After our cultural experience in Stone Town, island escape in Chapwani and luxury resort stay in Kiwengwa, we decided to come to Nungwi for two reasons. 1) To swim, and 2) to be more independent. What we got was so much more than that. Here is our ‘What to do in Nungwi’ Travel Guide:
The Best Beaches in Zanzibar
Many beaches in Zanzibar experience extreme tides. One moment you’re in ankle deep water that continues out for kilometres and a few hours later you’re in deep, beautiful seas.
Although these beaches are truly picturesque and fun to explore – you can’t compare them to Nungwi. The North is where you find the crystal clear water and white sand beaches of paradise.
We are so happy Nungwi found its way into our Zanzibar itinerary! You can also walk 2kms (left) along the beach to visit Kendwa Beach. It’s a stunning walk during low tide.
Nungwi Town
We loved walking around this small, sandy town. Here you can find a basic supermarket and local vendors selling paintings and woven baskets.
We came here often to find affordable local dishes for lunch. We loved ‘Munira’ Restaurant which must have been half the price of the beachfront restaurants. Her local dishes are wholesome and delicious!
The Fish Market
Rudi and I found this fishing village by accident. After visiting the turtle conservation we decided to take a peak at the beach to its left. This is when, from the help of a small goat, we spotted the group of anchored dhows.
That afternoon we decided to walk from Langi Langi Bungalows back along the beach in the direction of the Turtle Conservation (right). 10 Minutes later we stepped into a photographer’s dream. We didn’t have our camera on us so you’ll have to picture it – groups of traditional African dhows all sailing out towards the soft, late afternoon light.
When we return to Nungwi one day we’re keen to take a walk here in the early morning (6am – 7am) when all the fisherman are said to return with full boats of fresh catch.
The Mnarani Marine Turtle Conservation
The Mnarani Turtle Conservation is located to the right of Nungwi Beach, just pasted the fishing village. You can either drive here or walk along the beach during low tide.
Here you can view and feed their Green and Hawksbill sea turtles that swim freely in a tidal lagoon. You can also view tiny new borns and learn about each stage of their conservation process.
You can’t swim with the turtles here (as often seen on Instagram) – that’s the ‘Baraka Natural Aquarium’ which is close by.
Sunset Hour at Nungwi
Sunset hour in Nungwi is one of the main reasons you should book your flight to Zanzibar! We mostly spent this golden hour sitting at the ‘Langi Langi Restaurant’ watching the dhows glide past. It’s unbelievably romantic!
After a cold beer or two we would walk down their wooden steps, straight into the sea. Swimming in a warm ocean during sunset is probably our favourite travel date!
Prawn Curry Every Night
Coming from all-inclusive resorts, we were excited to try as many different restaurants in Nungwi as possible. Unfortunately for this plan, we discovered the ‘Baraka Beach Restaurant’ on our first night. Nothing could come between us and their seafood curry after that!
This restaurant doesn’t exist in the day. After sunset they pile out plastic tables and chairs onto the sand and within 10 minutes the “restaurant” is full (it’s the strip of beach to the right of ‘Mama Mia’).
Feet in the sand, candles and curry – we couldn’t have been happier!
Langi Langi Beach Bungalows
We stayed at Langi Langi Beach Bungalows for 4 nights. We highly recommend it for affordable accommodation with the best location.
Even if you don’t stay here you have to visit their Langi Langi restaurant deck! We booked one of their more affordable rooms in the back “jungle” area. It was simple but exactly what we needed – ensuite shower bathroom, fan, air-con, a small fridge and a sweet balcony.
As Langi Langi guests, we had access to their deck of ocean-facing sunbeds and umbrellas. Although lying on the beach is normally preferred, we really enjoyed having this option to tan and read by the sea. The constant haggling from the local beach sellers and dhow cruise promoters can get abit much down on the beach.
Other Attractions in Nungwi
Rudolph and I aren’t huge into organised tours as we love to roam around by ourselves. However there are a few activities you can book. The most popular day trip being a Dhow cruise to Mnembe Island for either snorkelling or fishing. You can also go on a Tazari Caves tour or go scuba diving which we’ve heard is amazing.
Overall, Nungwi was by far one of our favourite places in Zanzibar!
View our Zanzibar page to see more recommendations & guides.
