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Chumbe Island Coral Park
Chumbe Island, Zanzibar, Tanzania
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Chumbe Island Coral Park
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Al
Review №1

Once in a lifetime experience, stay there overnight. Your money will help the project. The whole team will pamper you; The coral reef is one of the most beautiful I ever saw. Trust me, this is a MUST.

Ve
Review №2

This place is just incredible. Im not easily impressed, but we are blown away. Its truly ecological with a compost toilet (which works perfectly fine), solar power and basins around the bungalow to collect water which is used onwards.You spend the whole day outside, breathing fresh air, sleep to the sounds of the ocean and wake up by the birds singing. In the evening you can marvel at the amazing coconut crabs. Only 15 guests are allowed on the island so its all quiet and peaceful. There is candlelight dinner and breakfast/lunch with a view towards the sea. Dishes are fantastic local food with vegetarian options. The staff is super helpful and experienced, happy to satisfy all your desires. We are deeply grateful for this experience and especially want to thank Chagga, Hamza, Khadija, Coppa and everyone from the team behind the scenes for making our stay truly memorable! Asante Sana from the bottom of my heart for everything we saw (above and below water) and learned, we felt so much like home and every day was a new adventure. The coral park is fantastic and you will see more fish than you can count :-) Pictures cant even describe the magic, you have to feel this island and its reef, its the most unique place. Therefore we only can recommend to stay at least 2 nights.

Gr
Review №3

I made a day trip here and it is totally worth it, though it is not cheap for 80 Euro a person. Anyway it seems to me the best off island tour in all of Zanzibar. The snorkling was nice, the food is good, staff is very friendly and you even get a hut to stay while you are on the island. It is reslly a lovely place. Though I would not like to spend an overnight here. It is an eco lodge with little comfort but a higher price.

Ja
Review №4

This place is exceptional. We stayed here for 2 nights, and it was one of the unique experiences of my life.The cabins are natural and comfortable, tucked into the forest close to the beach. The food was exceptional, with beautiful touches for evening meals (candle lit dining in beautiful spots close to the ocean). The staff were universally kind and engaging. There are activities organised each day, including snorkling on a pristine coral reef with great biodiversity, informative forest walks, and evening walks to check out the coconut crabs. There is also a lighthouse which you can climb, offering beautiful views of the island and of the sunset. The staff were even kind enough to offer us morning and night time snorkling, outside of the usual program of activities.In addition, Chumbe has genuine eco credentials. They practice minimal impact tourism, including composable toilets and water harvesting systems in each cabin. Profits are invested into training and education programs for local communities and students, raising awareness about environmental issues. All the rangers and staff seemed dedicated and highly responsible.I couldnt recommend this place more! Thank you Chumbe :)

oc
Review №5

We went to Chumbe Island for 1 night and it was one of the best experiences in my life. The coral reef was one of the most beautiful in the world, the diversity was amazing and the reef was really healthy. The people are nice as well and the food was delicious. The price might be high, but it’s worth every penny. You get to be part of this beautiful project and get an exclusive look into the conservation of the coral reef. And the night was beautiful as well, at night the coconut crabs come out and they are quite mindblowing. I didn’t know these crabs existed, but I am really glad I got to see them. It was one of the most unique experiences of my life and I can’t wait to see it again in a few years to see the progress of the project.Ocker Stoop, 19 years old, from the Netherlands

kh
Review №6

It is very beautiful place with full of nature in both marine and coastal ecosystems.It is really a good place for eco tourism

ar
Review №7

I was there as an Aga khan Award reviewer long time ago... its one of the best real eco resort in the world..

La
Review №8

This little paradise island is doing a great thing. Beautiful reef, cute eco buglalows, amazing nature and food is very delicious! Second time here and definitely coming back again!

LL
Review №9

Went for day trip for snorkeling and was fairly let down. Visibility was an issue but corals seemed to be in really a bad state. Guides could have been more helpful in identifying marine life underwater to improve the experience. Island itself is nice but just did not live up to it for me..Day trip was expensive ...cant even imagine for what they are charging to sleep there. I would check on current conditions before going for a day trip as it seems to vary quite a bit.

