Nungwi in 1 Day for Families - Swim with sea turtles at Baraka Natural Aquarium
In Collaboration with Green Zanzibar Tours & Safari Company Limited. Updated on February 22, 2026.
A half-day, guide-led visit to northern Zanzibar: swim with turtles at Baraka Natural Aquarium, explore Nungwi’s fish market and traditional dhow building, then relax on Kendwa’s white-sand beach. Hotel pickup and drop-off included; suitable for families with children old enough for shallow-water activities.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Green Zanzibar Tours & Safari Company Limited, inspired by the tour Half day Trip to Experience The Vibes of Nungwi & Kendwa - The Must Visit Places. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Swim with sea turtles at Baraka Natural Aquarium
- See the daily life at Nungwi fish market and coastal trading
- Watch traditional dhow building at the Nungwi boat yard
- Relax, swim and watch the sunset at Kendwa Beach
Itinerary
Day 1
Half-day guided tour exploring northern Zanzibar’s village life, marine life, traditional boat building and the white-sand beaches of Kendwa. The tour departs early afternoon and returns in the evening.
Baraka Natural Aquarium: Swim with Zanzibar’s Sea Turtles
Visit the naturally formed Baraka Natural Aquarium to observe and (tide-permitting) swim alongside endangered sea turtles and tropical fish. Entrance fee and snorkelling mask are included.
Tips from local experts:
- This site is tide-dependent: shallow pools are best at mid to high tide—keep cameras and phones protected from saltwater.
- Snorkelling masks are provided; bring swimwear, a towel and a change of clothes. Children must be supervised in the water at all times.
- Wear reef shoes or sandals with a good grip for walking on coral rock; water can be slippery between pools.
Discover Local Life at the Nungwi Fish Market and Northern Beach
Stroll through the traditional Nungwi fish market to see local fishermen selling their catch and experience the rhythms of coastal village trade. After the market, there is time to relax briefly on the nearby white-sand shoreline.
Tips from local experts:
- The market can be busy and has strong smells; keep strollers and young children at a safe distance from fish handling areas.
- Ask permission before photographing people or sellers; a friendly approach usually gets a quick yes.
- Bring hand sanitizer and sunscreen; consider closed-toe shoes as the market area can be uneven and wet.
Step into Tradition at The Nungwi Boat Yard — Where Dhows Are Born
Observe craftsmen building traditional wooden dhows at the Nungwi boat yard. Learn about local woodworking techniques and maritime traditions; there may be an opportunity to try simple tasks under supervision.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear closed-toe shoes and bring a hat — the boat yard is an active, outdoor workspace with tools and timber.
- Respect the craftsmen’s workspace: always ask before touching tools or materials and follow guide instructions for any hands-on moments.
- This stop is outdoors and partially shaded; bring bottled water and apply sunscreen between shaded areas.
End Your Day in Paradise: Explore the Serenity of Kendwa Beach
Spend the remainder of the afternoon and early evening at Kendwa Beach. Enjoy swimming in calm, clear water, relax on white sand, and watch the sunset from the southern end of the beach.
Tips from local experts:
- Kendwa is family-friendly with a gentle seabed; still supervise children and consider a short swim test for less confident kids.
- Bring sun protection, a light towel and a small dry bag for valuables; shade can be limited during late afternoon.
- Sunset timing is around early evening in July; if you want a prime spot, arrive on the southern stretch at least 15–20 minutes before sunset.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Families |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 4 |
| Total Places | 4 |
| Activities Types | Attraction, Culture, Outdoor |