Kizimkazi Dolphin Tour: Early-Morning Boat Trip and Snorkel Off Zanzibar
Head out at first light from a fishing village to watch resident bottlenose dolphins, then drop into shallow reef for a guided snorkel. This 2–3 hour tour pairs wildlife viewing with a brief cultural stop at one of East Africa’s oldest mosques.
The Experience
Before You Go
Go early
Dolphins are most active in calm, cool morning waters—book the first departures for the best chances.
Bring your own mask
Guides supply snorkel kits but a well-fitting personal mask reduces fog and improves your underwater view.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Apply biodegradable sunscreen before boarding to protect corals and marine life.
Keep distance and stay calm
Avoid sudden movements or chasing dolphins; let the animals approach and never attempt to feed them.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Visit the 12th‑century Kizimkazi Old Mosque and the small coastal graveyard for early Swahili history
- •Walk the fishermen’s shoreline early to watch dhows being readied and see local fish markets before the tour
Wildlife
- •Bottlenose dolphins
- •Humpback (Indo-Pacific) dolphins
Conservation Note
Operators and guides emphasize no‑chase viewing and discourage feeding; visitors should use reef‑safe sunscreen and avoid touching corals to limit impact.
Kizimkazi was an early Swahili maritime village; its 12th‑century mosque is among the oldest Islamic sites in East Africa, reflecting long Indian Ocean trade links.
What to Bring
Personal snorkel mask
Better fit and clearer vision than shared masks provided by operators.
Reef‑safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin in strong sun while minimizing reef damage.
Light windbreaker or rash guardEssential
Early-morning breezes on the open boat can feel cool; protects against sun and spray.
Waterproof pouch or dry bag
Keeps phone, wallet and a spare snack dry during the boat ride.
Common Questions
Are dolphin sightings guaranteed?
No—dolphin encounters are common at Kizimkazi but not guaranteed; tours run early to improve chances and sightings depend on animal behavior.
Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes—tours typically include life jackets, masks and fins, but many travelers prefer bringing their own mask for fit and comfort.
Can children participate?
Children can join but must be accompanied by an adult; operators often provide life jackets sized for kids.
How long is the tour and is transport included?
The outing is about 2–3 hours and most operators include hotel pickup and drop-off in a private car.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2–3 hours
Location
Kizimkazi, Zanzibar
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; basic swimming ability recommended for snorkeling segments
Ready to Explore Kizimkazi?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now