Mnemba island & swimming with turtles, in nungwi

Trying to decide whether this Mnemba Island and turtle sanctuary tour is worth it? From what we’ve gathered, this private experience offers a well-rounded taste of Zanzibar’s best underwater and wildlife encounters. Whether you’re a snorkeler eager to explore vibrant coral reefs, a wildlife lover excited to swim with gentle sea turtles, or someone craving a relaxing day on a pristine island, this trip hits quite a few high notes.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the quality of snorkeling around Mnemba Island is praised for its clear waters and lively marine life. Second, the opportunity to feed and swim with turtles in a natural environment at Nungwi is described as unforgettable. Lastly, the value for money at $60 per person is considered a steal given the inclusiveness of guides, equipment, and transfers.

However, a possible drawback is the weather dependency — rough seas or poor weather can impact both snorkeling and turtle encounters. This tour suits those who are comfortable with water activities, love wildlife, and enjoy a private, tailored experience. It’s a great pick for curious travelers seeking a balanced day of adventure and relaxation while exploring Zanzibar’s coast.

Key Points

• Affordable Price Point: At $60, this tour offers good value with plenty included.
• Snorkeling at Mnemba Island: Expect stunning, clear waters and vibrant reef life.
• Wildlife Encounters: Swim and feed gentle turtles in their natural habitat.
• Private & Flexible: Enjoy a personalized experience with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Guided Expertise: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights.
• Weather Considerations: The tour relies on favorable conditions for snorkeling and wildlife.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of What You Can Expect

This tour combines two of Zanzibar’s most loved activities: snorkeling around Mnemba Island and swimming with turtles near Nungwi. It’s structured as a full day, with all logistics handled so you can focus on enjoying the views, wildlife, and underwater scenes. From early pickup to late return, the experience is designed to be seamless, fun, and authentic.

Morning: Private Transport and Mnemba Island

Your day kicks off with hotel pickup — most likely in a comfortable vehicle, since the tour includes hotel transfer. Once you reach the coast, you’ll hop onto a boat ready to take you out to Mnemba Island, a tiny atoll famous for its clear waters and vibrant marine life. The boat ride itself offers chances to see the coastline and maybe even spot dolphins (some reviews mention swimming with dolphins as part of related trips, but check the specific itinerary).

On arrival, you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel around the island’s coral reefs. The water here is known for being crystal-clear, making it ideal for seeing the colourful fish, corals, and other marine creatures. The reef’s proximity means you’re likely to see plenty of marine biodiversity, which keeps both novice and experienced snorkelers happy.

Midday: Lunch & Relaxation

The tour includes lunch and drinks, often seafood, fruit, and mineral water. Many travelers appreciate this aspect because it offers a chance to unwind, refuel, and enjoy the scenic surroundings. Some reviews note the inclusion of fresh fruit and water, which helps keep energy levels up during the day.

Afternoon: Turtle Sanctuary Experience

After returning from Mnemba, the focus shifts to the Nungwi Turtle Sanctuary. Here, you’ll get the chance to meet, feed, and swim with turtles in a natural setting. According to one reviewer, “There are also showers and changing rooms,” which makes this part of the trip comfortable and convenient. This interaction feels particularly special because the turtles are in their natural environment, and feedings help promote awareness and conservation efforts.

A notable insight from a reviewer describes this as “a great trip and well worth every penny,” especially because the guides are knowledgeable and attentive, making the experience both educational and fun.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price ($60 per person):

• Professional guide who explains marine life and turtles
• Snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, fins)
• Lunch, drinks, fruit, mineral water
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Entrance fees to the sanctuary
• Life jackets

Not included:

• Personal expenses such as souvenirs or extra snacks outside those provided
• Any activities not explicitly listed

Practical Tips on What to Bring

To make the most of your day, pack:

• A hat and sunglasses for sun protection
• Swimwear and a towel
• Sunscreen (biodegradable preferred to protect marine life)
• Snacks if you want extra energy
• A waterproof camera to capture underwater moments
• Water to stay hydrated between activities

The Real Experience: What Travelers Say

One guest, Angelika, noted how smoothly everything went: “The driver picked us up on time, and the crew on the boat was very competent… We swam with dolphins at a less crowded spot, which was fantastic.” She emphasized the professionalism of the guides and the quality of the snorkeling gear.

