RegionZanzibar North
White-sand beaches, year-round swimming, and world-class diving around Mnemba Atoll.
Zanzibar North is the island’s most famous beach region, where the Northern Zanzibar beaches stretch out in long arcs of white sand and turquoise seas. The Zanzibar North Coast is home to Nungwi and Kendwa, two of the best-known beach villages in East Africa. Unlike much of the island, these beaches are less affected by tides, making them ideal for year-round swimming and sunset strolls. Nungwi, Zanzibar, is lively, with a blend of beach bars, local fishing dhows, and a wide choice of resorts, while Kendwa is quieter and known for its wide, open beaches. Offshore lies Mnemba Atoll, one of the best diving and snorkelling spots in Tanzania, with vibrant coral reefs, schools of tropical fish, and regular encounters with turtles, dolphins, and even seasonal whale sharks. Travellers can enjoy dhow safaris at sunset, marine safaris to explore reefs and lagoons, or relax in luxury beachfront resorts. The area caters to both those seeking a lively Zanzibar beach holiday and travellers looking for upscale seclusion. Whether diving at Mnemba Atoll, swimming in clear waters, or sailing on traditional dhows, the Zanzibar North Coast offers the quintessential island escape and remains the most popular base for combining marine adventure with relaxation.
Find Zanzibar North on the map
Best time to go to Zanzibar North
The best time to visit Zanzibar North is from June to October and December to February, when skies are clear, seas are calm, and conditions are perfect for beach days, diving, and dhow safaris. These months also bring excellent visibility at Mnemba Atoll, where sightings of turtles and dolphins are common. From October to March, lucky divers and snorkellers may also spot whale sharks in the waters off the coast. The rainy months of April and May, as well as November, see heavier showers but fewer visitors, making resorts more affordable. For a classic Zanzibar beach holiday, the dry seasons guarantee the best experience on the Northern Zanzibar beaches.
- Best
- Good
- Acceptable
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Where to stay in Zanzibar North
Recent postcards
What our travellers are saying
Because of the easy way we communicated with our Viatu expert, it felt like planning our holidays with a friend. It made it really flexible and perfectly suitable for our needs. The accommodations that he suggested were just wonderful and a perfect mix of everything we needed.
Nicole
Verified TravellerWith super short notice, they organised a trip that was just perfect. Loved everything about it! Will definitely recommend Viatu to all my friends!
Margherita
Verified TravellerWhat can I say? We've had an absolute blast traveling through Namibia. Soooo many good new memories! We booked our trip a bit last minute but had amazing support from Viatu to get all the information in time.
Anna
Verified TravellerOur Viatu experience was just amazing, starting with the first discussions and the planning of our trip to Namibia. The Viatu team did a great job planning the trip according to our wishes and preferences.
Stefano
Verified TravellerWe had the most wonderful experience with Viatu and the trip of a lifetime. My sister and I travelled for 3,5 weeks through Namibia and South Africa, and everything was perfectly planned and just amazing.
Valerie
Verified TravellerOur South Africa vacation managed by Viatu based on our request turned out perfect. All logistics and transfers worked seamlessly with local professional personnel.
Svein
Verified TravellerI spent one of my most exciting and beautiful holidays with Viatu in Namibia. From unforgettable game drives, lodges with stunning locations, delicious food and an adventurous cycling trip through the desert, we got the full package.
Manuel
Verified TravellerWe booked our 3.5-week honeymoon with Viatu, and it was simply wonderful! We had the most amazing time in South Africa and will book holidays with Viatu again!
Linda
Verified TravellerWe had an incredible journey with Viatu and many unforgettable memories in South Africa. The journey was tailor-made to our wishes and the communication with Alex really easy, friendly and helpful. All the information was accessible online at any time, nicely presented and structured in an overview.
Michèle
Verified TravellerI had a once in a lifetime trip with Viatu. It was extremely exciting, adventurous and diverse! As my first trip, I found it to be very enjoyable. Everything was totally planned out from A to Z.
Irina
Verified TravellerBecause of the easy way we communicated with our Viatu expert, it felt like planning our holidays with a friend. It made it really flexible and perfectly suitable for our needs. The accommodations that he suggested were just wonderful and a perfect mix of everything we needed.
Nicole
Verified TravellerWith super short notice, they organised a trip that was just perfect. Loved everything about it! Will definitely recommend Viatu to all my friends!
Margherita
Verified TravellerWhat can I say? We've had an absolute blast traveling through Namibia. Soooo many good new memories! We booked our trip a bit last minute but had amazing support from Viatu to get all the information in time.
Anna
Verified TravellerOur Viatu experience was just amazing, starting with the first discussions and the planning of our trip to Namibia. The Viatu team did a great job planning the trip according to our wishes and preferences.
Stefano
Verified TravellerWe had the most wonderful experience with Viatu and the trip of a lifetime. My sister and I travelled for 3,5 weeks through Namibia and South Africa, and everything was perfectly planned and just amazing.
Valerie
Verified TravellerOur South Africa vacation managed by Viatu based on our request turned out perfect. All logistics and transfers worked seamlessly with local professional personnel.
Svein
Verified TravellerI spent one of my most exciting and beautiful holidays with Viatu in Namibia. From unforgettable game drives, lodges with stunning locations, delicious food and an adventurous cycling trip through the desert, we got the full package.
Manuel
Verified TravellerWe booked our 3.5-week honeymoon with Viatu, and it was simply wonderful! We had the most amazing time in South Africa and will book holidays with Viatu again!
Linda
Verified TravellerWe had an incredible journey with Viatu and many unforgettable memories in South Africa. The journey was tailor-made to our wishes and the communication with Alex really easy, friendly and helpful. All the information was accessible online at any time, nicely presented and structured in an overview.
Michèle
Verified TravellerI had a once in a lifetime trip with Viatu. It was extremely exciting, adventurous and diverse! As my first trip, I found it to be very enjoyable. Everything was totally planned out from A to Z.
Irina
Verified Traveller