Ha
Review №10

For me it was 3 days and 3 nights in paradise. Deserted beach, silence, corals and crabs, bigger I´ve never seen, sharks arriving every evening, trees, birds, amazing sunset, candlelight dinner in the open air, non-traditional accomodation protecting the environment and at the same time maximally comfortable, a local guide learning Russian, always helpful and smiling staff headed by Masoud - thank you all!For 17 years it was been my dream to visit Chumbe. In February 2021 my dream came true.Now I have a new dream to go back to Chumbe.Hana from Czech Republic

Mi
Review №11

This is probably the only place we have been to, where the reality exceeds the fantasy presented by tropical-island-holiday brochures and websites which seldom deliver on the pristine beaches, unspoilt nature, exquisite underwater life, fabulous food, serenity, and spaciousness that they promise.On this island you get all that and more, and beware its very real and vivid, the water, the wind, the sun, the sand on this sharp, coral fossil island, perhaps you would have liked it tamer!Yes, the overnight price may seem high,ironically that’s the cost of authentic eco tourism and it’s not for everyone’s taste.....Chumbe Island is a moment-by-moment invitation, to drop through the artificial skin of the world that most of us inhabit, and to be present. To step out of a world of busy-ness, digital slavery, and a pre-occupation with anything but the experience of being here and now with all one’s senses. It is like coming out of a trance; we drank it in, and felt restored and saner for it.The rhythm of the day is guided by the clock of nature, the cycle of sun rising and setting, and the cycle of the moon, waxing and waning, dragging the water of the oceans with it.Each low tide the water drains away; as intertidal zone and beach are exposed. There was always time to stop, wait and watch, the still, slate-grey egrets, with comical yellow feet, hunting the silvery fish in the shallows. Or the ghost crabs, stalk eyed, scurry anxiously over sand leaching the high tide’s water, to burrow and forage. Each eying the other nervously, defining and defending their temporary territory.. a parody of humanity.The tide turns and the water returns, and with it small fish move into shwoal and feed, perhaps followed by needlefish camouflaged in the surface film mesmerizing lionfish or young reef tipped sharks.Watching and being intimately part of this flow -in and out, back and forth- of water of life, is possibly the most poignant and unspoken gift that the island offers, and the immediacy of the experience touches all who care to open up to it.

Ke
Review №12

The day snorkeling and nature hike was fantastic. Lunch was delicious and the coral was some of the most beautiful I had seen thus far! I love that the lodge is so green and even enjoyed the pit toilet in the rooms. So lovely to see dedication to the planet while enjoying nature!

Fr
Review №13

Beautiful, unique... The coral reef was amazing, the food was delicious. Everything screamed for me to stay there forever. Sustainability is the main focus and it shines through everything from the design of the bungalows to the class room where they teach children about the ocean and how to protect it 😍

An
Review №14

Wow! Dont miss out on a few nights at this glorious place which was the best iceing on our (honeymoon) cake!There are only 7 thatched bungalows, i.e. only ca 14 guests, staying on the island plus the very friendly and attentive staff. The coral offers the best snorkling we have experienced on Zanzibar and our guide Chagga spotted lobsters, stingrays, giant groupas, reef sharks, turtles and a large school/pod of dolphins. There is a hidden magical beach that is only exposed and possible to reach at low tide and the lighthouse is a must at sunset! We will definitely go back to this eco-lodging in this marine nature reserve as soon as possible in the future!

Ka
Review №15

Amazing natural reserve, six stars if possible to give

Jo
Review №16

One of the most unique places we’ve ever been. Sometimes feel a little rush, but that’s part of the experience. The moment you step into the island, you can feel the calm and solitude of being in an isolated place surrounded by an amazing landscape. Do not hesitate and stay at least a night. The real magic happens at dusk, when it’s like going back to a camp.

ma
Review №17

Corals and huts are in bad state- all of the structures seem to be in need of a revitalization. Overpriced with an air of neo-colonialism! Fishermen could be seen in the no fish zone and staff did not seem to be bothered. Left a bad taste in my mouth (but food was good). Could not help but feeling swindled after the amount spent on such a disappointing stay. Should have researched more beforehand-lesson learn!

ra
Review №18

Its unique island close to Zanzibar island around 45 min by boat. ThisEco lodge is simple with nice atmosphere, beautiful beach and great snorkeling reef.U have to see the coconut crabs .recommended

Sa
Review №19

This was probably my favorite place that I have ever stayed on vacation! What an amazing, peaceful, eco-friendly island. Great food and incredibly kind staff. Really cool snorkeling. I wish I could go back!

