Tanzania provides the perfect opportunity for a getaway in secluded and pristine islands. Surrounded by the Indian Ocean, these islands provide scenic views, luxury lodges with hospitable staff, adventurous water sports activities and romantic candle-light dinners and dhow cruises!
On top of that, the food you get at these islands is to die for!
Retreat yourself on these secluded islands of Tanzania and give yourself a break from the busy and stressful city life!
Here are some of the top secluded islands of Tanzania:
- Mafia Island
Mafia island is a perfect weekend getaway that offers you the opportunity to just chill and relax at its white-sand beach. Hearing the waves of water crash against the shore as you lie under the sun and sip on your tropical drink is one of the best feelings you can experience. There are many activities for you to enjoy at Mafia Island, some of which are listed below:
- Swimming with the whale sharks
- SCUBA diving and snorkeling
- Kayaking
- Windsurfing
- Fishing
- Watch turtles hatch
- Explore the Ras Mkumbi Lighthouse
- Birdwatching
- Chumbe Island
Chumbe Island is home to the Chumbe Island Coral Park, a coral park which contains pristine corals that have been preserved. The park contains about 90% of East Africa’s hard coral species along with about 400 coral reef fish species! It contains a forest reserve, an ecolodge as well as an education center to create awareness about the preservation of wildlife. The island also offers protection for coconut crabs, humpback whales and green turtles!
It’s a wonderful and pristine Island that is a must-visit if you’re looking for some peace and alone time with nature.
- Pemba Island
Pemba Island is another one of nature’s wonderful retreats. It’s a pristine and peaceful island, great for a family getaway. There are many activities for you to enjoy on the island, some of which are listed below:
- Diving and snorkeling – Pemba has one of the best diving spots in Tanzania!
- Check out the Ngezi Forest Reserve
- Explore the Pemba Museum
- Visit the Kidike Flying Fox Sanctuary where you get to observe a special type of bat, the flying fox.
- Fanjove Island
The paradise island of Tanzania, Fanjove Island is a private island with a total of only 6 huts, which means you can get all the exclusivity you want here. However, it comes with a price because accommodation and getting there are both expensive. The island is definitely worth it though, especially for honeymooners!
You can dive, snorkel, watch dolphins from your balcony, enjoy a candle-light dinner by the shore and you can even go kitesurfing! It’s a great way to plug off and spend some time with nature! After all, isn’t that what a retreat is all about?
- Mnemba
Another private island in Tanzania, Mnemba offers exclusivity as well. However, it all comes at a price because guests are only allowed on the island after they pay for it. The island contains only 12 bandas, or huts, giving you an exclusive experience. It’s a great place to unwind and perfect for honeymooners who want to spend some quality time with each other. Waking up to a breakfast tray in bed consisting of tropical fruits and freshly roasted Tanzanian coffee is a great feeling!
Here are some activities available at Mnemba:
- Swimming and snorkeling
- Dhow sunset cruises
- Peaceful yoga sessions
- Zanzibar
When we mention the islands of Tanzania, Zanzibar cannot be missed. Although not entirely an exclusive and secluded island, Zanzibar has a lot to offer ranging from long stretches of white sand beaches to rewarding scuba diving and snorkeling.
Here are some of the best places to visit in Zanzibar:
- Stone town – wander in the narrow streets of Stone Town, enjoy delicious food at the Forodhani Gardens Food Market, explore the Palace Museum and check out the Old Fort!
- Go diving and snorkeling at the various diving spots around Zanzibar!
- Swim with the dolphins at Kizimkazi beach
- Dine-in at the Rock Restaurant
- Chill at the beaches of Nungwi, Stone Town, Paje, and Kendwa!
- Go on a spice tour in Zanzibar
So, what are you waiting for? Retreat yourselves on these secluded islands of Tanzania and have the time of your life! While you’re there, don’t forget to check out the Expert Guide on Selous Game Reserve, Tanzania!