Matemwe

Matemwe is a quiet east-coast beach village in northeastern Zanzibar, less developed than Nungwi but with equally beautiful white sand. It faces the Mnemba Atoll, a private island and marine conservation area that is one of Zanzibar's top snorkelling and diving sites. Matemwe itself is a traditional fishing village with a few mid-range and luxury resorts flanking the long strip of beach.

Matemwe is about 55 km from Stone Town, 20 km southeast of Nungwi. Dala-dalas from Stone Town run to Matemwe (1.5 hours). Taxi from Nungwi costs TZS 30,000–50,000.

The beach stretches for several kilometres, walkable at low tide. Boda-boda for reaching the village shops and restaurants.

• Matemwe Beach — a wide, white-sand beach with turquoise water, coconut groves backing the shore.

• Mnemba Atoll — visible from the shore, this exclusive private island is surrounded by a protected reef; snorkellers and divers visit by day boat.

• Matemwe Village — the fishing village at the southern end of the beach.

• Snorkelling at Mnemba Atoll — the atoll's reef is the best in Zanzibar; turtles, rays, and abundant coral fish.

• Dhow trip to Mnemba — a full-day dhow trip with snorkelling and beach lunch.

• Spice tour — inland spice farm tours from Matemwe.

• Kite-surfing — the easterly trade winds (June–September) make Matemwe good for kitesurfing.

• Amaan Beach Restaurant — good Swahili and international food on the beach.
• Mama's Kitchen — Swahili home cooking (booking required).
• Resort restaurants — most accommodation offers excellent seafood.

Fresh coconuts, tropical juices, and Kilimanjaro lager. Mnemba Island Lodge is alcohol-included for day visitors.

• Mid-range: Matemwe Bungalows, Villa Kiva.
• Luxury: Mnemba Island Lodge (one of the most exclusive in Africa — book months ahead), Zanzibar Hideaway.
• Budget: Matemwe Guesthouse.

Village shops sell basic supplies. Better shopping in Stone Town or Nungwi.

Nungwi (20 km northwest). Mnemba Atoll (10 minutes by boat). Paje (20 km south). Jambiani (25 km south). Stone Town (55 km southwest). Michamvi (15 km south).