Chapwani Grave Island
A small, private island paradise off Zanzibar, offering unparalleled tranquility, unique wildlife, and serene beach escapes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See fruit bats before dusk
Chapwani Grave Island
Best Time
See fruit bats before dusk
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A small, private island paradise off Zanzibar, offering unparalleled tranquility, unique wildlife, and serene beach escapes.
"This small mystic island is hard to find, offering quiet, peaceful, private island vibes."
🌅 Witness the Bat Flight
Stay until dusk to see hundreds of fruit bats take flight – an unforgettable sight!
🦀 Spot Island Critters
Keep an eye out for starfish and coconut crabs during your island exploration.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fruit Bat Spectacle
Witness hundreds of fruit bats take flight at dusk, a truly mesmerizing natural phenomenon.
Starfish and Coconut Crabs
Explore the island's shores to discover vibrant starfish and elusive coconut crabs.
Secluded Beach Walks
Enjoy peaceful strolls along the island's small, pristine beaches, feeling like you have paradise to yourself.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Escape to Tranquility
Island Wildlife Encounters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Witness the Bat Flight
Stay until dusk to see hundreds of fruit bats take flight – an unforgettable sight!
🦀 Spot Island Critters
Keep an eye out for starfish and coconut crabs during your island exploration.
🏝️ Embrace the Quiet
Chapwani is a small, private island; perfect for a peaceful, down-to-earth getaway.
🚶♀️ Walk the Island
Take a walk around the entire island, it's only about 70 meters wide!
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Witness the Bat Flight
Stay until dusk to see hundreds of fruit bats take flight – an unforgettable sight!
🦀 Spot Island Critters
Keep an eye out for starfish and coconut crabs during your island exploration.
🏝️ Embrace the Quiet
Chapwani is a small, private island; perfect for a peaceful, down-to-earth getaway.
🚶♀️ Walk the Island
Take a walk around the entire island, it's only about 70 meters wide!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Chapwani Island is lauded for its exceptional peace and natural beauty, offering a true escape. Visitors rave about the unique wildlife encounters, particularly the fruit bat spectacle at dusk and the chance to see starfish. While some note recent development, the island's core charm of tranquility and down-to-earth island life remains a significant draw.
"We really enjoyed to be on Chapwani island. Beautiful island, peaceful. We saw a lot of strafish. You can take a walk all around the island maybe you will see coconut crab . Don't miss during the day to go to see fruit bats cause during the night they fly to find food. Beautiful little bungalow. You also can have a massage in front of your room on the beach"
Danie Duverger
"Might have been nice a few years ago. Now a building site with just a small stretch of beach you can walk along"
Russell Hanson
"Zanzibar and Pemba are beautiful large islands surrounded by many serene beautiful mesmerising small and big islands mainly coral with sugary corally sand beaches. Some are private islands. In these numerous islands one can leave with nature with less interference of artificial human made world and it's gadgets, to love peace of mind, clean air, blue shallow seas and corals. Indeed these are specs of paradise on earth.
Chapwani is one such beautiful place. Come to Tanzania visit all of its beautiful places, mountains, National parks etc. Ferry down to beautiful Zanzibar Island from Dar es Salaam and visit all important places in historically important Zanzibar. Now visit the surrounding mesmerising numerous coral islands. Be blessed. Good luck."
PR PAI
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Chapwani Grave Island is a small private island located a short boat ride from Stone Town, Zanzibar. Many tours from Stone Town include visits to surrounding islands, and you can often arrange a private boat transfer for a more direct and personalized experience. Inquire with local tour operators in Stone Town for the best options.
Yes, Chapwani Island is a popular destination for day trips from Zanzibar. You can arrange boat transport from Stone Town or other coastal areas to spend several hours enjoying the island's tranquility and natural beauty.
Typically, traditional dhow boats or speedboats are used for trips to Chapwani Island. The journey is relatively short, offering scenic views of the Zanzibar archipelago.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
As Chapwani is a private island, entry might be managed by the resort or through tour operators. It's advisable to book your visit or tour in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and arrange transportation.
Chapwani Island is generally accessible during daylight hours for day visitors. If you are staying overnight, access is available according to your accommodation arrangements.
While there might not be a specific 'entrance fee' in the traditional sense, the cost of visiting Chapwani Island is usually incorporated into boat transfer fees or tour packages. Confirm pricing with your chosen tour provider.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Activities include relaxing on the beaches, exploring the island's nature, spotting wildlife like fruit bats and starfish, and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. Some visitors also opt for massages on the beach.
While Chapwani Island itself is known more for its tranquility and wildlife, snorkeling opportunities can be found in the surrounding waters. Some tours might combine a visit to Chapwani with snorkeling at nearby reefs.
You can expect to see numerous fruit bats, especially at dusk, starfish along the shores, and potentially coconut crabs. The island offers a chance to experience nature with minimal human interference.
Yes, Chapwani Island is quite small, approximately 70 meters wide, making it easy to walk around and explore its entirety.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
If you are visiting for the day, some tour packages may include lunch. For overnight stays, the island's accommodation typically offers dining services. It's best to confirm meal arrangements when booking your visit.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally good practice to check with your tour operator or accommodation provider regarding bringing outside food and drinks, especially on a private island.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the fruit bats at sunset, the starfish and marine life along the coast, and the serene, secluded beaches. The island's natural beauty and peaceful ambiance make for excellent photography. 
While drone usage regulations can vary, the open spaces and scenic views on Chapwani Island could offer great aerial photography potential. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great destination for a peaceful day trip where kids can enjoy the beach and learn about local wildlife in a safe, natural environment. Consider packing snacks and drinks, and ensure children are supervised, especially near the water. The tranquility of the island provides a refreshing break for the whole family.
🧘♀️ Solo Travelers Seeking Peace
+1Consider booking a day trip or even an overnight stay if available to fully immerse yourself in the island's serene atmosphere. It's a place to recharge, reflect, and enjoy the simple beauty of nature without the usual tourist crowds.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Serenity of Chapwani Island
+1Visitors often describe Chapwani as a 'little paradise on earth' and a 'fantastic getaway.' The island's charm lies in its simplicity and its ability to connect you with nature. It's an ideal spot for quiet contemplation, enjoying the sun, and experiencing the local flora and fauna. The peaceful atmosphere is a recurring theme in reviews, highlighting its effectiveness as a retreat from the everyday.
While some reviews mention it might have been even more idyllic a few years ago, the core appeal of Chapwani remains its serene environment and natural encounters. It's a place where you can truly unwind, enjoy the simple pleasures of island life, and appreciate the beauty of the Tanzanian coast.
Wildlife Wonders of Chapwani
Beyond the bats, the island's shores are home to vibrant starfish, adding splashes of color to the shallow waters. If you're lucky, you might also spot coconut crabs, known for their impressive size and strength. Exploring the island's coastline is an adventure in itself, with these creatures adding an element of discovery to your visit.
Respecting the island's natural inhabitants is key to preserving this delicate ecosystem. Visitors are encouraged to observe wildlife from a distance and avoid disturbing their habitats. This mindful approach ensures that Chapwani Island remains a sanctuary for its unique fauna for years to come.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit