Want to experience Zanzibar beyond the usual tourist trail? Driving from Stone Town to Nungwi lets you do just that. Spanish travelers can watch the island shift from narrow streets lined with coral-stone buildings to open roads, green farms, and beach towns. By renting a car in Zanzibar, you can enhance your trip with small discoveries and experiences that standard tours cannot offer.
Stone Town is the ideal base for Spanish travelers in Zanzibar who want to explore by car. This UNESCO World Heritage city has a maze of narrow alleys, ornate carved doors, and bustling bazaars brimming with history. It offers convenience and culture right from the start of your journey:
The Stone Town to Nungwi road trip spans around 60 km. It is about a 1.5-hour drive without stops. As you head north, the route generally follows the island’s west coast before curving slightly inland and continuing north to reach Nungwi, which is located at the northern tip of Unguja Island. Here’s what to see along the way.
Located about 20 km north of Stone Town, Mangapwani Caves are a quick and worthwhile stop on the way to Nungwi. A short detour from the main road brings you to a coral cave carved into the island’s limestone terrain. Stone steps lead you down into the cave, which stays cool even during the hottest day.
You can explore the area in 30 to 45 minutes. The steps are short, and the path is easy to follow. Inside, the walls are made of rough coral rock. Light filters through the entrance, giving the cave a natural glow. At the bottom, there is a freshwater pool between stone ledges, surrounded by narrow passages and wider chambers.
Located about 21 km south of Nungwi, Mkokotoni is a coastal village known for its fishing activity. The local fish market is lively, with fishermen bringing fresh sea catches. Visitors can observe the bustling market where locals trade seafood and produce. The harbor area features traditional wooden boats and dhows integral to the village's fishing industry. Mkokotoni offers a glimpse into the daily life of a Zanzibari fishing community.
Just outside Kizimbani, about 30 km from Stone Town, you’ll find two popular stops: Tangawizi Spice Farm and Jambo Spice Farm. Both sit along inland roads that connect back to the main route heading to Nungwi.
Tangawizi Spice Farm is known for its wide range of local spices, including cloves, cardamom, vanilla, and lemongrass. Short visits allow you to see, touch, and smell these plants up close in a well-kept, shaded garden. Jambo Spice Farm, also nearby, grows similar crops and often highlights how spices like turmeric and cinnamon are harvested. You’ll also find fresh fruits such as jackfruit, mangoes, and bananas during the right season.
Located about 6 km south of Nungwi, Kidoti is a peaceful coastal village known for its natural beauty, with lush greenery and views of the Indian Ocean. One notable spot is Kidoti Bay, a small, locally owned hotel with six rooms. It features direct access to a secluded beach, hammocks, and relaxing seating areas. The hotel also hosts live music nights, providing an authentic local experience. Nearby, Kidoti Villas offer private luxury accommodations with panoramic ocean views. The villas are on a small cliff and have amenities like an infinity pool and landscaped gardens.
Kendwa Beach is one of Zanzibar’s best coastal stops, about 4 km south of Nungwi. The sand is powdery white, and the water is calm and clear. It’s famous for breathtaking sunsets and occasional Full Moon beach parties if your timing is right. If time permits, stop here for a refreshing swim or a cold drink by the water. Unlike the eastern coast, Kendwa’s tides are mild, which is excellent for swimming at any time of day.
Nungwi welcomes you with beach life and crystal-clear waters. This northern village was once a quiet fishing community; today it’s a popular tourist hub. Nungwi also has a wide range of accommodations. You can easily stay overnight to enjoy the beach atmosphere into the night. Once you reach the tip of Zanzibar, you’ll find plenty of activities and sights to enjoy after the drive.
A sunset catamaran cruise off the coast of Nungwi is the perfect way to end your road trip. These cruises usually begin around 4:30 PM and last about two hours, giving you front-row views of the sun dipping into the Indian Ocean.
