Diving

Diving

Zanzibar is well known as one of world’s best scuba diving locations. Divers will encounter reef fish, ribbon eels, barracudas, yellow fin tunas, groupers, colorful snails, turtles and beautiful corals. Crystal clear waters with visibility up to 30 meters and temperature about 27 °C  make it perfect place to start the underwater adventure.

Mnemba Atoll is the most famous marine conservation area in Zanzibar. It is a great place for diving and snorkeling. Mnemba is a small island located about 3 km off the northeastern coast of Unguja, the largest island of the Zanzibar Archipelago in Tanzania, opposite Muyuni Beach. It is surrounded by an oval reef with a range of seven by four kilometers. Despite their small size, the reefs around Mnemba surprise with an amazing variety of marine life – from the smallest shrimp to huge turtles. You can meet here tuna, barracuda, moray eels, reef sharks, turtles, dolphins, as well as schools of tropical fish in various colors.

Within the reserve, there are several interesting diving spots with a depth of 10 to 30 meters. While most dives are relaxing, easy and shallow, there are also some very deep wall dives suitable for advanced divers.

Thanks to the very friendly conditions for diving and the perfect water transparency practically all year round, Mnemba is recommended as the best place to start your diving adventure. People who do not have a license can take advantage of the so-called Diving intro, or introduction to diving. It is a short course that consists of a lesson in the pool and two dives under the water with a full aqualung to a depth of 12 meters. Virtually everyone (even a child from the age of 10) can try – the only condition is basic swimming skills.

Regardless of the level of advancement, we offer diving trips for beginners and more advanced divers. It is also possible to do a complete diving course (SSI or PADI).

Half-day diving excursions to Memba are organized every day. Each trip covers two dives under the supervision of an instructor.

The trip includes:

  • Complete diving equipment and wetsuit (high quality Aqua Lung, Scubapro, Cressi and Mares equipment)
  • The care of experienced divemasters and instructors
  • Transfer by boat to the reef
  • Entrance to the Mnemba Underwater Reserve
  • Snacks on the boat (Fruits, chiapati and water) 

Divnig (2 dives): 120$
Intro diving : 140$


In the footsteps of slaves

In the footsteps of slaves

Most people associate Zanzibar with beautiful beaches, turquoise ocean and dream holidays. However, this paradise island also has dark sides in its turbulent history – it was the center of the slave trade in the 18th and 19th centuries. On this tour you will be able to learn more about the history of this island – due to the subject and intensive program – a tour intended only for adults.

Stone Town

Stone Town –  old part of the Zanzibar Town – the capital of the island of Zanzibar, is a maze of streets with local shops and tiny squares where locals meet for afternoon coffee, and great, however quite run-down, houses built from coral during Arabic and colonial times. This multicultural town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is famous for its beautifully ornamented doors, its slave market, and the house which Freddie Mercury was born in. During this trip we will see the House of Wonders built by the Sultan in 19th century, Old Fort, and Forodhani Gardens which fill up with numerous food stall after sunset.

When visiting Stone Town, you should visit the Anglican cathedral – the building was built in the 1870s in the place where the slave market was located. A round white marble slab was placed in the place of a stake where the slaves were tied. Red marble around it symbolizes the blood of slaughtered slaves. During the operation of the market, 15 dungeons were built in which slaves were kept – two have survived to this day. They were low, small rooms with no windows or a toilet. In such conditions, crowded slaves were kept, sometimes for several days, without food or drink. At the back of the cathedral, in 1998, the Monument to Slavery by Clarla Sörnäs was built – it depicts the four slaves and the overseer in a very suggestive way. The chains used in the monument come from the period and are original. Although slavery was officially banned in 1873, it continued in Zanzibar until 1907. It ended two years after the death of the most powerful trafficker, Tippu Tipa – he monopolized the ivory trade and was the largest slave supplier.

Spice farm

During our stay in Zanzibar it is hard to miss a visit to one of  spice farms, which hundreds years ago the island used to be worldwide famous for. During our visit to a farm you will be given the opportunity to see sun-ripening coffee beans, grains of pepper, cardamom, to touch fresh cinnamon bark, reach nutmeg fruit branches, or taste delicious fruits like lychee, durian or breadfruit. But most importantly you will be enchanted by the variety of the aromas coming from the farm. Spice Tour is an interesting experience that tickles the senses and imagination. It is also opportunity to try freshly picked coconut. The price includes a snack consisting of seasonal fruits, which are also one of the sources of Zanzibar`s wealth. The trip will also give a great chance to purchase fresh spices.

Trip agenda:

  • Departure from the hotel – around 10.00 a.m.
  • Spice Farm (around 2 hours)
  • A visit to a local home, observation of the life of a Zanzibar family
  • Arrival to Stone Town approximately 02.00 p.m.
  • Darajani Market
  • Slave Market
  • Lunch break
  • Sightseeing Stone Town – town streets, Old Post Office, House of Wonders, Forodhani Gardens, Old Fort, Zanzibar Doors, Jaws Corner, Catholic Church, time for shopping
  • Night food market Forodhani
  • Return to the hotel: around 08.30  p.m.

How to prepare for the trip:

Before going to the town, what needs to be taken into account is that vast majority of Zanzibar`s population is Muslim. In areas popular among tourists the dress code is less formal, however, when visiting the town what needs to be considered is covering your shoulders and avoiding scanty clothing. The trip will also involve a lot of walking, so make sure you take comfortable footwear.

There will be a lot of children on the farm – bringing some small gifts with you will be appreciated!

 


Trip on Mnemba Island

Trip to Mnemba

Mnemba island is a place reserved for special guests – it houses 12 exclusive cottages offering a space to rest in the surrounding of untouched nature. No one apart from the guests and staff is allowed on the island, and prices start form $1200 per night. Unfortunately, we will not be heading there. Instead, we will go to a wonderful atoll that surrounds the island, where beautiful coral reefs, shoals of colourful fish, sea snails and turtles live in a genuine underwater aquarium. The only thing you need to do to see this amazing magical world, is to put on a mask and dive your head in crystal clear waters of the Indian ocean. Snorkeling here is a great adventure and opportunity to swim with fish shoals. This spot is also popular with dolphins – there is a good chance you will be able to swim with them, too.

For  beach lovers will fancy so-called Sand bank – a sandy island that emerges from the ocean when the tide is low. White sand and azure waters surrounding the island offer an ideal scenery for taking photos. 

At the end of the trip, we will have a delicious seafood lunch in the scenic Matemwe Rock restaurant located at the top of a coral reef. The restaurant impresses with an unforgettable view of the ocean, white, sandy beach and the island of Mnemba.

 

Trip agenda:

  • Departure from the hotel – around 9.00 a.m.
  • Transfer to Muyuni – approximately 40 mins
  • Atoll Mnemba snorkeling boat trip
  • Time on sand bank – swimming, sunbathing, taking photos
  • Sea food lunch at Matemwe Rock restaurant
  • Return to the hotel – around 03.00 p.m.

How to prepare for the trip:

This trip involves the whole day of beach and water activity – please, wear a swim suit. Please, also take towels, water shoes are necessary, a head cover, and sun screen – there will be a lot of sun.


Safari Blue

Safari Blue

Safari blue – the most wonderful excursion for the lovers of the ocean, sailing, coral reef snorkeling and beaches. Traditional dhow boat cruise to the Menai bay with its many uninhabited islands and picturesque shallows. Surrounded by the blue ocean and the sound of waves, you will be able to relax or have a walk along naturally formed sand lanes on open waters. 

Underwater landscapes enthusiasts will be able to use snorkeling gear and admire underwater world full of coral reefs. For the duration of the trip you will be provided with cold drinks, juicy fruits, and at the end – a tasty dinner prepared from fresh fish and sea food.

Trip agenda:

  • Departure from the hotel – around 8.00  a.m.
  • Transfer to Fumba (approximately 1.5 hours)
  • Dhow boat cruise to the first island (so-called Sand Bank)
  • Time on the island – swimming, sunbathing, tropical fruit snack
  • Snorkeling
  • Cruise to the lagoon – swimming between elevated corals and mangroves
  • Lunch on Kwale island
  • Return to the hotel– around 06.00 p.m.

Visiting times of particular sites depend on tidal movements and are subject to change.

How to prepare for the trip:

During the trip  we will spend the whole day on the beach and doing water activities – please, wear a swim suit. Please, remember to take towels, water shoes are necessary, a head cover, and sun screen – there will be a lot of sun. Changing clothes are advisable as we can get wet on the boat. Out time on the Kwale island also involves lunch and shopping at local shops where you can purchase so-called kangi (local scarf) and pareo at very competitive prices.

 


Swimming with turtles in Nungwi and a sunset in Kendwa

Nungwi

Nungwi is a fishing village located in the north of Zanzibar from where the eastern and western parts of the island can be seen at the same time. The village is known for traditional dhow boat making. During this trip we are going to visit Mnarani Aquarium or Baraca Aquarium (your choice). Mnarani Aquarium is a lagoon with sea turtles – the place created by non-governmental organization to protect green turtle whose females used to lay eggs on Zanzibar beaches a dozen or so years ago. Green turtles can be observed there swimming in the lagoon. Baraca Aquarium is a lagoon with approximately 30 sea turtles you can swim with.

