Unguja Coast, Tanzania

Coast and Islands

Tanzania has over 800km of coastline, most of which are completely ignored by the main tourist trail.

From Tanga in the north to Mtwara in the south there is a huge variety of attractions for the curious traveller exploring the coast of Tanzania. The Tanzanian coast is famous for its wonderful beaches, slave caves and the relaxed and informal atmosphere of its lodges. Here you will find the former capital, Dar Es Salaam, as well as other historical gems, including Tanga, Pangani and Sadani.

The most well-known island off the coast of Tanzania is Zanzibar where you can spend a couple of days exploring the markets and alleys of this old Arab trading town before spending a few more days at one of the really luxurious beach resorts (see separate section). On the other hand, Mafia Island is even more remote with a well-protected reef and some of the best snorkelling on the coast.

Fishermen, Mnemba Island, Tanzania
Mnemba Island, Tanzania

Saadani National Park

Saadani National Park is Tanzania’s only coastal wildlife reserve and the boat safari on the Wami river provides some of the most interesting meetings with hippo in the country. This small Park was upgraded to National Park status and is the closest wildlife reserve to both Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam.

Where to stay

Some of the wonderful places to stay that we frequently recommended.

Rubondo Island Camp £££££

  • Tanzania
  • Beach and Island Escapes

Just a short distance from the Serengeti, Rubondo Island is heralded as the largest island national park in Africa, totally remote and highly suited to the African enthusiast looking for another perspective. Situated in the southwestern corner of Lake Victoria and still within the borders of Tanzania, Rubondo is home to a pristine equatorial forest.

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Pole Pole £££££

  • Tanzania
  • Beach and Island Escapes

Pole Pole is located in the Chole Bay area, near Utende village on the southeast coast of Mafia Island overlooking the Mafia Marine Park. Directly on the beach, set in tropical gardens, Pole Pole offers spectacular views of the Mafia Archipelago and the Indian Ocean. Seven spacious en suite bungalows are set among coconut palms overlooking the bay. Two Family bungalows are larger with two rooms separated by the bathroom and a small corridor for privacy. All have large verandas furnished with Zanzibari beds, chairs, tables and armchairs.

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Mnemba Island Lodge £££££

  • Tanzania
  • Beach and Island Escapes

Situated on a private island, a short boat ride from the main island of Zanzibar, Mnemba Island Lodge offers sheer unpretentious paradise. If you have ever dreamt of being marooned on an island with white beaches overlooking azure seas whilst luxuriating in fine linen and dining on a world-class fare, then Mnemba is for you. Each of the ten traditionally sculptured, luxurious bandas has direct access onto the beach and the water beyond. The very comfortable bar and romantically lit dining room tempt you in after a sunset dhow cruise where the bartender knows just how to mix the perfect Dawa cocktail.

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The Aiyana £££££

  • Tanzania
  • Beach and Island Escapes

The Aiyana is nestled on the northern edge of Pemba Island, only a 30-minute mini-plane ride from Zanzibar. Designed and built with the area’s natural beauty in mind, traditional materials were sourced from the island, creating a simplistic finish to the hotel. The Aiyana has 30 villas, consisting of four categories of rooms from a junior suite to a presidential villa, offering views out over the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean. The waters that surround the island feature some of the best snorkelling and diving sites, with spectacular coral reefs and a vast range of marine life.

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Fundu Lagoon £££££

  • Tanzania
  • Beach and Island Escapes

Fundu Lagoon is located on the west coast of Pemba Island, immediately north of Zanzibar. The surrounding coral shores of the Indian Ocean represent a unique environment that is listed among the very top dive locations in the world. This discrete hideaway has 18 bungalows, including six suites. Luxury tents with traditional Zanzibari roofing, handcrafted local hardwoods and furniture all have glorious ocean views. The food is excellent and draws on fresh, locally caught fish, traditional Swahili flavours and classic European favourites. Other facilities here include an infinity pool and spa area, three bars and Dive 710 – a fully equipped dive centre with a fleet of boats for divers of all capabilities, snorkellers and water sport enthusiasts.

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Thanda Private Island £££££

  • Tanzania
  • Beach and Island Escapes

This tiny, tropical island lies off the coast off Mafia Island, midway down the Tanzanian Coast. An airy, spacious villa sits in front of the coralline white beach, whilst lush forest fills the interior of the island. Secluded and exclusive, this tranquil island is just 350 metres wide, surrounded by a subaquatic network of unspoilt coral reefs.

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Meet our experts

A passion for travel runs right through every one of our experts - meaning they're always ready with first-hand insight about their specialist countries.

Illona Cross

Born in a small South African town, I have always followed my passion for nature and discovery. After studying Nature Conservation in Pretoria, I was one of the first women to complete a very tough cadetship in the Natal Parks Board. It was here where I cut my teeth in African wildlife management.

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  • 01285 880 980

Chris Johnston

Chris is the Conde Nast Traveller chosen Specialist for Africa.

25 years ago, my first trip to Africa took on a life of its own. I planned for three months, I stayed for two years. Whilst there, I was mistaken for a priest, attacked by sharks and arrested. Yet the countless, clattering journeys opened my eyes to the beauty of the landscapes and the grace of the people. My recent trips are undoubtedly more comfortable, but the welcome is as warm as ever and the best experiences are still those I never see coming.

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