Mbudya Island Travel Guide: Top Sights in Tanzania, Tours & Travel

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Mbudya Island- Travel Tips What to See, How to Plan & Tours: Natural Scenery; Tanzania; 5 Reviews

Suggested Duration: 8 hours

Mbudya Island (Kisiwa cha Mbudya) is an uninhabited isle roughly 3 km off the Tanzanian coast near the Kunduchi fishing village, part of the Dar es Salaam Marine Reserve System. Established in 1975 and spanning about 14.2 square kilometres, it is protected to preserve its coral reef ecosystems, sea life, and endangered species such as the coconut crab. Access is by motorboat (15-20 minute ride), and there are no permanent human settlements, which helps maintain its natural landscapes, white sandy beaches, and diverse marine habitats for snorkeling, swimming, and nature walks.

Operators offering tours in Tanzania

Attractions in Dar es Salaam

National Museum

Village Museum

Askari Monument

4.2

Kivukoni

Bongoyo Island

4.4

St. Joseph Cathedral

Coco Beach

Azania Front Lutheran Church

4.8

Reviews of Mbudya Island

Olga Khomula

5
Reviewed: 2024-07-27

Cool place to go for one day. First, we got to the Slipway Hotel, there's a stand that organizes boat rides to both Bongoyo and Mbudya Islands. Payment for the natural reserve entrance is made via credit card (around 18 USD/person), while the boat ride fare is paid in cash directly to the captain (40,000 Tsh/person). The boat typically departs around 9:30 AM and requires a minimum of six passengers. However, on our visit on a Sunday, we were around 20-25 people. The boat first dropped off some passengers at Bongoyo before taking us to Mbudya. Mbudya Island is well-organized and welcoming. Upon arrival, the staff inquired about our lunch preferences (primarily fish) and drinks. They were very accommodating and friendly, though vegetarian options were limited to salad. Prices are reasonable, and the overall experience is pleasant. The island also features security personnel who monitor the waters. For activities, there's a spot for beach volleyball, and snorkeling gear is available for those interested in exploring the underwater world. Overall, Mbudya Island offers a well-rounded day trip with good food, friendly staff, and some activities to keep you entertained. Swimming in the Indian ocean is an absolute delight !
Eugene Protopopov

5
Reviewed: 2024-06-13

Lonely and tranquil place. You can get there by boat from white sands resort. Snorkeling is absolute must! 🤿
Abhishek Sinha

4
Reviewed: 2023-10-18

Good outdoor place to enjoy with family and friends. A 20 mins boat ride from Mbezi beach and enjoy the beautiful beach.
Mutombe Mukoko

5
Reviewed: 2023-09-19

Nice and clean. Make sure you bring enough drinking water. Start your boat trip from Waves, not from the hotel.
Pepe

4
Reviewed: 2022-09-12

It's really amazing there!!! Although the price to visit there is expensive but it worths so much if you just have only few days to spend in Dar Es Salaam. For me, I spent 20000tsh for the boat and 41000tsh for marine reserves entrance fee(I'm not sure if I was chatted), and I got the wonderful feeling of living in a small island in Indian Ocean. It's definitely amazing for me a person who grew in cities since I was borned. I will highly recommend every foreigner to visit there because it will make your Tanzania's trip unforgettable!!