Swim With Dolphins Tours

The south coast of Zanzibar, particularly the Kizimkazi area, offers an incredible opportunity to connect with nature. Known for its vibrant marine life, this region is home to large numbers of bottlenose and spinner dolphins.

As you glide across the calm sea, you may spot these sleek, grey creatures jack-knifing through the waves. Their playful jumps and graceful twists are a sight to behold. While some lucky tourists in the past have had the chance to swim or snorkel alongside these magical animals, it’s important to remember that these dolphins are wild and their behavior is unpredictable. They can be shy or elusive, and although sightings are common, they are never guaranteed. Regardless, the experience of being out on the ocean in the early morning is a reward in itself.

There are two main species of dolphins in this area. The bottlenose dolphin is known for its sociable nature and curved dorsal fin, while the less frequent Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin adds another layer of diversity to Kizimkazi’s marine life. Pods of bottlenose dolphins can often be found fishing in Kizimkazi Bay during the early morning hours. After their fishing sessions, these dolphins retreat to deeper waters, making them more difficult to locate as the day progresses. To maximize your chances of seeing or swimming with them, aim to be on a boat by 6 a.m., as sightings become increasingly rare after 8 a.m.

While Kizimkazi dolphin tours can be planned year-round, the dry season is the ideal time to visit. During this period, calmer seas and stable weather conditions enhance the experience, allowing for smoother boat rides and better visibility of the dolphins. Timing is crucial for this adventure, and those who rise early are often rewarded with sightings of pods gliding effortlessly through the water.