🌴 Introduction: Dive into Zanzibar’s Underwater Paradise
Zanzibar isn’t just about beautiful beaches and Stone Town — it’s also home to some of East Africa’s best diving and snorkeling spots. The warm, turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean host colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins.
At Zan Isaac Tour and Safari, we help travelers explore Zanzibar’s underwater world with tailored marine tours to the best islands and reef systems.
Here are the top 5 islands around Zanzibar you must visit if you love snorkeling, diving, and sea adventures.
🐠 1. Mnemba Atoll – Zanzibar’s Crown Jewel for Snorkeling
📍 Location: Northeast of Unguja (main island)
Mnemba Atoll is the most famous marine conservation area in Zanzibar, known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral gardens, and abundant marine life.
✅ Best for:
- Snorkeling and free diving
- Dolphins, green turtles, reef sharks
- Wall dives and coral beds
🛥️ Tours depart from: Nungwi, Kendwa, and Matemwe
💬 Zan Isaac Tip: Go early in the morning to avoid crowds and increase chances of seeing dolphins.
🐬 2. Chumbe Island – Eco-Adventure & Coral Sanctuary
📍 Location: Southwest of Stone Town
Chumbe Island Coral Park is a protected marine reserve and eco-lodge, offering some of the most pristine coral reefs in East Africa.
✅ Best for:
- Conservation-focused travelers
- Guided snorkeling trips with marine biologists
- Over 200 species of coral and reef fish
💡 Bonus: Explore the island’s eco-bungalows and nature trails through rare coastal forest.
💬 Zan Isaac Tip: Book in advance – only a small number of visitors allowed per day!
🦀 3. Bawe Island – Hidden Snorkeling Haven
📍 Location: 30 minutes west of Stone Town
Bawe Island is less commercial and offers a quiet reef experience with decent visibility and a chance to explore coral life without crowds.
✅ Best for:
- Half-day trips from Stone Town
- Peaceful snorkeling in calm waters
- Combining with a dhow cruise or sunset picnic
💬 Perfect for couples or travelers who want a short, beautiful escape.
🐢 4. Prison Island (Changuu) – History + Marine Life
📍 Location: 5.6 km from Stone Town
Changuu Island, also known as Prison Island, is famous for its giant Aldabra tortoises and turquoise lagoon ideal for snorkeling.
✅ Best for:
- First-time snorkelers
- History lovers (colonial prison ruins)
- Family-friendly half-day tours
🐢 Combine wildlife viewing, swimming, and snorkeling in a single trip.
💬 Zan Isaac Tip: Great place to rent snorkeling gear if you don’t have your own.
🐟 5. Pemba Island – A Diver’s Dream
📍 Location: North of Zanzibar (requires short flight or ferry)
Pemba Island is Zanzibar’s lush, less-developed sibling — and home to some of the best diving spots in the Indian Ocean.
✅ Best for:
- Advanced diving
- Deep walls, drift diving, and coral canyons
- Fewer tourists, raw marine biodiversity
🏝️ Recommended for serious divers or those seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures.
💬 Zan Isaac Tip: Ideal for dive holidays or honeymoons with a remote island feel.
🎒 What to Bring on a Snorkeling or Diving Tour
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Waterproof camera or GoPro
- Towel, hat, and sunglasses
- Mask, snorkel, and fins (or rent from us)
- Rash guard/swim shirt for sun protection
💡 Always follow local conservation guidelines and never touch or step on coral.
✅ Zanzibar Marine Tour Packages by Zan Isaac
🚤 Half-Day Mnemba Snorkeling Tour
🐠 Includes transport, equipment, fruits, water
🐢 Prison Island + Bawe Snorkel Combo
🏝️ Perfect for short stays and families
🌊 2 Days Dive Safari in Pemba Island
🤿 Full equipment, instructor, and accommodation included
💙 Zanzibar Honeymoon Package with Snorkeling Add-On
📩 Ready to explore Zanzibar’s underwater world? Contact us for availability and custom quotes.
