Mbudya Island Dar es Salaam
A picturesque island paradise near Dar es Salaam, offering pristine beaches, clear waters for swimming and snorkeling, and vibrant marine life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Mbudya Island Dar es Salaam
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque island paradise near Dar es Salaam, offering pristine beaches, clear waters for swimming and snorkeling, and vibrant marine life.
"My favourite island in the world. I have been visiting this place since year 2000 and has remained my favourite."
🚢 Book Your Boat Trip
Public boats, speedboats, and yachts are available. Public boats are affordable but may have wait times.
💰 Marine Reserve Fee
Expect to pay an entrance fee for the marine reserve, often payable by card.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pristine White Sand Beaches
Island-wide
Sink your toes into soft, white sand and soak up the tropical sun on Mbudya's beautiful shores.
Crystal-Clear Waters
Indian Ocean surrounding the island
Dive into the inviting, clear blue waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling adventures.
Vibrant Marine Life
Coral reefs near the island
Explore colorful tropical fish and coral reefs while snorkeling in the protected marine reserve.
Sunset Views
Western side of the island
Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky as you relax by the ocean.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Island Escape: Getting There
Day Trip Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Book Your Boat Trip
Public boats, speedboats, and yachts are available. Public boats are affordable but may have wait times. +1
💰 Marine Reserve Fee
Expect to pay an entrance fee for the marine reserve, often payable by card.
💸 Cash for Boat Fare
Boat captains typically prefer cash payments for the boat ride.
☀️ Bring Your Own Snacks
While food is available, bringing your own snacks and drinks is a good idea.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Book Your Boat Trip
Public boats, speedboats, and yachts are available. Public boats are affordable but may have wait times. +1
💰 Marine Reserve Fee
Expect to pay an entrance fee for the marine reserve, often payable by card.
💸 Cash for Boat Fare
Boat captains typically prefer cash payments for the boat ride.
☀️ Bring Your Own Snacks
While food is available, bringing your own snacks and drinks is a good idea.
🛏️ Rent Beach Gear
Beach beds and shades are available for rent at a small fee for extra comfort.
🤿 Snorkel Gear
Bring or rent snorkel gear to explore the vibrant underwater world.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mbudya Island is a beloved tropical escape, praised for its stunning natural beauty, clear waters, and delicious seafood. Visitors consistently highlight the relaxing atmosphere and enjoyable activities like swimming and snorkeling. While the island offers a fantastic day trip experience, some guests note slow food service and the cost of entry and boat fares.
"My favourite island in the world. I have been visiting this place since year 2000 and has remained my favourite . Clear blue water and food is amazing. I ❤️ Mbudya and always have a great time !"
Jacky Nkuzi-hung
"Want aplace to chill , with diferent sports such as volleball, drinks as cococnut jice, natural fruits soda and other, with a big fish , aaah, prawns and more , then this is the place ... personally i love swimming but people that love ship cruizing , then that your place check it out , be on holliday or your free time,. the only thing that messed me up was the food service was slow but the food quality wwas good all in all it sure desesrves a 5 star."
ismail sufiani
"This small island offers a fantastic escape with a pristine beach. Boat rides take around 20-45 minutes, depending on your starting point, and are very affordable. A small entry fee applies, but it's budget-friendly. Perfect for groups, families, and friends, Mbudya boasts clean waters ideal for swimming. You'll find restaurants and drinks on-site, but feel free to bring your own. Rent beach beds and shades for a small fee. I loved watching the sunset while swimming – a truly memorable experience. While there's no accommodation, you can likely stay late. Highly recommended!"
Paul Muthui
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Mbudya Island by boat from various points in Dar es Salaam, including the Slipway Hotel. Boat ride durations vary from 20 to 45 minutes depending on the type of boat and departure point. Options include public boats, speedboats, and private yachts. +1
Several boat options are available, including public boats, speedboats, and luxury yachts. Public boats are a budget-friendly choice, while speedboats offer a quicker journey.
