March 5, 2025
Zanzibar is home to diverse marine life, including the majestic sea turtles that have lived in these waters for centuries. If you've ever dreamed of swimming alongside sea turtles or observing them in their natural habitat, Zanzibar offers several ethical and sustainable ways to experience these incredible creatures. In this guide, we'll explore where to find sea turtles in Zanzibar, when to visit, and how to experience these magical encounters responsibly.
Here are the best locations to observe and interact with sea turtles in Zanzibar:
Located in Nungwi Beach, this sea turtle conservation center rescues and rehabilitates injured turtles before releasing them back into the wild. Visitors can feed the turtles and learn about conservation efforts to protect Zanzibar's marine life. The center is open daily and offers educational tours about turtle conservation.
For those who want a closer experience, Baraka Aquarium allows you to swim with sea turtles in a large natural pool. These turtles have been rescued from fishing nets and cared for before being reintroduced into the ocean. Located near Nungwi, this center focuses on rehabilitation and education.
Chumbe Island is a protected marine sanctuary where lucky snorkelers can spot green and hawksbill turtles swimming freely. This eco-friendly experience is one of the most sustainable ways to see sea turtles in their natural environment. The island limits visitor numbers to reduce environmental impact.
This marine conservation area is renowned for its pristine coral reefs and diverse sea life. Regular sightings of sea turtles make it a popular snorkeling and diving destination. Day trips can be arranged from various points on Zanzibar's main island.
Timing is everything when it comes to wildlife encounters. Here's when to visit Zanzibar for the best chance to see sea turtles:
February to July is when turtles lay eggs on the beaches. During this period, you might witness female turtles coming ashore to dig nests and lay their eggs, typically at night.
March to August is when baby turtles make their way to the ocean. This incredible spectacle of tiny hatchlings scrambling toward the sea is both heartwarming and educational.
June to October offers clear waters, great for spotting sea turtles while snorkeling or diving. The dry season brings calmer seas and better underwater visibility.
Sea Turtles in Zanzibar
Pro Tip: Book your sea turtle experience early with Zafiri's itinerary planner to secure your spot! The most popular turtle viewing times can get booked quickly, especially during peak tourist season.
Sea turtles in Zanzibar face threats from habitat destruction, pollution, and poaching. To help protect them:
Visit conservation centers rather than exploitative animal tourism attractions. Research facilities before visiting to ensure they prioritize animal welfare and conservation over profit.
Oils from human skin can damage their protective shells and potentially transmit harmful bacteria. Maintain a respectful distance and let the turtles approach you if they choose.
Chemical sunscreens harm marine life and coral reefs. Look for mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the active ingredients.
Avoid bringing single-use plastics to the beach. Sea turtles often mistake plastic bags for jellyfish, leading to fatal consequences when ingested.
Consider donating to local sea turtle conservation projects or participating in beach clean-ups during your stay in Zanzibar.
Seeing and swimming with sea turtles in Zanzibar is a magical experience that blends adventure, conservation, and learning. Whether you're visiting a sanctuary in Nungwi or spotting turtles while snorkeling at Chumbe Island, Zanzibar offers unforgettable marine encounters. These experiences not only create lasting memories but also help raise awareness about the importance of protecting these magnificent creatures for future generations.
Plan your Zanzibar holiday effortlessly with Zafiri's itinerary planner – explore, book, and experience Zanzibar the way YOU want! By choosing ethical wildlife encounters, you're contributing to the preservation of Zanzibar's incredible marine ecosystem.
