Unguja in 1 Day for Families - Swim near wild dolphins in their natural environment
In Collaboration with Zanturtle Explore Tours and Safaris. Updated on February 20, 2026.
Swim with dolphins and snorkel in the coral reefs of Mnemba Atoll on a half-day boat trip from Kendwa or Nungwi. The tour includes hotel pick-up (within Nungwi/Kendwa), a coastal cruise in search of dolphins, snorkeling over Mnemba’s protected reefs, time at the Mnemba sandbank when tides allow, and return transfer to your hotel.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Zanturtle Explore Tours and Safaris, inspired by the tour Mnemba Dolphins with Snorkel Tour From Kendwa/Nungwi . Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Swim near wild dolphins in their natural environment
- Snorkel over Mnemba Atoll’s coral reefs and see tropical fish
- Relax (weather & tide permitting) on the Mnemba disappearing sandbank
Itinerary
Day 1
Half-day morning boat trip from Nungwi/Kendwa to Mnemba Atoll with dolphin watching, snorkeling, and optional sandbank stop (weather & tide dependent).
Hotel Pick-Up (Kendwa or Nungwi)
Our local driver will pick you up from your hotel in Kendwa or Nungwi and transfer you to the beach departure point on Nungwi Road for boarding.
Tips from local experts:
- Be ready in your hotel lobby 5–10 minutes before the scheduled pick-up to keep the transfer smooth for all families.
- Wear swimwear under light clothing and bring a small dry bag for valuables — towels and snorkel gear are provided.
- If traveling with young children, bring any required swim diapers and a familiar flotation toy; life jackets suitable for children are provided on board.
Boat Departure & Coastal Cruise
Board the motorized boat at the Nungwi beach departure point and cruise along the coast toward the Mnemba conservation area. Enjoy short commentary from the guide about safety and marine conservation while underway.
Tips from local experts:
- Use the provided shade on the boat during the cruise — bring a light hat and reef-safe sunscreen to protect the family.
- Keep cameras or phones in a secure waterproof case during boarding and while cruising to avoid water damage.
- Listen to the safety briefing; children should remain seated during cruising legs and always wear a life jacket when moving on deck.
Dolphin Spotting & Swimming
The captain will search for wild dolphins. If dolphins are located, you will have the opportunity to swim nearby under the guide’s direction, then continue to Mnemba Atoll for guided snorkeling over the coral reefs.
Tips from local experts:
- Follow the guide’s instructions during dolphin encounters — maintain distance, avoid sudden splashes, and enter the water only when directed.
- Children and non-swimmers should use life jackets during any in-water time; inform the guide of your child’s swimming ability before entering the water.
- Wear reef-safe sunscreen and avoid touching corals or handling marine life while snorkeling to protect both your family and the reef.
Mnemba Disappearing Sandbank (Low Tide – Weather Permitting)
When tide and weather permit, the boat will cruise to the Mnemba sandbank for a short stop to relax on the sandbar and take photos surrounded by shallow turquoise water.
Tips from local experts:
- Sandbank visits depend on tide and weather — expect a short 15–30 minute stop if conditions allow and be flexible with timing.
- Bring a lightweight windbreaker as it can be breezy on the exposed sandbank and shade is limited.
- Keep personal items secured; small children should be supervised at all times near shallow water and exposed sand.
Return Boat Ride
After snorkeling and any sandbank time, cruise back toward the mainland; relax on deck and enjoy final views of Mnemba’s blue waters while the crew prepares a light refreshment of fruit and soft drinks.
Tips from local experts:
- Use the return ride to rehydrate; crew provide water, fruit, and soft drinks — inform staff of any food allergies beforehand.
- Secure wet gear and rinse masks in the provided freshwater if available to keep equipment in good condition for the journey back.
- Keep children seated with life jackets fastened during the return crossing until the captain indicates it is safe to move.
Hotel Drop-Off
Arrive at the beach where the driver will be waiting to transfer you back to your accommodation in Kendwa or Nungwi, completing the tour.
Tips from local experts:
- Allow a short buffer after arrival for drying off and changing; keep a small towel and change of clothes easily accessible.
- Confirm your hotel drop-off details with the driver or guide before leaving the boat to ensure direct transfer to your accommodation.
- If you need help carrying wet gear or equipment up the beach, ask the crew; gratuities are customary for helpful assistance but are at your discretion.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 3 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Families |
| Transfers | 4 |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 2 |
| Total Places | 2 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Experience, Attraction |
