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Ever heard of the awe-inspiring islands in Tanzania? Although it is known more for its incredible wildlife and natural landscapes, the East African country boasts some of the most breathtaking islands in the sparkling azure waters of the Indian Ocean. Tanzania’s coastline is fringed by an archipelago of captivating islands, each of which is a unique paradise of pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and rich history and culture. If you’re dreaming of sinking your toes into powder-soft sands or diving into a kaleidoscope of coral reefs, Tanzania’s islands are calling.
10 Breathtaking Islands In Tanzania
Discover Tanzania’s most captivating islands and their pristine beaches, marine life, and rich cultural heritage.
1. Zanzibar (Unguja)
Photo: David Berkowitz / Wikimedia Commons
Unguja, Zanzibar’s main island, is the most famous island in Tanzania. It is easily accessible by a short flight or ferry from Dar es Salaam. Known for its culture and idyllic beaches, Unguja is a must-visit for anyone seeking a diverse island experience. Zanzibar has a rich heritage as a historical trading hub along the ancient Spice Route, its vibrant Swahili culture, and world-class beaches. The archipelago’s northern islands, Nungwi and Kendwa, are known for lively atmospheres and spectacular sunsets, while Paje and Jambiani on the southeast coast offer tranquil beauty and ideal conditions for kiteboarding.
Nearest Airport: Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ)
Nearest Ferry: Zanzibar Ferry Terminal
2. Pemba Island
Photo: CC0 Public Domain / PxHere / Image For Representation Only
North of Zanzibar lies Pemba, also called “The Green Island” due to its lush, hilly landscape, which is dominated by clove plantations. It provides a more serene and secluded experience, as it is visited by tourists less frequently. Pemba Island is a diver’s paradise with pristine, less-explored reefs and marine species. You should visit the ancient ruins of Mkama Ndume or explore the green Ngezi Forest.
Nearest Airport: Pemba Airport (Karume Airport or Wawi Airport)
Nearest Ferry: Zan Fast Ferries from Stone Town
3. Mafia Island
Photo: Abdul255 / Wikimedia Commons
South of Dar es Salaam, Mafia Island is a tranquil retreat for tourists. Much of the island and its surrounding waters are protected as part of the Mafia Island Marine Park, which makes it one of the best Islands for eco-tourism. The island is globally recognised for its incredible marine biodiversity. If you visit anywhere between October to March, you can swim and snorkel alongside majestic whale sharks.
Nearest Airport: Mafia Airport (MFA) in Kilindoni
Nearest Ferry: Nyamisati Port
4. Mnemba Island
Photo: CC0 Public Domain / PxHere / Image For Representation Only
Mnemba Island is one of the most desired private Islands and is the epitome of luxury and exclusivity. This tiny, heart-shaped island just off Zanzibar’s northeast coast has a single, ultra-luxurious lodge, which offers privacy and a one-of-a-kind experience. This makes it a dream destination for a honeymoon. The Mnemba Atoll is renowned for its incredible coral reefs, diverse fish, and frequent sightings of dolphins and sea turtles.
Nearest Airport: The nearest airport is in Zanzibar City
Nearest Ferry: Private boat arranged by the & Beyond Mnemba Island lodge for its guests
5. Chumbe Island
Photo: Taryn Elliott / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Just a short boat ride from Zanzibar’s Stone Town, Chumbe Island is a shining example of how tourism can directly contribute to conservation. This tiny, privately managed island is a fully protected marine reserve and forest sanctuary. Chumbe Island Coral Park (CHICOP) protects the pristine coral reef and the untouched forest that thrives there. The visitors are welcomed as guests in an eco-friendly lodge, but the main focus is on education and preservation. This makes the island an ideal destination for conscious travellers.
Nearest Airport: Zanzibar International Airport
Nearest Ferry: Private boat transfers by Chumbe Island Coral Park
6. Fanjove Private Island
Photo: Iain Cameron / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
If your ideal escape involves absolute privacy, untouched beauty and luxury, Fanjove Private Island is the perfect holiday destination. Located within the remote Songo Songo Archipelago off the southern Tanzanian coast, Fanjove feels like paradise. It is one of the many private islands in Tanzania and has a single, beautifully crafted, eco-friendly banda or villa. Here, the focus is entirely on connecting with nature far from any crowds.
Nearest Airport: The nearest airstrip is on Songo Songo Island
Nearest Ferry: There is no direct public ferry service
7. Prison Island (Changuu Island)
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
Changuu Island, more commonly known as Prison Island, is just a short boat trip from Stone Town, Zanzibar. Despite its name, it was never a full-fledged prison but rather a quarantine station for yellow fever cases and a detention centre for rebellious slaves. Today, it’s a popular day trip for those who want to experience its history and wildlife. The island’s most famous residents are a colony of Aldabra giant tortoises, some of which are over a hundred years old. It’s a wonderful stop for animal lovers and history buffs alike.
Nearest Airport: Abeid Amani Karume International Airport
Nearest Ferry: Stone Town waterfront
8. The Dar Es Salaam Marine Reserve Islands
Photo: Vincent van Zeijst / Wikimedia Commons
Just off the bustling coast of Dar es Salaam, a cluster of uninhabited islands forms the Dar es Salaam Marine Reserve System (DMRS). These islands, Bongoyo, Mbudya, Pangavini, and Fungu Yasin, offer easily accessible day trips for both city dwellers and tourists. They offer pristine beaches, clear waters, and fresh seafood just a short boat ride away. Many tours include a delicious barbecue lunch of freshly grilled fish or lobster, served right on the beach in simple bandas or huts. You can take a short walk and see unique flora and fauna such as coconut crabs.
Nearest Airport: Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR)
Nearest Ferry: The Slipway Complex in Msasani Peninsula, Dar es Salaam
9. Rubondo Island National Park
Photo: Macabe5387 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Rubondo Island National Park is Africa’s largest island national park, having dense rainforest, savannah, and wetland ecosystems. Unlike the coastal islands, Rubondo Island is located on Lake Victoria, East Africa’s largest freshwater lake. It provides a terrestrial safari experience on an island and is home to wild chimpanzees and diverse birdlife. There are forest walks and nature trails where you can explore the habitats on foot and come across sitatunga antelopes, giraffes, elephants, and other wildlife.
Nearest Airport: Mwanza Airport
Nearest Ferry: Mwanza
10. Kilwa Kisiwani
Photo: CosMapi / Wikimedia Commons
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kilwa Kisiwani is steeped in centuries of Swahili history. Located off the southern coast of Tanzania, this island was once the centre of a powerful sultanate and a major trading port in the Indian Ocean from the 13th to 16th centuries. You must visit Kilwa Kisiwani and explore the extensive ruins of palaces, mosques, and trading houses, including the Great Mosque of Kilwa, the Husuni Kubwa Palace, and the Gereza or fort.
Nearest Airport: Kilwa Masoko Airport
Nearest Ferry: Charter a boat (motorised or traditional dhow) from the Kilwa Masoko harbour
The islands in Tanzania are far more than just beautiful beaches. They have vibrant ecosystems and historical treasures. From the rich culture of Zanzibar to the authentic charm of Pemba, from the marine wonders of Mafia to the luxury of Mnemba, there’s a perfect island escape for every traveller. Complete your trip to this remarkable East African nation with an island adventure. Plan a trip with TripXL for the complete Tanzanian experience.
Cover Photo: MCK / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
