Why are Nungwi and Kendwa better for swimming?

The north coast has a much smaller tidal range than the east, so the sea stays deep enough to swim throughout the day rather than retreating far out at low tide.

How far is Nungwi from the airport?

Nungwi is about 55 km and roughly 1.5 hours by road from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport near Stone Town.

Can I dive Mnemba from the north coast?

Yes, dive centres in Nungwi, Kendwa and Matemwe run daily boat trips to the Mnemba Atoll marine reserve, the archipelago's top site for reefs and turtles.

Is the north coast good for families or parties?

It suits both: Nungwi and Kendwa have family-friendly resorts and calm swimming, while Kendwa is also known for its lively full-moon beach parties.

Destination guide

North Zanzibar

Powder-white sand, swimmable tides and the last of the dhow-builders

Who runs the region

Local & official

Administration

Regional capital: Mkokotoni
Districts: Kaskazini A (North A, seat Kivunge), Kaskazini B (North B, seat Mkokotoni)
Regional Commissioner: Office of the Regional Commissioner, Unguja North, Mkokotoni

Useful contacts

Tourist Police: Zanzibar Tourist Police, Nungwi/Stone Town
Zanzibar Commission for Tourism: Livingstone House, Stone Town
National emergency: 112