Mnarani Turtle Sanctuary Nungwi
Swim with rescued sea turtles at Mnarani Sanctuary, a conservation haven in Nungwi, Zanzibar. An unforgettable wildlife encounter.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more active turtles
Mnarani Turtle Sanctuary Nungwi
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more active turtles
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Swim with rescued sea turtles at Mnarani Sanctuary, a conservation haven in Nungwi, Zanzibar. An unforgettable wildlife encounter.
"Oh my god this was one of the best experiences in my whole life!"
🎯 Arrive Early for Best Experience
Beat the crowds by arriving at opening time for a more personal encounter with the turtles.
💰 Entrance Fee & What's Included
Expect around 20,000 TZS ($10 USD) for entry, which often includes a guide and seaweed for feeding.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Swim with Gentle Giants
Natural tidal pool
Experience the magic of swimming alongside rescued sea turtles in their natural habitat. A truly unforgettable encounter.
Feed the Turtles
Sanctuary pools
Get up close and personal by feeding the turtles seaweed. A hands-on way to connect with these magnificent marine animals.
Learn About Conservation
Information center
Discover the vital work of the sanctuary in rescuing and rehabilitating injured turtles. An educational and inspiring experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Turtle Encounters
Conservation and Interaction
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Best Experience
Beat the crowds by arriving at opening time for a more personal encounter with the turtles.
💰 Entrance Fee & What's Included
Expect around 20,000 TZS ($10 USD) for entry, which often includes a guide and seaweed for feeding.
🐢 Respect the Sanctuary
Remember this is a conservation area. Follow guide instructions and treat the turtles with care.
📸 Capture the Moment
Bring your camera or phone to capture these incredible moments, but be mindful of the turtles.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Best Experience
Beat the crowds by arriving at opening time for a more personal encounter with the turtles.
💰 Entrance Fee & What's Included
Expect around 20,000 TZS ($10 USD) for entry, which often includes a guide and seaweed for feeding.
🐢 Respect the Sanctuary
Remember this is a conservation area. Follow guide instructions and treat the turtles with care.
📸 Capture the Moment
Bring your camera or phone to capture these incredible moments, but be mindful of the turtles.
💧 Water Quality Note
Some visitors note the water isn't crystal clear, but the turtle interaction is still worthwhile.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Mnarani Turtle Sanctuary, calling it one of the best experiences in Zanzibar. The opportunity to swim and feed the curious turtles is a highlight, with many appreciating the conservation efforts. Some note the water clarity could be better, but the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many recommending an early morning visit.
"Oh my god this was one of the best experiences in my whole life! The turtles were really curious and came really close. The water and the surrounding area was extraordinary to experience. It‘s a Must visit if you are in sansibar!!! Come early in the Morning as soon as they open - i didn‘t have to wait and we were the first ones inside about 10min later other visitors arrived."
Marlene Xyz
"Good cause and definitely worth a visit. Guide gives you a great explanation of what they do, and you can get in the water to feed the turtles. 10 dollars per person entry and about an hour long activity."
Timo
"Our visit to Nungwi Marine Turtle Mnarani was nothing short of enchanting. The magical moment of swimming alongside the gentle marine turtles felt like a dream come true, as if we were characters in a timeless love story set in the heart of paradise.
The serene waters, paired with the knowledgeable staff's passion for conservation, created an atmosphere of pure bliss. Learning about the majestic turtles together deepened our connection, making the experience even more meaningful.
Embarking on my first kayaking adventure, I found myself gliding through the calm waters, feeling a sense of freedom and tranquility. The beauty of Zanzibar's landscape served as a breathtaking backdrop to our romantic escape.
Our time at Nungwi Marine Turtle Mnarani was an unforgettable chapter in our love story, and we wholeheartedly recommend it to any couple seeking a unique and intimate adventure."
4 x 4 Capital
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Mnarani Turtle Sanctuary is conveniently located on the northern end of Nungwi Beach. You can easily walk there from most accommodations in Nungwi. If you're coming from further afield in Zanzibar, taxis are readily available to take you to Nungwi.
