For such a small island, Mnemba boasts an impressive range of wildlife both above and below water.
The island is home to the tiny Suni antelope which were originally brought from Jozani Forest in Unguja. The Ader’s duiker also lives on the island. This is the rarest antelope species in Africa, with experts estimating that there are only 300-600 remaining in the wild.
Mnemba Island was chosen to become a conservation area for the Ader’s duiker as there are no natural predators. The island is home to a population of 25 Ader’s duikers, but they are very secretive and difficult to spot.
The island is surrounded by an oval reef which has been declared a marine conservation area.
Humpback whales, 3 species of dolphin, and whale sharks, are often seen in the warm waters that surround the island.
One of the most exciting sights on Mnemba is the turtle nesting season in February and March. Green turtles often lay their eggs in the warm sands, and the island is a protected area for turtles.