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Also known as Mnarani Marine Turtles Conservation Pond, this open-air aquarium is the focal point of a community-driven conservation project on Zanzibar’s most northerly headland. Set in the shadow of the historic Ras Nungwi Lighthouse, this
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worthwhile and popular project is centered on a deep natural pool used for the rehabilitation of injured turtles. Informative and enjoyable guided tours offer the opportunity to swim with turtles and visit a hatchery. Proceeds go toward community-based conservation efforts.Turtle Rehabilitation
Conservation and rehabilitation efforts at Nungwi Mnarani Aquarium are focused mainly on the . This species is by far the most common turtle in the waters around Zanzibar and it often lays eggs on the
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island’s beaches. Other turtle species are occasionally rehabilitated here as well, most often the smaller and more uncommon .All the adult turtles at Nungwi Mnarani Aquarium are rescued animals that were found injured on a nearby beach or accidentally netted by local fishers. The aquarium’s deep natural rock pool provides a perfect environment for these injured animals to recover before they’re released back into the wild. The aquarium staff works closely with local fishing communities to promote turtle conservation and sustainable fishing practices.The Turtle Hatching Project
An important part of Nungwi Mnarani Aquarium is its turtle hatchery. This is used to protect turtle eggs laid on beaches where they are vulnerable to predators and human interference, and thus unlikely to survive long
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enough to hatch naturally. These eggs are carefully collected and relocated to the hatchery, where they are incubated in sandy nests at temperatures and humidity levels monitored to mimic natural conditions. After they hatch, the young turtles are kept safe in tanks for five to seven months until they are large and strong enough to be released into the ocean.Swimming With and Feeding Turtles
The aquarium offers an interactive turtle experience. It is easy to get close to the turtles on a boardwalk that runs above the pool, and you can also feed them seaweed and watch injured animals being
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looked after by staff. A highlight for many visitors is the opportunity to swim alongside the turtles. This doesn’t appear to worry the animals (even in the wild, turtles tend to be very relaxed around snorkelers and divers). However, take care not to disturb them and follow any instructions given by your guide.It is worth asking whether any turtle-release events are planned for when you’re in the area. These usually happen at night to reduce the risk of predation. Visitors are welcome to join in to help raise awareness about turtle conservation.Ras Nungwi Lighthouse
Nungwi Mnarani Aquarium is overlooked by the 14m-/46ft-tall Ras Nungwi Lighthouse, which has stood on the elevated headland at the northern tip of Zanzibar since 1881. Even in the modern era of GPS and radar navigation,
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the flashing white light of this historic lighthouse, visible from roughly 50km/30mi away, remains an important aid to passing ships and fishing boats. Now part of a military installation, the lighthouse no longer admits visitors. The best views of its three-tiered, whitewashed exterior can be enjoyed from the aquarium grounds.How To Get to Nungwi Mnarani Aquarium
The aquarium is a well-known landmark in Nungwi, which is the second-largest settlement on Zanzibar and one of its most popular resort towns. You should be able to walk to the aquarium from most of Nungwi’s
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hotels and beach resorts in less than 30 minutes. Alternatively, arrange an organized tour with your hotel, or catch a or taxi.The aquarium can be visited as a day trip from other parts of Zanzibar. Approximate driving times are 15 minutes from Kendwa, 45 minutes from Matemwe, 1½ hours from Stone Town, and up to 2 hours from Paje or Jambiani.Nearby Attractions
Nungwi is one of the most popular resort towns on Zanzibar, and there’s plenty for visitors to do. Nungwi Beach is perfect for sunbathing and swimming, and there’s a great choice of restaurants and bars. Countless