A mangrove is a plant and mangal is a plant community and habitat where mangroves thrive. They are found in tropical and sub-tropical areas, and as such have a high degree of salinity. Mangroves protect the coast from erosion and surge storms.
Once established, roots of mangrove plants provide a habitat for oysters and help to impede water flow. Their massive root system is efficient at dissipating wave energy. Mangroves support unique ecosystems, especially in their intricate root systems. Because of the limited availability of freshwater in the salty soils of the intertidal zone, mangrove plants have developed ways of limiting the amount of water that they lose through their leaves
The mesh of mangrove roots produces a quiet marine region for many young organisms.

 

Paddling within the mangroves is a fascinating and easy trip that can be done by using the kayaks provided by the hotel.

   

At high tide, paddle south from Mbweni Ruins beach (left hand side of the jetty) and you will enter into the Mangrove glades.

 

That exploration feeling takes over!

Paddling through natural channels, a variety of birds can be spotted as well as marine life as mangroves provide protected nursery areas for fish, crustaceans and shellfish. We have even seen dolphins swimming among them occasionally!