Plizio Visual Lab
Chumbe Island
Chumbe Island Coral Park is a globally recognized example of successful ecotourism. The small island lies just a few kilometers southwest of Stone Town and is home to a state-protected coral reef sanctuary and a forest reserve. Because the island hosts only a very limited number of guests per day, the environment remains completely pristine. Snorkeling in the Chumbe reef is an unforgettable experience, as the reef is one of the most biodiverse in the world, featuring over 200 species of coral and 400 species of fish. On land, visitors can climb the historic lighthouse or join a night safari to spot the rare coconut crabs, the largest land crabs in the world. The accommodation on the island consists of award-winning eco-bungalows that collect rainwater and use solar energy. Dining on the island focuses on local Swahili cuisine with fresh regional ingredients. Access is by boat from Mbweni (near Stone Town). The island can be visited year-round, except during the main rainy season (April-May). Chumbe is the well-suited destination for travelers who want to experience pure nature while contributing to conservation efforts.
- Location: Tanzania
- Top sights: Chumbe Lighthouse · Chumbe Marine Park
- Nearby: Zanzibar City (10 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 25 | 24 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 112 | 88 | 166 | 256 | 137 | 20 | 13 | 18 | 32 | 89 | 152 | 142 |
Geography
Facts
- Tanzania's first private marine protected area.
- Home to over 200 species of hard corals.
- Important habitat for the rare coconut crab.
- Operates entirely on solar power and rainwater.
- Features a historic lighthouse built in 1904.
- Limited guest capacity for minimal environmental impact.
- No scuba diving allowed to protect the shallow reef.
- Rates often include all guided nature activities.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Frequently asked questions
Chumbe Island: where is it located?
Chumbe Island: what is there to see?
Chumbe Island: when is the best time to visit?
Chumbe Island: why is it worth visiting?
Nearby cities
