Snorkeling in Zanzibar City

The waters surrounding the Zanzibar archipelago are brimming with exotic marine creatures, from colossal humpback whales to tiny frogfish and everything in between. The best way to explore all that these azure waters have to offer is by hopping on a boat and participating in a spot of snorkeling.

Snorkeling tours from Zanzibar City journey to a plethora of locations, such as Mnemba Island, surrounded by flourishing coral reefs, and Blue Lagoon, home to a colorful collection of starfish.

Here's all you need to know about snorkeling tours, one of the most exhilarating outdoor activities in Zanzibar City.

What are the best snorkeling tours from Zanzibar City?

Mnemba Island snorkeling tour from Zanzibar City

Discover the bountiful reefs of Mnemba Island, just a stone’s throw from Ugunja on this snorkeling tour from Zanzibar City. On your own private vessel, you’ll sail away from Zanzibar City toward the protected marine reserve of Mnemba Island.

Once you arrive, you’ll take a break from relaxing on deck to don a snorkel and slip under the calm surface of the Indian Ocean. As you swim gracefully through the seas, you’ll have the opportunity to get up close to some of the 600 species of sea creatures this reserve provides a home to.

Marvel at the unique shape of a lionfish, spot a camouflaged frogfish and admire the uniform stripes of a zebrafish while exploring the ocean. Alternatively, you may see larger creatures, such as turtles, before enjoying a seafood barbecue on Matemwe Beach.

Blue Lagoon snorkeling trip from Zanzibar City

On this private Zanzibar City snorkeling excursion, you’ll travel across Unguja Island to the enchanting village of Pingwe, where you’ll step foot on the pristine sands of Starfish Beach before slipping into the waters and discovering hundreds of the multicolored star-shaped marine creatures.

Continuing on, you’ll reach Blue Lagoon, filled with thriving coral reefs that house thousands of fascinating beings, including bottlenose dolphins and five species of turtles. After a local lunch, you’ll relax on the silky sands of Paje Beach and explore Jozani Forest Park, where you can search for the endemic Zanzibar red colobus monkey. Alongside its primates, this reserve is home to more than 40 species of butterflies and features a dense mangrove forest.

Are there any combo available with snorkeling tours from Zanzibar City?

Private dolphin watching and snorkeling tour at Mnemba Island reef

Set sail through the northern seas surrounding Unguja, on a dolphin watching cruise. This area is home to more than 1,000 bottlenose dolphins, which measure up to 4 meters in length and can be seen leaping through the waves.

Journey on to Mnemba Island for some snorkeling, where you may see a moray eel or stingray among schools of mackerel and snappers. Lastly, you’ll enjoy the tranquility that surrounds you from a neighboring sandbank, before hopping back on your boat to return to Zanzibar City.

How much do snorkeling tours from Zanzibar City cost?

Snorkeling tours from Zanzibar City to Mnemba Island cost US$90 to US$100 per person. You can book for up to 15 guests and your group will be the only one on the cruise.

A Blue Lagoon snorkeling trip that also visits Jozani Forest Park is a private affair, costing US$130 per person. There is a minimum requirement of two to make a booking, with the maximum group size being 15.

Dolphin watching and snorkeling combo tours from Zanzibar City cost US$110 to US$190 if you travel solo, depending on which part of the island you wish to be picked up from. Pickups from Nigomani or Muyuni are on the lower end of this range, while those from Stone Town or Nungwi typically cost more. If you book as a party of two or more, the cost per head reduces to between US$90 and US$130.

What is included in a snorkeling tour from Zanzibar City?

Snorkel tours from Zanzibar City always include all equipment needed to participate in this activity. You’ll also enjoy the services of a professional tour guide to ensure the smooth running of your day and fill you in on each destination.

Many excursions provide refreshments throughout the day, as well as a local lunch, which usually revolves around seafood. In some cases, entrance fees to national parks and other destinations are also included.

Where do snorkeling tours from Zanzibar City start?

The majority of snorkeling tours from Zanzibar City include a convenient accommodation pickup and drop-off service. You’ll simply select your hotel from a dropdown list when booking and, on the day of your excursion, await collection by a friendly guide in the lobby at a predetermined time.

This complimentary service enables you to focus on your enjoyment of the tour without getting caught up in the stress of arranging transportation to a location on the Island of Unguja.

How long does it last?

Snorkeling trips from Zanzibar City typically last between 7 and 8 hours, exploring several prime coral reefs, and nature reserves along the way. However, if you are short on time, you can opt for a dolphin watching and snorkeling tour, which lasts just 4 hours.

When is the best time for a snorkeling tour from Zanzibar City?

The best time to go on a snorkeling tour from Zanzibar City is during the dry seasons, from June to October, and January to February. These months offer the best visibility underwater and more stable sea conditions, enhancing your snorkeling experience. Wildlife is also abundant during these periods, and you might spot a variety of marine species, such as dolphins.

What happens in case of bad weather?

Snorkeling tours from Zanzibar City are dependent on good weather, so if the conditions are bad, your excursion will be rescheduled for a later date. If this is not convenient, then you can request a full refund.

Which other water activities can be done in Zanzibar City?

• Boat tours in Zanzibar City
• Kayaking in Zanzibar City
• Surf lessons in Zanzibar City
• Jet ski in Zanzibar City
• Parasailing in Zanzibar City

Travel tips

• Snorkeling tours are very popular, so make sure to book your excursion from Zanzibar City well in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.
• Protection from the sun is important, but so is preserving the natural environment. Make sure that the sunscreen you use is reef-safe and biodegradable.
• A full stomach can make you uncomfortable while swimming, so eat lightly and avoid alcohol before your snorkeling tour.