Best Islands In Tanzania For Adventure And Relaxation

Tanzania offers breathtaking safaris, a vibrant indigenous African culture, and the Kilimanjaro, of course. Nevertheless, you should not miss its lively coastal lifestyle! Therefore, if you want to see Tanzania at its best, you must visit its islands. Despite being in the center of East Africa, the tropical and paradisiacal beaches practically give the impression that you are in the Caribbean. 

Now, let us explore Tanzania's amazing marine life! Discover its turquoise blue ocean, upscale resorts, white sand beaches lined with palm trees, and more. Below, you will see the most well-known and secluded islands in Tanzania for your ideal beach getaway. Get motivated! Choose your top six best islands in Tanzania and plan your own vacation without any further hesitation.

How Many Islands Are There In Tanzania?

The more than 50 islands that make up the Zanzibar archipelago, each with its own history, are all part of Tanzania.

From the more crowded Unguja to the calmer islands like Pemba, all the islands in Tanzania offer a special experience to the traveler. 6 of these islands are more impressive than the rest. They are perfect for holidays with family, friends, alone or with a romantic partner.

All the islands in Tanzania offer a special experience to the traveler

Top 6 Incredible Islands In Tanzania

Zanzibar Island

Of all the Tanzanian islands, Zanzibar is without a doubt the most well-known and visited. Its name alone sounds fantastic! 

Zanzibar Island, also known as Unguja, has a romantic and enigmatic vibe. This historical tropical paradise, which was once dominated by Omani sultans, has an ancient Swahili culture that is still very much alive today. The Indian Ocean's turquoise waters, palm-lined white sand beaches, and a superb selection of boutique hotels and luxury resorts are the essential components of a dream beach vacation (or an extension of a Tanzanian safari).

In such a beautiful setting, you might wish to spend your days relaxing and perhaps going diving or snorkeling on the reefs. But do not forget to stop by Stone Town, which has a lot of old buildings and a genuine Swahili feel. Zanzibar is without a doubt the most popular and best known of all the islands in Tanzania.

Zanzibar Island, also known as Unguja, has a romantic and enigmatic vibe

Changuu Island

One of the most popular trips from Zanzibar is to Changuu Island, sometimes referred to as Prison Island. It takes roughly half an hour to get here from Stone Town on a dhow, a traditional sailboat. A colony of enormous Aldabra tortoises that are descended from four individuals who were brought in as a gift from the British governor of the Seychelles in 1919 is the major attraction. These reptiles can reach more than 200 kg/440 lb and some are over 100 years old. 

You can also unwind on the beach and swim in the pristine waters on a half-day excursion. At Nakupenda Island, a long, narrow sandbar that occasionally submerges during high tide, a seafood beach BBQ is frequently a part of the day trip. Changuu Island is from our perspective one of the most beautiful islands in Tanzania.

One of the most popular trips from Zanzibar is to Changuu Island

Pemba Island

Pemba Island is the second-largest and one of the best islands in the Zanzibar archipelago. The island is a great place for those who want to escape from it all, even though it is far less developed than its well-known neighbor, Zanzibar Island. 

A few hotels and guesthouses serve largely adventurous tourists and scuba divers. Hiking through the Ngezi Forest Reserve, which formerly encompassed the entire island, is a must-do inland activity. The Pemba white-eye, sunbird, green pigeon, and scops owl—the four indigenous bird species that make Pemba famous—can be seen here.

Pemma is the second-largest and one of the best islands in the Zanzibar archipelago

Mafia Island

Mafia Island is one of the most beautiful islands in Tanzania. The islands of Mafia and its neighbors are the southernmost in the Zanzibar Archipelago. Despite being smaller than the others, Mafia Island is an absolute diving and snorkeling paradise. This is because of its protected location, the nearby coral reef, and the numerous little islands that surround it.

Only a few upscale lodges serve this little-known location, which only receives a tiny number of guests. Away from the masses, Mafia is the ideal beach and seaside retreat.

