Sinda Island Travel Guide: Top Sights in Tanzania, Tours & Travel

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Sinda Island- Travel Tips What to See, How to Plan & Tours: Natural Scenery; Tanzania; 5 Reviews

Suggested Duration: 4 hours

Sinda Island, part of the Dar es Salaam Marine Reserve, is an uninhabited sanctuary in Tanzania's Kigamboni District, known for its ecological and historical significance. The island's 4.6 km² reserve includes diverse marine habitats, such as the Kikwero reef, and shelters endangered coconut crabs, one of the world’s largest terrestrial arthropods. Its history traces back to 1470, when Arab navigator Ibn Majid documented the island, while 19th-century ruins hint at its role in regional trade. The island's protected status ensures its pristine coral reefs and coastal forests remain untouched, offering a rare glimpse into Tanzania’s maritime heritage and biodiversity. Accessible from Somangila ward, Sinda Island provides opportunities for snorkeling, birdwatching, and exploring its archaeological remnants. Unlike busier marine destinations, its secluded location within the Dar es Salaam Marine Reserve makes it a quiet retreat for nature enthusiasts. The island's unique combination of ecological importance, historical layers, and conservation efforts distinguishes it as a distinctive destination for travelers seeking both adventure and insight into Tanzania's coastal ecosystems.

Operators offering tours in Tanzania

Attractions in Dar es Salaam

National Museum

Village Museum

Askari Monument

4.2

Kivukoni

Mbudya Island

4.6

Bongoyo Island

4.4

St. Joseph Cathedral

Coco Beach

Reviews of Sinda Island

Ibrahim Essajee

4
Reviewed: 2025-06-05

Very calm and beautiful beach and blue sea Get there from kipepeo beach or villa dahl. Boat usually charge 20-30k tsh according to group. Entry for locals is 12000tsh. Hut you can hire for 10000tsh. You can bring your food or the boat guys can also arrange for you.
Design Point

5
Reviewed: 2025-04-02

Last week, I had the chance to visit Sinda Island during the Eid holiday, and it was an unforgettable experience. The island's natural beauty, with its crystal-clear waters and serene surroundings, made it a perfect escape from the busy city life. One of the highlights of the trip was snorkeling. The water was so clear that we could see an incredible variety of sea creatures, including jellyfish, crabs, and different species of fish swimming around vibrant coral reefs. It felt like diving into a whole new world beneath the waves. Overall, Sinda Island is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Whether you're looking to relax by the shore or explore marine life up close, this hidden gem offers an amazing experience. I would highly recommend it to anyone visiting the area!
Brett Borach

5
Reviewed: 2024-11-09

Part of a reserve, uninhabited and very beautiful. Pristine Beach, snorkeling opportunities Very peaceful and very few people, there was only my group and another group there when I visited. They do sell food and drinks there
Joyce Mwatonoka

4
Reviewed: 2024-02-18

Beautiful island. Good for camping, lots of places to hang hammocks. Take nice swims. The was is very clear and snorkeling is also possible.
Classic Man

5
Reviewed: 2023-08-06

Beautiful protected reserve. However it is neglected and needs to be managed properly to increase revenue for the Kigamboni Municipality. There is a local cat that comes to see visitors when they come in. There is also a-lot of trash that foreign tourists bring and leave on the island to be removed.