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Are you living in Zanzibar and unaware of the places where you can see and swim with turtles? If so, you’re missing out on something extraordinary. Swimming with turtles is a dream for many travelers and tourists, and it’s an unforgettable experience for all ages.
If you’re traveling with your family and looking for exciting things to do in Zanzibar, swimming with turtles is an excellent choice. Zanzibar is a fantastic destination for travelers, families, and kids alike. According to OCGS, 73,468 international visitors traveled to Zanzibar in January 2024.
In this article, I’ll guide you through 4 incredible spots where you can see and swim with turtles in Zanzibar, learn about their conservation, discover the types of turtles you’ll encounter, and more. Ready to dive in? Let’s explore!
Why Visit Zanzibar for Sea Turtles?
Zanzibar isn’t just about beautiful beaches and spice tours. The island’s crystal-clear waters are full of colorful fish, coral reefs, and best of all – sea turtles! These amazing creatures swim freely in the ocean around Zanzibar, making it one of the best places to see them in East Africa.
The waters around Zanzibar are perfect for sea turtles because they’re warm and full of food. Seagrass beds and coral reefs give turtles everything they need to live happy lives. Plus, the local people have been protecting turtles for many years, which means there are more turtles here than in many other places.
When you visit sea turtles here, you’re also helping to protect them. The money from turtle tours helps local people care for these endangered animals. It’s like being a turtle superhero while having fun! Local communities use this money to patrol beaches where turtles lay eggs, clean up the ocean, and teach others about protecting marine life.
Top Locations to See Sea Turtles in Zanzibar
Baraka Natural Aquarium

Think of Baraka Natural Aquarium as a turtle paradise! This isn’t your regular aquarium – it’s a natural pool where sea turtles come to hang out. Located in Nungwi, at the northern tip of Zanzibar, this special place gives you an amazing chance to get close to these ocean friends.
Here, you can:
- Swim with friendly turtles in clear, shallow water
- Feed them fresh seaweed (with a guide’s help)
- Learn cool facts about how they live
- Take amazing photos underwater
- Support local conservation efforts
The pool at Baraka is connected to the ocean, so turtles can come and go as they please. This means you’re seeing them in their natural environment! The best time to visit is during high tide when the water is crystal clear.
Many visitors say swimming with turtles at Baraka is the best part of their Zanzibar trip. One visitor, Sarah from Canada, said: “I couldn’t believe how close the turtles came to us. They’re so peaceful!” Another visitor, Mohammed from Dubai, shared: “My kids learned so much about turtle conservation, and the guides were super friendly!”
Mnarani Marine Turtle Conservation Pond

Mnarani is like a turtle hospital and school combined. This special place saves injured turtles and teaches people about protecting them. Located in Nungwi village, it’s been helping turtles since 1993!
At Mnarani, you can:
- Watch turtle feeding time (happens twice daily)
- Learn how they rescue hurt turtles
- Take awesome photos with these sea creatures
- See baby turtles in special pools
- Learn about turtle life cycles
- Meet dedicated conservation workers
The best part? Your visit helps pay for food and medicine for sick or injured turtles. The center also runs a successful breeding program, releasing hundreds of baby turtles into the ocean each year.
Kizimkazi Mkunguni

Want to see turtles in the wild? Head to Kizimkazi! This beautiful beach in southern Zanzibar is famous for its turtle-spotting trips. You might even see dolphins too!
Here’s what you need to know about visiting Kizimkazi:
- Morning trips are best (7-11 AM) when the water is calmest
- Book with local guides who know where turtles hang out
- Bring your camera for amazing underwater shots
- Trips usually last 3-4 hours
- Wear plenty of sunscreen and bring water
The village of Kizimkazi is also famous for its traditional fishing culture. Many local fishermen work with conservation groups to protect turtles while continuing their traditional way of life.
Changuu Island (Prison Island)

