Mbudya Island is a breeding ground for the endangered Coconut Crab. Pangavini Island is the nocturnal home of many birds that hover over Dar es Salaam city during the day; it is also a nesting sanctuary for the birds. The reserves also serve as a stopover spot for migratory birds and are a sanctuary for a variety of reptiles including Python. They are the final outposts of the dwindling coastal forests.

The clear waters surrounding the islands are ideal for swimming, diving and snorkelling. The shark lagoon on Bongoyo hosts seasonal visits of Juvenile Sharks. The area is a nursery ground for octopus, squid and fish. Swimmers can sometimes site the rare seahorse on the sprawling sea grass bed. Marine mammals such as dolphins and whales are also sighted in the DMRS.

The DMRS houses the remnants of a historical German outpost and a tomb thought to be of a descendant of Prophet Muhammad. The tomb attracts tourists who visit to pay homage.

For more information and to help conserve the marine parks and reserves, contact:
The Manager
Marine Parks and Reserves Unit
P.O. Box 7565, Dar es Salaam.
Olympio Street
Tel/ Fax: +255 22 215 0621
E: marineparks@marineparktz.com
www.marineparks.go.tz

Photo courtesy: John Mapepele
Marine Parks & Reserves Unit