ZANZIBAR: Mnemba island, Baraka aquarium and spice farm

Exploring Zanzibar often involves glamorous beaches and luxurious resorts, but if you’re craving a truly engaging day out with authentic experiences, this tour offers just that. From swimming with dolphins to wandering through spice farms and meeting sea turtles, it promises a blend of adventure and cultural insight.

Our review focuses on a tour that has earned a perfect 5-star rating from travelers, and for good reason. We’ll share what makes it stand out, what you can expect, and a few considerations before booking.

What we love most about this tour:

• The chance to swim and snorkel around Mnemba Island’s coral reefs—a highlight for wildlife lovers.
• The delicious seafood lunch on the beach, included in the price, offering both taste and scenic views.
• Visiting a spice farm where you can learn about local spices and buy authentic products.
• The opportunity to swim with and feed sea turtles, adding a gentle, memorable wildlife encounter.

A possible drawback: The tour is quite full-on, so if you’re looking for a slow, relaxing day, it might feel rushed. Also, weather conditions can affect dolphin sightings, so it’s worth checking the forecast before booking.

This experience suits travelers craving a well-rounded day of adventure, wildlife, and cultural discovery—ideal for those wanting more than just beaches and lounging.

Key Points

• Authentic wildlife encounters like swimming with dolphins and sea turtles
• Cultural immersion at a spice farm with tasting opportunities
• Scenic boat rides with chances for snorkeling and relaxing on sandbanks
• All-inclusive food and entry fees offer great value for a full day of activities
• Guided experience with knowledgeable guides and friendly drivers
• Flexible booking options with pay later and cancellation policies

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Mnemba Island: The Main Attraction

The journey begins early in the morning when your driver picks you up from your hotel. From there, it’s about a 45-minute transfer to the boat launch point, where the real adventure starts. The boat ride to Mnemba Island offers stunning views and a chance to settle into island life.

Once on the boat, the search begins for dolphins—an activity that many travelers find magical. As one reviewer noted, “we saw many dolphins,” and the experience of swimming near these playful creatures is genuinely exhilarating. The guides, like Mohamed, are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, making the dolphin hunt both informative and fun.

Snorkeling around the coral reefs near Mnemba is another highlight. The reefs are teeming with colorful fish, starfish, and other marine life. If the tide is low, instead of swimming with dolphins, you’ll cruise to a sandbank—an excellent spot for photos, relaxing, or just soaking in the sun.

What makes Mnemba Island special?

Its conservation area keeps the waters relatively pristine, and the chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat is a highlight for wildlife lovers. The experience is about more than just spotting animals; it’s about feeling connected to Zanzibar’s marine environment.

The Seafood Lunch on the Beach

After the snorkeling or sandbank stop, you’ll head to a beach where a seafood lunch awaits. The meals are described as delicious, with many noting the local spices and fresh fish. The included lunch is not just convenient but elevates the experience, giving you a taste of Zanzibar’s culinary tradition amid stunning coastal scenery.

One traveler raved, “we had a nice lunch at the spice farm,” emphasizing how much they enjoyed the fresh, local flavors. The lunch breaks up the busy morning and offers a perfect moment to unwind while listening to the waves.

Spice Farm Experience: Scent and Flavor of Zanzibar

Next, the tour takes you inland to a spice farm—a must-do for anyone curious about Zanzibar’s nickname as the “Spice Island.” Here, guides walk you through different spice plants like cardamom, vanilla, and cinnamon, explaining their growth and uses.

According to reviews, this part of the tour is both educational and fragrant. Visitors can smell, taste, and even test spices, which makes the experience memorable. Many travelers find themselves buying small spice products or cosmetics on-site—just remember to bring cash in dollars or euros, as credit cards may not be accepted.

One review states, “I recommend 100%,” highlighting how engaging and informative the visit is. Expect to learn not just about spices but also about Zanzibar’s agricultural history and local practices.

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Meeting the Sea Turtles

The last major activity involves visiting a sea turtle sanctuary. Here, you get to see and swim with these gentle creatures—an encounter that many describe as touching and memorable. Some travelers have even fed the turtles, adding an interactive element to this part of the tour.

This stop offers a calmer, more reflective experience compared to the high-energy dolphin swim, and it’s appreciated for its conservation aspect. It’s an opportunity to connect with wildlife peacefully and learn about efforts to protect these endangered animals.

Practical Details & What to Expect

The tour lasts a full day, with pickup after breakfast and activities typically starting around mid-morning. The group size isn’t specified, but reviews suggest a friendly, guided experience with knowledgeable guides like Julia, who speaks French fluently, making the day accessible for international travelers.

Cost-wise, at $140 per person, you get a well-rounded day filled with wildlife encounters, cultural insights, and a scenic lunch—considered good value for the variety and quality of experiences.

Included in the price are entry fees, the tour guide, government tax, boat fees, and the local spice lunch. Extras like transfers can be arranged at an additional cost, and tipping is optional but appreciated.

What to Bring and What to Know

Travelers should carry a camera, comfortable clothes suited for water activities, and cash (preferably in dollars or euros) for shopping. Weather conditions can impact dolphin sightings and snorkeling visibility, so check the forecast before your tour day.

The tour is not suitable for babies under 1 year or people over 95, but it welcomes most other adventurous travelers. It’s also available in multiple languages, including English, French, and German.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of Zanzibar’s nature, culture, and culinary delights. It balances wildlife encounters—dolphins, turtles—with cultural engagement at the spice farm, all within a day. The inclusion of meals, entry fees, and guided support makes it an attractive, hassle-free option.

It’s ideal for travelers who want more than just lounging on the beach. If you enjoy wildlife, learning about local culture, and trying fresh seafood, this tour hits the spot. Plus, the positive reviews and high ratings suggest you’re likely to have a memorable day.

While it may be a busy itinerary, the mix of activities ensures you leave with a richer understanding of Zanzibar’s natural beauty and local traditions. The knowledgeable guides and smooth logistics make it a reliable choice, especially if you’re keen on an interactive, value-packed day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour? The tour costs $140 per person, including most activities, entry fees, and a seafood lunch.

What is included in the tour? The price covers entry fees, a knowledgeable guide, government tax, boat fees, and a local seafood meal.

Can I request transfers? Yes, transfers are available at an extra cost if you need assistance getting to the starting point.

What should I bring? Bring a camera, comfortable clothes, and cash—preferably in dollars or euros—for any shopping or extras.

Is the tour suitable for children? It’s not recommended for babies under 1 year or people over 95, but most other age groups are fine.

What happens if the weather is bad? Weather conditions can affect dolphin sightings and snorkeling visibility, so check the forecast before your trip.

How long does the tour last? Expect a full-day experience, from morning pickup to late afternoon or early evening return.

Is there a cancellation policy? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Choosing this Zanzibar tour means opting for a day filled with adventure, wildlife, and cultural discovery. Whether swimming with dolphins, exploring spice farms, or meeting sea turtles, you’re set for an authentic experience that highlights the best of what Zanzibar has to offer.

You can check availability for your dates here: