Pungume sandbank in Zanzibar: trip, price and access from Kizimkazi (2026)
Pungume sandbank is a small island of sand and coral in the Menai Bay marine area, in south-west Zanzibar. You reach it by boat from Kizimkazi (or Kikungwi) for a day of snorkelling, sandbank time and a grilled lunch. Prices seen in October 2026 on booking sites: US$70 to US$175 per person in a group, US$130 for an 8-hour day with dolphins, US$190 to US$215 on a private sailboat, US$250 to US$390 with hotel pickup. No official source was found: check what is included before paying.
Highlights
The sandbank and the coral
The sand appears at low tide, with clear water and a reef for snorkelling (photo of a neighbouring islet in the bay, not Pungume itself). Bring your own mask if visibility matters: one traveller recommends your own gear.
The dolphins + Pungume combo
Most tours leave early from Kizimkazi to look for dolphins, then go on to Pungume for snorkelling and lunch; total 8 to 10 hours. For dolphin ethics, see Kizimkazi.
The private sailboat
A 4-hour version (US$190, meeting at Kikungwi) or 6-hour version (US$215, with transfer) avoids the crowd of a big boat.
Practical info
Tips
- Compare three things: the boat (a traditional dhow or a speedboat; some reviews regret a different boat from the one advertised), what is included (gear, meal, marine-area fee, transfer) and the departure point. Ratings range from 3.8 to 4.5 out of 5: guides and food are praised most, snorkelling is judged fine. If you stay in the north, the road time raises the price; for a sandbank closer to Stone Town, see Nakupenda, and for a full all-inclusive day Safari Blue.
How to get there
Kizimkazi is about one hour to one hour fifteen from Stone Town and Paje (estimate). Most tours collect travellers at the hotel, with a surcharge by distance; otherwise take a taxi or private driver: see getting around Zanzibar.
Opening hours
Our guides that feature it
Nearby
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