Belén Gallardo

Jambo, jambo! Today, I want to share with you one of the most unforgettable experiences I had in Zanzibar—swimming with turtles in a cave in Nungwi.

If you’ve ever dreamed of swimming alongside sea turtles in a beautiful, hidden spot, this place is everything you could imagine—and more. The Turtle Aquarium in Nungwi isn’t just any aquarium; it’s a place where you get up close with the turtles in a natural, cave-like environment, and you can even feed them! But, of course, there’s a little adventure in it too. You never know when one of these curious creatures might nibble at your hand.

The Turtle Cave: A Hidden Underwater Paradise

The Turtle Aquarium is tucked away in a quiet part of Nungwi, and it’s unlike any other place I’ve visited. As soon as I entered, I was greeted by a peaceful, almost magical atmosphere. The turtles live in a large, open space that’s surrounded by natural cave walls, with seaweed and underwater plants creating a lush, vibrant environment. The water is crystal-clear, and it almost felt like I was stepping into an underwater kingdom.

But the real excitement came when I was told I could feed the turtles algae. At first, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but as soon as I offered a piece of algae to one of them, I was amazed at how gently it took it from my hand. The turtles were so calm, swimming effortlessly around me, but they definitely weren’t shy about getting their share of the treat!

Swimming with the Turtles: Close Encounters of the Peaceful Kind… and Maybe a Little Bite

Once I was in the water, I was surrounded by these majestic creatures, gliding through the clear, calm water. It was such a peaceful experience—until one of the turtles got a little too curious! I was holding some algae, and suddenly, one of the turtles came right up to me. Now, the turtles are generally calm and gentle, but they’re also wild animals. One of them, probably a little too eager for a snack, gave my hand a gentle nibble! It didn’t hurt, but it definitely made me jump!

It was a funny moment, and it just reminded me how unpredictable these creatures can be, even in a protected environment. Luckily, the guides were there to keep everything under control, and they made sure I was feeding the turtles the right way.

Why the Turtle Cave Is So Special

What makes the Turtle Aquarium so special is not just the chance to swim with these incredible animals, but also the important work being done for turtle conservation. Many of the turtles here were rescued from difficult situations, like being injured or caught in fishing nets. The aquarium provides a safe space for them to heal and thrive before being released back into the wild.

By visiting and supporting the aquarium, you’re helping contribute to these important efforts to protect sea turtles and preserve their natural habitat. It’s an experience that’s both fun and educational, and you leave feeling like you’ve made a small difference for these beautiful creatures.

Tips for the Best Experience:

• Go Early in the Morning: If you want to experience the turtles in peace, I highly recommend going early. The aquarium is usually less crowded in the morning, and you’ll have more time to interact with the turtles without too many tourists around. Plus, the lighting in the early hours is perfect for some incredible photos.
• Fee and Time Options: There’s a fee to swim with the turtles, and you can choose between a 30-minute or 1-hour experience. It’s worth the price—trust me, you’ll want to take your time with the turtles!
• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Nungwi is during the dry season (June to October). The weather is perfect for swimming, and the water is calm and clear.
• What to Bring: Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and a waterproof camera to capture all the amazing moments. Also, bring water shoes to help with the slippery rocks around the cave.
• Be Cautious with the Turtles: While the turtles are gentle, they can be curious and sometimes nibble when feeding. Listen to your guide and follow their instructions to make sure you’re interacting with the turtles safely.

To Wrap It Up: A One-of-a-Kind Adventure

Swimming with turtles in a cave in Nungwi was a truly magical experience. The turtles, the crystal-clear water, and the chance to feed them made it feel like I was stepping into another world. If you ever find yourself in Zanzibar, make sure to visit the Turtle Aquarium. It’s an experience you won’t forget—just make sure to go early in the morning for the most peaceful, intimate encounter with these amazing creatures!

Until next time, keep exploring—and maybe even offer a snack to a turtle or two! 🐢