Ka
Review №20

Had to tell staff people were fishing inside the park borders three times! They kept saying they were just passing which clearly they were not- they could be seen fishing! Felt as if I was bothering them by telling them this and they preferred to ignore it. This makes me question their conservation efforts ! This attitude is likely a contributing factor to the sad, degraded state of the coral reef seen while snorkeling

Ro
Review №21

Quite expensive but worth every Penny. Two days of total relaxation on thé beach, combined with snorkeling and exploring local fauna and flora. Food was average but fresh. Brilliant experience

Ra
Review №22

Beautyfull even for a daytrip. Good snorkeling guides and wonderful place for snorkeling.

An
Review №23

In 1998 on one of our many adventure trips out from Njombe, TZ, I and my wife stayed on Chumbe Island 2 nights July 1998. Fantastic adventure with our son 10years and daughter 5years. Splended snorkling, guidance and seafood served.

St
Review №24

I went to Chumbe for a day trip. The staff is friendly and our guiding ranger did a great job. Food was good and the snorkeling was very relaxing.

rb
Review №25

Overpriced. Day trip better option than overnight- coral is very bleached unfortunately. Nice setting but does not justify price.

Da
Review №26

We visited the Island with a daytrip and went snorkeling and walked around the forest on the island. We had a very good time there and the Reef for snorkeling is very impressive!

St
Review №27

Most unique resort Ive ever stayed in! Staff is attentive. Food is wonderful. The very best of eco-tourism

Ka
Review №28

Loved it. Staying there for a couple of nights feels like Robinson Crusoe. Great stuff, great reef and great food.

an
Review №29

Tired- project is past its prime and much too expensive. Reef is mostly dead-better snorkeling elsewhere.

mi
Review №30

Uncomfortable and exceptionally bad value for money. Perhaps a day trip could be considered but to sleep over...just no!

Gi
Review №31

The real thing that makes unforgettable this island is the super mega great staff, hope to see you soon Matata!!

Er
Review №32

The food and snorkeling is best in Zanzibar. Truly amazing!

De
Review №33

Besides slipping on the coral.... awesome place... quiet and peacefulll.Real Gem...

Cr
Review №34

Incredible place, great staff. Not cheap but well worth a visit if you can stretch.

Ab
Review №35

Good and enjoable

El
Review №36

Very disappointment!

Ma
Review №37

Great place! Paradise and coral reef protection

PH
Review №38

Must all go at least once in lifetime. Great people, a lot to share

mk
Review №39

Did not respond to direct emails. Best to book through third party website

fa
Review №40

One among the most beautiful island in Zanzibar

Pa
Review №41

Amazing cabins and stunning natural beauty.

Mu
Review №42

Best island for corals

jo
Review №43

Way overpriced...coral is dead

He
Review №44

Put it on your bucket list

ai
Review №45

Not so much anymore

Ki
Review №46

Good

En
Review №47

Most amazing place

gr
Review №48

Big disappointment!!!

Ma
Review №49

Worth doing

Vi
Review №50

Perfect place!

Al
Review №51

Our heritage

Ka
Review №52

Went here in 2019 and stayed overnight in a beautiful self-sufficient bungalow. Fantastic island, peace, nature and the people who work there are great. A walk on the island, a snorkeling trip in the protected reef, a delicious dinner on the beach. In the evening we saw beautiful large coconut crabs and, to top it all, made a night snorkeling trip with amazing undersea life. I would like to go back!

