Chumbe Island
Island
Tanzania
"Established in 1991 as the world’s first privately managed marine protected area funded by ecotourism, this reef sanctuary off Zanzibar now supports one of the region’s healthiest reefs with more than 500 fish species and 59 hard coral genera. Visitor numbers are limited to 18 at a time, preserving a secluded feel; seven thatched bungalows built from local materials are powered by photovoltaics and supplied with rainwater catchment and filtration. Activities focus on snorkeling, tidal-pool exploration, and forest walks to see baobabs, mangroves, and ancient marine fossils, and the park educates local schoolchildren through first-time snorkeling experiences." - Kathryn Romeyn, Kristin Braswell, Margot Bigg, Devorah Lev-Tov
