Zanzibar: Nungwi Kilosa Zoo & Swimming with Turtles

Planning a day in Zanzibar that combines wildlife, conservation, and marine adventure? This tour, offered by Zanturtle Explore Tours and Safaris, promises just that — a blend of educational encounters and fun in the sun. We’ve reviewed multiple experiences like this, and from what we see, it’s an excellent choice for travelers eager to connect with Zanzibar’s natural beauty without breaking the bank.

What we particularly like about this trip is how it balances learning and leisure. The guided visits at Kilosa Zoo provide insightful stories about local wildlife, while the chance to swim with sea turtles in their natural environment is genuinely memorable. Plus, a well-chosen local lunch adds flavor and authenticity to the day. One potential consideration? The tour duration was reported to be shorter than expected (around two hours instead of longer), so patience with timing might be needed.

This experience suits nature lovers, families, and eco-conscious travelers who want to see more than just beaches. If you’re after a meaningful day that combines wildlife education and marine fun, this trip offers great value for the price of $62 per person. Let’s unpack what makes it so special and what to keep in mind.

Key Points

• Wildlife Education: The tour guides at Kilosa Zoo are knowledgeable and provide engaging insights into local species and conservation efforts.
• Marine Adventure: Swimming with turtles in their natural habitat at Baraka Aquarium offers a unique and memorable experience.
• Authentic Cuisine: The included lunch at a charming Nungwi restaurant features fresh, traditional Zanzibari dishes.
• All-Inclusive Value: The price covers transportation, entry fees, guides, and even the chance to touch and feed animals.
• Shorter Duration: The tour reportedly lasts around two hours at Kilosa Zoo, which may be less than some travelers expect.
• Perfect for Eco-Conscious Travelers: The tour supports wildlife conservation and promotes awareness in a fun, engaging way.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Nungwi Kilosa Zoo & Turtle Swim Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour offers a balanced mix of animal encounters, educational moments, and marine adventure. Starting with pickup from your hotel, a comfortable vehicle whisks you away to Nungwi Kilosa Zoo Conservation, a lush spot dedicated to protecting native wildlife. Guides like Lina and David are praised for their friendliness and expertise, making the experience welcoming and informative. As you stroll through the sanctuary, expect to see a variety of native birds, reptiles, and mammals, each with interesting stories about their habitats and conservation status.

What makes Kilosa Zoo special is its focus on sustainability, so your visit directly supports local wildlife efforts. Reviewers mention how engaging and interactive the experience is, with opportunities to touch and feed animals, which enhances the connection to these creatures. One traveler appreciated the “fantastic explanations and interactions,” while another noted that it’s better than just viewing animals from a distance.

Following the zoo visit, you’ll head to a scenic local restaurant in Nungwi for lunch. Expect fresh seafood dishes such as grilled fish with Zanzibari spices or coconut curry. This authentic meal fuels you for the marine adventure to come and is highly valued for its quality and flavor.

Swimming with Turtles at Baraka Aquarium

The afternoon begins with a transfer to Baraka Aquarium, a marine sanctuary with a mission to rehabilitate injured sea turtles and raise awareness about ocean health. Here, you’ll don snorkeling gear and get in the water to glide alongside gentle sea turtles in their natural habitat. The guides are attentive, ensuring safe interactions and providing fascinating insights into turtle ecology.

According to reviewers, this part of the tour is truly the highlight — “a rare opportunity to swim with turtles in open water,” as one guest described. The coral reefs surrounding Baraka Aquarium are vibrant, teeming with colorful fish and marine life, making the experience as visually stunning as it is heartfelt.

A word of caution: turtles can bite, so guides advise not to turn your back on them. Still, their presence is calming and awe-inspiring, especially when you realize you’re in their world, not just observing but sharing a moment in their natural environment.

What to Expect from the Tour

• Transportation: Usually includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple and stress-free.
• Guided Experiences: Knowledgeable guides like Lina and David lead the way, explaining wildlife stories and conservation messages.
• Interactive Encounters: Touching and feeding animals at Kilosa Zoo enriches the experience beyond passive observation.
• Marine Snorkeling: Swimming with turtles at Baraka Aquarium is conducted with safety and education in mind.
• Meals and Refreshments: A delicious local lunch and a welcome bottle of water are included, keeping you energized.
• Duration: Expect about two hours at Kilosa Zoo, with the remaining time allocated for lunch and snorkeling.

More Great Tours Nearby

Price and Value

At $62 per person, this tour offers solid value. It covers transportation, entry fees, guides, and the experience of interacting with wildlife in both land and sea environments. Comparatively, this is quite reasonable considering the unique opportunities and the level of expertise provided.

A reviewer noted, “The explanations and animal interactions were fantastic,” and the included meal adds to the overall value, transforming a simple outing into a well-rounded cultural and ecological experience.

Authenticity and Conservation Focus

What sets this tour apart from generic wildlife encounters is its commitment to conservation education. The guides share stories about endangered species and ongoing efforts to protect local wildlife, adding a meaningful dimension to your day. The fact that you’re directly contributing to these efforts through your visit makes it more than just a sightseeing trip.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a connection with nature beyond lounging on Zanzibar’s beaches. Families with children will enjoy the interactive animal encounters, while eco-conscious travelers appreciate the focus on conservation. It’s also suited for those curious about Zanzibar’s native wildlife and wanting a taste of local culture through the lunch.

If you’re after a relaxing yet educational day, with opportunities to photograph stunning scenery and memorable animal encounters, this tour hits the mark. However, if your main goal is beach lounging or nightlife, it might be best reserved as a special day trip rather than an everyday activity.

Final Thoughts

This Zanzibar tour combines wildlife education, conservation awareness, and marine fun in a well-organized package that offers excellent value for the price. The guides bring passion and knowledge, elevating what could be a simple outing into a meaningful experience. The chance to swim with turtles in their natural environment is genuinely special, making this a worthwhile addition to your Zanzibar itinerary.

While the shorter duration at Kilosa Zoo might be a surprise for some, the quality of interactions and the authenticity of the experience more than compensate. The included lunch, comfortable transport, and focus on conservation make this a well-rounded choice for those wanting to learn and enjoy nature’s wonders.

In summary, if you’re looking for a day that combines education, adventure, and local culture with a focus on wildlife, this tour will serve you well. It’s especially suited for those who prioritize authentic experiences and meaningful connections with nature while exploring the stunning island of Zanzibar.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making transportation hassle-free.

How much does the tour cost?
It costs $62 per person, covering transportation, entry fees, guides, and activities.

What animals will I see at Kilosa Zoo?
You’ll encounter various native birds, reptiles, and mammals, with guides sharing educational stories about each species.

Can I feed or touch the animals?
Yes, the tour offers opportunities to touch and feed animals at Kilosa Zoo, enhancing the interaction.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen for comfort and safety.

Are there any restrictions?
Pets are not allowed, and turtles can bite, so avoid turning your back on them during the swim.

How long does the zoo visit last?
The visit typically lasts around two hours, which some reviewers found to be shorter than expected.

Is the snorkeling experience safe?
Guides are attentive to safety, and interactions are guided to ensure a safe and respectful encounter with the turtles.

What is the lunch like?
The included lunch features traditional Zanzibari cuisine, often with fresh seafood such as grilled fish or coconut curry.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing flexibility in planning.

This tour offers a meaningful way to experience Zanzibar’s wildlife and marine environments, making it a worthwhile addition to your travel plans. Whether you’re passionate about conservation, love animals, or just want a fun day out, it promises authentic, memorable moments that will stay with you long after your trip ends.

You can check availability for your dates here: