About this Chumbe Island day trip
Chumbe Island, off Zanzibar's west coast, is a private nature reserve gazetted as a protected area in 1994. It protects a fringing coral reef and a forest of coral rag, and visitor numbers are deliberately kept low.
Day visits depend on space at the island's eco-lodge, so places are limited and confirmed by the park only a few days ahead. In return you get one of the best-protected reefs around Zanzibar, guided by park staff.
Highlights
- Snorkel a fully protected reef sanctuary with a park guide
- Forest trail through coral rag forest
- Historic lighthouse and visitor centre
- Lunch on the island
Chumbe Island day trip itinerary
Timings are a guide.
- StartHotel pickup and drive to the boat point near Mbweni, south of Stone Town.
- MorningBoat to Chumbe Island and welcome by park staff.
- Late morningGuided snorkel on the reef sanctuary.
- 13:00Lunch on the island.
- AfternoonForest walk and lighthouse.
- EndBoat back and drive to your hotel.
Your private options
Private transfer
Park day programme with your own car to and from the boat.
All our Zanzibar activities are private: only your group takes part. Upgrades are quoted on request.
Transfer from your hotel
The tour price above does not depend on where you stay. Getting to the start is priced separately, per vehicle for up to 6 guests, return. If you stay near the start, pickup is included.
| Your hotel area | Trip starts at | Return transfer |
|---|---|---|
| Stone Town & airportStone Town, Shangani, Mbweni, airport area | Stone Town | Included |
| West coastFumba, Chukwani, Bububu, Mtoni | Stone Town | $90 |
| South-east coastPaje, Jambiani, Bwejuu, Michamvi, Dongwe | Stone Town | $110 |
| North coastNungwi, Kendwa | Stone Town | $130 |
| North-east coastMatemwe, Kiwengwa, Pwani Mchangani, Pongwe | Stone Town | $120 |
| South tipKizimkazi, Makunduchi | Stone Town | $130 |
Not sure of your area? Tell us your hotel name and we confirm the price. See all transfer prices.
What's included
- Park day-visit package (boat, guided snorkel, forest walk, lunch), as set by the park
- Pickup from hotels in the Stone Town & airport area
Not included
- Transfer from other areas (see transfer prices below)
- Drinks beyond those in the park package
- Tips
Add-ons
- Private transfer
- Overnight stay at the eco-lodge (on request)
Children and groups
Children are welcome. The park sets child rates. Group rates are available for six or more travellers.
Booking and cancellation
Send us your date, number of travellers and hotel. We confirm availability and the full price in USD before you pay. Changes and cancellations follow our booking terms. If weather or sea conditions make a trip unsafe, we reschedule or refund it.
Chumbe Island day trip FAQs
Why can't I book far in advance?
The park only confirms day visits a few days ahead, once it knows how many overnight guests it has.
Is it open all year?
The park can close for part of the long rains. We check before confirming.
Why is it more expensive than other snorkel trips?
Visitor numbers are capped and fees fund the reserve's protection and education work.