Mnemba Island

Mnemba Island
Mnemba Island
Mnemba Island
Mnemba Island
Mnemba Island


Stay in a palm-leaf cottage on this idyllic resort island, dive along the coral reef and look for dolphins and whales.

Mnemba Island is a tiny, picturesque islet surrounded by an oval reef. It is privately owned and known for the excellent scuba diving around its spectacular coral network. Go scuba diving in the reef to spot a variety of colorful fish as well as turtles and dolphins.

Explore the distinct habitats of the marine reserve for a greater understanding of the ecosystems here. Spot humpback whales between July and September in this region, which contains about 600 species of coral reef fish.

Visit from November through March for the calmest conditions and best visibility in the water. See whale sharks and three species of dolphin. Endangered green sea turtles lay their eggs on the island’s beaches from February to September.

Beachcomb along the stretches of white, crunchy sand that adorn the shores of this small island. Walk around the entire 3-mile (5-kilometer) circumference of the beach at low tide. Chat with staff in the various thatched huts decorating the beaches. Enjoy a romantic meal at night on the beach under the stars.

Because the island is owned by an exclusive resort non-guests are prohibited from accessing it. Spot the rich and famous among the fellow guests on this island resort. Among the activities are kayaking, scuba diving, massages, fishing and windsurfing.

Enjoy the entirety of your stay on the island barefoot and stay in one of the charming cottages made from woven palm leaves. The cottages come with their own African sarongs and straw hats, which provide ideal beachwear.

Book online or by phone on the resort’s official website. The island is closed to visitors in April and May, due to heavy seasonal rains.

Find Mnemba Island off the northeastern coast of the main island of the Zanzibar archipelago. It is opposite Muyuni Beach, a little north of Matemwe on the island’s northeastern coast. Drive north from Zanzibar City for 90 minutes and take a 20-minute ferry crossing to get here.

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Mnemba Island

Mnemba Island offers a plethora of activities for visitors, including invigorating swimming and vibrant snorkelling experiences. Guests can indulge in a variety of beach activities, perfect for unwinding on sunny shores. For those seeking relaxation, beach lounges and soothing beach massages are readily available, making it an ideal destination for beach holidays. Embrace the island’s natural beauty while engaging in these delightful pursuits.

Shopping

If you're up for a drive, you can visit Darajani Market and Zanzibar Night Market, both located 43.5km away from Mnemba Island. These bustling markets offer a vibrant atmosphere where you can find unique gifts and souvenirs, capturing the essence of local culture.

Recreation

Enjoy a round of golf at the Sea Cliff Golf Course, located 30.6km from Mnemba Island, surrounded by lush landscapes and fresh ocean air. This venue offers a perfect blend of sport and outdoor relaxation, making it ideal for those seeking both activity and tranquility.

Adventure

Mnemba Island offers exceptional snorkelling and diving experiences, showcasing vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Explore the crystal-clear waters, swim with tropical fish, and enjoy the thrill of encountering sea turtles and dolphins in their natural habitat, all amidst stunning beachfront views.

Nightlife

While Mnemba Island is renowned for its tranquil beauty, nightlife is serene and exclusive. Enjoy a sunset at the beach bar, then savour fresh seafood at the luxurious Mnemba Island Lodge. For a more laid-back vibe, gather around a bonfire with fellow guests under the starry sky.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Mnemba Island

Mnemba Island offers a delightful blend of beach relaxation and cultural experiences, making it a perfect destination for travellers. You can explore the stunning beaches and engage with the local ruins, immersing yourself in the rich heritage of the area. Whether you seek tranquillity by the sea or wish to discover the cultural gems nearby, Mnemba Island has something to enchant every visitor.

  • Nungwi Beach: Located 14.5km from Mnemba Island, Nungwi Beach boasts stunning white sands and vibrant beach vibes. Enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters or relax under swaying palm trees while soaking up the sun.
  • Fukuchani Ruins & Cave: Just 9.7km away, the Fukuchani Ruins & Cave offer a glimpse into the rich cultural history of the region. Explore ancient structures and caves that tell the story of local traditions and heritage, surrounded by lush flora.
  • Kendwa Beach: Situated 12.9km from Mnemba Island, Kendwa Beach is known for its breathtaking sunsets and lively atmosphere. The calm waters are perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and enjoying leisurely beach strolls.

Best time to go to Mnemba Island

The best time to visit Mnemba Island is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. March is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January82.2°F (27.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
February82.6°F (28.1°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March82.9°F (28.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April81.0°F (27.2°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
May79.5°F (26.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
June78.1°F (25.6°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July76.8°F (24.9°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August77.0°F (25.0°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September77.9°F (25.5°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October79.5°F (26.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November80.8°F (27.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December82.0°F (27.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Mnemba Island

To save money on your trip to Mnemba Island, consider visiting during the cheaper months of April to May and November. Booking your hotel one month in advance can yield better rates, and look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Saturdays are the least expensive days to stay, while Thursdays are the priciest. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and location, and consider bundling your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings. Exploring the area on foot or via local public transport can also help you keep costs down.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Mnemba Island are April to May and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to August and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Mnemba Island is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Mnemba Island is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Mnemba Island is Thursday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you wish to stay in. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation for Mnemba Island with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.