ZANZIBAR : Swimming with sea turtle at kizimkazi

If you’re dreaming of a day spent in the company of gentle sea turtles in Zanzibar, the Kizimkazi Turtle Sanctuary offers a compelling experience. This tour, priced at $30 per person, combines the thrill of swimming with these beautiful creatures with educational insights into their conservation. We’ve gathered detailed insights to help you decide if this is the adventure for you.

What immediately draws most travelers is the chance to get up close and personal with sea turtles in their natural environment, combined with the opportunity to feed them and learn about ongoing rehabilitation efforts. The stunning tidal pools, set amidst the coral rocks, provide a peaceful setting that feels worlds away from busy tourist spots.

Another highlight is the friendly guides, like Eddy, who are well-informed and committed to sharing their passion for marine life. Plus, the authentic experience of touching and smelling fresh spices adds a sensory layer that enhances the day’s adventure.

A possible consideration for some is that the experience relies heavily on weather conditions and the natural behavior of the turtles, which means encounters can vary day-to-day. Also, transportation isn’t included in the base price, so planning for a transfer adds to your overall cost.

This tour suits travelers looking for a family-friendly, ethical wildlife encounter that combines fun with education and a touch of Zanzibar’s natural beauty.

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Key Points

Authentic Interaction: Swim and feed turtles in their natural lagoon, not just a tank.
Educational Value: Learn about turtle conservation and rehabilitation efforts.
Scenic Setting: The large tidal pools and coral surroundings make for picturesque moments.
Affordable Price: At $30, it offers good value considering the close-up experience.
Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding and comfort.
Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel with ease 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Turtle Sanctuary: What to Expect

The Kizimkazi Turtle Sanctuary is celebrated as Zanzibar’s premier marine turtle refuge and an educational center dedicated to turtle rehabilitation. For about $30, your entry fee grants access to a site where you’ll see, feed, and swim with turtles in a carefully maintained environment that mimics their natural habitat.

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The Sanctuary and Its Mission

The sanctuary is more than just a tourist attraction; it’s a conservation project that aims to protect local marine turtles. The guides, like Eddy, are passionate and eager to share insights about the turtles’ life cycle, their diet, and the rehabilitation efforts underway. Visitors are encouraged to buy seaweed from the turtle carers to feed them, which not only enhances the experience but also supports the ongoing conservation work.

The Lagoon and Tidal Pool Experience

One of the most captivating parts of this tour is swimming in the lagoon. The natural tidal pool, situated behind the beach and surrounded by coral rock, is the prime location where turtles are rehabilitated and observed. This large tidal pool was initially designed to study and care for the turtles, making the encounter feel authentic and rooted in conservation rather than commercial tourism.

Most travelers find the swimming experience genuinely rewarding. As one reviewer shared, “We played a lot with sea turtles and fed them. Highly recommended.” The calm waters and protective environment make it suitable for children and adults alike.

The Feeding and Close Encounters

Feeding the turtles is a simple yet memorable part of the experience. You can purchase seaweed to hand-feed the turtles, which often results in delightful close-up moments. The guide-led pool allows you to get within a few feet of these gentle creatures, making for great photo opportunities and a chance to observe their behavior.

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Additional Sensory Experiences

Beyond the turtles, the tour also offers an opportunity to smell, touch, and taste fresh spices, giving a taste of Zanzibar’s aromatic and flavorful culture. This brief cultural interlude is a subtle reminder of the island’s rich local heritage.

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Practical Details and Tips

Included & Not Included

Your entry fee and guided tour are included, along with government taxes, ensuring transparent pricing. However, transfers, food, beverages, and any additional tips or extras are not included but can be arranged for a reasonable fee if requested.

What to Bring

Camera: To capture the moments with turtles and the scenic tidal pools.
Cash: For purchasing seaweed or tipping guides.
Sun protection: Hat, sunglasses, or sunscreen, especially in the midday sun.

What’s Not Allowed

Weapons or sharp objects, to maintain safety.
Alcohol and drugs, for everyone’s safety.
Flashlights, as they could disturb the marine environment.

Important Considerations

Always check the weather forecast before your visit, as poor weather can affect the experience.
Make sure you’re in good health, especially if you have mobility issues or concerns about swimming.
The experience is not suitable for people over 95 years old.

Booking & Cancellation

You can reserve your spot with flexible payment options—pay later—and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility suits travelers with uncertain schedules or who prefer to plan last-minute.

Authentic Experiences & Real Traveler Insights

A traveler described their day as “a nice day at salam cave,” emphasizing the timeliness of the pickup and the playful interaction with turtles. “Our driver Eddy arrived at the right time,” they added, highlighting reliable logistics—something many travelers appreciate.

The small group size and guided tour format make the experience feel intimate and personalized. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge are often mentioned as a highlight, making the educational component engaging and accessible.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

This experience offers a rare opportunity to observe and interact with sea turtles in a setting that prioritizes their well-being. For just $30, you gain not only a memorable encounter but also insights into marine conservation efforts that you can share long after your trip.

The scenic tidal pools provide picture-perfect views, perfect for photography lovers wanting to capture Zanzibar’s natural beauty. Children and adults alike will enjoy the gentle swim, the interactive feeding, and the chance to better understand these amazing creatures.

The combination of authentic wildlife interaction, supportive conservation, and cultural spice encounters makes this tour an enriching addition to any Zanzibar itinerary. It’s especially suitable for families, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a meaningful connection with nature.

FAQ

What is the price of this experience?
It costs $30 per person which includes entry, guided support, and government taxes.

Are transfers included?
No, transfers are not included, but they can be arranged for a reasonable fee upon request.

Can I buy food and beverages at the site?
Food and drinks are not included in the price, so bringing cash or arranging ahead is recommended if you want snacks or water.

Is there an age limit?
The experience is not suitable for people over 95 years old, but it’s generally perfect for families and kids.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, cash, and sun protection, as well as any personal items to stay comfortable during your visit.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your plans.

Is this experience good for photography?
Absolutely, the tidal pools and close encounters with turtles offer plenty of photo opportunities.

Is it suitable for non-swimmers?
While some parts involve swimming, guides assist in making sure everyone is comfortable. Non-swimmers can still enjoy observing from the edges.

How long does the tour last?
The exact duration isn’t specified, but typical visits are manageable as half or full-day outings.

What is the best time of day to visit?
It’s advisable to check weather conditions beforehand, but mornings often provide calmer waters and better lighting for photos.

To sum it up, the Zanzibar swimming with sea turtles tour at Kizimkazi offers a genuine, eco-friendly encounter that combines close wildlife interactions with scenic natural beauty. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting to support conservation while enjoying an unforgettable experience. Whether traveling with family or as a solo adventurer, the friendly guides and stunning tidal pools make this a worthwhile addition to your Zanzibar trip.