Zanzibar
After our safari, we spent 3 days exploring the island of Zanzibar off the coast of Tanzania. We stayed at The Zanzibari Hotel in Nungwi at the top of the island. This all inclusive hotel includes a pool, spa, garden, and beach access. The tides in Zanzibar change all throughout the day on all parts of the island. One of the perks of this hotel is that it is located on a rock cliff overlooking the beach so even during high tide, longue chairs, hammocks and swings are still useable. Book here.
We mostly relaxed at the hotel but there were a few activities we did on the island that we’d recommend. Within a 10 min walk from the hotel is the Baraka Natural Aquarium. Here, you can swim in a lagoon with sea turtles where you can feed and interact with them. Buy tickets in person, no need to book in advance.
Another unique animal experience we did in Zanzibar was swimming with wild dolphins. We booked this experience through ZanziWorld Tours, book in advance. During this half day tour, you will take a boat out into the ocean to find wild dolphins. Once spotted, you have the opportunity to jump in the water and swim along side them. There are a couple things to keep in mind with this experience and realities I did not anticipate before going:
Dolphins are very fast and it can take a lot of energy to keep up with them.
Dolphins often swim in very deep, dark waters which can be intimidating.
There can sometimes be small jellyfish in these waters so you may feel small stings while swimming. These are very minor and last only briefly but still good to know beforehand.
The rapid and frequent jumping in and out of the water from the boat can cause nausea so keep this in mind when going. You may want to take anti-nausea medication prior.
Lastly, it is very important to pay attention to which company you are going through and to your surroundings. The beach you depart from is full of different boat companies, and their are many vendors that will persistently approach you on the beach to try to sell souvenirs. With so many people around it can be disorienting. The company I booked through provides roundtrip transportation to and from the hotel from a driver affiliated with the company. The taxi driver will know which company is yours. Make sure they show you which boat to get on and introduce you to your guide as many of these boats are not labeled.
With that being said, I would still recommend the experience and swimming with wild dolphins was one of the most amazing animal interactions I have ever had. The tour also includes a snorkeling stop and sandbar stop. Fresh fruit and water are provided on board. Tip: There are sea urchins scattered throughout the ocean floor all around the island so water shoes are recommended. The Zanzibari hotel offers these free to guests if you do not have any.