Mnemba Island

The tiny, secret island of Mnemba is only 2.5 km/1.5 mi northeast of Zanzibar. 12 stylish yet rustic seaside bandas make up the accommodations on the private island, and a personal butler will attend to all of your needs. Savor a quaint dhow (traditional sailboat) voyage into the sunset, a romantic dinner served on the beach while the waves lap at your feet, and a stroll along the cool, white coral sand. Explore the Mnemba Atoll's underwater environment above all else. The famous island in Tanzania is a marine reserve rich with marine life, including turtles, dolphins and big schools of small fish.

The tiny, secret island of Mnemba is only 2.5 km/1.5 mi northeast of Zanzibar

Chumbe Island

Chumbe, an uninhabited coral island close to Zanzibar, is a great destination for nature enthusiasts and one of the most famous islands in Tanzania. Excellent diving and snorkeling may be found in the Chumbe coral reef, a protected sanctuary known for its coral richness. A walking track around the island on land, passing through pristine woodland, hidden beaches, and rockpools. 

There are about 60 bird species known to exist, including rare roseate tern nesting pairs. You might also catch a glimpse of Aders’s duiker, a secretive small antelope of coastal thicket. Even more exciting are the giant nocturnal coconut crabs, which crawl out of coral crevices at dusk.

Chumbe, an uninhabited coral island close to Zanzibar, is a great destination for nature enthusiasts

Kilwa Kisiwani

Kilwa Kisiwani is one of the best islands in Tanzania. There is hardly much tourism development along Tanzania's south coast. That likely explains the lack of awareness and few visits to one of East Africa's most significant historical sites. The abandoned city of Kilwa Kisiwani is the most significant remnant of the Swahili trade, which controlled the coast from the Middle Ages until the Portuguese arrived in 1505. 

From Kilwa Masoko, you must take a boat over the 2 km broad channel to reach this intriguing Unesco World Heritage Site. To really see the maze of abandoned mansions, historic tombs, and the Great Mosque's spiritual center, go with a local guide.

FAQs For Top Islands In Tanzania

What is the best time to visit the islands in Tanzania?

The dry seasons, from June to October and December to February, are the ideal times to go. The weather is nice during these months, making them perfect for exploring and beach activities.

Which activities are the most popular on these islands?

Among the most popular activities are diving, snorkeling, touring spice plantations, touring historical monuments, and taking in the stunning beaches. Activities can differ based on the location because every island has its own charms.

What language is spoken on the islands?

The national language of Tanzania is Swahili. Additionally, English is widely used across the islands, particularly in tourism areas. This facilitates communication between visitors and locals.

What currency is used?

The official currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), but US dollars are also commonly accepted, especially in tourist destinations.  For smaller purchases, especially in rural locations, it is recommended to keep some local currency on hand.

What should I pack for a trip to these islands?

Swimwear, a helmet, bug repellant, lightweight, breathable apparel, and a good sunscreen are all necessities. Additionally, if you are traveling during the rainy season, think about bringing a lightweight raincoat and a pair of durable walking shoes for sightseeing.

Is it safe to travel to these islands?

Yes, visiting these islands is normally safe. As with any tourist destination, it is advisable to take the usual safety precautions, though, such as locking up your valuables, avoiding remote regions at night, and keeping up with local circumstances.

Do I need a visa to visit Tanzania?

Yes, most travelers need a Tanzania visa online to visit the country, whether for tourism, business, or other purposes. Thankfully, Tanzania offers an eVisa — a quick and hassle-free option that allows you to skip the long lines and tedious paperwork of traditional visa applications.

When you apply for a Tanzania eVisa through our website, you’re choosing a platform that prioritizes your convenience and peace of mind. We’ve designed a user-friendly process to help you complete your application with ease, backed by reliable customer support to address any questions along the way. Say goodbye to uncertainty and hello to a stress-free experience.

The islands of Tanzania are becoming popular as travel destinations. Not just for people who want to unwind, but also for people who want to learn about coral reefs and underwater life. They are absolutely worth seeing. We are always pleased to assist you in organizing your vacation to Tanzania.