Swimming with sea turtles in Zanzibar

Zanzibar is known for its stunning white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, but it is also home to some amazing marine life. Among its most fascinating residents are sea turtles, and here, you don’t just get to watch them, you can feed them and even swim alongside them! It’s one of the most memorable activities you can add to your Zanzibar vacation.

Here are three fantastic places where you can experience these gentle creatures up close:

Mnarani Marine Conservation Pond

At the very northern tip of Zanzibar, in Nungwi village, you’ll find the Mnarani Marine Conservation Pond, also known as the Nungwi Mnarani Aquarium. The name “Mnarani” means “place of the lighthouse” in Swahili, as it’s located right next to one.

This sanctuary is a non-profit project dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating sea turtles that have been accidentally caught in fishing nets. Over the years, it has expanded to include the care and protection of baby turtles, providing a safe environment where they can grow and thrive. Visiting this site gives you a chance to learn about marine conservation while seeing these efforts in action.

Baraka Natural Aquarium

Not far from Nungwi Beach, the Baraka Natural Aquarium offers another incredible way to interact with sea turtles. Unlike artificial enclosures, this is a natural tidal pool formed by coral rocks where the ocean meets the land.

This conservation site focuses on helping injured turtles recover before releasing them back into the wild. During your visit, you will have the chance to swim with these turtles, all while supporting their rehabilitation. It is an intimate and rewarding experience that connects you with Zanzibar’s unique marine ecosystem.

Salaam Cave

Located in the village of Kizimkazi on Zanzibar’s southern coast, Salaam Cave is a hidden gem that is quickly gaining popularity. Here, you can swim with sea turtles in their natural habitat and feed them as part of a conservation visit.

The cave is not only a sanctuary for turtles but also a gateway to other adventures in the area. Just a short distance away, you can explore the historic Kizimkazi Mosque, adding a cultural touch to your trip. Afterward, at Mtende Beach, find the perfect spot for sunbathing and swim in the ocean.

Practical information

• Best time to visit: The best time to visit the aquarium is in the morning (09:00 am – 11 am) or afternoon (01:00 pm – 03:30 pm).
• Duration of the activity: The activity, excluding transfer times, typically lasts about 60 minutes.
• Accessibility: The sites are not accessible by wheelchair.
• What to bring: We recommend bringing swimwear, a towel, water-resistant shoes, and snorkelling gear if desired.

 

Important to know before swimming with sea turtles:

• Follow the official guidelines of the aquariums. The aquariums know best how to protect the well-being of the turtles.
• Do not force interaction with the sea turtles or hold them. Keep a comfortable distance between you and the turtles. You can, however, feed them seaweed provided by the aquarium. They will come to you on their terms if they are interested.

 

Other locations where you can find turtles:

• Chumbe Island reefs, around this area you might get the chance to spot turtles while you snorkel.
• Mnemba Island is famous for its corals, tropical fish, and dolphins. It sometimes hosts sea turtles.
• Nungwi Beach is a location where turtles are sometimes sighted near the shores.
• Kendwa Beach, like Nungwi Beach, has some turtles near it.
• Misali Island, near Pemba, Zanzibar’s second island, is a nesting site for the endangered Hawksbill Sea turtle. This is one of the best locations to get the chance to swim with sea turtles in Pemba.
• The Pemba Channel is famous for its hammerhead sharks. Its diverse marine life may include sea turtles.

 

Interested in the opportunity to swim with the turtles? Look at our holiday offerings featuring Zanzibar or contact us directly.