Nungwi, a beach resort famous for its long beach perfect for swimming, is a large village located in the north of the island of Zanzibar. It is a must-visit during your stay on the largest island of the archipelago. Not bordered by coral barriers, it is indeed the only place where the water is deep enough to swim at any time. Nungwi is the most touristy spot in Unguja. Several interesting activities await you here.

Nungwi was once a fishing village renowned for the construction of dhows, those traditional boats that connected the island to the rest of the Indian Ocean. Until the 1990s, the local population lived almost entirely from the sea and small-scale farming, and remained wary of tourism. Nungwi's tourism development was therefore later compared to other villages on Zanzibar. Its beaches were among the last on the island to welcome hotels.

With more than 30,000 inhabitants, Nungwi is today the second center on the island and one of the most sought-after destinations in the Zanzibar archipelago. Its fine sand beach, ranked among the 100 most beautiful in the world by CNN, attracts travelers, divers and snorkeling enthusiasts. The west of the village is home to many resorts and restaurants, while the east retains a more peaceful atmosphere.

Enjoy the beach

Nungwi Beach stretches for several kilometers of immaculate white sand where you can relax under the palm trees. Unlike other beaches on the island, you can swim at high tide as well as at low tide.

The seafront offers a unique experience with its white-sailed dhows dancing on the waters. In late afternoon, settle in comfortably to admire a magnificent sunset over the Indian Ocean, a daily spectacle that has made this postcard-perfect setting famous.

Discover Mnarani Aquarium

The Mnarani aquarium is a marine turtle conservation center located near Nungwi's lighthouse. This community project, established in 1993, protects injured turtles recovered from the nets of local fishermen. You can observe these sea turtles in their natural basins carved into the coral.

Take a look at Baraka Aquarium

The Baraka aquarium, not far from Mnarani, is a natural rehabilitation center housing about thirty sea turtles rescued from fishermen's nets. Visitors can feed them, or even swim with them, although this is not recommended.

Visit the fish market

Nungwi's fish market offers an authentic spectacle of local culture. Each morning around 7 a.m., fishermen return with their fresh catches which they sell at this lively market. You will discover an impressive variety of tropical fish and seafood, some even subject to auctions.

The immersive experience immerses you in the daily life of the Nungwi village and its centuries-old maritime traditions.

Explore the town center

Nungwi's town center is located behind the palisades of hotels, between Nungwi Road and the beach. This authentic part of the village also reveals local life with its small bustling streets, craft shops and daily life scenes.

You will discover shops selling wood carvings, colorful fabrics and handmade jewelry. The atmosphere is more peaceful than on the tourist coast.

Other activities

Beyond relaxing on the beach, swimming and strolling through the village, Nungwi offers a multitude of activities to enrich your stay. Scuba diving and snorkeling allow you to explore colorful coral reefs and exceptional marine life. Dhow sunset outings, often accompanied by local songs and percussion, offer a magical and unforgettable moment.

Thrill-seekers can try their hand at kitesurfing, parasailing or head off on an excursion to Mnemba Island to observe dolphins. Not far from the fish market, dhow building workshops reveal an ancestral craft still very much alive.

For a more peaceful experience, let yourself be tempted by a horseback ride along the ocean or a Swahili cooking class, perfect for discovering local culture in a different way.

You can reach Nungwi by various means of transport (public bus, dala-dala, rental car, etc.) from Zanzibar City. The journey follows a paved road passing through the villages of Mtoni, Kinvasini and Kivunge.

When to visit Nungwi?

The best season to visit Nungwi is winter, which corresponds to the dry season, between June and September. Temperatures are cool during this time of year, while during the preceding months, particularly from December to February, they regularly exceed 30°C.

Where to go out in the evening in Nungwi?

In Nungwi, evenings are lived on the beach. Between lively bars, impromptu concerts and the famous Full Moon Parties, the atmosphere is festive and warm.

Which hotel to stay in Nungwi?

Nungwi's hotel offering is very varied. You will find upscale resorts located directly on the beach, charming hotels with Swahili style, as well as small friendly and affordable guesthouses.

Is Nungwi suitable for a honeymoon?

Yes, with its paradisiacal beaches, romantic sunsets and specialized hotels, Nungwi is an ideal setting for a honeymoon.

Are there typical local restaurants in Nungwi?

Yes, you can find restaurants in Nungwi serving local and typical cuisine, although Nungwi is known as a tourist destination with a more varied offering.

Nungwi or Kendwa?

Nungwi appeals for its liveliness and varied activities, while Kendwa appeals to travelers seeking calm, serenity and intimacy.