Another noted that the flexibility to decide how long to stay in the water was appreciated. However, some travelers expressed concern about boats chasing dolphins when they appear — a reminder to be aware of the ethical side of wildlife tourism. It’s good to choose operators that prioritize conservation and responsible viewing.

Most reviews highlight the stunning marine environment. The clarity of water and variety of fish make snorkeling here stand out. The turtle sanctuary experience is described as gentle and immersive, with many saying it’s a highlight of their Zanzibar trip.

Practical Considerations

• The tour operates subject to weather conditions, so check the forecast before booking.
• It’s not suitable for pregnant women, non-swimmers, or those with mobility impairments — water activities require comfort with swimming.
• The tour’s length is flexible, but expect a full day from pickup to return.
• For families, children must be accompanied by an adult.
• Booking is flexible — you can reserve now and pay later, which is handy for planning.

Value Analysis

At $60 per person, including transportation, guide, snorkeling gear, and lunch, this tour offers very good value. The inclusion of wildlife encounters and the chance to explore two distinct environments in one day makes it a practical choice. The personalized nature of a private tour also means you won’t be stuck in large groups or rushing through.

Given the positive reviews about guides’ knowledge and the stunning underwater scenery, many find this a well-rounded, authentic experience that suits adventurous travelers and wildlife lovers equally.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers looking for:

• A combination of marine adventure and wildlife encounters
• A private, flexible experience with comfortable logistics
• An opportunity to see Zanzibar’s coral reefs and turtles in one day
• A good-value option that includes most essentials for a fun day
• Those comfortable with water activities and seeking a relaxed yet engaging day

It’s less suited for pregnant women, non-swimmers, or those with mobility challenges, but for most adventure-loving travelers, it’s a memorable highlight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour is suitable for those comfortable swimming and snorkeling.

What should I bring?
A hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, snacks, water, and a waterproof camera are recommended. It’s best to wear comfortable shoes for walking.

Can I decide how long I stay in the water?
Yes, some reviews mention the freedom to choose how long to snorkel or interact with turtles, depending on your preference.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to weather, you can often reschedule or get a refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.

How long is the tour?
It’s a full-day experience, typically including pickup, boat trips, snorkeling, turtle sanctuary visit, and return.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Reviews highlight guides’ professionalism and friendliness, making the experience educational and enjoyable.

Is food included?
Yes, the tour includes lunch, often seafood and fruits, along with drinks and mineral water.

What marine life can I expect to see?
Vibrant coral reefs, colorful fish, starfish, and turtles. The reef’s biodiversity ensures plenty of sights for snorkelers.

Can I take photos underwater?
Yes, bringing a waterproof camera will help capture the stunning marine scenery and memorable moments with turtles.

This tour offers a balanced, value-packed way to explore Zanzibar’s marine wonders. The combination of snorkeling around Mnemba Island and swimming with turtles makes it ideal for wildlife lovers, snorkelers, and anyone wanting a scenic, educational day at sea. The positive feedback about guides and the natural beauty of the reefs make it a compelling choice for travelers seeking authentic encounters.

While weather can be a limiting factor, if conditions are good, you’ll likely leave with incredible photos, stories, and memories. The inclusive approach — covering transfers, gear, and lunch — simplifies planning, especially if you’re short on time or just want a hassle-free adventure.

In the end, this trip is best suited for those who love the ocean, wildlife, and authentic experiences that won’t break the bank. It’s a solid option whether you’re on your first visit to Zanzibar or looking to add a marine highlight to your itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: