
🐠 2. Pange Island (Near Stone Town)
🐬 Why Visit
Pange Island offers a more calm, shallow snorkel experience, ideal for families and beginners. At low tide, sandbanks and tidal pools create rich habitats for small fish and crustaceans.
🐡 What You’ll See
- Butterflyfish, parrotfish, and angelfish
- Juvenile fish hiding in coral clusters
- Sea cucumbers and starfish
- Occasional squirrelfish in deeper channels
🛥 How to Get There
Most trips depart from Nungwi Beach — ask your hotel concierge for a half-day boat tour.
🐟 3. Nungwi Reef
🏝 Why It’s Great
Close to the northern tip of Zanzibar, Nungwi Reef is easy to reach and offers vibrant coral walls and healthy fish populations.
🐠 What You’ll See
- Surgeonfish and damselfish
- Colorful wrasse and snapper
- Coral formations teeming with life
- Rays cruising the sandy patches
👣 Ideal For
Guests staying in Nungwi Village or nearby beaches — no long boat rides required.
🐡 4. Chumbe & Bawe Island Reefs
🌿 Protected Marine Parks
These reefs are part of conservation areas with excellent visibility and biodiversity.
🌊 What You’ll See
- Rare coral species
- Spotted eagle rays
- Schools of fusiliers
- Cleaner shrimp stations
🛶 How to Visit
These areas are best accessed via guided eco-tours. Local operators often include snorkelling gear and refreshments.
🧜♂️ Snorkelling Tips for Zanzibar
✨ Best Seasons:
- June–October: Dry season, calm seas
- December–March: Warm waters, good visibility
⚓ What to Bring:
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Snorkel mask & fins (or rent locally)
- Water shoes or booties
- Waterproof camera
🐬 Safety First:
- Always snorkel with a buddy
- Use a flotation vest if you’re not a strong swimmer
- Respect marine life — don’t touch corals or chase animals
📍 Suggested Itineraries with Snorkelling
Half-Day Snorkel + Beach Lunch
- Morning snorkel at Mnemba Island
- Lunch on Nungwi Beach
- Sunset walk along the shore
Full-Day Marine Adventure
- Snorkel at Mnemba Island
- Visit Pange Island for shallow water exploration
- Evening at a local seafood grill
