Nungwi

The Action-Packed

Overview of Nungwi

Nungwi sits at the northern tip of Zanzibar Island as the island's most popular beach destination and second-largest settlement after Stone Town. This vibrant fishing village has transformed into an action-packed beach paradise while keeping its authentic character as a traditional dhow boat building center. You can still watch local fishermen craft beautiful wooden dhows by hand using techniques passed down through generations, then see these same boats head out for deep-sea fishing adventures at sunset.
The village perfectly balances modern tourism with traditional life, offering powdery white sand beaches on both east and west coasts that provide different experiences throughout the day. Nungwi's clear blue waters make it one of Zanzibar's best spots for water sports, diving, and snorkeling, while the bustling village atmosphere creates vibrant nightlife and dining scenes. The area attracts visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure, with everything from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses lining the spectacular coastline.

Psst...

The best snorkeling spots lie between Z Hotel and Sandies Baobab Beach where the reef is closest to shore. Visit Nungwi Natural Aquarium to swim with rescued sea turtles in a lagoon connected to the ocean.

Reasons to travel to Nungwi

  • Enjoy Zanzibar's most vibrant beach scene with activities from dawn to dusk
  • Snorkel and dive at Mnemba Atoll, one of the Indian Ocean's top coral reefs
  • Watch traditional dhow boats being built using centuries-old techniques
  • Experience spectacular sunsets from the west coast without tidal restrictions.
  • Take boat trips to see dolphins, turtles, and pristine coral reefs.
  • Party at beach bars with fire shows, live music, and international crowds.
  • Swim with sea turtles at the famous Nungwi Aquarium and turtle sanctuary.

Safari Experiences in Nungwi

“Excellent guides who not only know how to guide a raft through the rapids, but can explain the geology and the history of the area. This trip gives you the opportunity to see a part of Dinosaur National Monument that most people never get to see”

- Martin

Tourist, Canada

Map Of Nungwi

Useful Travel Tips

Nungwi FAQ's

Nungwi offers the perfect combination of beautiful beaches, excellent water sports, vibrant nightlife, and authentic village culture. The area has both east and west coast beaches, meaning you can enjoy sunrise and sunset views, plus the waters stay deep enough for swimming even during low tide unlike southern beaches.
Yes, Nungwi's northern location means the beaches stay deep enough for swimming during low tide, unlike many eastern and southern Zanzibar beaches. This makes Nungwi ideal for visitors who want to swim and do water activities throughout the day without worrying about tide schedules.
Yes, Nungwi has Zanzibar's most vibrant nightlife with beach bars, fire shows, live music, and parties that continue late into the night. The area offers the widest selection of restaurants serving everything from fresh seafood to international cuisine, plus plenty of bars and clubs for evening entertainment.
Mnemba Atoll is about 30-45 minutes by boat from Nungwi, making it easily accessible for day trips. Most diving and snorkeling operators offer trips to Mnemba, which features some of the best coral reefs and marine life in the Indian Ocean.
Nungwi can be enjoyed year-round due to its excellent beaches and consistent weather. June through October offers the driest conditions and best diving visibility, while December through March provides warmer temperatures and calmer seas perfect for water activities.

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