Don’t let the name scare you – Prison Island is a great place to see and swim with turtles in Zanzibar! Besides sea turtles, you’ll meet their giant land cousins here. Just a short boat ride from Stone Town, this island offers a full day of adventure.
On Prison Island, you can enjoy:
- Snorkeling with sea turtles in crystal clear waters
- Meeting giant tortoises (some over 100 years old!)
- Beautiful beaches for relaxing
- Historical buildings to explore
- Picture-perfect views of Stone Town
- Safe, shallow waters perfect for families
Getting there is easy – just take a 20-minute boat ride from Stone Town. Most hotels can help you book a trip, or you can arrange one at the main dock.
Types of Sea Turtles in Zanzibar
Hawksbill Turtle

These turtles are pretty! They have beautiful shell patterns that look like marble. Sadly, they’re endangered because people used to hunt them for their shells.
You can spot Hawksbill turtles by their:
- Hawk-like beak perfect for finding food in coral reefs
- Shell that looks like it’s made of golden brown puzzle pieces
- Small size (compared to other sea turtles)
- A pattern of overlapping shell plates
- Beautiful amber-colored shell with darker streaks
These special turtles help keep coral reefs healthy by eating sponges that might otherwise take over the reef. They’re like the gardeners of the ocean!
Green Turtle

Green turtles are the vegetarians of the sea! They love eating seagrass and algae, which helps keep our oceans healthy. They’re the most common type of turtle you’ll see in Zanzibar.
Look for these features:
- Their round, smooth shell
- Greenish color (that’s how they got their name!)
- Large size – they can be as big as a coffee table!
- Heart-shaped shell when viewed from above
- Small head compared to their body
Adult green turtles are the only sea turtles that eat only plants. They’re super important because they keep seagrass beds healthy, which helps fish and other marine animals thrive.
Conservation Efforts for Sea Turtles in Zanzibar
Zanzibar’s turtle conservation work is making real progress! Here are some cool things happening:
Local Projects:
- Beach patrols protect turtle nests
- Fishermen help track turtle populations
- Schools teach kids about ocean conservation
- Communities clean beaches regularly
- Special zones protect turtle-feeding areas
Tips for Swimming with Sea Turtles
Swimming with turtles is super fun, but remember – they’re wild animals! Here’s how to have a great time while keeping them safe:
Safety Tips:
- Stay at least 3 feet away from turtles
- Never chase or touch them
- Please don’t feed them unless guides say it’s okay
- Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the ocean
- Follow your guide’s instructions
- Don’t use flash photography underwater
- Keep noise levels down in the water
What to Bring:
- Snorkel mask and fins (you can rent these)
- Underwater camera
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Water bottle
- Towel
- Sun hat and sunglasses
- Light, quick-dry clothes
- Small backpack for your stuff
Time to Plan Your Turtle Adventure!
Seeing sea turtles in Zanzibar is an amazing experience you’ll never forget. These gentle giants need our help to survive, and your visit supports their protection. Remember to:
- Book with eco-friendly tour guides
- Follow the safety rules
- Share your experience with friends
- Support turtle conservation
- Take lots of pictures (but no flash!)
- Be patient and respectful of wildlife
Ready to meet some turtles? Pack your swimsuit and get ready for an underwater adventure in Zanzibar! Your turtle experience will help protect these amazing creatures for future generations to enjoy.
Don’t forget to check current weather conditions and book your trip in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Most hotels can help arrange turtle-watching tours, or you can book directly with conservation centers.
See you in the water with our turtle friends!
FAQs about Swimming with Turtles in Zanzibar
Where’s the best place to swim with turtles in Zanzibar?
Baraka Natural Aquarium is perfect for beginners. For wild turtles, try Kizimkazi. Both places have experienced guides and clear waters.
Is it safe to swim with sea turtles?
Yes! Sea turtles are gentle and usually ignore swimmers. Just follow guide instructions and keep a respectful distance.
When’s the best time to see turtles?
Morning hours (7-11 AM) are best when the water is calm and clear. Turtles are active year-round in Zanzibar!
How much does it cost?
Prices range from $10-30 per person, depending on the location and activities. Some places offer student and family discounts.
Do I need to know how to swim?
Basic swimming skills help, but many locations have shallow areas and provide life jackets. Guides always keep you safe.
What’s the best age for kids to swim with turtles?
Kids as young as 6 can enjoy turtle-watching! Places like Baraka Natural Aquarium are perfect for families.