The cost of the boat ride can vary. Public boat fares are typically around 40,000 TZS per person, paid directly to the captain in cash.
For public boats, it's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, as they often require a minimum number of passengers to depart. Private and speed boat options might offer more flexibility.
The boat journey to Mbudya Island usually takes between 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the type of boat and sea conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a marine reserve entrance fee, which is approximately 18 USD per person. This fee is often payable by credit card.
Mbudya Island is primarily a day-trip destination, so it's generally accessible during daylight hours. While there's no accommodation, visitors can often stay late to enjoy the sunset.
Entrance fees for the marine reserve can typically be paid upon arrival. Boat fares are usually paid directly to the boat captain.
Information on specific group or family discounts is not widely available, but public boat fares are generally affordable for groups.
The entrance fee grants access to the Mbudya Island Marine Reserve, allowing you to enjoy its beaches and natural beauty.
🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience
Mbudya Island offers a range of activities including swimming, snorkeling to see vibrant marine life, beach volleyball, and simply relaxing on the pristine beaches.
Yes, Mbudya Island is known for its clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling and observing tropical fish.
Yes, you can rent beach beds and shades for a small fee, providing a comfortable spot to relax on the sand.
There are restaurants on the island that serve fresh seafood, BBQ, and drinks. However, bringing your own food and beverages is also permitted.
The island's restaurants primarily offer fresh fish and BBQ options. Vegetarian choices might be limited to salads.
Absolutely! Mbudya Island is a great destination for families, offering safe swimming waters and a relaxed environment for a day out.
No, Mbudya Island is a day-trip destination and does not have accommodation facilities.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning photos on the white sandy beaches, with the crystal-clear turquoise waters as your backdrop, and during the magical sunset hours.
Mbudya Island is incredibly photogenic with its tropical scenery, clear waters, and beautiful sunsets, making it a popular spot for content creators.
The golden hours, both sunrise and sunset, offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. Midday provides bright, clear shots of the water.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the island management before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
Expect to capture vibrant beach scenes, underwater shots while snorkeling, and picturesque sunset views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there are restaurants, the food service can sometimes be slow, so having your own provisions can be a lifesaver with hungry kids.
💰 Budget Travelers
The marine reserve entrance fee is a fixed cost, but the boat fare is generally reasonable. 📸 Content Creators & Photographers
+1 Capture the magic of sunsets that paint the sky with breathtaking colors, especially during the golden hours. Remember to check drone regulations if you plan on aerial shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating to Mbudya Island: Your Transport Guide
Public boats are a popular and affordable choice, often departing from locations like the Slipway Hotel. However, be prepared for potential wait times, especially on weekends, as these boats usually require a minimum number of passengers to set sail. When planning your journey, remember to factor in the marine reserve entrance fee, which is usually around $18 USD per person and can often be paid by credit card. The boat fare itself, typically around 40,000 TZS per person, is generally paid in cash directly to the boat captain.
For those seeking a more seamless experience, booking a private boat or yacht can offer direct departure and a more personalized journey. Some tour operators, like those mentioned in Instagram reels, specialize in these island excursions, often including stops at other nearby islands like Bongoyo.
Regardless of your chosen method, the boat ride is an integral part of the Mbudya Island experience, setting the tone for a relaxing day by the sea. Island Activities: Sun, Sand, and Sea
For the more adventurous, snorkeling is a must-do activity. The island is part of a marine reserve, boasting vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful tropical fish.
Renting snorkel gear is readily available, allowing you to explore the underwater world. While the island offers restaurants serving fresh seafood and BBQ, it's also a good idea to bring your own snacks and drinks to ensure you have everything you need for a full day of enjoyment.
Culinary Delights and Island Vibes
Beyond the main meals, you can enjoy refreshing coconut juice and other natural fruit sodas, perfect for a tropical day.
It's worth noting that while the island provides dining options, many visitors find it convenient to bring their own snacks and drinks to supplement their meals or for a more budget-friendly experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit