Nungwi

Nungwi is a charming little village at the northern tip of Zanzibar, offering pristine beaches and a relaxed atmosphere. The village is known for its sea turtle conservation efforts, with two aquariums where visitors can see and interact with turtles. At sunset, approximately 50 boats with white sails depart for deep sea fishing, creating a picturesque scene. Unlike some busier parts of Zanzibar, Nungwi maintains a friendly, village atmosphere while offering plenty of water activities.

From Stone Town, the journey to Nungwi takes 1½-2 hours by road. Several transport options are available: shared taxi or shuttle bus for US$10 per person (book through thezanzibus.com); hotel-arranged private car for US$50-60 each way; hired taxi from Stone Town ferry terminal for Tsh 70,000-100,000 (US$30-50); or ride dalladalla #116 from Darajani/Creek Road in Stone Town for Tsh 2,500 (US$1) per person, though operators may charge tourists Tsh 5,000.

Nungwi is walkable, with most attractions accessible on foot. The famous 'boat yard' near the village center offers excellent photo opportunities of traditional dhow construction. At low tide, visitors can wade far out into the ocean, though should be cautious of sea urchins. The aquarium on the north coast near the lighthouse uses natural seawater that seeps through the cliff at high tide.

Nungwi can be visited year-round, though the best weather is typically during the dry seasons. Kendwa, 3½ km to the south, hosts popular full-moon parties that attract visitors seeking nightlife.

Nungwi offers accommodation ranging from budget bungalows to luxury resorts. Budget options include Amaan Bungalows with garden or sea views, Baraka Beach Bungalows at US$60 on the beach, and Nungwi House at US$50 just 2 minutes from the beach with free WiFi. Mid-range options include Jambo Brothers and Flame Tree Cottages. For luxury, the DoubleTree by Hilton Resort Zanzibar (formerly Nungwi Village Beach Resort) offers all-inclusive packages at US$120 with pool, restaurants, and live music.

Eating options in Nungwi range from local cafes to resort restaurants. Murina Cafè offers clean, cheap local food. Langi Langi Beach Bungalows Restaurant provides excellent food with sea views at Tsh 13,000 per meal. For drinking, Cholo's Bar is the most relaxed spot, with hammocks, benches made from halved dhows, and Tusker Kili beer at Tsh 3,500.

Nungwi offers diverse activities for visitors. Scuba diving around Mnemba Atoll costs US$95-180 for double dives with operators like Divine Diving and East Africa Diving. Yoga classes at Divine Diving Yoga & Dive Center are US$20 for 90 minutes. Sunset dhow cruises to Kendwa cost US$15 per person or US$40 for private charter. Kitesurfing at Ras Nungwi Beach offers equipment rental from US$60 (half day) to US$90 (full day), with group lessons at US$165 and private lessons at US$90. Turtle encounters are available at Baraka Aquarium (US$7-10) and Mnarani Aquarium (Tsh 7,000/US$5). The fish market opens at 7AM alongside boat builders.

Maasai crafts are the primary souvenir option in Nungwi. There is one ATM on Nungwi Road at the Up petrol station that opened on July 23, 2019.

While Nungwi is generally friendly and safe, there have been thefts of guests' belongings. Visitors should take basic precautions when handling money and consider using hotel safes for storing cash and valuables.

Kendwa is located 3½ km to the south and offers a quieter atmosphere, though its full-moon parties are becoming increasingly popular. From Nungwi, visitors can also explore other parts of Zanzibar including Stone Town.