Mnazi bay Ruvumba Estuary Marine Park is situated in the Mtwara region in the southeastern part of Tanzania, covering an area of 650 square kilometers, with 33% of the park being covered by land. The park was established in 2000 and is renowned for the very rich marine biodiversity of seagrass beds, coral reefs, mudflats, sand, salt pans, lagoonal patch reef and mangroves. It is also said to be home to about 20,000 inhabitants. It’s such a great destination to go for Tanzania wildlife tours.
Mnazi bay Ruvumba Estuary marine park contains three islands and other islets the islands are Kisiwa Kidogo, Namponda and Membelwa, making a total of twelve villages within the park and making one of the most remote and primitive areas of Tanzania, the people in the villages have always depended on the natural resources of the park but are now benefiting from tourism too. It’s an interesting place to visit for an affordable holiday experience in Tanzania.
British eccentric Latham Leslie-Moore built his house in Ruvula village where he built and lived until the Msimbati peninsula gained it’s in Independence. Mnazi bay also served the towns of Lindi and Mtwara with electricity since 2006; the gas at the marine park was discovered in 1982.
Activities at Mnazi bay Marine Park
Wildlife viewing:
Mnazi bay marine park is home to various animals like dugongs, though they were last seen in 1992. there are a number of mammals, such as the Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin, humpback whale and crab plovers. The park is also a nesting ground for green turtles and hawksbills.
Diving:
One of the most incredible things to do at the park IS diving; the park is endowed with over 258 species of coral. One-day diving excursions can be organized. The park is one of the best diving destinations in Tanzania; there are a number of companies that offer diving lessons within the park or at the Mikindani bay.
Swimming:
Tourists can enjoy swimming in the magnificent Indian Ocean, which offers striking views of the park’s flora and fauna, as well as sunbathing while feeling the cool ocean breeze.
Sand beach walks:
Tourists at Mnazi bay Ruvumba Estuary marine park can take a walk along the sandy beach to Ruvula, a tiny village located about 7 kilometers away, where they can also enjoy fine snorkeling.
Visit the historical site and villages:
Tourists can visit the historical site in Ruvula, where the eccentric British figure Latham Leslie Moore built his house, to learn about its history and understand the community’s lifestyle and traditions.
Fishing:
For those interested in fishing, this activity will also make your stay memorable.
Bird watching:
The best time to visit the park is during the dry season and the wet season will also favor bird enthusiasts. The park can be accessed by road or air transport
The accommodation at the park will depend on the tourist’s budget and choice.
Please visit Mnazi bay Ruvumba Estuary marine park in Tanzania and enjoy an incredible beach holiday in Africa.
