It won’t come as any surprise that Zanzibar watersports are a major reason for visiting Zanzibar, given that this tropical island is surrounded by warm, clear ocean . What you might not have expected is the sheer variety of activities on offer. Check out our guide to the best things to do above and under the waves.
Extreme or extremely relaxing
Zanzibar watersports cover the complete range of activities you can do in a wetsuit or swimsuit. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, wildlife fan, or you simply see the ocean as the ultimate chill-out zone, there are lots of reasons to head offshore.
Dhow cruises are perhaps not quite a sport, but these traditional Swahili boats can be a great way to reach some of the best snorkeling Zanzibar and diving Zanzibar spots. On the way, you can work on your tan on the deck or look out for dolphins playing around the boat.
Cut some shapes
Jambiani, where Driftwood Beach Lodge is located, is renowned as a kitesurfing hotspot and is home to some of the best Zanzibar watersports action. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced kitesurfer, you’re bound to get a lift out of the constant winds.
Add in the flat, shallow, clear water and the sandy white seabed, and you have the ultimate kitesurfing paradise. After all, the worst thing that can happen to you is that you end up in the lovely warm Indian Ocean.
Meet the locals
From Driftwood Beach Lodge, you can simply walk down the beach to snorkel on our house reef. You’ll get to plunge straight into the busy, colourful world of a coral reef, with dozens of jewel-like fish darting backwards and forwards. Slightly further afield, the Kwale Island reefs offer some of the best opportunities for snorkeling Zanzibar.
If you want to get a little deeper, diving Zanzibar is an unforgettable way to explore the undersea world. The Spice Islands must be one of the best places in the world to do your first dive and get your internationally recognised PADI qualification, or upgrade your existing diving qualifications.
The protected Mnemba Atoll Marine Park has an unusually high density of curious and friendly sea turtles, while whale sharks – the gentle giants of the ocean – migrate past Zanzibar twice each year.
You won’t have to splash out…
As with many other aspects of life on Zanzibar, Zanzibar watersports offer excellent value for money. At the same time, you’ll be in safe hands with experienced boat captains and qualified instructors. Your only challenge will be trying to decide which activities to try out first.
At Driftwood Beach Lodge, we know all the best operators on the island, and we can easily put you in touch with any local watersports company. Whether you want to find Nemo or lose yourself in an underwater wonderland, talk to us either before you arrive in Zanzibar or once you arrive.
It’s worth remembering that during peak season, some of the best snorkeling Zanzibar and diving Zanzibar activities can get booked out, so it might be worth making reservations before you travel. The beauty of Zanzibar is that you can come here for a pure watersports holiday, or add Zanzibar watersports into the mix of your other activities as you wish.
Azure ocean, pure emotion
Either way, you’ll doubtless find it hard to resist the allure of the Indian Ocean, even if all you want to do is run down the beach and wash that flight right out of your hair. The sea is a constant presence here: as you fall asleep each night at Driftwood Beach Lodge, you’ll hear the breakers whispering on the sand.
A reminder of the day’s adventures, and a promise of more exciting Zanzibar watersports moments to come. If messing around in boats or going overboard are on your holiday agenda, contact us at Driftwood Beach Lodge for advice on making the most of the sea.
