Snorkel
Snorkeling Zanzibar is one of the most accessible and spectacular aquatic experiences you can have in the Indian Ocean. With crystal clear waters of 26-29°C year-round, visibility of 15-30 meters, pristine coral reefs and over 500 species of tropical fish, this Tanzanian archipelago offers world-class snorkeling with no dive certification required. From the iconic Mnemba Atoll where you swim alongside sea turtles, to the pristine corals of Chumbe Island and the turquoise lagoons of Menai Bay, Zanzibar has spots for all levels. In this complete guide I explain the best places to snorkel in Zanzibar, what marine life you will see, how much it costs, best time, if you need a tour or you can go on your own, equipment needed and practical tips for a safe and memorable experience.
Why Zanzibar is exceptional for snorkeling
Biodiverse coral reefs
Zanzibar is located in the Indo-West Pacificone of the most biodiverse marine regions on the planet. The reefs combine hard corals (brain, staghorn, table) and soft corals (gorgonians, sea whips) creating colorful underwater gardens.
Warm and clear waters
Temperature26-29°C all year round - no need for full neoprene, only lycra for sun protection
Visibility15-30 meters depending on location and season. Best conditions October-March.
Gentle currentsMost Zanzibar snorkeling spots have manageable currents, ideal for beginners.
Sea turtles almost guaranteed
Mnemba Atoll especially has 80%+ probability to see green or hawksbill turtles while snorkeling. They are used to snorkelers but always keep a respectful distance.
Accessibility for all levels
You don't need to be an expert swimmer. Spots like Safari Blue, Nungwi and Matemwe are perfect for first timers. Life jackets are always available on tours.
Economical alternative to scuba diving
Certified diving costs 60-100 USD per dive. Snorkel costs 30-100 USD full day with equipment, transport, guide and often lunch included. See 80% for the same at a fraction of the price.
Best places to snorkel Zanzibar
Mnemba Atoll - The premium snorkeling spot in Zanzibar
Why it is the bestCoral atoll surrounding an exclusive private island. Considered the best snorkeling in Zanzibar for biodiversity and water clarity.
What you will see:
- Sea turtles: Green and tortoiseshell (80% probability)
- Fish: Angel emperor, giant parrotfish, butterfly fish (20+ species), occasional napoleon wrasses
- Stripes: Eagle and blanket (occasional)
- Dolphins: Frequently sighted from boat
- Corals: extensive hard and soft coral gardens
AccessOnly by organized tours from Matemwe, Nungwi or Kendwa. Mnemba Island is private (ultra-luxurious resort), but the surrounding waters are accessible at some distance.
Price80-150 USD per person full day
- Includes: Boat transportation, 2-3 snorkeling sessions, equipment, guide, lunch, fruits, beverages.
- From Matemwe: More economical (80-100 USD), short distance.
- From Nungwi/Kendwa: More expensive (120-150 USD), longer journey
Best time: Early morning (fewer boats, calmer water)
LevelIntermediate - Currents can be strong depending on the tide. Good swimmers.
Council: Reservation with responsible operator that maintains distance from private island and limit number of boats.
Chumbe Island Coral Park - The most pristine snorkeling in Zanzibar
What makes it special: Tanzania's first private marine reserve (since 1994). Best preserved coral reef in Zanzibar by strict protection. Model of ecotourism.
What you will see:
- More than 400 species of fish
- 200+ coral species (highest diversity in Zanzibar)
- Turtles, octopuses, moray eels
- Giant humpback parrotfish
- Colorful nudibranchs
AccessFull day tour only, organized directly with Chumbe Island.
Price100-120 USD per person full day
- Includes: Transportation from Stone Town, guided snorkel (educational underwater trail with buoys), vegetarian lunch, educational island tour, reserve entrance fee.
- Part of the proceeds fund conservation and environmental education
Best time: High tide (check schedules when booking)
Level: Beginner to intermediate - Very experienced guides, small groups maximum 12 people
OnlyUnderwater trail with buoys marking points of interest, guide explains the ecosystem.
Menai Bay (Safari Blue Tour) - Best complete snorkeling experience in Zanzibar
Why it is popularNot just snorkeling but a full day experience combining multiple activities. Marine reserve of 470 km².
What you will see:
- Coral reefs with assorted tropical fishes
- Giant starfish (do not touch)
- Occasional dolphins (boat sighting)
- Occasional stripes
Access: Safari Blue Tours from Fumba
Price60-80 USD per person full day
- Includes: Traditional dhow, 2 snorkeling sessions in different reefs, swimming in natural lagoon, BBQ lunch with lobster on island, tropical fruits, drinks, mangrove exploration.
- Excellent value for money
Best timeAll year round, preferably dry season
Level: Beginner - Perfect first snorkeling experience
Why choose Safari BlueIf you can only do ONE tour in Zanzibar, Safari Blue combines snorkeling, nature, culture and gastronomy.
Tumbatu Island - For snorkeling adventurers in Zanzibar
Why it is interestingLess touristic, virgin reefs, inhabited island with authentic local culture.
What you will see:
- Extensive reefs little visited
- High biodiversity
- Occasional reef sharks (harmless)
- Turtles
Access: Tours from Nungwi/Kendwa
Price70-100 USD full day
Level: Intermediate-advanced - There may be currents
Important: The island has a conservative Muslim population. Respect culture if you visit the island (dress modestly).
Nungwi Reef - Snorkeling from the beach in Zanzibar
Why it is convenientAccessible directly from the beach without the need of a boat.
What you will see:
- Near shore reefs
- Varied tropical fish but lower density than protected spots
- Occasional turtles
Access: Walk from the beaches of Nungwi, best at high tide.
Price:
- On your own: Free if you have equipment, or rental 5-10 USD
- With local guide: 20-30 USD half day
Level: Beginner
LimitationsCoral partially damaged by intense tourism, variable visibility
Matemwe - Quiet and beautiful snorkeling in Zanzibar
Why it pays offLess crowded than Nungwi, near Mnemba, decent reefs accessible at high tide.
What you will see:
- Healthy coral reefs
- Good variety of fish
- Occasional turtles
Access: From beach or short tours
PriceLocal tours 40-60 USD half day to better reefs.
Level: Beginner-intermediate
Advantage: Quieter base than Nungwi to explore snorkeling Zanzibar
What marine life you will see while snorkeling in Zanzibar
Tropical fish (100+ common species) snorkeling in Zanzibar
Clown fish (Nemo): In anemones, 5+ different species.
AngelfishEmperor, queen, french - spectacular colors
ParrotfishHumpback giants, rainbows - crucial to reef health (eat algae)
Butterfly fish20+ species, each with unique patterns
Surgeon fish: Royal blue (Dory), yellow, striated
Triggerfish: Titan (large, territorial in breeding season), clown, Picasso
MerosFrom small to giants of 1+ meter
BrunettesHidden in crevices, harmless if you don't disturb them
BarracudasFrequent, they look intimidating but ignore snorkelers.
Lionfish: Beautiful but poisonous - DO NOT touch
Sea turtles snorkeling in Zanzibar
Green turtle (Chelonia mydas): Most common in Zanzibar, 80-150 kg.
Hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata): Critically endangered hawksbill, feeds on sponges.
Sighting70-80% probability at Mnemba, 40-60% at Chumbe, 30% at Safari Blue
Behavior: They rise to the surface every 5-15 minutes to breathe, they seem to fly underwater.
IMPORTANTKeep 2+ meters distance, DO NOT touch, DO NOT chase.
Stripes snorkeling in Zanzibar
Eagle stripeWhite spots, swimming elegantly with undulating movements.
Blanket stripe: Occasional in Mnemba (luck), 2-4 meters wingspan
Background stripes: Camouflaged in sand
Octopuses snorkeling in Zanzibar
Frequent in Zanzibar reefs, masters of camouflage, they change color instantly.
Corals snorkeling in Zanzibar
HardTable (Acropora), brains, deer antler, star
SoftGorgonians, sea whips, leather coral, leather coral
Colors: purples, pinks, yellows, browns, greens
CRITICALNEVER touch coral - it takes decades to grow, it dies on contact, and you can cut yourself (infections).
Invertebrates snorkeling in Zanzibar
StarfishBlue, red, with horns - DO NOT take out of the water for photos.
Sea urchins: Blacks with long barbs - keep your distance, very painful treads
AnemonesClown fish home
Nudibranchs: Colorful sea slugs, difficult to detect
Sharks (occasional, harmless) snorkeling in Zanzibar
Whitetip reef shark: Small, shy, rests under overhangs
Blacktip shark: Reef patrol, fast swimming
0% dangerRead more : These reef sharks are completely harmless to humans
Best time to snorkel Zanzibar
Optimal season (October-March) for snorkeling in Zanzibar
Why it is better:
- Maximum visibility: 20-30 meters
- Calmer sea (especially October-December)
- Less wind
- Slightly warmer water (28-29°C)
Disadvantage: High season, more expensive, more crowded
Good season (June-September) for snorkeling in Zanzibar
Conditions:
- Good visibility: 15-25 meters
- Southeasterly winds (east coast may be choppy)
- Water 26-27°C (perfectly comfortable)
- Sea can be choppy for a few days
Advantage: Fewer people, better prices
Avoid season (April-May) for snorkeling in Zanzibar
Why:
- Frequent long rains
- Reduced visibility (terrestrial runoff)
- Frequently rough sea
- Many operators closed
ExceptionIf you find good days (it happens), snorkeling can be excellent with almost no one else.
Time of day for snorkeling in Zanzibar
Early morning (8:00-11:00):
- Better visibility
- Optimal light for photos
- Fewer ships
- Most active fish
NoonStrong light can wash out colors but maximum visibility
Afternoon (15:00-17:00): Beautiful golden light but more people
Snorkel tours in Zanzibar vs. on your own
When to go with an organized snorkeling tour in Zanzibar
MANDATORY Tours for:
- Mnemba Atoll (controlled access)
- Chumbe Island (private reserve)
- Safari Blue (complex logistics)
- Tumbatu Island (you need boat + guide)
Advantages tours:
- Equipment included (mask, snorkel, fins, vest)
- Guides know the best spots and current conditions
- Safety (boat nearby, groups)
- Boat transportation
- Meals frequently included
- Zero logistical concerns
Disadvantages:
- More expensive
- Fixed schedules
- Groups (less privacy)
When to go on your own to snorkel in Zanzibar
Feasible for:
- Nungwi reef
- Matemwe spots nearby
- Kendwa coral gardens
Advantages:
- Inexpensive (equipment rental only 5-10 USD or free if you have your own)
- Total flexibility of schedules
- Privacy
Disadvantages:
- You need to know where to go
- No guide (you won't know what you are looking at)
- Risks if you are not familiar with local conditions (currents, tides).
- Only spots accessible from the beach
RecommendationFirst time in Zanzibar → Organized tours. Repeat visits or experienced snorkelers → Mix of both.
Safety and practical tips for snorkeling in Zanzibar
Water safety
Wear a life jacket if you're not a strong swimmer - no shame, it's clever
Never snorkel alone - minimum in couple, ideally with group/guide
Respects currents - Don't fight against them, nothing perpendicular to exit
Monitors tides - Falling tide can leave you far from shore
Do not touch ANYTHING - Corals cut, lionfish are poisonous, sea urchins painful
Keep turtles at a distance - 2+ meters, don't chase, let them approach if they want to.
Check equipment - Before entering the water: mask without leaks, clean snorkel
Extreme sun protection
Equatorial sun + water reflection = severe burns very fast
Long sleeve rashguard/rashguard MUST HAVE - Physical protection better than sunscreen
reef-safe sunscreen (without oxybenzone) back, neck, legs
Reapply every 90 minutes if you are in water for a prolonged period of time
Dizziness prevention
Some people get seasick on boats (especially on the way to Mnemba):
- Take motion sickness medication 30 min before departure.
- Sit in the center of the boat
- Look horizon, not down
- Eat lightly beforehand (empty stomach worsens motion sickness)
Hydration
Hot sea + intense sunshine = rapid dehydration
- Drink water before, during and after snorkeling.
- Tours include water but bring an extra bottle
Underwater communication
- Thumbs up: Rise to the surface
- OK signal (thumb+index circle): All OK
- Horizontal flat hand moving sideways: Problem, help
Defogging mask
Pro tip: Spit into mask, rub, rinse with sea water lightly. Works better than anti-fog sprays.
