Is Mnemba Island Worth Visiting?

Short answer: yes, if you want the best snorkeling in Zanzibar and you understand what the trip involves. Mnemba is one of the island’s most popular sea trips, and most guests come back happy. Here is what to expect so you can decide.

Mnemba Island and Mnemba Atoll are not the same thing

Mnemba Island is a small private island off the north-east coast with a luxury lodge. Day visitors do not land on it. What you visit is Mnemba Atoll, the ring of coral reef around the island, which is a protected marine conservation area. Your boat anchors over the reef and you snorkel in the clear water.

What you can see

• Coral gardens with a wide variety of reef fish
• Turtles, which are sometimes seen on the reef
• Dolphins, which are sometimes seen on the way
• White sand and very clear water on calm days

Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, and a responsible guide will not chase dolphins or let anyone touch the coral.

Why Mnemba is worth it

• The reef. Protection means healthier coral and more fish than at many reefs near the busy beaches.
• Easy snorkeling. On most days the water is calm and warm, which suits beginners and children as well as confident swimmers.
• Close to the north and east coasts. From Nungwi, Kendwa, Matemwe or Kiwengwa the boat ride is short.

Things to know before you go

• It is popular. Mnemba is often busy with other boats, especially mid-morning. Early departures help.
• Conservation fee. Non-East African visitors pay $25 per adult and $10 per child (under fives free). Check whether your trip includes it.
• Sea and tide decide the spot. Your guide chooses where to snorkel based on the tide and conditions on the day.
• Season. Visibility is usually best from June to October, and December to February brings calm seas. The long rains from March to May can cloud the water. See our guide to the best time to visit Zanzibar.
• Bring: swimwear, a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and a waterproof bag for your phone.

Shared or private trip?

On a shared trip you join other travellers on the same boat, which keeps the cost down. On a private trip the boat and guide are yours, so you can stay longer at the reef or leave early. Families and couples who want a slower pace usually prefer private.

Our Mnemba trips

• Mnemba Atoll Private Snorkeling Trip: a private boat to the reef, about six hours, with lunch and fresh fruit.
• Mnemba Snorkeling and Baraka Turtle Aquarium: snorkel at Mnemba in the morning, then swim with rescued green sea turtles in Nungwi.
• 5 Days North or East Beach with Mnemba Snorkeling: a beach holiday package with Mnemba included.

Prefer something quieter?

If crowds put you off, the reefs off Tumbatu Island in the north-west see far fewer boats, and Safari Blue in the south-west combines snorkeling with sandbanks and a seafood lunch.

Ask us which Mnemba trip suits your hotel and dates. Message us on WhatsApp at +255 773 963 024 or use our contact page.