The catamarans are modern and spacious, offering comfortable lounge areas, shaded decks, and open-air seating. Most cruises include light snacks, fresh tropical fruit, and drinks, with options for wine, beer, or soft drinks. As the sky turns gold and pink, music plays in the background, creating a peaceful and celebratory vibe. Some operators also offer onboard dinner options featuring Swahili-stle dishes like grilled fish, pilau rice, and spicy sauces. The cruise follows the coastline, passing Nungwi Beach and traditional fishing dhows, giving you a new view of the island from the water. I
Nungwi offers a variety of beachside eateries where you can enjoy fresh seafood and Swahili dishes. Dining with your feet in the sand and the sound of waves creates a perfect tropical evening. The catch of the day, from grilled fish to lobster, is often a highlight. Some restaurants even feature live music at night. After dinner, unwind with a cocktail at a beach bar under the stars. Nungwi’s nightlife is laid-back but enjoyable.
Baraka Beach Restaurant is a popular spot known for its fresh seafood and beachfront setting. Guests can enjoy dishes like grilled fish and lobster while enjoying the ocean views. Maisha Nungwi offers a unique dining experience with stunning sunset views, delectable grilled seafood, and excellent cocktails. The restaurant hosts weekly events, including live music and seafood barbecues.
Nungwi is one of Zanzibar’s top diving hubs, offering warm waters, excellent visibility, and a wide range of marine life. While Mnemba Atoll is the most famous site, there are several other great options nearby. Hunga Reef, just a short boat ride from Nungwi, features vibrant coral walls and schools of reef fish. Leven Bank is popular among advanced divers for its strong currents and the chance to see barracudas, tunas, and reef sharks. Tumbatu Island, closer to Nungwi, is home to coral gardens and unique macro life, ideal for underwater photography.
Dive centers in Nungwi cater to all skill levels. Beginners can take discovery dives or PADI courses, while certified divers can book single or multi-day dive packages. If you prefer to stay at the surface, many centers also offer snorkeling trips to the same reefs, where you can still enjoy colorful fish and corals.
Located at the northern tip of Zanzibar in Nungwi village, the Mnarani Marine Turtles Conservation Pond is a community-led sanctuary dedicated to rehabilitating and protecting sea turtles. The center houses a natural tidal lagoon where injured turtles, often rescued from fishing nets, are cared for until they can be released back into the ocean. Visitors can observe these majestic creatures up close, learn about their life cycles, and understand the conservation efforts to protect them.
The aquarium features a wooden pier that allows visitors to easily view the turtles in their natural habitat. Educational displays provide insights into sea turtles' challenges, such as habitat loss and pollution. The center also engages in community outreach, promoting sustainable practices and environmental awareness among locals and tourists.
An annual highlight is the turtle release event held every February, where rehabilitated turtles are returned to the sea. The aquarium is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with an entry fee of $10 per person.
Drive a few minutes inland from Nungwi to find the Tazari Caves, one of Zanzibar’s largest limestone cave systems. The area sits near the village of Tazari and is one of the island’s lesser-known gems. A local guide will lead you through narrow passageways, huge chambers, and natural rock formations filled with stalactites and stalagmites. Some parts are lit, while others require flashlights.
As you walk, guides share folklore and stories passed down through generations—many believe the caves were once used as hiding spots or for rituals. You’ll also notice cooler air underground, which offers a break from the coastal heat. Wear sturdy shoes, as parts of the ground are slippery or uneven. Also, be ready to see bats roosting in the shadows.
The drive from Stone Town to Nungwi gives Spanish tourists access to more than just beaches. It’s a great way to explore spice farms, visit fishing villages like Mkokotoni, and stop at places like Mangapwani and Tazari Caves. Renting a car with Finalrentals is the step to traveling at your own pace and avoiding crowded tours. We offer fair prices, no hidden fees, and easy pick-up át the airport or downtown, so you can start driving in Zanzibar right away.
