Zanzibar · 3 min
What to Do in Nungwi, Zanzibar: Beach, Lighthouse and Nightlife
Luciano Baetz · 27 de agosto de 2026
A complete guide to Nungwi, Zanzibar: lighthouse, turtle aquarium, diving and nightlife. Practical tips for 2027.
Nungwi sits at the very northern tip of Zanzibar and is one of the island's most popular beach areas — not only for its scenery, but because, unlike the east coast, the tide here has a much gentler effect, meaning a swimmable beach and sea for practically the whole day.
Nungwi Lighthouse, built during the British colonial period, marks the island's northern point and is one of the best spots to watch the sunset, with a line of traditional fishing boats silhouetted against the sky.
Nearby is the Mnarani Marine Turtle Aquarium, a natural saltwater pool where you can see and swim close to rescued sea turtles being rehabilitated before release back into the ocean — one of the most sought-after activities for families.
Nungwi also keeps a centuries-old dhow-building tradition alive. Along the beach you can watch master craftsmen at work, a trade passed down through generations that still thrives despite the arrival of tourism.
For diving enthusiasts, Nungwi is one of the island's best bases, with easy access to renowned dive sites such as Mnemba Atoll, plus certified dive schools for every level.
Viagem em destaque
Zanzibar Tudo Incluído: 8 Dias
Oito dias em Zanzibar no Riu Jambo, em regime all inclusive, com voos desde Lisboa, transfers e seguro de assistência, desde 1.049€ por pessoa.
It's also the area with Zanzibar's liveliest nightlife, with beach bars, restaurants and live music — a clear contrast to the quieter atmosphere of beaches like Jambiani or Paje.
Nungwi and neighbouring Kendwa, just minutes away, share the same gentle-tide advantage and are often compared: Nungwi has more infrastructure, restaurants and diving options, while Kendwa is best known for its full moon parties.
The best time to visit is June to October and December to February; March to May brings the heaviest rainy season, with frequent, strong downpours.
At Vamos Fugir we organise your stay in Nungwi with transfers, hand-picked accommodation and connections to the best diving trips and local tours. Get in touch to start planning your 2027 trip.
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Discover more about Zanzibar at zanzibar.pt. Vamos Fugir is a travel agency licensed by Turismo de Portugal (RNAVT no. 4155). Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.