If you are a travelholic, there is no way that you have never heard about Tanzania, a popular safari and trekking destination in Africa. Many people book Tanzania safari tours to enjoy the Kilimanjaro trek or a safari. But the tour does not end here. Yes, you read that right! People also visit Tanzania to relax on the beautiful islands. And why not?
Who will miss the chance to explore dreamy beaches, turquoise waters, and a peaceful atmosphere? If Tanzania is next on your list of travel destinations, then you have come to the right place. In today’s blog, we will discuss the six most beautiful Tanzania islands so you can visit these islands and enjoy a great time with your loved ones. So, continue reading the blog to know!
How Many Islands Does Tanzania Have?
Tanzania has many islands, but you do not have to visit all, as only some are popular and beautiful. Simply put, only a few islands are worth visiting. Here are the six best ones on our list:
1- Pemba
The other most beautiful island on our list is Pemba, the second biggest island of the Zanzibar Archipelago. This island has a more peaceful vibe than its neighboring islands. The island is not only more fruitful, but it is also more hilly than Unguja. Pemba’s dense forests, breathtaking beach views, and sites rich in fish and corals make Pemba a popular destination for people to add to their Tanzania safari tours.
And do you know what is the best thing about this island? Earlier, Pemba used to rely on its own power supply, but today, the island has a submarine cable. It means the island caused no harm to pure nature and became successful in providing tourists power directly from the plugs.
2- Zanzibar- Unguja
The first island on our list is Zanzibar, one of the most famous islands in Tanzania. If the name of this island sounds so dreamy, imagine what it would be like to experience the beauty of this island. The island is located in the Indian Ocean, and it is Tanzania’s favorite water sports and seaside resort. You can visit here easily by either boat or plane as the island is situated only 40 km ashore on Tanzania’s east coast.
Mostly, people who book Tanzania safari tours visit the birthplace of Freddy Mercury, the Zanzibar island’s most famous son. The place is in the old town of Stone Town. This town will remind you of 1001 nights as besides being a UNESCO world heritage, Stone Town also has a rich eastern l vibe. If you want to spend time living in a calm and small city, you can lie at the beach and hear the sounds of birds chirping, turquoise water flowing, and palm trees gently blowing.
3- Bongoyo Island
Bongoyo Island is a small tropical island in Tanzania and a part of the Dar es Salaam Marine Reserve. If you have a booking for a safari in Tanzania, you can visit this island in 30 minutes from the capital by a ferry ride. Once you reach the island’s marine reserve, you can go swimming or snorkeling, sunbathe, eat delicious seafood with your toes in the sand, and do many more fun activities.
And even if you want to do something more active, you can try your hands at kitesurfing. Besides this, if you wish to explore two white sand beaches and warm waters, do not forget to look for Tanzania safari tours with Bongoyo Island on the list.
4- Mnemba Island
Now comes the best part of Tanzania safari tours! Yes, we are talking about a luxurious holiday on a private island in Tanzania. The Mnemba island is best for people who want to pamper or treat themselves with exclusivity. That is because Mnemba is a private island where daily visitors are not allowed. Moreover, it is the home to the “andBeyond” resort.
That means if you stay in this resort, you will have unlimited access to the island’s enchanting white sand beaches, coral reefs, blue waters, and dense forests. Sounds amazing, right? So, we suggest you look for only those Tanzania safari packages that include Mnemba Island.
5- Changuu Island- The Prison Island
Like Unguja, Changuu island is also located in the Indian Ocean, north of Stone Town. The island is called the prison island, sounds intimidating, right? But there is nothing to worry about besides being attacked by the turtles on the island. You will find many Aldabra giant tortoises living here, and these magnificent specimens have a quality that they can drink water with their nose. Now, the question is, why is Changuu Island called the prison island?
Well, it has a history you will better understand once you book Tanzania safari tours and visit the island yourself. Another interesting thing is you can explore the cells in the old prison on the island. There, you will not find prisoners. Instead, you will see giant tortoises inside the cells. That’s only to keep the population of these tortoises alive and protect them from thieves.
6- Mafia Island
Mafia Island is located in the southernmost part of the Zanzibar Archipelago. Although this island is smaller than others, you should not underestimate its beauty. Living here feels like living in a paradise. The island is best for diving and snorkeling because of its sheltered location.
If you have Mafia Island in your Tanzania safari tours package, you must visit the 17 km wide Mafia Channel, the habitat of the fork-tailed dugong, a rare marine mammal. Another special thing about Mafia Island is that it has a marine park on the east coast to protect sea turtles and coral reefs. This park is worth a visit, especially if you are a diver or a snorkeling lover.
Besides the six islands we discussed in this blog, there are many other beautiful islands in Lake Victoria Tanzania. These include, Ukerewe, Bumbiri, Rubondo, Gana, Komasi, Ukara, etc. You can also consider visiting these islands as some of them are designated as reserves and national parks.
Final thoughts
Many people consider Tanzania as a good tourist destination. Whether you are looking for relaxation or want to explore underwater life, you will get every type of experience on Tanzania’s islands. It is the reason for the increasing popularity of these islands among tourists. Lastly, it is safe to say that these beautiful islands are worth every penny you spend.
So, contact us today to know how we can help you plan and book the best and most affordable Tanzania safari tours!