Swimming with Turtles in Nungwi: A Natural Lagoon Aquarium & Turtle Conservation Visit
At the northern tip of Zanzibar, a natural tidal lagoon has been turned into a turtle sanctuary. Visitors can swim with the turtles, feed them seaweed and learn how the project helps protect them.
The visit takes about two hours on site and is one of the easiest and most family-friendly activities in Nungwi.
Duration
Half day (about 2 hrs on site)
Tour Type
Marine / Wildlife
Difficulty
Easy
Age
All Ages
Meals
Not Included
Drinks
Bottle of Water
Swimming
Included
Pickup
Available
Overview
Baraka Natural Aquarium cares for turtles rescued from fishing nets or found weak on the beaches. They live in a natural lagoon connected to the sea and are released when they are strong enough.
Guests wade or swim in the lagoon, feed the turtles by hand and photograph them close up. A caretaker explains the life cycle and the threats these animals face.
The tour pairs well with a sunset dhow cruise or a beach stay in Nungwi and Kendwa.
Mosum Tours & Safaris is a Zanzibar-based operator with more than ten years of experience in ground handling. Our guides and drivers live on the island, know it well and are on WhatsApp from 8 AM to 9 PM every day.
Highlights
Swim with turtles
In a tidal lagoon, close and calm
Natural lagoon
Connected to the Indian Ocean
Hand feeding
Bring them seaweed under guidance
Family friendly
Shallow, safe and easy
Photo paradise
Turtles and clear water
Conservation story
Learn how the project works
Itinerary
Hotel pickup
We collect you from your hotel and drive to Nungwi.
Arrive at Baraka Natural Aquarium
Meet the caretaker and hear how the lagoon works.
Swim with the turtles
Enter the water with your guide and swim among the turtles.
Turtle feeding experience
Feed the turtles by hand under the caretaker’s guidance.
Relax and explore
Spend time on the beach or in Nungwi before you leave.
Return transfer
Ride back to your hotel.
Price
Includes
- Professional tour guide
- Entrance fees
- All government fees
- Hotel pickup and return (available for an extra cost)
Best Time for Swimming with Turtles in Zanzibar
This trip runs all year. For the calmest water and clearest snorkeling, aim for the dry months: June to October and December to February. April and May bring the long rains, with more showers and a choppier sea, so we may move the trip to a better day if conditions are unsafe.
Insider tip: visit in February to witness the sanctuary's annual release, when recovered adults and newly hatched baby turtles are set free into the ocean — one of the most joyful days on the Zanzibar calendar. Whatever the month, ask Mosum to book you around high tide for the clearest water and the most active turtles.
What Guests Say
The best tourist guide in Zanzibar!!
Very nice visit to Stone Town with Mohamed. Good explanation and Mohamed is very knowledgeable about Zanzibar's history. Recommended.
We were attended by Mohamed who provided us with impeccable service. Great driver, super polite and helpful! In addition to knowing Zanzibar very well and being a great guide!!!
Erg goede gids, wist veel te vertellen van Stonetown. Goed gezelschap!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it ethical to swim with the turtles?
The lagoon is a rehabilitation and conservation project, not a captive show. Visitors follow rules about distance and touch, and guides explain them.
Do I need to know how to swim?
The water is shallow in places, and you can wade. Life jackets are available if you want them.
How long do we spend there?
About two hours on site, with a short transfer from most hotels.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes. It is one of the most popular family stops in Nungwi.
Can I combine it with other tours?
Yes. Pair it with a sunset dhow cruise or a Maasai village visit in the same area.
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Book This Tour
Tell us your dates and group size and we will confirm availability, pickup time and the final price. Prefer to chat? Message the Mosum Tours & Safaris team on WhatsApp.