Se
Review №53

Great place for a relaxing holiday.If without spoilers (how they meet, etc.):1. Villas - made in eco style. The roof of the villa is adapted to collect storm water, which can then be used for washing hands and taking a shower. Electricity from solar panels, the room has light and 2 USB ports for charging gadgets. Bed with a canopy, so you dont have to worry about mosquitoes, although we didnt notice them anyway. There is drinking water, water for rinsing the mouth. Everything is done as eco-friendly as possible.Regarding the toilet - the principle of a street toilet with a pit - did the job, threw a couple of scoops of earth, closed the toilet lid. Of course, if you stand and sniff it, it stinks, if you went on business, then everything is OK.2. Food: in general, I liked everything, aunt cook - well done, cooked everything delicious, varied. There are free b / a drinks, teas, coffee, beer for an additional fee. The waiters are also very kind to the guests. Trails where there are tables, with a panoramic view of the coast.3. Excursions: you must go to the lighthouse, a very beautiful view opens up on the island from all sides, there are a lot of birds - especially in the middle of the height of the lighthouse, their flight zone. A good + will be a cool breeze at the top. But climbing is not easy, so you count on your strength.Jungle: a little hot, but generally informative, it’s better to take corals, glasses, a hat, be sure to take water.Evening crab outing: nothing special, just coconut crabs come out to hunt in the evening and are easy to find. Although during the day you can go to the compost heap - there they graze around the clock.Coral reef: beautiful reef, snorkel for about an hour if you get tired - beacon to the boatmen and you will be sent ashore. The reef is very beautiful - a lot of corals, a wide variety of fish.4. Locations - there are a lot of them and they are really cool, one piece of advice - take a walk and dont stay too long.Ideally, you should stay here for 2 days.Well done guys, and even children are taught. Super. Good luck to you, keep it up. One of the best eco hotels Ive been to!

Cl
Review №54

My 2nd stay on this beautiful island. You just have to spend the night here. Here you live with nature and in its rhythm. The houses are a dream. The people who work here are very special. Always there, extremely helpful and very friendly and courteous. The food is excellent and is celebrated in different places. Snorkeling, hiking and climbing the lighthouse (great at sunset) a special thank you to Katja and Hamsza, who read our every wish from our eyes. If I should go back to Tanzania, I would stay on Chumbe. Kind regards Claudia and Birgit

Lo
Review №55

It is a total experience and highly recommended.Starting because it is all ecological and there are very few rooms so it is very quiet.The snorkeling is very varied due to the diversity of fish close to the coral.Very very good food.The excursion of the canrejoa cocoters is very interesting because of the difference to what we are used to.What to say about the staff, very very friendly and the truth only for them It is worth going. We were delighted with everything.The sunset is beautiful from there and the night with thousands of stars without words.Thank you for making us live this experience on our honeymoon!

Al
Review №56

From a two week vacation in Tanzania, this is where I spent perhaps my best 24 hours. The bungalow is very cool and unusual, you feel like visiting Robinson Crusoe, but in a luxury style. The staff is very kind and helpful, the service is top notch, we had a candlelit dinner prepared on the beach (you can ask for this in advance). Cool snorkeling, interesting walk in the forest and many different crabs. Thanks for a great time!

N
Review №57

A magical and unique place for those looking for a different ecological experience..Not intended for those looking for luxurious air conditioning and a Jacuzzi .. natural. There are daily programs of snorkeling at the reef in an environment that is nice and lively and there are guided walks on the island with interesting explanations. The meals are good and varied ... Internet in the main building area only (3 minutes walk from the farthest place) Welcoming staff and excellent service Stunning views from any point including a view from the lighthouse in the center of the island. Offers to take a night to two nights beyond that exhausts itself.K

Fa
Review №58

Our stay was fabulous, beyond our expectations! The food is delicious, the bungalows are ecological and very functional, the proposed activities allow to understand the implication and the functioning of the work of the staff throughout the year.The staff are incredibly nice and attentive to the hosts, always ready to adapt to each persons needsThank you for everything !

Da
Review №59

For all those who appreciate the luxury of a small lodge with 7 bandas. There is no shopping, bars and restaurants like on the large neighboring island. But you can relax here wonderfully. And go snorkeling every day at the house reef. The food is great! And watching the giant coconut crabs just awesome. The jungle behind the bandas would also like to be explored. A lap around the island during the low tide is also a must. In other words - you wont get bored here even if you stay for 1 week!

