Dolphin experiences in Zanzibar: what travellers should know
Dolphins live off Zanzibar's south-west coast, especially near Kizimkazi. How the trip is run makes a big difference to the dolphins.
Where
Kizimkazi on the south-west coast is the best-known area. Dolphins are also seen near Mnemba Atoll.
Species
Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins and Indian Ocean humpback dolphins live in these waters.
The problem
At Kizimkazi, many boats chase the dolphins, and tourists jump in around them. This disturbs feeding and resting.
A responsible trip
- Boats approach slowly and do not chase.
- One or two boats per group of dolphins.
- No jumping in on top of the dolphins.
- Watching from the boat is the default.
- Small groups with an operator that follows a code of conduct.
Our approach
We book trips that follow responsible guidelines, or suggest Mnemba where dolphins are often seen during snorkelling trips.
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