As Tanzania Safari Experience, we highly recommend Matemwe Beach if you are looking for a holiday that combines peace, beauty, and adventure. This is where you find long quiet beaches, friendly local villages, and the world-famous Mnemba Island just offshore for snorkeling with dolphins, turtles, and colorful fish. Matemwe is not crowded like Nungwi or Kendwa, which makes it perfect for couples, families, or anyone who wants to relax in a calm and natural setting. The sunsets are magical, the seafood is fresh, and the atmosphere is pure Zanzibar. If you want the real island experience—beautiful, authentic, and unforgettable—Matemwe Beach is the place we recommend you book for your next trip.
Matemwe Beach Zanzibar Travel Guide
Matemwe Beach Zanzibar — Complete 2025 Travel Guide
Why Matemwe Beach is Zanzibar’s Hidden Gem
Zanzibar is blessed with many stunning beaches, but Matemwe Beach stands out as one of the most peaceful and authentic. Located on the northeastern coast of the island, Matemwe is a long stretch of white sand lined with swaying palm trees and the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. While places like Nungwi Beach and Kendwa are famous for their lively atmosphere, Matemwe remains a quiet retreat where travelers can unwind, connect with nature, and enjoy the simple beauty of island life.
What makes Matemwe truly special is its perfect balance of serenity and adventure. It is close to the world-renowned Mnemba Atoll, a marine conservation area known for vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and dolphins. This means you can spend the morning snorkeling among colorful marine life and the afternoon relaxing in a hammock under the palms. The area also offers cultural experiences, with traditional fishing villages nearby where you can witness daily Zanzibari life. Matemwe is a place where you feel time slows down, making it ideal for honeymooners, families, and anyone who wants to escape the crowds and experience Zanzibar at its best.
📅 Best Time to Visit Matemwe Beach Zanzibar
The best time to visit Matemwe is during Zanzibar’s dry seasons:
June to October – Cool and dry, perfect for diving.
December to February – Warm and sunny, great for beach holidays.
Avoid the long rainy season in April and May when many hotels close.
Matemwe Beach, Zanzibar Photo Gallery
Explore the beauty of Matemwe Beach, Zanzibar through our photo gallery. These images showcase the white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant local life. Each photo captures the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, and this gallery can inspire your own Zanzibar beach experience.
Expert recommendation
Laurent Karume
Tanzania Safari Specialist
Matemwe Beach Highlights
- Uncrowded white-sand beach
- Snorkeling & diving at Mnemba
- Authentic fishing villages
- Fresh seafood & local flavors
- Romantic sunsets
- Peaceful, laid-back vibe
At a glance
- Peaceful beach
- Mnemba snorkeling
- fresh seafood
- romantic sunsets
Tailormade itineraries
Every Tanzania Safari Experience adventure is customized just for you—no fixed tours or set dates. Speak with our Tanzania Safari experts to help you plan your perfect Tanzania Safari itinerary.
📍 Where is Matemwe Beach Zanzibar?
Matemwe Beach is located on the northeastern coast of Unguja, the main island of Zanzibar. It’s roughly 60 to 70 minutes by car from Stone Town and the Abeid Amani Karume International Airport. The journey itself is part of the adventure—you’ll pass through spice farms, small villages, and lush countryside before reaching the coast. The beach faces Mnemba Island, which is considered one of the best diving and snorkeling spots in East Africa.
The location of Matemwe makes it a quieter alternative compared to the busier beaches on the north and west coasts. Because it is less commercialized, the beach stretches remain wide and uncrowded, giving visitors the freedom to enjoy long walks along the shoreline. Matemwe is also well connected, so while it feels secluded, you can easily take day trips to Nungwi, Kendwa, or even back to Stone Town. This balance of privacy and accessibility makes Matemwe one of the top-rated Zanzibar beach destinations.
📌 Quick Facts about Matemwe Beach location:
🚗 60–70 minutes from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport
🌊 Located opposite Mnemba Island, ideal for diving & snorkeling
🏝️ Less crowded than Nungwi or Kendwa, making it perfect for relaxation
Zanzibar Main Map that shows Matemwe Beach
Matemwe Beach Zanzibar Things to Do
Wondering what makes Matemwe special? Here are the top-rated Matemwe Beach Zanzibar experiences you shouldn’t miss:
Best Matemwe Beach Zanzibar Hotels & Resorts
From boutique resorts to luxury escapes, Matemwe offers some of the most stunning accommodation in Zanzibar. Here are the top-rated Matemwe Beach Zanzibar hotels:
Matemwe offers a wonderful range of accommodation, from charming boutique lodges to luxury resorts. Many of these hotels are beachfront, so you’ll wake up to ocean views and the sound of waves every morning.
One of the most stylish choices is Isla Bonita Zanzibar Beach Resort Matemwe Tanzania, which combines modern luxury with Zanzibari design. For travelers who prefer eco-friendly stays, Sunshine Azure Zanzibar Beach Hotel Matemwe is a top-rated option. Guests love it for its sustainable practices, personalized service, and romantic setting. In fact, Sunshine Azure Zanzibar Beach Hotel Matemwe reviews often mention the incredible food and relaxing atmosphere.
Another popular choice is Matemwe Beach Village Hotel Zanzibar, which blends traditional Swahili architecture with modern comforts. With spacious rooms, pools overlooking the beach, and on-site dining, it offers a complete holiday experience. Whether you’re on a honeymoon, family vacation, or solo retreat, Matemwe’s hotels cater to different needs while keeping the authentic charm of the area alive.
