Matemwe Activities 2013-14

The majority of our activities on offer are tide-dependant which means that activities are only possible around certain times of the day, dependant on ocean water levels. The tide advances by roughly 40 min each day so then too do our departure times for listed activities. Please note that activities might be cancelled at any stage and with little notice should weather conditions be unfavourable. Due to the tides, swimming is not possible during low tide.

Snorkeling the Mnemba Reefs-2 Hour- Matemwe

This activity has duration of about two hours and may depart morning or afternoon. You will depart with our Matemwe dhow and water sport staff from the beach and enjoy a 20 min trip over the fringing reef towards . The reefs are shallow, although it does not allow for standing as the depth ranges between 3 – 6m. The water temperature is warm all year round and in the summer months reaches up to 28 degrees Centigrade. Many tropical reef fish species can we seen which include angel fish, butterfly fish, Moorish idols, scorpion and lion fish, trumpet fish and eels. A highlight is seeing the resident pod of bottlenose dolphins, although sightings cannot be guaranteed. One does not need to be a strong swimmer as life- jackets are provided so guests can simply ‘float’ while enjoying the view from above. This activity is charged at an additional $30pp for Matemwe Lodge guests and 1 trip is free for guests of Retreat and Beach House. It includes your Marine park entrance fee as well as all equipment, water and fruit served on the boat. Please note that it is advisable to wear a t-shirt while snorkeling to protect your back from the harsh sun. Sun block should also be applied regularly whilst swimming.

Please not, also, at an extra charge, and subject to available boat (no other exclusive trip booked), a private snorkeling trip can be requested (minimum 2 people paying).

Snorkeling at Mnemba Reefs- ½ day- with Scuba Fish

Guests will be given the option, if they want to go out snorkeling longer than the 2 hours planned with our boat, to go with Scuba Fish Zanzibar, the diving company. They will go on their shaded boat, with snorkelers and divers, on a half day trip, snorkeling in at least 2 different spots, actively looking for bottlenose dolphins. Trip includes 2 snorkeling sessions, equipment, Zanzibar snacks and refreshments, boat trip, and actively looking for the dolphins. Fee is U$45 per person. Snorkeling with Scuba Fish is always done in the mornings. Leaving from Matemwe Lodge if tide permits, or leaving by car to Muyuni (20 min car ride North), if tide is low.

Reef Walk

One of our water sports guides will take you for a walk through the shallow lagoon up to the fringing reef that lies just off shore. This activity can only take place during low tide, when it is shallow enough to wade through the lagoon. Our guide will point out small marine animals that can be seen such as octopus, sea stars, sea cucumbers and sea slugs. You can also have a look at the various ‘sea weed farms’ that lie just off the beach in the shallow waters. The women from the nearby village tend to these, then dry the sea weed in the sun and it is then exported to China. We provide guests with neoprene booties to protect their feet from the many sea urchins in the lagoon. A hat and t-shirt should be worn over swim wear and sun block should be applied before setting off. Please note this activity is not possible for a few days per month, as the water is too high. Note this activity is free.

Village Walk

This is a cultural activity where interested guests can learn more about the local way of life. One of our guides that were born in the adjacent village will escort guests on a walk across the beach to the village, pointing out some interesting sights on the way. These may include the area where traditional dhows are carved, the fish market (which is one of the main fish markets on the island) and visit to the school can also be arranged. Guests may also be given the opportunity to meet some of the village families which will provide a better understanding of the intricacies of daily life on the island. Out of respect, photographs should only be taken once permission has been asked. Your guide will be able to assist you with this. We kindly ask that you do not hand out money as this unfortunately breeds a ‘begging attitude’. Rather enquire with management about various local projects currently underway where you may donate money to. This way, your gift will be distributed fairly and the benefits may be enjoyed by the whole community. Dress code is modest and ladies should take care to cover shoulders and knees. A hat and sun block is essential. Note this activity is free

Local sailing

One of our water sport staff will take you on the traditional ‘Ngalawa’ boat for this activity which can accommodate up to 3 guests. These boats are local carved wood boats, traditionally used for fishing. The sailing will take place up and down the coastline, staying close to the shore and on the ‘inside’ of the fringing reef. This activity has duration of about one hours. A hat and t-shirt to be worn over swimming

attire is recommended as you will get splashed in the water. Sun block is essential. This activity cost U$45 per trip.

Escape to infinity (a.k.a ‘Sand bank’ trip)

This exclusive and very popular activity is only available on two occasions every month for a few days over the full - and new moon spring tides. The activity entails setting off early morning from the main beach with our dhow and water sport staff towards the Mnemba reefs. Here you can enjoy snorkeling from the boat over the coral reefs that are hosts to many tropical fish species which include angel fish, butterfly fish, Moorish idols, scorpion and lion fish, trumpet fish and eels. A highlight is seeing the resident pod of bottlenose dolphins, although sightings cannot be guaranteed. The reefs are shallow, although it does not allow for standing as the depth ranges between 3 – 6m. The water temperature is warm all year round and in the summer months reaches up to 28 degrees Centigrade. One does not need to be a strong swimmer as life-jackets are provided so guests can simply ‘float’ while enjoying the view from above. From here you will continue on to the eastern side of Mnemba Island where a large, pristine white sandbank is exposed during the spring low tide. Guests may get off onto the sandbank where they can relax and enjoy a glass of sparkling wine and picnic brought along. Once the high tide starts creeping in it will be time to set sail again and return back to the lodge. This is a private couple or private group activity, should you be staying with friends or family. Picnic and all drinks are included in the price. It is advisable to wear a t-shirt whilst snorkeling to protect yourself from the sun. A dry t-shirt and hat as well as sun block should also be taken along.

MUYUNI TRIP

Muyuni is an exclusive trip, which includes: boat ride along the shores, snorkeling around Mnemba Atoll, looking for the Dolphins and swimming with them (if found, but there is no guarantee, as in a Safari, to always see them), then landing on Muyuni Beach for a picnic (either set or tailored according to preferences) , sparkling wine (drinks included: beers, sodas, housewines, basic alcoholic drinks, juice), Sunbathing and swimming at Muyuni beach, and boat trip back to the Lodge. To note: Snorkeling gear is included. Depending on the time of departure (tide dependent), drinks and food might change (picnic breakfast, brunch, lunch). If Tide permits, leaving and returning by boat, but otherwise either go by car, come back by boat, or vice versa. Main Lodge: Price is U$140 for a couple (2 people minimum), U$120 per couple if 4, U$100 per couple if 6.

Retreat and Beach House: Price of U$100 per couple if 2, U$90 per couple if 4, and U$80 per couple if 6. Only 1 Muyuni Trip can be done at a time (we have 2 boats: one for exclusive trips, and one for Snorkeling)

Renting of Kayaks

Free of cost

We can also organize the following activities (please see more information on separate documents)

 Diving  Kitesurfing  Big game fishing  Parasailing, jetski, water skiing etc.

 Tours:

o Spice tour o tour o Prison island tour o Safari Blue o Jozani Forest