Fr
Review №60

The island is surrounded by a very beautiful seabed full of fish and coral. It can be visited in one day for the price of 90 $ per person. The excursion includes boat transport, the assignment of a very nice ecological bungalow, a snorkeling trip, super lunch of local specialties, visit to the lighthouse and trails or alternatively free activities.It is one of those places not to be missed. Better to stay there for one or more nights.

Ев
Review №61

I visited this place on the enthusiastic recommendation of my nephew.Got impressions and share with you.First: this is not a Hotel. I would say that this is a complex - Excursions, Delicious food, boat trips, underwater and island life, a good beach.The main thing is good attitude of people and hospitality.A total of 7 bungalows built as a hut on 2 floors. Sleep well and well. There are almost no mosquitoes. But if you are a totally glamorous person, then you dont need to come. This is the place for romantics.I advise good people to come all the same .1-2 days. Expensive, but there will be many impressions.

Ac
Review №62

Nice little island, that you should definitely visit during a stay on Zanzibar. The flora and fauna is great (giant crabs), and the snorkeling on the house reef is nice, as the water quality is good. Also interesting are the hotel rooms with water pump and natural toilet!

Ad
Review №63

For a quite exclusive day trip. Only a small group of people are allowed on the island. Entry ten and fifteen. Which makes it a quiet and absolutely beautiful place. The snorkelling was excellent with a variety of fish and corals quite rare.

El
Review №64

Brilliant experience of contrasts. A holiday by the extreme style by how simple; the structure from luxury respectful of the local culture, the whole contained in a pristine place to discover. Council because this paradise does not turn into a hell, just deal if willing to revise their thinking patterns and habits

حب
Review №65

Island can be visited through agencies located in ZanzibarI did not have time to visit itOnly traffic is close to itAnd take picturesIts shape is full of treesAnd it has a sandy beachThe price of going to her with the group is about 5 dollarsYou alone are about 50 dollarsIt has a hotel and all catering servicesMany fishing boats are located near the islandEnjoy your timeﷺ ﷺ ﷺ ﷺ ﷺ ﷺ ﷺ ﷺ ﷺ ﷺﷺ ﷺ ﷺ ﷺ ﷺ ﷺ ﷺ ﷺ ﷺ ﷺZaki Ahmed Basrida

Jo
Review №66

Dreamlike eco-resort with all amenities for a nature holiday. Very hard-working staff and informal atmosphere. Great food, nice snorkeling, even small reef sharks not rare!

Vi
Review №67

An incredible place for those who want to feel complete unity with nature, have a good rest, eat deliciously cooked seafood and simply enjoy the virgin nature of the island, flora and fauna!Here is the best coral reef in the vicinity of Zanzibar !!!Reviewed by Vitaly from Vinnitsa, Ukraine☺

Ar
Review №68

For lovers of snooping and nature, you can see how to live with it. Expensive but worth it, even for a daily stay. Super food.

El
Review №69

Last day in Zanzibar we spent on Chumbe Island and it was amazing. It costs, but then it is so clear that what we pay contributes to running an important local and sustainable work. It was an experience to be there in every way, and not least we got fantastic food. Brilliant and friendly people, and just nice to know that being there means we support something good. RECOMMENDED !!!

A.
Review №70

If you are in Zanzibar do not miss the excursion to Chumbe island: the only truly preserved island in the archipelago, and top organization!

Mi
Review №71

Great for snorkeling, even for beginners .. Very sustainable managed and intact paradise. I ate very delicious. A place to be.

Ma
Review №72

Great project, nice bungalows, good food. a sensationally beautiful island

F.
Review №73

Wonderful snorkel trip, everything was perfect. Thank you.

LU
Review №74

Gorgeous place! An oasis of peace and wild nature

Ju
Review №75

Kinoma is tired

Fa
Review №76

Youre the paradise

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  • Address:Chumbe Island, Zanzibar, Tanzania
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  • Lodge
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