Zanzibar Sea Turtles​

Are You Planning to Visit Zanzibar or Already There and Want to Swim with Turtles?

If so, you're in the right place! Here, you can find all the details you need about this beautiful and unforgettable experience.

Zanzibar is one of the most beautiful islands in Tanzania, inviting visitors to explore marine life and witness breathtaking beauty that will stay with you forever. One of the unique experiences Zanzibar offers is swimming with turtles, a memory that will surely become one of your favorites and a highlight of your travel bucket list. Zanzibar is home to Hawksbill and Green turtles, along with other fascinating marine life. Let me guide you to the best places for this incredible experience.

Where to Go Swimming with Turtles?

There are several options, but I suggest three excellent locations. It's essential to gather knowledge before planning your trip. Here are the recommended places and their details:

1. Baraka Natural Aquarium
2. Mnemba Atoll
3. Mnarani Turtles Conservation Pond

Baraka Natural Aquarium

Despite its name, this isn’t an aquarium but a natural lagoon. When turtles are injured, caught in fishermen’s nets, or harmed in other ways, they are brought to this sanctuary for rehabilitation. The turtles are cared for, fed, and released back into the ocean once they have fully recovered.

• Opening Hours:
• Open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:45 PM. It’s best to avoid peak hours (1–3 PM). The ideal time to visit is between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM.
• Entry Fee:
• Swimming with turtles costs $10 or 20,000 Tanzanian Shillings per person.
• Renting a snorkeling mask is optional and costs an additional $10.
• Is It Safe to Swim with Turtles?
• Yes, it’s safe if you follow the guidelines provided by the staff. However, turtles may attempt to bite when swimming or feeding. Adhering to the rules will help you avoid any issues.

Visit with your family, swim with the turtles, and feed them for a memorable experience. For updated ticket prices, check their contact page.

Mnemba Atoll

Mnemba Atoll is one of the top places for swimming with turtles, as well as snorkeling and diving. Alongside turtles, you might encounter dolphins, rays, colorful fish, and other fascinating marine creatures.

When you enter the water, the turtles often approach you for food and stay nearby. They are friendly, and some are as large as four feet! Swimming alongside these magnificent creatures creates memories you’ll treasure forever.

• Best Time to Visit:
• Open year-round, but the best times are June to October or December to February. During these months, the water is warm, sunny, and clear, offering the best experience. It’s also turtle nesting season, giving you the chance to witness their natural behavior.

Take a guide for snorkeling or diving and always follow their instructions.

Mnarani Turtles Conservation Pond

Also known as the Nungwi Mnarani Aquarium, this location is dedicated to rescuing injured turtles or those caught in fishermen’s nets. The staff cares for the turtles and organizes an annual event in February to release them back into the ocean.

The pond is separated from the Indian Ocean by reef rocks. Visitors can swim with the turtles, feed them, and play with them. There’s also a small pool for young or injured turtles.

Turtle Release Event:

• This event takes place on February 20th every year. Visitors can participate and even release turtles into the ocean by hand.
• Price:
• Non-Residents: $35
• Residents: $30
• Children under 8: $20
• (Includes a release day T-shirt and boat access)

For advance bookings or additional details, visit their Facebook page.

Conclusion

These are the three top places in Zanzibar for swimming with turtles. Visit any of them to enjoy a beautiful and unforgettable time with your family.

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