Yes, it's quite straightforward. Look for signs pointing to the Mnarani Marine Turtles Conservation Pond or Turtle Sanctuary as you approach the northern part of Nungwi Beach.
From Stone Town or other parts of Zanzibar, you can hire a taxi or arrange for a shared shuttle. The journey to Nungwi typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is approximately 20,000 Tanzanian Shillings (TZS), which is about $10 USD per person. This fee usually includes a guided tour and the opportunity to feed the turtles.
Generally, advance booking is not required. You can purchase tickets upon arrival. Visiting early in the morning can help you avoid any potential queues.
The sanctuary typically opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon. It's best to arrive early to make the most of your visit and avoid crowds.
Most visitors find the fee to be very reasonable for the experience, which includes learning about conservation, interacting with turtles, and supporting a good cause.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Yes, swimming with the turtles is a popular activity offered at the sanctuary. You'll get to interact with them in their natural pool.
You can feed them seaweed, which is often provided as part of the entrance fee. Some visitors also enjoy swimming alongside them.
A visit usually lasts around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how long you spend feeding or swimming with the turtles and engaging with the guides.
The turtles are generally gentle, especially when fed. However, it's important to follow the guidance of the sanctuary staff and avoid any sudden movements.
You can expect to see various species, including Hawksbill and Green turtles, which are often rescued and rehabilitated at the sanctuary.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed. You'll want to capture the amazing interactions with the turtles.
The best shots are usually when you're feeding the turtles or swimming alongside them. The natural light in the pool can create beautiful underwater photos.
While generally permitted, be respectful of other visitors and the animals. Avoid using flash photography directly at the turtles if it seems to disturb them.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Guides are usually good at explaining things in a way that kids can understand, making the visit both fun and informative. It’s a safe environment for children to get up close with marine life, creating lasting memories. Remember to bring swimwear if your children are keen to swim with the turtles, and keep an eye on them at all times.
❤️ Couples and Romantic Getaways
It's a perfect activity to add to a Zanzibar itinerary for those seeking something beyond typical beach relaxation. The serene atmosphere and the gentle nature of the turtles create a peaceful backdrop for a romantic escape. Consider visiting during a quieter time to maximize the intimate feel of the sanctuary.
🌍 Budget Travelers
This price typically includes a guided tour and the chance to feed the turtles, making it a cost-effective activity that provides a significant return on experience. Compared to other excursions in Zanzibar, the sanctuary is a budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise on the uniqueness of the experience. It's a great way to support a local conservation initiative while enjoying a memorable part of your trip without breaking the bank.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Conservation: Mnarani's Mission
Today, it serves as a safe haven for turtles rescued from fishing nets, plastic pollution, or injuries. The sanctuary's primary goal is to rehabilitate these animals and release them back into the ocean, contributing significantly to the survival of species like the Hawksbill and Green turtles. Visitors play a crucial role in supporting this mission. The entrance fee directly contributes to the care and upkeep of the turtles, providing them with food, medical attention, and a safe environment to recover.
Interacting with the turtles, whether through feeding or swimming, offers a unique perspective on their behavior and needs. It's a chance to witness firsthand the positive impact of dedicated conservation efforts. The sanctuary's commitment to releasing rehabilitated turtles back into the wild is a testament to their dedication and a hopeful sign for the future of these magnificent creatures.
An Unforgettable Encounter: Swimming and Feeding
+1 The turtles, often curious and accustomed to human presence, may approach visitors, creating magical moments. Feeding the turtles is another engaging activity that allows for close interaction. Visitors are often provided with seaweed, which they can offer to the turtles.
This hands-on experience is not only fun but also educational, as it demonstrates the turtles' feeding habits. For those who prefer a less direct interaction, observing the turtles from the edge of the pool or participating in a transparent boat tour offers a wonderful way to appreciate them.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit