The archipelago of Zanzibar is known for its sparkling turquoise seas, which are brimming with a bountiful array of marine creatures, including bottlenose and humpback dolphins.

If you’re staying on Unguja Island, consider participating in a dolphin watching cruise from Zanzibar City. These excursions succeed at combining exhilaration and relaxation as you glide gently through the ocean, actively seeking these magnificent beings.

Here's all you need to know about dolphin watching cruises, one of the most exhilarating outdoor experiences in Zanzibar City.

What are the best dolphin watching cruises from Zanzibar City?

Dolphin watching cruise from Zanzibar City

Discover Tanzania’s friendliest critter’s sustainably on an ethical dolphin watching cruise from Zanzibar City. After traveling to the southern shores of Unguja Island, you’ll hop on a boat and travel out onto the open seas that surround the fishing village of Kizimkazi.

During your boat cruise, you’ll have the opportunity to watch pods of bottlenose dolphins interacting with each other in their natural environment. You may also see the more elusive humpback dolphins, which live for around 40 years and are classed as an endangered species.

Your captain knows how to navigate the seas without disturbing these spectacular beings and, if it’s safe to do so, you may be able to swim among the dolphins before continuing on for a barbecue, and snorkeling session on one of Zanzibar’s most breathtaking islands.

Private dolphin and snorkeling tour at Mnemba Island reef

Discover Africa’s “Great Barrier Reef” at Mnemba Island, where pods of dolphins are abundant. Journeying to the northeast of Zanzibar, there are over 1,000 dolphins living in these waters and you’re bound to see a few as they leap together through the waves in their pods.

You’ll then continue on to the Mnemba Island reef, which provides a home to a myriad of marine creatures, including anemonefish, surgeonfish and snappers. Once you’ve been awed by this underwater wonderland, you’ll head to a nearby sandbank, where you can stretch out on the silky sands or go snorkeling in the mild waters of the Indian Ocean.

Are there any combo available with dolphin watching cruises from Zanzibar City?

Jozani Forest tour and dolphin watching cruise from Zanzibar City

Leaving the pristine shores of Matemwe village, you’ll speed through the seas, looking out for curious dolphins frolicking in the waves. Let the sparkling oceans entice you and don a snorkel mask to discover the wahoo and mahi mahi that roam these waters. Seek out the red colobus monkey at Jozani Forest and explore its dense mangrove forest from above before feasting on a traditional buffet lunch.

Private dolphin cruise plus Stone Town and Jozani Forest from Zanzibar City

The first destination on this Zanzibar day trip is Mnemba Island, where you can explore its flourishing reef up close. You may have the opportunity to swim among dolphins before moving on to Stone Town, where you’ll embark on a walking tour of Zanzibar City.

Discover the region’s most influential buildings, which include the House of Wonders and the historic Slave Market. Lastly, refresh yourself with an invigorating walk through Jozani Forest National Park, listening out for the grunts and howls of the red colobus monkey.

How much do dolphin watching cruises from Zanzibar City cost?

The most affordable dolphin watching cruises from Zanzibar City cost US$55 to US$100 per person, with the more expensive tours being designed for smaller groups of travelers.

Private dolphin watching and snorkeling tours that travel to Mnemba Island cost US$90 to US$170 per person, depending on the size of your group and where on the island you require collection from. Those based in Matemwe and Kigomani will pay on the lower end of the spectrum, while those who are staying in Stone Town or Nungwi will pay more.

Combination tours with dolphin watching and a tour of Jozani Forest National Park tour, are priced between US$90 to US$200 per person, depending on the size of your group.

Dolphin watching tours from Zanzibar City that include an exploration of Stone Town typically cost US$130 per adult.

What is included in a dolphin watching cruise from Zanzibar City?

Dolphin watching cruises from Zanzibar City typically include the use of snorkeling equipment. Some excursions include a local lunch, while others provide refreshments and fruit throughout the day. If you participate in a combination day trip to Jozani Forest National Park, you can expect entrance fees to be covered.

Where do dolphin watching cruises from Zanzibar City start?

The majority of dolphin watching cruises from Zanzibar City include a convenient accommodation pickup service. You’ll simply select your hotel from a dropdown menu and, on the day of your excursion, you’ll await collection in the lobby at a predetermined time.

How long do dolphin watching cruises from Zanzibar City last?

Generally, dolphin cruises from Zanzibar City last between 6 and 9 hours, depending on the destinations you visit. This gives you plenty of time to seek out the island’s collection of cetaceans and participate in other activities, such as snorkeling.

When is the best time for a dolphin watching cruise from Zanzibar City?

While you can see dolphins all year round, the best period for a dolphin watching tour from Zanzibar City tends to be during the dry seasons, namely from June to October and December to February. During these months, the sea is generally calmer and visibility is good.

As for the time of day, early morning is generally considered the best time for dolphin watching. Dolphins tend to be most active in the early hours of the morning, feeding and playing near the surface.

Is it safe?

Dolphin-watching cruises from Zanzibar are perfectly safe, as you will have an expert guide and trained crew members on hand to assist you throughout your journey. However, dolphin-watching cruises that also offer additional activities, such as snorkeling, are not recommended for pregnant women, people with heart and back issues or other serious medical conditions.

What happens in case of bad weather?

If the weather conditions at sea are bad, then your dolphin cruise from Zanzibar City will be rescheduled for a later date. Should this not be convenient, you can request a refund.

Which other water activities can be done in Zanzibar?

Travel tips

Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes and light clothing. It can also be cooler out at sea, so consider bringing a lightweight jacket.
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat to protect yourself from the sun, as the reflection off the water can intensify the sunlight.
Binoculars can enhance your dolphin watching experience in Zanzibar. If you want to take pictures, make sure your camera has a good zoom, but remember to enjoy the moment as well.
While tour operators try their best to locate dolphins, they are wild animals and sightings cannot be guaranteed. Enjoy the experience for the boat ride and the beautiful ocean views, and consider any dolphin sightings a bonus.

Dolphin Watching in Zanzibar City