Best Snorkeling Spots in Zanzibar : The Zanzibar archipelago, right off the African coast, is a tropical paradise with white sand, an azure blue ocean, and swinging coconut trees. Its coastline, despite being overcrowded in certain sections, provides excellent snorkeling opportunities, both from the beach and on the nearby islets. In the shallow waters of the island, multicolored starfish, clownfish, butterflyfish, moray eels, and surgeonfish are very common. Apart from its white sand beaches, forested areas, huge spice farms, and the well-known capital, Stone town, Zanzibar (Tanzania) is also noted for its spectacular marine life, owing to its location in the midst of the Indian Ocean.
Mafia, Unguja (commonly known as Zanzibar), and Pemba are the three main islands in the Zanzibar archipelago, which also includes uninhabited islets and reefs. Between 20 and 50 kilometers from the mainland, the three main islands are located. Due to its crystal blue waters, white sand beaches, and coral reefs, it is one of Africa’s best snorkeling destinations, Best Snorkeling Spots in Zanzibar .
The island’s tropical climate creates good conditions for snorkeling throughout the year. Snorkeling is best done during the “long dry season,” which runs from June through October. In any case, don’t stress if you can’t visit around that period, as tropical weather is unpredictable, and even if it’s pouring, snorkeling is an unforgettable experience. There are numerous snorkeling locations on the island of Zanzibar, but here are some of the best where you can go and enjoy your snorkeling safari
- Mnemba Atoll
It is not possible to walk onto this private island; instead, you must swim and snorkel around it. Mnemba Atoll, on the other hand, is one of Tanzania’s most popular snorkeling destinations, and for good reason. All kinds of marine life can be found here, including colorful fish (such as clownfish), eels, giant sea stars, turtles, and even dolphins. There’s a good chance you’ll encounter dolphins and even swim with them when snorkeling here.
You’ll also witness a massive coral reef that connects the deepest sections of the ocean to the shallower areas near the island. Because Mnemba atoll is located in the northeast of the island, it is quite convenient for individuals staying on the island’s east side, particularly in Matemwe and the adjacent districts.
Mnemba Island, a coral islet northwest of Zanzibar, is the island’s most famous snorkeling site. It has a lovely environment and great underwater visibility, as it is surrounded by a ring of white sand. Even if Mnemba is overcrowded (dozens of boats descend on the island every morning to drop off snorkelers on the reef), it is still a beautiful site worth visiting.
- Tumbatu Island
For visitors staying in Nungwi, Tumbatu Island, located on the northwest side of Zanzibar Island and barely 2 kilometers from the coast, is another good area to snorkel. This is arguably the second most popular snorkeling area, but it is less crowded than the Mnemba Atoll. Tumbatu Island is famed for its vibrant coral gardens and fish-filled banks, Best Snorkeling Spots in Zanzibar .
- Chumbe Island
The Chumbe Island Coral Park is a multi-award-winning private nature reserve that protects one of the world’s few virgin coral islands. Many unique and endangered animals call it home, and it is home to many of them. A fully protected coral reef sanctuary and forest reserve, as well as a visitor and education center, nature paths, historical ruins, and eco-bungalows for overnight guests, are all included in the park.
Chumbe Coral Park is recognized for its coral richness, with more than 200 species (90 percent of East Africa’s coral diversity). Hundreds of fish inhabit the area surrounding the island. For those who are interested, scuba diving is not permitted on this island. It is another best spot to go snorkeling in Zanzibar, Tanzania.
- Prison Island
Also known as Changuu Island, It is a popular tourist destination in Zanzibar, not only because of its beautiful beaches, but also because of its past as a prison in the nineteenth century. Aside from that, .Prison Island is noted for its massive tortoises, which are native to the Seychelles. It is another best place visitors can enjoy snorkeling safari in Zanzibar.
- Nakupenda Sandbank
Snorkeling is also available at Nakupenda Sandbank, which is 1.2 kilometers from Stone Town Beach. If you are staying in Stone Town or going to stay there and are on a budget, this is the location to go snorkeling instead of Mnemba Island simply Because you won’t have to pay for transportation, Best Snorkeling Spots in Zanzibar .
- Kizimkazi Snorkeling
Kizimkazi Beach is located on Zanzibar’s south coast (Unguja Island). In comparison to areas like Nungwi and Paje Beach, this is the most secluded and tranquil fishing community. Dolphins must be mentioned whenever Kizimkazi Beach is mentioned. The main draw for visitors to this location is the dolphins. However, you will not always be able to detect dolphins, but you will most likely be able to find them approximately 90% of the time.
- Snorkeling in Pemba Island
Pemba is known for its spectacular coral reefs and aquatic life, making it ideal for snorkeling. Pemba Island, in comparison to Unguja Island, has fewer tourism operations, making it a virgin for snorkelers and divers. If you’re vacationing on Pemba Island, look into the snorkeling trips offered by The Manta Resort. In Zanzibar, this is the only resort with an underwater room.
THE BEST TIME FOR SNORKELING IN ZANZIBAR
The climate of Zanzibar is tropical, which means it is hot and humid throughout the year. Snorkeling in the wet season is no fun, Long rains (late March to May) and short rains/light rains (November to December) are the two rain seasons in Zanzibar. The long dry season (June, July, August, September, and October) is the best period for snorkeling. Late December through early March are also good time.
IS IT SAFE TO GO SNORKELING IN ZANZIBAR?
Yes, the water is ideal for both novice and experienced snorkelers, and it is quite safe. No shark attacks have been reported. All you have to do is make sure you can swim and, if you can’t, use a life jacket when snorkeling.
WHY SHOULD YOU GO SNORKELING IN ZANZIBAR?
Snorkeling is widely recognized as one of the top holiday activities in Zanzibar Island. Snorkeling is a terrific way to enjoy the water without diving too deep. Snorkeling also has numerous health benefits for snorkelers, including improved breathing, physical fitness, and mental wellbeing.
Swimming, snorkeling, and diving are all encouraged in Zanzibar’s warm waters. The sea on the Zanzibar islands is warm, ranging from 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit) in August to 29 degrees Celsius (84 degrees Fahrenheit) between December and April. Stay hydrated while snorkeling. To ensure that you stay hydrated, most Zanzibar snorkeling cruises provide pure drinking water and watermelon.
