Tanzania's Chumbe Island

Chumbe Island Coral Park, off Zanzibar's coast, protects one of the most pristine coral reef sanctuaries in East Africa. This privately managed marine protected area covers just 20 hectares of land and 55 hectares of reef and has won numerous international awards for conservation and eco-tourism. The island demonstrates small-scale conservation excellence. The reef sanctuary harbors over 90% of East Africa's hard coral species and 400+ fish species in just 0.3 square kilometers. The island's coral rag forest shelters the endangered Aders' duiker and coconut crabs. Green turtles nest on the beaches. The marine protected area shows remarkable recovery from previous damage, with fish biomass increasing 6-fold since protection began. Conservation success comes from complete protection, sustainable eco-bungalows using innovative technology (rainwater harvesting, solar power, composting toilets), and extensive environmental education programs for local schools. No extractive activities are permitted. Rangers from local fishing communities enforce protection. The model proves small reserves can have significant conservation impact.

Water Features

Coral reef sanctuary, beaches

Ecosystem

This destination features a coastal & marine ecosystem.