Bongoyo Island Things To Do, Ferry Schedule & Fees

Bongoyo Island is a tiny, unpopulated island situated around 7 kilometers north of Dar es Salaam. It is a favored spot for both locals and tourists looking for a tranquil getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The island boasts a combination of coastal flora and some baobab trees. Its marine life includes tropical fish, and you may occasionally see sea turtles and other aquatic creatures.
Basic amenities are available, including a small restaurant that offers freshly caught seafood and beverages. Upon your arrival, local vendors will greet you with the menu. You can select your preferred items and specify the time you’d like them to be served.

How to reach the Bongoyo Island?

You can access the island with a brief boat ride from the Slipway shopping and leisure complex in the Masaki Peninsula, which usually lasts around 30 minutes.
Tickets are available at a small office across from The Waterfront Restaurant. You must register online and pay an entrance fee, with credit cards being the only accepted payment method.

Remember to keep your receipt for the national park entrance fee, as staff will verify it upon your arrival on the island. Boats depart multiple times a day, but it’s best to arrive between 9 and 10 AM to wait for other tourists to join in splitting the cost. Each boat requires a minimum of 4 passengers, and the ride costs 30,000 TZS.
Additionally, there is an entrance fee for the marine reserve, approximately 18 USD for non-residents.

If you plan to relax on the beach for a few hours, renting small shelters and sunbeds for 5,000 TZS is very worthwhile.

How to navigate the Bongoyo Island?

The Island is quite small, and many visitors choose to spend their entire day on the beach. There are hiking trails available in the forest, providing a good chance to enjoy some exercise. While hiring a guide is an option, you can easily navigate on your own using the offline map from Mapy.

The ideal time to visit
The most favorable times to visit Bongoyo Island are during the dry season, which spans from June to October and from January to February. During these months, you can expect sunny weather, clear skies, calm waters, and little rain, making it perfect for outdoor pursuits like swimming, snorkeling, and lounging on the beach.

What Is The Available Accommodation options?

Camping is available on the Bongoyo island for an extra fee, but most visitors typically come for a day trip. If you’re searching for budget-friendly lodging in the Masaki area, near the Slipway and boat terminal, I recommend Gallivanters Hostel.

What activities can you enjoy on Bongoyo Island?
Bongoyo Island is famous for its beautiful white sandy beaches, particularly along the western coast. There are thatched huts available for rent, providing shade and a spot to unwind.
You can also snorkel around the nearby coral reefs to discover various marine species. While snorkeling gear can be rented at the restaurant, the quality may not be the best.

The island features two nature trails. You can start with the Shark Lagoon Trail, which runs along the coastline and eventually links up with Central Trail, leading to the remains of the German House constructed in 1881, a site where colonial guards once detained slaves before they were taken to significant markets. The trail also offers access to several more secluded beaches.

In summary, Bongoyo Island serves as a relaxing escape from the noise and activity of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s largest city.