Safety and practical tips for snorkeling in Zanzibar
Protects reefs by snorkeling in Zanzibar
❌ NEVER touch coral - Takes 10-100 years to grow, dies with contact
❌ Don't stand on coral - Anchor with fins in sand only
❌ Do not collect shells/coral - Illegal, heavy fines, damages ecosystem
✅ Use reef-safe sunscreen - Traditional chemicals kill coral
✅ Controls flaps - Accidental hits break fragile coral
Respects marine life at snorkeling in Zanzibar
❌ Do not feed fish - Alters natural behavior, diets
❌ Don't chase turtles - Stressful, need to breathe frequently
❌ Do not ride/touch animals - Damages protective mucosa, transmits diseases
✅ Observes from a respectful distance - 2+ meters general rule
✅ Leave everything as you found it - Zero waste, zero impact
Choose responsible operators at snorkeling in Zanzibar
Look for tours that:
- Limit the number of snorkelers per group.
- Briefing before entering the water (rules, conservation)
- Guides monitor visitor behavior
- Not allowed to touch marine life
- Maintain adequate distance from fragile areas
Certified operators are generally more responsible. Ask about conservation practices.
Education at snorkeling in Zanzibar
Snorkeling in Zanzibar is not only entertainment, it is an educational opportunity:
- Learn names of fish you see
- Includes importance of coral reefs (coastal protection, biodiversity, fishing).
- Share your experience promoting conservation
According to Marine Conservation Societycoral reefs cover <1% of ocean but harbor 25% of marine life - protecting them is critical.
Frequently asked questions about snorkeling Zanzibar
Where is the best place to snorkel in Zanzibar?
Mnemba Atoll is considered the best Zanzibar snorkeling spot for biodiversity, exceptional visibility (20-30 meters) and high probability (80%+) of seeing sea turtles along with 300+ species of tropical fish. However, it is the most expensive (80-150 USD). Chumbe Island offers Zanzibar's best preserved corals in the country's first private marine reserve with guided educational snorkeling (100-120 USD). For best value for money, Safari Blue in Menai Bay (60-80 USD) combines snorkeling on multiple reefs with full cultural experience. If budget is limited, nearby reefs at Nungwi and Matemwe are accessible from the beach (free if you have equipment or 5-10 USD rental) although with less biodiversity. According to Reef CheckIn Zanzibar, protected reefs maintain 60%+ live coral cover versus 30-40% in unprotected areas.
Do I need to know how to swim well to snorkel in Zanzibar?
You don't need to be an expert swimmer to snorkel Zanzibar, but you do require basic comfort in the water. All organized tours provide life jackets mandatory for those who request it, allowing you to float effortlessly while observing marine life. The best spots for beginners are Safari Blue (calm waters, small groups, attentive guides), Prison Island (shallow nearshore reef) and Nungwi reef (accessible from the beach at high tide). Typical snorkeling depth is 2-8 meters but you float on the surface. Tours like Chumbe and Mnemba are best for intermediate swimmers because of possible currents. If you don't swim at all, consider basic lessons before the trip or choose tours explicitly for beginners. Children as young as 5-6 years old can snorkel with supervision and BCD. According to PADIsnorkeling is safe for anyone comfortable putting their face in the water and breathing through a tube, with no need for certification.
What time of the year has the best visibility for snorkeling in Zanzibar?
The best time for snorkeling Zanzibar with optimal visibility is October to March (dry season), when visibility reaches 20-30 meters at premium spots such as Mnemba and Chumbe. During these months, minimal rainfall avoids land runoff that reduces transparency, and the sea is calmer especially October-December. June-September (seasonal southeasterly winds) is still good with visibility 15-25 meters, although the east coast may be more choppy and requires checking conditions before heading out. Evita April-May (long rainy season) when visibility can drop to 10-15 meters and sea conditions are unpredictable. Regardless of season, snorkeling early in the morning (8:00-11:00) offers better visibility than later in the day due to less suspended sediment and optimal light for photography. Water temperature remains comfortable 26-29°C year round, no wetsuit necessary.