Magic At The Beach: Explore The Mbudya Island In Dar Es Salaam
Whether you’re a beach bum or simply wish to go on a beach vacay to a tropical destination, why not try something that is not a common choice? This time, if you’re willing to explore options beyond the regulars, then we have got you covered because here is a guide to Mbudya Island, Dar es Salam. Mbudya Island is one of the four islands in the Dar es Salam Marine Reserve, and is located north of one of the most happening cities in Tanzania, Dar es Salam. This beautiful island resembles Zanzibar quite closely, and is often referred to as ‘Dar es Salam’s Zanzibar’. The Mbudya Island,Dar es Salam is the perfect stop to make all your vacation dreams come true!
What can you do in Mbudya Island, Dar es Salam
There is plenty to do at Mbudya Island Dar es Salam, ranging from a number of water activities, like snorkeling, hiking and sunbathing. The Mbudya Island day trip can be quite a fun adventure in itself, and if you’re not quite interested in that, then you can also begin your day by taking a quiet stroll at the beach and relaxing yourself completely. The sand beaches spread as far as the eye can see on both sides of the coast, and for those who may wish to enjoy a meal or a snack out in the open, under the cool shade of the Casiruana trees, can enjoy a delicious barbecue fish and chips and sip on some refreshing drinks.
How to Get to Mbudya Island?
Well, if you’re planning a trip to Mbudya Island, Dar es Salam, then one of the first questions is often- how to get to Mbudya Island, Dar es Salam? As mentioned before, the place is quite close to Dar es Salam, so your trip to the island is likely to begin from there. The best way to do that is via the Mbudya Island ferry. You can board the Mbudya Island ferry which departs from the Slipway Pier at Dar es Salam. The boat ride is likely to cost somewhere around 40000 TZN (roughly $18) and the ride is about 45 minutes long one way. The Mbudya Island ferry departs twice each day, at around 9:30 am and then 11: 30 am. However, the ferry business does not go on for too late in the evening- and the last ferry returns back to Dar es Salam before 5:00 pm in the evening.
What can one eat at Mbudya Island, Dar es Salam?
Surprisingly enough, Mbudya Island is not the most known destination in Dar es Salam. Therefore, the Mbudya Island day Trip might have limited food options, but you can rest assured that they will be amazing, despite not being many in number. The marine reserve staff is known for serving lobster, and fish and chips. Additionally, tourists can enjoy delicious seafood, and experience authentic Tanzania cuisine on their trip. Most food options at Mbudya Island, Dar es Salam are quite inexpensive, and will leave you wanting more.
Mbudya Island Price:
An extremely important part of any trip, whether domestic or international, is budgeting. It is important that you plan the duration and itinerary of your trip as per your budget, and therefore, here is a brief overview of what are the prices of some popular services and activities at the location.
Beginning with the entrance fee at Mbudya Island, it is generally 2700 TSH for Tanzanian citizens, and about 2700 TSH for foreign visitors. The Mbudya Island boat ride fee for foreign tourists is priced at around 10000 TSH.
One can also rent thatched huts, which come with seats and tables at around 15000 TSH. Food prices for the trip can range from anywhere around 15000 TSH to 30000 TSH depending on whether you prefer seafood or other food options.
Some Useful Tips for your trip to Mbudya Island:
- Carefully consider the weather conditions before planning your trip. It is best to visit the island mostly during the dry season, for it is then that you can enjoy the most activities at the island.
- Try to avoid bringing professional cameras and DSLRs to the trip, for fines may be imposed on tourists in that case. Instead, you can capture the memories of your trip on your smartphone camera instead.
- Don’t overpack, and carefully consider what all you really need during the trip. Also, do not forget essentials like sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, umbrellas etc. to protect yourself from the sun at the tropical island.
In Conclusion:
There are many known tropical destinations in and around Tanzania, and many other African countries as well. Mbudya Island, Dar es Salam, though may not be the best known destination, is still a wonderful location, and offers a plethora of activities like swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving and many more. As long as you visit during the dry season, you should be able to enjoy most activities at Mbudya island, Da-es-Salam. Surprisingly enough, though a tropical destination, Mbudya Island is not exceptionally expensive, and if you plan your trip right, it is most likely that you will be able to manage a wonderful experience within your budget. So don’t wait too long to book your tickets and accommodation, so you stay ahead of the regular tourist crowd, and are able to secure the best options for yourself, whether you’re visiting with friends, family or both!
