Full-day snorkeling trip to Misali Island from Chake Chake

Highlights

• Mbuyuni Beach
• Bendera Cave
• Mpapaini Caves
• Unique wildlife
• Diving paradise

All about the trip

A little patch of paradise surrounded by crystal waters and some of the most stunning coral reefs in the archipelago: a trip to Misali never disappoints. There are underwater and terrestrial nature trails, and you can arrange guides at the visitor center. On the northeast of the island is Mbuyuni Beach, with fine, white sand and a small visitor center. About a 10-minute walk south of the visitor centre is Bendera Cave, believed to be inhabited by the spirits of ancestors and used by some Pembans for traditional rituals. To the west are the larger Mpapaini Caves. Nesting turtles and breeding seabirds favor the beaches on its western side, which have been set aside just for them. There are no permanent settlements, though the island is in active use by local fishermen. Camping is not permitted for tourists.

A must-visit day trip for anyone interested in snorkeling in the Pemba Island.

This is a full-day snorkeling trip to Misali island. The tour will drive you toward the Wesha seaport. The boat is taken from Wesha seaport, an hour boat drive to reach the Misali island. Misali as a Marine Conservation Area is characterized by unique marine and terrestrial ecosystems of remarkable species diversity. about 350 fish species and 40 genera of hard corals have been recorded. The 1 sq km of the terrestrial area supports the endangered nesting turtles and the dense coastal thickets harbor populations of green monkeys, the endangered and endemic Pemba flying fox, globally endangered coconut crabs, and various species of birds. Economically Misali provides direct livelihood supports to 11 400 people through fishing at Misali.

Misali is considered one of the diving paradises of East Africa, if not the world. It was once thought of as a safe haven by the pirates of the olden days and it is still believed that the local treasure of the notorious Captain Kidd might be awaiting discovery somewhere around here. Beautiful and extensive coral reefs, containing myriad fish and other marine life, surround the island, which hosts a rich inter-tidal ecosystem. Note that, on Misali, which has been gazetted as a Marine Conservation Area, landing fees are payable.

What is included in the price

• Experienced professional tour guide
• Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel in a private car
• All entrances fees
• Delicious Swahili seafood lunch
• Snorkeling gear (life jacket, mask, and flippers)
• Boat charter
• Transport waiting charge
• All taxes, fuel surcharges, and service fees

What is not included in the price

• Medical insurance if needed
• Gratuities for tour guide
• International and domestic flights
• Visa fee (50 USD / 100 USD for American or Irish Passport holders – to be paid upon arrival)
• Airport/departure tax
• Personal expenses

Instructions

Not wheelchair accessible.

Not stroller accessible.

Not suitable for pets.

No public transportation nearby.

Infant seats are unavailable.

Not recommended for people with back problems.

Not recommended for pregnant travelers.

Not recommended for people with heart conditions.

Hotel pick-ups commence approximately 7 - 75 minutes prior to this time and it depends on the location of the hotel, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation. Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

COVID-19 CLEAN AND SAFE

All vehicles are disinfected regularly after each ride. We have established set protocols that we follow to make sure all of these high touch areas are disinfected in every vehicle. An emergency plan has been designed which can be followed in case of an outbreak. In the event that a suspected or confirmed case of Covid-19, we have action plans ready to implement. Medical support is available if required. Not all destinations have the same resources, so we anticipate the needs of our customers should they become ill.

General staff training is in place regarding new protocols to prevent the spread of Covid19.

This training is in various stages:

Initial: containing basic information about the illness, personal hygiene, the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and departmental procedures.

Follow-up: reinforces the basic points and any improvements made. Plus, follows up employees’ concerns and needs.

This activity is organised by Safanta Tours and Travel comp., Chukwani street, P.O.BOX 3651, Urban/West Region, Zanzibar, Tanzania, +255 778 856 362, info@safantatours.co.tz.