ZAR
USD
EUR
GBP
CAD
AUD
CHF
ZAR
USD
EUR
GBP
CAD
AUD
CHF

What are you looking for?

Hello traveller!

It's in Cape Town now.

We're sorry. Our safari planners aren't available now. Our office hours are 08:00 - 19:00 (GMT+2).

Call us to speak to an experienced safari planner.


Alternatively, we recommend...

travel-form-icon

Complete our travel enquiry form to connect with a safari planner

ENQUIRE TODAY
Email us
(optional)

Nungwi & Kendwa

Africa's best authentic tailor-made safaris

View Photos

On Zanzibar Island’s northernmost tip, the once sleepy village of Nungwi is still the traditional center of dhow building on Zanzibar.

Boats on tropical beach in Zanzibar
Boats on tropical beach in Zanzibar

An old favorite among backpackers and hippies, the scene has transformed in recent years with hotels, bars, hostels, and dive centers now lining the sandy shoreline in a near continuous strip southwest to Kendwa. 

Boats on tropical waters in Zanzibar.
Boats on tropical waters in Zanzibar.

The still relatively quiet village of Kendwa has also expanded, but its uniquely wide beach and understated resorts continue to offer a more laid-back vibe.

Swimming with dolphins in Zanzibar.
Swimming with dolphins in Zanzibar.

This region is perfect for a relaxing holiday in Zanzibar and is suitable for young travelers looking for a good time. 

Highlights of Nungwi & Kendwa

Full moon beach parties: Although relatively quiet for the rest of the month, Kendwa pumps up the volume each full moon with a lively beach party that draws visitors from around the island.

Beach in Zanzibar.
Beach in Zanzibar.

Kendwa’s full moon parties are legendary and remain one of Zanzibar’s favorite holiday attractions.

Dhow building and village tours: Nungwi beach remains a focal point for Zanzibari shipbuilding, where skilled shipwrights use age-old methods and tools to turn rough timber planks into ocean-going dhows.

Tropical beach in Zanzibar.

Village tours can also be arranged for those interested in discovering the cultural side of dhow building and how the tradition persists through the centuries.

Travel Tips for Nungwi & Kendwa
  • Although luxury hotels are now available, Nungwi and especially Kendwa remain two of the best destinations on Zanzibar Island for quality, affordable accommodation – head here if you’re looking for a party. 
  • Kendwa has the better beach, and the deeper water on the north-western strip means swimming is possible throughout the day; the island’s eastern beaches are almost all tide-dependent.

What Our Guests Have to Say?

Read recent reviews from travellers who have planned and booked their trips with us
Our safari was organised so as I didnt have to do anything...

10 Day Kenya and Tanzania Review

Amanda, Egypt
19 Jun 2024
Perfect

10 Day South African Adventure Review

Diana, Romania
03 Jan 2024
Excellent Service Awesome Safari Experience with Discover Africa and Susan Swanepoel!

9 Day Panorama and Greater Kruger Safari Review

Stella, United States
28 Aug 2023
Mindreader

7 Day Kapama & Timbavati Safari Review

Beth, United States
28 Aug 2023
Tanzania was so wonderful. Highly recommended Tour Operator!

Bush & Beach Safari Review

Debbie Wei, United States
28 Nov 2017
Highly recommended Tour Operator which exceeded our expectations. Thank you!

Discover Africa Holiday Review

Kerfoot Family, Australia
02 Jan 2008

Ready to plan your tailor-made safari?

Steve Conradie, Co-founder, Discover Africa

Free safari planning advice from destination experts

Help me plan