The surrounding waters are teaming with an overwhelming number of beautiful tropical reef fish, and a wealth of marine creatures, from the majestic whale shark to rare gem-like species of nudibranchs. Large pelagic creatures can often be seen passing by in the blue, and green turtles graze peaceably amongst the heads of plate and honeycomb corals. A resident pod of curious bottle-nosed dolphins offer the chance for visitors to interact with these splendid marine mammals in a natural and spontaneous environment.

Ras Nungwi was instrumental in lobbying the Zanzibar government to establish this marine reserve, and the project has proved a resounding success. A permanent patrol is in place to discourage destructive fishing methods and oversee activities, funded by the fees levied from the divers and snorkellers who visit the atoll. A turtle ‘tag and release’ scheme has been established on the island itself and the nearby village of Matemwe on the Zanzibar coast, with the involvement of local communities, encouraging an unprecedented growth in the numbers of hawksbill and green turtles in Tanzanian waters.

The Mnemba Atoll is relatively sheltered from the winds and currents, and good visibility, ranging from 15m to 30m, can be virtually guaranteed. There are a range of dive sites; sheer drop-offs, such as the Big Wall, ideal for the more experienced aquanaut, drift dives along the western edge, the lunar landscape of Wattabomi, and the fringing reef at Kichwani, whose corals grow just metres from the surface, making perfect for all experience levels. A sandy bottomed shallow lagoon on the southern tip makes the ideal mooring location for snorkellers and is also a prime site for Discover Scuba Diving courses, and novice divers.

Between the months of Augus t a nd Nove mber, and then again in February the Whale Shark migration brings these magnificent fish close to the shores of Zanzibar.