👉 Insider Tip: Book early if you’re traveling in peak season (June–October & December–February).
Why Choose Matemwe Beach Over Other Zanzibar Beaches?
There are many beautiful beaches in Zanzibar, but Matemwe has a unique charm. Unlike Nungwi or Kendwa, Matemwe remains uncrowded and peaceful. Its closeness to Mnemba Atoll makes it one of the best bases for snorkeling and diving trips. It also offers authentic cultural experiences with its fishing villages, something you won’t find in the more tourist-heavy areas.
For couples seeking romance, Matemwe is ideal. For families, it provides safety and space. For solo travelers, it offers tranquility and a chance to recharge. Simply put, Matemwe is the perfect choice if you want both natural beauty and cultural authenticity.
📍 Nearby Attractions & Day Trips
While Matemwe itself is perfect for relaxing, its location makes it easy to explore other parts of Zanzibar. Some of the best nearby attractions include:
Nungwi Beach – Known for its vibrant nightlife, diving centers, and turtle conservation projects.
Secret Beach Zanzibar – A quiet spot for snorkeling and swimming away from the crowds.
Stone Town – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, full of history, spice markets, and cultural tours.
Spice Plantations – Located inland, where you can learn about Zanzibar’s famous cloves, vanilla, and cinnamon.
We've got you covered
Our tours are top-notch but give you great value. The price we tell you upfront covers most of the costs for one person, like flights and all transfers.
- Park fees
- All activities (unless labeled as optional)
- All accommodation as stated in the itinerary
- A professional driver/guide
- All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- All Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
- Air Ambulance Service by AMREF Flying Doctors;
- At Least 1 Pair Of Binoculars;
- International flights (from/to home)
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips to your safari guide ($30-50 per day per car).
- Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
- Alcohol drinks
- Visas and visa fees where relevant
- Additional activities not offered as scheduled by the accommodation
- Lunch and dinner in hotel (only before and after safari);
Connect with our local experts for personalized travel planning
Plan your Matemwe Beach today
Frequently Asked Questions About Matemwe Beach, Zanzibar
Every safari adventure begins with a question. Whether it’s your first or second time, it’s natural to wonder about the best time to visit, what to pack, or how the journey works. Here, we’ve answered the most common questions travelers ask before booking their Tanzania safari, so you can plan with confidence and look forward to unforgettable memories.
Matemwe Beach is on the northeastern coast of Zanzibar, about one hour’s drive from Stone Town and the international airport. It faces the famous Mnemba Island, which is one of the best places for snorkeling and diving in East Africa. The location makes Matemwe quieter than busy beaches like Nungwi, but still close enough for easy day trips around the island.
The most popular activity is snorkeling or diving at Mnemba Atoll, where you can see dolphins, turtles, and colorful fish. Matemwe is also perfect for relaxing on wide sandy beaches, exploring local fishing villages, or taking a traditional dhow cruise at sunset. It’s a mix of adventure and relaxation, which makes it a favorite for couples and families.
No, Matemwe is known for being peaceful and uncrowded. Unlike Nungwi or Kendwa, you won’t find large crowds or noisy nightlife here. Instead, Matemwe offers long stretches of quiet beach where you can walk for miles, relax in privacy, and truly enjoy the calm beauty of Zanzibar.
Matemwe has a great mix of boutique lodges and luxury beach resorts. Many are right on the beach, offering ocean views, fresh seafood dining, and easy access to Mnemba Island. Popular choices include Isla Bonita Zanzibar Beach Resort Matemwe, Sunshine Azure Zanzibar Beach Hotel, and Matemwe Beach Village Hotel, all highly rated for comfort and service.
Matemwe nightlife is quiet and laid-back, perfect for those who enjoy peace rather than big parties. Most hotels organize relaxed evenings with beach bonfires, cocktails, and sometimes live music. If you want a livelier atmosphere, Nungwi Beach is just 30 minutes away and has bars and clubs that stay open late.
The best time to visit Matemwe is during the dry seasons, from June to October and from December to February. These months bring sunny days, calm seas, and perfect conditions for snorkeling and diving. The rainy season in April and May is less ideal, as many hotels close, but the beach is still beautiful year-round.
Yes! Matemwe is the closest beach to Mnemba Island, making it the best base for snorkeling and diving trips. Boats leave daily, and within 20–30 minutes, you’ll be surrounded by coral reefs, tropical fish, dolphins, and sometimes even turtles. Many Matemwe hotels organize these trips for guests.
Absolutely. Matemwe is safe, spacious, and relaxed, making it a great destination for families with children. Many resorts have family-friendly rooms, pools, and activities. The calm environment also means parents can relax while kids enjoy the wide open beach.
Matemwe is different because it offers peace and privacy. While Nungwi and Kendwa are lively and busy, Matemwe is uncrowded and authentic. It’s close to Mnemba Atoll, making it ideal for marine adventures, but still offers cultural experiences in the fishing villages nearby.
Plan Your Dream Matemwe Beach Safari & Holiday
Matemwe Beach Zanzibar is more than just a beach—it’s an experience of peace, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re coming for a honeymoon, family holiday, or solo escape, Matemwe delivers everything you need for a perfect island getaway. From world-class snorkeling at Mnemba Atoll to quiet evenings under the stars, this destination captures the true spirit of Zanzibar.
👉 Plan your dream Matemwe Beach trip with Tanzania Safari Experience, and discover why this coastline is considered one of the most magical in East Africa.