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.
Matemwe in Pictures
Find Matemwe
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Matemwe Tours & Excursions
Safari Blue Full Day
1 Days / 0 Nights
$95 per person
Sunset Dhow Cruise
1 Days / 0 Nights
$65 per person
Mnemba Atoll Snorkeling
1 Days / 0 Nights
$90 per person
Spice Plantation Tour
1 Days / 0 Nights
$3 per person
Nakupenda Sandbank Trip
1 Days / 0 Nights
$75 per person
Full Island Tour
1 Days / 0 Nights
$150 per person
Matemwe Accommodations
Matemwe Retreat
Four exclusive villas with private pools and butler service on a coral cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean and Mnemba Atoll.
$500 per night
Zawadi Hotel
Intimate clifftop retreat with just 9 villas perched above Matemwe's turquoise reef. Adults-only, with infinity pool and organic dining.
$300 per night
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 →Ready to Explore Matemwe?
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