Chumbe Island

Chumbe Island Coral Park is a privately managed reef and forest sanctuary southwest of Stone Town. The day is led by a ranger. You walk the coral-rag forest, hear how the reserve is kept, and snorkel a protected house reef that is in better condition than most of the coast because people are few and fishing is not allowed. Numbers are limited. You leave from the Mbweni side. There is no music on the boat and no plastic bottles to toss. The fee is higher than Safari Blue because you are paying for the park, not only for a ride. It is worth it if the point of the day is the reef.

Guide price: from USD 120 per person. Replace this number when you edit the trip.

Highlights

• Guided forest walk on the island
• Snorkelling a protected house reef
• A ranger, not a loud skipper
• A day with a small number of visitors

Included

• Boat from Mbweni
• Park and conservation fee
• Ranger
• Snorkel gear
• Lunch on the island
• Transfer from Stone Town hotels

Not included

• Tips
• Pickup from the north or east, unless added
• Professional photos
• Alcohol

Questions

Why is this more expensive?

The conservation fee is the visit. You are not buying a shared party dhow.

Can anyone book?

The island caps the number of day guests. Ask early in the week you are here.

Is the snorkelling hard?

The reef is close to shore. A life jacket is available. Tell us if you are unsure in the water.