Kendwa Rock

Kendwa Rock – it is famous for the most beautiful beaches and sunsets so this is where we begin our trip if you want to relax on this beautiful beach (tide is never really low here), or this is where we finish our trip if you fancy romantic walk or traditional dhow boat cruise at sunset.

Trip agenda:

  • Departure from the hotel – around 01.00 p.m.
  • Mkokotoni fish market
  • Nungwi – approximately 2 hours: walk around the village, the place where dhow boats are made, swimming with turtles in Baraca Aquarium
  • Dhow boat cruise along the west coast:04.30 – 06.30 p.m.
  • Return to the hotel – around 07.00 – 07.30 p.m.

How to prepare for the trip:

Please, wear your swim suits and take towels, water shoes, changing clothes.


Dolphins, monkeys and the jungle Expedition

Swimming with dolphins

This is the extended version of the trip no. 2 – the additional attraction is swimming with dolphins in their natural habitat. The cruise starts in Kizimkazi – southernmost village of Zanzibar. From there we take a boat to so-called Menai Bay which is the home to few pods of bottlenose dolphins. They can be observed from the boat but the best attraction is swimming and diving with them. Snorkel gear is included in the price.

Because of the stron winds and possibility of big waves the trip can be cancelled between june and august. At this period we recommend you to visit Mnemba .

 

The Rock Restaurant

The Rock Restaurant is probably the only restaurant in the world built on a coral island. During low tide it is accessible by foot with knee high water level, but during high tide it can only be reached by boat. The Rock sits guests at 12 tables and serves exquisite fish and sea food dishes. The menu consists of freshly caught octopus, calamari, prawns and king lobsters. The place opened in 2012 and has already become world famous and a must-see destination for tourists visiting the island.

 

Jozani Forest

Jozani Forest is a nature reserve located approximately 35 km from Zanzibar Town. It is part of Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park and is one of the last rain forests remaining in its natural form in East Africa. Jozani Forest is the home to 40 different bird and 50 butterfly species living amongst tropical trees such as baobabs, ficuses and mangroves. Undoubtedly, the main attraction are Red Colobus monkeys. These branch hopping monkeys cannot be found anywhere else in the world. The reserve is also home of the hard-to-spot blue monkeys living in the upper branches. Walking among the variety of the reserve`s floral and faunal species is part and parcel of the Zanzibar trip.

 

Paje

Paje – a place in middle eastern part of Zanzibar famous for the most beautiful ocean colours on the island. It is the favourite place for kitesurfers thanks to its ideal winds for 8 months a year. Maasai walking on the beach in their colourful outfits, along with deep blue sky, turquoise ocean and colourful sails will forever remain in memories and on photos. There is also a possibility of visiting the Zanzibar`s only facility producing natural cosmetics from algae.

Trip agenda:

Departure from hotel – around 5.00  a.m.

  • Swimming with dolphins – approximately 1,5 hours
  • Jozani Forest – approximately 2 hours
  • Paje – beach time, coffee (or something more), walk around the village
  • Sea Weed Centre
  • The Rock Restaurant (possible lunch – optional)
  • Return to the hotel– around 03.00-04.00 p.m.

*this point of a trip cannot be realized in december beacuse of a hilday and during  days off

How to prepare for the trip:

Please, wear your swim suits and take towels, water shoes, changing clothes. Please, let us know what swimming gear you would require (mask, snorkel, swimming fins – with sizes). We are going to a jungle! It is advisable to wear appropriate footwear (sneakers or trainers). On our way from Paje we can make a stop at Sea Weed Centre where you can purchase local algae cosmetics. If you would like to have a meal at The Rock, please, let us know in advance – the place is small and very popular, so advanced bookings are required.


Monkeys and Jungle

Jozani Forest

Jozani Forest is a nature reserve located approximately 35 km from Zanzibar Town. It is part of Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park and is one of the last rain forests remaining in its natural form in East Africa. Jozani Forest is the home to 40 different bird and 50 butterfly species living amongst tropical trees such as baobabs, ficuses and mangroves. Undoubtedly, the main attraction are Red Colobus monkeys. These branch hopping monkeys cannot be found anywhere else in the world. The reserve is also home of the hard-to-spot blue monkeys living in the upper branches. Walking among the variety of the reserve`s floral and faunal species is part and parcel of the Zanzibar trip.

The Rock Restaurant

The Rock Restaurant is probably the only restaurant in the world built on a coral island. During low tide it is accessible by foot with knee high water level, but during high tide it can only be reached by boat. The Rock sits guests at 12 tables and serves exquisite fish and sea food dishes. The menu consists of freshly caught octopus, calamari, prawns and king lobsters. The place opened in 2012 and has already become world famous and a must-see destination for tourists visiting the island.

Paje

Paje – a place in middle eastern part of Zanzibar famous for the most beautiful ocean colours on the island. It is the favourite place for kitesurfers thanks to its ideal winds for 8 months a year. Maasai walking on the beach in their colourful outfits, along with deep blue sky, turquoise ocean and colourful sails will forever remain in memories and on photos. There is also a possibility of visiting the Zanzibar`s only facility producing natural cosmetics from algae.

Trip agenda:

  • Departure from the hotel – around 09.00 a.m.
  • Visit in a local school*
  • Jozani Forest – around 2 hours
  • Paje – sunbathing, coffee (or more), walk around the village
  • Sea Weed Centre
  • The Rock Restaurant (optional lunch – to be arranged)
  • Return to the hotel: around 05.00-06.00 p.m.

*this point of a trip cannot be realized in december beacuse of a hilday and during  days off

How to prepare for the trip:

We are going to a jungle! It is advisable to wear appropriate footwear (sneakers or trainers). On the way we are going to visit a local school. During the school visit it would be appropriate to cover shoulders or shorts with a pareo. In Paje, we will go to the beach – please, take your swim suits, towels, water shoes, and changing clothes. On our way from Paje we can make a stop at Sea Weed Centre where you can purchase local algae cosmetics. If you would like to have a meal at the Rock, please, let us know in advance – the place is small and very popular, so advanced bookings are required.


Zanzibar in a nutshell

Stone Town

Stone Town –  old part of the Zanzibar Town – the capital of the island of Zanzibar, is a maze of streets with local shops and tiny squares where locals meet for afternoon coffee, and great, however quite run-down, houses built from coral during Arabic and colonial times. This multicultural town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is famous for its beautifully ornamented doors, its slave market, and the house which Freddie Mercury was born in. During this trip we will see the House of Wonders built by the Sultan in 19th century, Old Fort, and Forodhani Gardens which fill up with numerous food stall after sunset.

During our stay in Zanzibar it is hard to miss a visit to one of  spice farms, which hundreds years ago the island used to be worldwide famous for. During our visit to a farm you will be given the opportunity to see sun-ripening coffee beans, grains of pepper, cardamom, to touch fresh cinnamon bark, reach nutmeg fruit branches, or taste delicious fruits like lychee, durian or breadfruit. But most importantly you will be enchanted by the variety of the aromas coming from the farm. Spice Tour is an interesting experience that tickles the senses and imagination. It is also opportunity to try freshly picked coconut. The price includes a snack consisting of seasonal fruits, which are also one of the sources of Zanzibar`s wealth. The trip will also give a great chance to purchase fresh spices.

Prison Island is located 20 minutes boat ride from Stone Town. Its name originated in the 19th century, when the prison facility was built there. However, the facility never became an actual prison.  Later, the building was converted into a hospital and a quarantine facility. Today, nothing but the walls remained, and this place is best known for Aldabra tortoises brought here form Seychelles at the beginning of 20th century. At present, the tortoises are the island`s biggest attraction. They can weigh up to 400 kg and live up to 250 years. Incredible coral reefs can also be found in the island`s vicinity, which makes it perfect for diving, swimming and sunbathing.

Trip agenda:

  • Departure from the hotel – around 9.30 a.m.
  • Spice Farm (around 2 hours)
  • Arrival to Stone Town approximately 01.00 p.m.
  • Boat trip to Prison Island (ca. 2 hours)
  • Lunch break
  • Sightseeing Stone Town – town streets, Old Post Office, House of Wonders, Forodhani Gardens, Old Fort, Zanzibar Doors, Jaws Corner, Catholic Church, time for shopping,
  • Return to the hotel: around 06.30-07.00  p.m.

How to prepare for the trip:

Before going to the town, what needs to be taken into account is that vast majority of Zanzibar`s population is Muslim. In areas popular among tourists the dress code is less formal, however, when visiting the town what needs to be considered is covering your shoulders and avoiding scanty clothing. The trip will also involve a lot of walking, so make sure you take comfortable footwear. The Prison Island is accessible by boat – it would be advisable not to be wearing long trousers or skirts, so it does not get wet.