Exploring water sports in Zanzibar is one of the best ways to experience the island.
From world-class dive sites at Mnemba Atoll to the kitesurfing paradise of Paje and the calm kayaking waters of Pongwe and Kendwa, Zanzibar offers activities for every traveler—beginners, families, couples, and thrill-seekers.
At Blue-Green Zanzibar Tours, we’ve spent years exploring these waters, working with licensed guides, dive masters, kite schools, and conservation partners. This guide combines real on-ground experience, safety insight, local knowledge, and practical tips—so you get the most accurate, trustworthy, and enjoyable advice.
Let’s dive deeper.
Table of Contents
What are the best water sports in Zanzibar?
The best water sports in Zanzibar include snorkeling at Mnemba Atoll, scuba diving in Nungwi, kitesurfing in Paje, jet ski tours, parasailing, stand-up paddleboarding, deep-sea fishing, kayaking, dolphin tours, and dhow sailing. Each activity offers unique marine experiences supported by calm tropical waters, rich coral reefs, and year-round warm weather.
1. Snorkeling in Zanzibar
Beginner-Friendly & Extremely Popular
Snorkeling is hands-down the most accessible and rewarding ocean activity in Zanzibar.
Why Zanzibar Is Excellent for Snorkeling
- Visibility of 10–30 meters year-round
- Warm temperatures (25–29°C)
- Shallow coral gardens are perfect for non-swimmers
- High marine diversity (turtles, dolphins, reef fish, octopus)
- Calm lagoons are ideal for families
Top Snorkeling Location;
If you only snorkel once in Zanzibar, make it Mnemba.
Why Mnemba is unmatched:
- Marine conservation zone
- Coral walls, gardens, and deep channels
- Frequent turtle sightings
- AI-level water clarity
- Low currents, safe for all levels
Reserve your Mnemba Snorkeling Spot
2. Scuba Diving in Zanzibar (Beginner to Advanced)
Diving in Zanzibar is a deep, immersive experience for true ocean lovers.
Why Zanzibar Is a Diving Hotspot
- Steep coral walls
- Deep-sea banks with pelagic fish
- Warm currents (from the Indian Ocean)
- Coral reefs untouched by commercial fishing
- Beginner-friendly lagoon dives
Best Diving Sites in Zanzibar
1. Mnemba Atoll – Kichwani & Wattabomi
Perfect for: All divers
Depth: 6–40m
Highlight: Green turtles, Napoleon wrasse, reef sharks
2. Leven Bank (Advanced)
Perfect for: Experienced divers
Depth: 18–50m
Highlight: Big game fish (tuna, barracuda), strong currents
3. Nungwi House Reef
Perfect for: First-time divers
Depth: 4–14m
Highlight: Calm, controlled environment
Certification:
We arrange PADI Try Dives, Open Water, and Advanced courses.
3. Kitesurfing in Zanzibar (World-Famous Conditions)
Zanzibar is one of the world’s most reliable kitesurfing destinations thanks to its consistent seasonal winds.
Why Zanzibar Is World-Class for Kiting
- Large shallow lagoons (safe for learning)
- Powder-soft sandy bottoms
- Strong & predictable winds
- International-standard kite schools
Best Kite Beaches in Zanzibar
1. Paje (The Best in East Africa)
- Steady cross-shore winds
- Long shallow lagoon
- Huge open space
- Ideal for all levels
2. Jambiani
Quieter, peaceful, good for intermediates.
3. Matemwe
Best for freeriders who want space.
Wind Seasons
- Kuzi Wind: June–September
- Kaskazi Wind: December–February
4. Jet Ski Tours (Thrilling + Scenic)
Jet skiing in Zanzibar is more of a guided ocean adventure than just high-speed riding.
Where Jet Skiing Is Best in Zanzibar
1. Nungwi & Kendwa
- Calm ocean
- Deep water
- Beautiful island views
2. Paje
- Good for adrenaline lovers
- Open ocean space
5. Parasailing (Aerial Views of Zanzibar’s Coast)
Parasailing gives you a bird’s-eye view of the reefs, fishing villages, and turquoise lagoons.
Best Areas:
What You’ll See From Above:
- Hidden reefs
- Sandbanks
- Luxury hotels
- Fishing boats
- Coral drop-offs
Safety-certified operators only.
6. Deep Sea Fishing (For Professionals & Hobbyists)
Zanzibar’s waters attract serious anglers from around the world.
Why Zanzibar Is Great for Big Game Fishing
- Deep drop-offs
- Migratory pelagics
- Pemba Channel (one of Africa’s best)
Common Catches
- Marlin (blue & black)
- Barracuda
- Dorado
- Wahoo
- Sailfish
- Yellowfin tuna
Full-day or half-day charters available.
7. Ethical Dolphin Tours at Mnemba Island
At Blue-Green Zanzibar Tours, we offer ethical dolphin tours at Mnemba Island.
Why Mnemba Dolphin Tours Are Better
- Ethical viewing
- Minimal boat pressure
- Higher chance of natural sightings
- Cleaner water
- Combined with snorkeling
Marine Species Seen
- Bottle-nose dolphins
- Spinner dolphins
8. Kayaking (Clear Kayak )
Kayaking is peaceful, safe, and family-friendly.
Top Kayaking Spots
1. Pongwe Lagoon
Calm, perfect for beginners.
2. Nungwi Coastline
Stunning sunrise paddles.
3. Jambiani Lagoon
Beginner-friendly & scenic.
4. Clear Kayak Tours
Instagram-loved and perfect for couples.
9. Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
Zanzibar offers some of the most relaxing SUP experiences in East Africa.
Best SUP Locations
- Michamvi Mangroves
- Paje Lagoon
- Kiwengwa
Perfect for sunrise or sunset.
10. Sunset Dhow Cruises (Romantic & Relaxing)
End your day on a traditional Swahili dhow.
Types of Cruises
- Private romantic cruise
- Group sunset cruise
- Sandbank dhow experience
You’ll see:
- Sunset colors
- Fishermen returning
- Palm-lined coasts
- Calm ocean reflections
Best Time for Water Sports in Zanzibar
Zanzibar is a year-round water sports destination, but certain months are better for specific activities.
- January – Hot, calm seas, excellent for snorkeling & diving
- February – Peak visibility, great for diving + SUP
- March – Warm water, fewer crowds
- April – Rainy but good for deep diving
- May – Low season, budget-friendly
- June – Wind picks up, kitesurfing starts
- July – Strong wind, clear skies
- August – Great for kiting, dolphin tours, fishing
- September – Perfect conditions for all activities
- October – Mild winds, very clear visibility
- November – Best shoulder-season prices
- December – Great weather, busy festive season
Conclusion
Exploring water sports in Zanzibar is the perfect way to connect with the island’s thriving marine life, turquoise lagoons, and naturally calm tropical waters.
Whether you’re snorkeling in Mnemba, diving deep reefs, kitesurfing in Paje, kayaking clear lagoons, or enjoying a romantic dhow cruise—Zanzibar offers something for every traveler, every skill level, and every budget.
When you’re ready to experience the ocean with experts who know these waters better than anyone, Blue-Green Zanzibar Tours is here to help you plan the perfect adventure.
Ready to book your Zanzibar water experience? Contact us today and let’s plan your ocean adventure together!
