Bongoyo Island- Travel Tips

What to See, How to Plan & Tours

The Ultimate Guide to Bongoyo Island: Dar es Salaam’s Hidden Gem

Looking for a pristine tropical escape without leaving the city limits? Bongoyo Island is your answer. Located just 7km north of Dar es Salaam, this uninhabited marine reserve offers white sands, turquoise waters, and a peaceful retreat from the bustling city center.

Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple seeking a romantic getaway, or a family looking for a safe swimming spot, this guide covers everything you need to know about planning a seamless Bongoyo Island day trip—from navigating the boat schedules at The Slipway to understanding the tricky entrance fee payments.

Planning Your Trip: Logistics, Schedules, and Costs

Unlike many tourist destinations where you pay one price for everything, visiting Bongoyo involves a few specific logistical steps. Understanding these beforehand will save you time and frustration.

How to Get There: The Slipway Ferry Connection

The primary gateway to Bongoyo Island is The Slipway Hotel & Shopping Center located on the Msasani Peninsula.

Departure Point: Head to the waterfront area at The Slipway. Look for the small wooden office or desk marked "Island Boat Service" near the jetty.

Boat Type: You will travel on a motorized dhow (traditional wooden boat) or a fiberglass speedboat. The ride takes approximately 30 minutes.

The Two-Step Payment Process (Crucial Info)

Most confusion for first-time visitors comes from the payment structure. You must make two separate payments to two different entities:

1. Boat Ticket (Transport Fee): Paid to the private boat operator at The Slipway.

Cost: Approximately 30,000 to 35,000 TZS (approx. $12–$14 USD) for a return ticket.

Tip: This typically requires a minimum of 4 passengers to depart. If you are the first to arrive, you may have to wait for others or pay a "private" rate to leave immediately.

2. Marine Park Entrance Fee (Government Tax): Bongoyo is part of the Dar es Salaam Marine Reserve System (DMRS).

Cost: Non-residents pay roughly $11.80 USD (often rounded to entrance fees payable by card). Residents and East African citizens pay significantly less (approx. 2,500 TZS).

Payment Method: This fee is collected by government rangers upon arrival at the island or at a specific desk at the Slipway. Strictly Card Payments Only (Visa/Mastercard) are accepted for the government fee. Do not rely on cash for this portion.

Departure Schedules

Boats do not run on a strict minute-by-minute timetable but generally follow this flow:

First Boat: 09:30 AM (Highly recommended for securing a shaded hut)

Subsequent Boats: 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM

Last Return Boat: Usually departs the island at 5:00 PM.

Island Experience: Things to Do on Bongoyo

Once you step off the boat into the shallow, crystal-clear water (be prepared to get your feet wet!), the island is yours to explore.

1. Relax in a Banda (Thatched Hut)

Unlike the commercialized beaches of Zanzibar, Bongoyo keeps it rustic. The beach is lined with Bandas—small thatched huts that provide essential shade.

Cost: ~5,000 to 10,000 TZS per banda (rental for the day).

Sunbeds: Plastic loungers are also available for a small fee.

2. Snorkeling the Marine Reserve

The coral reef runs parallel to the beach, making it accessible for beginners. While not as vibrant as Pemba or Mafia Island due to boat traffic, you can still spot:

Angel fish

Starfish

Sea urchins (Watch your step!)

Gear Tip: You can rent masks and fins on the island, but the quality varies. If you have your own gear, bring it for a better experience.

3. Beyond the Beach: Hiking the Nature Trails

Most tourists never leave the sand, but Bongoyo has a wild interior. A trail leads through the coastal forest, past massive Baobab trees, to the "back" of the island. Here, you will find the Shark Lagoon—a quiet, rocky bay (not for swimming) with dramatic views of the Indian Ocean crashing against the coral cliffs.

Dining on the Island: The Seafood Experience

There is only one dining establishment on the island: a rustic, open-air kitchen run by locals.

The Golden Rule: Order Immediately

As soon as your boat lands, a staff member will approach you with a menu. Order your lunch right then and there, even if you aren't hungry yet.

Why? Food is cooked on charcoal fires and prepared to order. If you wait until 1:00 PM to order, you might not eat until 3:00 PM.

What’s on the Menu?

Expect fresh catches of the day:

Grilled Lobster (The island specialty)

Changu (Emperor Fish)

Calamari & Chips

Cold beverages (Soda, Kilimanjaro beer, and water)

Budget Note: Prices are higher than on the mainland due to transport costs. Bring Cash (TZS) for food and drinks, as the restaurant rarely accepts cards.

Essential Packing List & Pro Tips

To ensure your day trip is perfect, pack smart:

1. Reef Shoes: The entry into the water can be rocky with broken coral and sea urchins.

2. High-SPF Sunscreen: The equatorial sun is unforgiving.

3. Credit Card AND Cash: Card for the park fee; cash for the boat, food, and tips.

4. Towel: No towel service is provided.

⚠️ The Plastic Ban Warning

Tanzania enforces a strict ban on single-use plastic bags. Do not bring your swim gear in a plastic grocery bag. Use a reusable tote or dry bag. Rangers at the entry point may check bags.

Bongoyo vs. Mbudya Island: Which is Better?

Travelers often debate between these two sister islands.

Choose Bongoyo if: You want the easiest logistics (Slipway is very central) and a shorter boat ride. It is ideal for a quick, stress-free chill day.

Choose Mbudya if: You are willing to travel further north (to White Sands Hotel) for the boat. Mbudya generally has clearer water, better snorkeling, and a slightly larger beach area.