Swimming with Turtles in Zanzibar: Best Locations to Experience It

Swimming with turtles in Zanzibar is a magical experience, especially for those who love marine life and nature. Zanzibar offers a few key spots where you can swim with, feed, and learn about turtles, with the most popular being in the Nungwi area.

Where to Swim with Turtles in Zanzibar

They are the two key places in Zanzibar where visitors can get up close to sea turtles, swim with them, and feed them. Both are located on the best beaches in Tanzania, offering a perfect setting for this unique experience where visitors can enjoy pristine sands and crystal-clear waters. 

• Baraka Natural Aquarium

This is a natural lagoon where visitors can swim with and feed rescued sea turtles. It offers a unique, up-close experience with these gentle creatures while supporting conservation efforts. The aquarium focuses on rehabilitating injured or endangered turtles before releasing them back into the ocean.

• Mnarani Marine Turtles Conservation Pond

This is a conservation-focused sanctuary dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and protecting endangered sea turtles. Visitors can feed and interact with the turtles in a natural lagoon, learning about marine conservation efforts. The center plays a key role in raising awareness about protecting turtle habitats and ensuring their survival in the wild.

Other Turtle Spots to Explore in Zanzibar

Besides the Baraka Natural Aquarium and the Mnarani Marine Turtles Conservation Pond, there are a few other spots in Zanzibar where you can see turtles, although interaction might be more limited. Here's a brief list:

1. Prison Island  This island off the coast of Stone Town is known for its giant Aldabra tortoises, not sea turtles. Visitors can observe and feed these enormous tortoises, which were a gift from the Seychelles in the late 19th century.
2. Jozani Forest Reserve: While mainly known for its red colobus monkeys, some areas near Jozani offer glimpses of turtle nests on the beaches. However, this is more about observing their nesting grounds rather than close interaction.
3. Paje Beach: Occasionally, sea turtles can be seen swimming near Paje Beach on the east coast of Zanzibar, but there are no designated interaction or conservation centers in this area.

 What to Know Before Swimming with Zanzibar Turtles

• Respect their Space: Turtles are gentle creatures, but it's important not to touch or chase them. Allow them to approach you naturally, as disturbing them can cause stress or harm. Always keep a respectful distance to avoid interfering with their behavior.
• Follow Sanctuary Rules: Each turtle sanctuary has its own set of guidelines to ensure the well-being of the turtles. Swim only in designated areas, follow the instructions provided by the staff, and be mindful of the conservation efforts in place to protect these animals.
• Use Eco-Friendly Sunscreen: Traditional sunscreens can contain chemicals that are harmful to marine life, including turtles. Use reef-safe, biodegradable sunscreen to protect the water environment and ensure that you're not contributing to coral bleaching or damaging the ecosystem.

• Be Gentle in the Water: When swimming, move slowly and calmly. Sudden movements can startle the turtles or make them feel threatened. Stay relaxed and be aware of your surroundings to avoid bumping into or scaring the turtles.

   

Why Swim with Turtles in Zanzibar?

Swimming with turtles in Zanzibar is not only an unforgettable experience but also an opportunity to support marine conservation. The turtle sanctuaries in Zanzibar focus on rehabilitating and protecting endangered sea turtles, making your visit an important contribution to their survival.

By choosing these top spots, you can enjoy a safe, respectful interaction with turtles while supporting the ongoing conservation efforts in Zanzibar.