Matemwe Beach
“Relaxation & Snorkelling"
Matemwe Beach is 50km northeast of Zanzibar and an hour's drive from Stone Town. It is known as the longest beach in Zanzibar. It is a powdery white sand beach with swaying tropical palm trees. The immaculate beach offers buttermilk sand to caress the soles of your feet. The beach is well known for its unique Mnemba Island, a popular spot for snorkelling and diving in Zanzibar. It is also famous for its high-spirited fishing communities and a fantastic gateway for relaxation.
Though not a perfect beach for swimming, it is less crowded if you seek privacy and relaxation. Matemwe Beach has phenomenal coral reefs and mind-blowing sunrise in the morning. When visiting Matemwe Beach, you can participate in various activities, which include snorkelling, kite surfing, kiteboarding, scuba diving, sailing and dolphin tours. Accommodation in Matemwe ranges from budget-friendly to luxury resorts. Other excursions include a Blue safari trip, Mnemba dolphins & snorkelling, Stone Town Tour, Nakupenda Sandbank,
Experience Matemwe Beach
While not as bustling as Nungwi, Matemwe beach offers a variety of water-based activities, primarily focusing on snorkeling and diving. The nearby Mnemba Atoll is a renowned diving spot featuring vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine life. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also popular activities, particularly during high tide when the waters are calmer. The beach is framed by lush palm trees and local vegetation. The nearby Mnemba Atoll is a marine reserve known for its rich biodiversity, including dolphins, turtles, and a myriad of fish species.
Cultural Experience
While Matemwe is primarily a beach destination, visitors can engage in local culture by visiting nearby fishing villages. Tours often include the chance to observe traditional fishing techniques and daily life in a Zanzibari village. Some hotels and resorts also offer cooking classes featuring Swahili cuisine, providing a more interactive cultural experience.
Getting There?
By Air: Fly into Zanzibar Abeid Amani Karume International Airport in Kisauni. Private road transfers are arranged to your hotel in advance. The journey to your hotel takes approximately 1 hour, depending on traffic. Prices range from $35-$45.
By Ferry: You can take a ferry from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar from mainland Tanzania. The journey takes approximately 2 hours. A private transfer to your hotel can be arranged. However, the ferry journey is not recommended as it might not be pleasant due to motion sickness.
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