About this Mnemba snorkeling
Mnemba is a small private island off Zanzibar's north-east coast, ringed by an oval reef. The surrounding water is the Mnemba Island Marine Conservation Area, created in 2002, and it is the island's most popular snorkelling destination. You will often see it called Mnemba Atoll, though it is not technically an atoll.
Boats stay in the water around the reef. The island itself is private, so visitors do not land. Expect clear water, reef fish and, often, green turtles; dolphins are sometimes seen on the way.
Highlights
- Two snorkel stops on the Mnemba reef
- Chance of turtles and dolphins (never guaranteed)
- Guide in the water for beginners
- Optional beach lunch after the trip
Mnemba snorkeling itinerary
Timings are a guide.
- StartEarly pickup and drive to the departure beach (Matemwe or Muyuni for the north-east, Nungwi for the north).
- 08:30Board the boat and receive a snorkel briefing.
- 09:00Look for dolphins on the way, at a respectful distance.
- 09:30First snorkel stop on the reef.
- 10:45Second snorkel stop.
- 11:45Fruit on board and return to the beach.
- EndOptional beach lunch, then drive back to your hotel.
Your private options
Private boat
Your own boat and snorkel guide.
Private boat with lunch
Add a beach BBQ lunch after the trip.
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 | Matemwe | $120 |
| West coastFumba, Chukwani, Bububu, Mtoni | Matemwe | $150 |
| South-east coastPaje, Jambiani, Bwejuu, Michamvi, Dongwe | Matemwe | $130 |
| North coastNungwi, Kendwa | Nungwi / Kendwa | Included |
| North-east coastMatemwe, Kiwengwa, Pwani Mchangani, Pongwe | Matemwe | Included |
| South tipKizimkazi, Makunduchi | Matemwe | $150 |
Not sure of your area? Tell us your hotel name and we confirm the price. See all transfer prices.
What's included
- Boat with crew and snorkel guide
- Mask, snorkel, fins and life jacket
- Bottled water and seasonal fruit
- Marine conservation fee (Standard and Private)
- Pickup from hotels in the North coast or North-east coast area
Not included
- Transfer from other areas (see transfer prices below)
- Lunch unless the lunch option is chosen
- Underwater camera hire
- Tips
Add-ons
- Beach BBQ lunch
- Private boat
- Underwater camera hire
Children and groups
Children who are comfortable in the sea can join with a life jacket. Child conservation fees are lower than adult fees. 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.
Mnemba snorkeling FAQs
Can we land on Mnemba Island?
No. The island is private. Snorkelling takes place on the reef around it.
I am not a strong swimmer. Can I join?
Yes. Life jackets are provided and the guide stays in the water with you.
Do you use reef-safe sunscreen?
Please bring reef-safe sunscreen or wear a rash vest. It helps protect the reef.
Are there many boats around the dolphins?
On busy mornings, yes. Reviews across marketplaces mention many boats on one pod. Our crews keep their distance and leave if a pod is being crowded.
Make it a full day
This trip is part of our North Coast Day: Mnemba Snorkel & Nungwi.