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TANZANIA - Ocean Escapes

Island Hopping – Marine Magic in the Indian Ocean

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Summary of the Trip

Discover the magic of Tanzania’s Indian Ocean islands – a journey where every day is a new adventure and every island tells its own story. Swim with gentle whale sharks in Mafia’s turquoise waters, wander ancient ruins and mangrove forests, and savor the scents and colors of Zanzibar’s spice markets. From the barefoot luxury of Fanjove Private Island to the wild beauty of Pemba and the world-class reefs of Mnemba, this itinerary blends marine adventure, cultural discovery, and pure relaxation. 

The Experience

Your journey begins on Mafia Island, where you’ll snorkel or dive vibrant reefs and, in season, swim with whale sharks. Explore mangrove forests and visit Chole Island’s ruins and crafts. Next, escape to Fanjove Private Island for eco-luxury, kayaking, and panoramic lighthouse views. Fly to Zanzibar to wander Stone Town’s alleys, enjoy a spice tour, and end the day on a sunset dhow cruise. Then, transfer to exclusive Mnemba Island for world-class snorkeling, paddleboarding, and barefoot beach time. Finish on wild Pemba Island, exploring Ngezi Forest, clove plantations, and pristine waters. 

HIGHLIGHTS

SNORKELING & DIVING,
MARINE WILDLIFE,
CULTURAL HERITAGE,
PRISTINE BEACHES,
ECO-LUXURY ESCAPES,
NATURE & ADVENTURE,
OFF-THE-BEATEN-PATH TRAVEL

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WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • All accommodations & scheduled meals 
  • Domestic flights and boat transfers
  • Guided snorkeling, diving, and marine park activities
  • Cultural and historical excursions
  • All entrance and conservation fees
  • Tourism and carbon offset levies

DAY BY DAY

Itinerary is subject to change

Day 1

Arrival in Mafia Island

Fly from Dar es Salaam to Mafia Island. Settle into your lodge and enjoy your first taste of island life. Stroll the beach, dip your toes in the Indian Ocean, and unwind after your journey. In the evening, meet your guide for a trip briefing and enjoy a fresh seafood dinner under the stars.
Day 2

Mafia Marine Park & Chole Island

Spend the day exploring Mafia Island Marine Park. Snorkel or dive vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, and, if in season, join a whale shark excursion. Take a boat trip through mangroves and visit Chole Island to discover ancient ruins and local crafts. Enjoy the laid-back island vibe and sunset by the water.
Day 3

Fanjove Private Island Escape

Transfer by air and boat to Fanjove Private Island, a pristine eco-luxury retreat. Settle into your beachside banda, then kayak, snorkel, or simply relax on powdery sands. Visit the historic lighthouse for panoramic views and learn about the island’s conservation efforts. Dine on freshly caught seafood and fall asleep to the sound of the waves.
Day 4

Zanzibar – Stone Town & Spice Tour

Fly onward to Zanzibar and check in to your boutique hotel in Stone Town. Wander the UNESCO-listed maze of alleys, visit the House of Wonders and Old Fort, and shop local markets. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided spice tour, learning about Zanzibar’s aromatic heritage. End your day with a sunset dhow cruise along the coast.
Day 5

Mnemba Island Atoll Adventure

Transfer by boat to exclusive Mnemba Island, a private paradise surrounded by turquoise waters. Spend the day snorkeling or diving in the world-renowned reefs, where you’ll spot colorful fish, turtles, and dolphins. Between underwater adventures, try kayaking or paddleboarding, or simply unwind on the powder-soft sands. Indulge in gourmet meals and savor the barefoot luxury that make Mnemba one of the Indian Ocean’s most coveted escapes.
Days 6-7

Pemba Island – Forests, Cloves & Departure

Fly from Zanzibar to Pemba Island, renowned for its wild beauty and spice plantations. Visit Ngezi Forest Reserve to spot the endemic Pemba flying fox and rare birds, and tour clove plantations to learn about the island’s spice trade. Dive or snorkel in untouched waters, walk along pristine beaches, or explore local villages. Enjoy your eco-lodge before returning by flight and boat to Zanzibar for your onward journey.

FAST FACTS

Beyond the Safari Jeep

Private sunset dhow cruise with dinner
Scuba diving certification course
Swahili cooking class in Stone Town
Deep-sea fishing excursion
Extra night on any island for more relaxation
Classic safari game drives in the Serengeti

Why we love it

“Island hopping in Tanzania is pure magic: each stop is a new world, from swimming with whale sharks to wandering spice markets and relaxing on barefoot beaches.” – The Nomad Africa Team
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When to travel

Best from June to March for marine life and pleasant weather; whale shark season is October–March.

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SEE WHAT YOU LIKE? BOOK YOUR TRIP TODAY

Book your trip with Nomad today, you will get everything in the itinerary listed above and much more. Our goal is to make your trip dreams come alive.

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