Mbudya Island Island

Address: Mbudya Island, Dar es Salaam Region, Tanzania

Website: https://www.marineparks.go.tz/

Hours: Day trips typically run in daylight hours; island is closed at night except for permitted camping

Admission: Small conservation fee often charged for day-trippers (varies)

Mbudya Island is a small, uninhabited island off the coast of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, part of the Dar es Salaam Marine Reserve System. It is known for sandy beaches, coral reefs and clear waters used for snorkeling and short recreational visits.

The island is accessible by boat from Dar es Salaam and is a frequent day-trip destination for residents and tourists seeking beaches and nearshore snorkeling. Facilities on the island are minimal and visits are typically short, focused on swimming, snorkeling and beach relaxation.

Mbudya sits a short distance offshore from the city of Dar es Salaam in the Pwani/Mtongani coastal waters and is part of a cluster of small coral-fringed islands that form the local marine reserve network.

• Day-trip access: Short boat trips from central Dar es Salaam make the island a popular day-trip destination for snorkeling and beach picnics, with visits often combined with other nearby marine reserve islands.

Mbudya Island is about 6-8 km off the Dar es Salaam shore. Boats depart from Msasani Slipway, Kivukoni, and other local jetties; the crossing takes roughly 20-30 minutes depending on sea conditions. Confirm fees and schedules with licensed operators.

• Take a licensed boat from Msasani or Kunduchi; avoid overcrowded dhows and confirm return times.
• Snorkelling on the western reef is best in the morning when winds are lighter and visibility higher.
• Respect the marine reserve regulations and check fees with the Marine Parks & Reserves Unit.