Exploring Zanzibar's North Coast: A Coastal Gem

Zanzibar's North Coast is renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant coral reefs, making it a prime destination for tourists seeking snorkeling and diving adventures. The local community has established a turtle sanctuary in this region, where injured turtles and other marine creatures are rehabilitated before being released back into the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. The North Coast is also famously known as Zanzibar’s dhow-building capital, with the villages of Nungwi and Kendwa being the two key areas that define this part of the island.

Nungwi, a small village on the North Coast, is characterized by its narrow streets lined with restaurants, bars, shops, and diving centers. This area is also home to one of the island’s oldest crafts: the construction of dhows, traditional Zanzibar boats used by local fishermen. Visitors can observe this ancient art form in action and may even have the opportunity to try their hand at crafting these iconic vessels.

The North Coast is also renowned for its breathtaking sunsets, which are typically described as fiery and romantic, painting the sky with hues of red and orange. While the entire island offers beautiful sunset views, the North Coast, in particular, provides some of the most stunning and memorable scenes, making it the perfect spot to unwind and reflect at the end of a day spent exploring.

A full-day tour of Zanzibar's North Coast allows visitors to immerse themselves in the region's rich culture and natural beauty. Highlights include a visit to the Nungwi turtle sanctuary and aquarium, a guided tour of Nungwi village, and time spent relaxing on Nungwi Beach. Whether enjoying a delicious lunch at one of the beach’s popular restaurants or spending the afternoon sunbathing, swimming, or snorkeling, the day can be perfectly capped off by witnessing the spectacular sunset from the shores of Nungwi.

High Season and Tourist Influx

The North Coast of Zanzibar sees a significant influx of tourists during July, August, and the festive season from Christmas to New Year's Eve, which is considered the high season. This region is the island’s most touristic area, and the beaches often become crowded with beach vendors eager to sell their goods and services. While they may initially seem a bit overwhelming, these vendors can be quite helpful in assisting with any queries or negotiating prices, adding a unique local flavor to the North Coast experience.