I was really looking forward to my day trip to Mbudya (pronounced: M-bood-ja) Island on Saturday.  I originally planned to go to Bongoyo Island, but my coworker recommended going to Mbudya Island instead because there would be less crowding.  Both islands are frequented by tourists & locals alike for snorkeling and laying along the beach.

Mbudya is north of Dar es Salaam, and one of 4 Marine Reserves of the city. We took about a 30 minute boat ride from the mainland to the island, where we were dropped off and immediately shown the way to a cabana.

We were even able to order a fish or lobster lunch.  I opted for the lobster, which cost about $15 (25 tsh).  I didn’t have a fork, knife or napkin but I managed to crack that sucker open.  It was delicious.  Because there was a large party ahead of us, I’m pretty sure they caught the fish and lobster we were eating right before they served it to us.  Talk about fresh!

There was also a small bar serving drinks.  I bought a Ndovu beer.  It’s labeled “Tanzania’s Premium Lager” and tasted much like a Heineken (both are light beers).  It was a little more watery, but definitely had the punch of the beer we’re used to in the US.  My coworker (who’s been living here for almost a year) said that this is one of the better beers in Tanzania.  The others tend to be watered down and not comparable to beers brewed in the US.

The water & scenery of Mbudya were picture perfect…so relaxing and amazingly beautiful.  We were able to snorkel & see some of the colorful fish hiding in the Indian Ocean coral reef.  It was such a great way to spend my inaugural weekend in Dar es Salaam.  It set the tone for the rest of my time here.  I can’t wait to see what Dar es Salaam has to offer next weekend!