Mnemba Island is a tiny, picturesque islet surrounded by an oval reef. It is privately owned and known for the excellent scuba diving around its spectacular coral network. Go scuba diving in the reef to spot a variety of colorful fish as well as turtles and dolphins.
Explore the distinct habitats of the marine reserve for a greater understanding of the ecosystems here. Spot humpback whales between July and September in this region, which contains about 600 species of coral reef fish.
Visit from November through March for the calmest conditions and best visibility in the water. See whale sharks and three species of dolphin. Endangered green sea turtles lay their eggs on the island’s beaches from February to September.
Beachcomb along the stretches of white, crunchy sand that adorn the shores of this small island. Walk around the entire 3-mile (5-kilometer) circumference of the beach at low tide. Chat with staff in the various thatched huts decorating the beaches. Enjoy a romantic meal at night on the beach under the stars.
Because the island is owned by an exclusive resort non-guests are prohibited from accessing it. Spot the rich and famous among the fellow guests on this island resort. Among the activities are kayaking, scuba diving, massages, fishing and windsurfing.
Enjoy the entirety of your stay on the island barefoot and stay in one of the charming cottages made from woven palm leaves. The cottages come with their own African sarongs and straw hats, which provide ideal beachwear.
Book online or by phone on the resort’s official website. The island is closed to visitors in April and May, due to heavy seasonal rains.
Find Mnemba Island off the northeastern coast of the main island of the Zanzibar archipelago. It is opposite Muyuni Beach, a little north of Matemwe on the island’s northeastern coast. Drive north from Zanzibar City for 90 minutes and take a 20-minute ferry crossing to get here.
