Experience · Zanzibar · On the water
Snorkelling at Mnemba
Mnemba Atoll, off Zanzibar’s north-east coast, has some of the clearest water and healthiest reefs around the island. A short boat ride takes you to snorkel among coral gardens, reef fish and sea turtles.
Enquire about this experienceDuration
Half day · about 4 hours
Starts from
Hotels on the north and east coast
Best time
Year-round · clearest water roughly October to March
Ideal for
Families, couples and first-time snorkellers
The reefs of Mnemba
Mnemba is a small private island surrounded by a protected marine conservation area. The reef around it drops from shallow sandy patches, perfect for beginners, to coral walls where you can see parrotfish, angelfish, triggerfish and, quite often, green and hawksbill turtles. Pods of dolphins are frequently seen on the way out, and good operators keep a respectful distance rather than chasing them. Boats leave from the beaches of Matemwe, Kiwengwa or Nungwi depending on where you stay, and the trip usually includes two snorkelling stops with a guide in the water. Masks, snorkels and fins are provided, and fresh fruit and water are served on board. The island itself is private, so you stay in the water and on the boat. The trip runs with the tides and the weather.
Your experience
How the morning unfolds
Departure times change with the tides.
08:00 · Hotel pick-up
Transfer to the beach where your boat is waiting.
08:30 · Out to the atoll
A 20–30 minute boat ride, often with dolphins on the way.
09:00 · First snorkel
Shallow coral gardens with your guide in the water.
10:00 · Second site
Deeper reef edge for turtles and larger fish.
11:00 · Fruit on board
Fresh tropical fruit and drinks on the boat.
12:00 · Return
Back on the beach and at your hotel by lunchtime.
Included
— Private or small-group boat
— Snorkelling guide
— Mask, snorkel and fins
— Marine conservation fees
— Fruit and water
— Hotel transfers
Not included
— Underwater camera hire
— Tips
— Travel insurance
Book this experience
Tell us where you are staying on Zanzibar and your dates, and we will book the trip around the tides.
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