The reef is close to shore here, making it one of the island's best snorkeling areas. At low tide, local fishermen wade out to check their traps while women harvest seaweed along the flats. This is Zanzibar at its most tranquil and authentic — a place to disconnect, read, and listen to the ocean.
Matemwe is Zanzibar's quiet, exclusive northeast coast — a long stretch of pristine beach backed by coconut palms and punctuated by boutique lodges that blend into the landscape.
Discover the wild heart of Matemwe
Explore Tours →Best Time to Visit
June to October for the driest weather and best underwater visibility. The reef is accessible year-round. High tide offers the best snorkeling directly from the beach. December to February is warm but can be humid.
What You'll See
Matemwe's house reef supports a rich diversity of marine life — parrotfish, angelfish, moray eels, octopuses, and occasional sea turtles. The reef drops off into deeper channels where dolphins are sometimes spotted. Mnemba Atoll is a 20-minute boat ride away.
Getting There
50 km from Zanzibar Airport (approximately 45 minutes by road). The route passes through rural villages and spice plantations. Most lodges arrange private transfers.
Find Matemwe
Let our Zanzibar specialists plan the perfect itinerary to Matemwe. Every experience is tailored, every operator is verified.
Matemwe Tours & Excursions
Luxury Dhow Sunset Cruise
1 Days / 0 Nights
$150 per person
Premium Mnemba Atoll Snorkeling
1 Days / 0 Nights
$120 per person
Private Stone Town Heritage Walk
1 Days / 0 Nights
$80 per person
Gourmet Spice Tour & Cooking Class
1 Days / 0 Nights
$95 per person
Serengeti Migration Safari
6 Days / 5 Nights
$3,500 per person
Ngorongoro Crater Expedition
3 Days / 2 Nights
$1,800 per person
Other Tanzania Destinations
Stone Town
UNESCO World Heritage Site — Swahili architecture, spice markets & rooftop dining
Read Guide →Nungwi
Zanzibar's sunset coast — tide-free swimming, dhow builders & vibrant nightlife
Read Guide →Kendwa
Luxury beachfront resorts, tide-free swimming & legendary full moon parties
Read Guide →Paje
East Africa's kitesurfing capital — trade winds, tidal flats & bohemian beach life
Read Guide →Where to Stay Near Matemwe
Pongwe, Tanzania
Tulia Zanzibar Unique Beach Resort
Secluded boutique resort on Pongwe's untouched bay with thatched villas, tropical gardens, and one of Zanzibar's most serene stretches of sand.
From USD 350 / night
Pemba Island, Tanzania
Aiyana Resort & Spa Pemba
Exclusive island sanctuary on Pemba's untouched west coast with ocean-facing villas, a world-class dive centre, and holistic spa overlooking the channel.
From USD 800 / night
Kiwengwa, Tanzania
Melia Zanzibar
All-inclusive beachfront elegance on Kiwengwa's turquoise shore with lush tropical gardens, two pools, and a world-class spa.
From USD 400 / night
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