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South-west Zanzibar
South-west Zanzibar
South-west Zanzibar
South-west Zanzibar
South-west Zanzibar
South-west Zanzibar
South-west Zanzibar

There are some excellent dive sites in south-west Zanzibar

South-west Zanzibar is the quietest part of the Island.

There are only a few but very lovely accommodation options...

...which are great for relaxing on the beach...

...as well as by the pool.

The beaches are amazing for swimming...

...and there is a lot to discover under the water’s surface.

South-west Zanzibar

South-west Zanzibar

In the south-west, you can sail between uninhabited islets, watch pods of dolphins and snorkel in marine parks.

With few places to stay and some of the island’s finest marine experiences, Southwest Zanzibar is ideal for true escapism. Unlike the East Coast, the Southwest doesn’t have the archetypal stretches of powder-sand beaches expected on Zanzibar, but neither does it have the volume of visitors experienced elsewhere on the island. Indeed, its serenity and more gentle scenery provide a good deal of charm.

There is plenty to love here: some of the best marine, animal and historical conservation projects on the island, genuine friendliness in the villages, and some superb, trailblazing eco-lodges.

With two fabulous marine parks - Menai Bay Conservation Area and Chumbe Island Coral Park – there are simply magical boat trips and snorkelling experiences to be enjoyed. Exploring wild islands and glorious sandbanks, eating tasty picnic lunches on secluded island beaches and embarking on guided snorkelling forays to the finest reefs.

On the largest of the offshore islands in this area, award-winning Chumbe Island Lodge is ingeniously designed and truly ecologically sensitive. The surrounding coral reef became Tanzania’s first Marine National Park in 1994 and was hailed by conservation experts as ‘one of the most spectacular coral gardens to be found anywhere in the world’. It is a joy to join guided snorkelling trips in such a pristine ecosystem.

From Fumba and Kizimkazi, blissful days spend under sail on the water, stopping at uninhabited islands and sandbanks, or diving and snorkelling on quiet reefs, are equally magical. It is joyfully decadent and deeply relaxing to spend days afloat on sparkling seas, but when accompanied by the bottlenose and humpback dolphins often seen playing here, its simply magical.

South-west Zanzibar

Holidays visiting South-west Zanzibar

Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you


Itinerary image

Papaya Beach Holiday

7 days • 2 locations
DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT

A relaxing holiday with a range of activities, where Chumbe Island Lodge and Matemwe offer tranquil atmospheres, considerable exclusivity and the chance to learn about worthwhile local conservation efforts.

US$2,730 - US$4,370 per person

View all holidays

Most recent reviews of our beach holidays to South-west Zanzibar

Click below to browse all 154 reviews from South-west Zanzibar. All from our travellers; all are in full & unedited.


98%
154 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
145
Good
10
Average
0
Poor
1
Terrible
0
The JS Family from Sweden

Arrived 30 Jul 2024, 10 nights

"Tanzania 2024 "

"We had a very nice trip! …" Read The JS Family’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Caro from Bucks

Arrived 31 Jul 2024, 12 nights

"My Jul 2024 trip"

"holiday of a lifetime...thanks to Maruska and Expert Africa …" Read Caro’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs H. from Surrey

Arrived 25 Jul 2023, 13 nights

"Selous - Zanzibar July 2023 (family of 4)"

"We had the most amazing time... We will use Expert Africa for our planning again …" Read Mr & Mrs H.’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Ms H. from London

Arrived 27 Dec 2022, 14 nights

"My Dec 2022 trip"

Overall rating: Excellent

Dr & Mrs S from Northants

Arrived 3 Sep 2022, 19 nights

"Return to Tanzania for the 4th time"

"Expert Africa arrangements were spot on and we had a marvellous holiday …" Read Dr & Mrs S’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Simona from London

Arrived 22 Jul 2022, 10 nights

"My Jul 2022 trip"

"The trip was unforgettable, probably the best I have ever done …" Read Simona’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr W. from Brussels

Arrived 5 Aug 2021, 21 nights

"My Aug 2021 trip"

"Expert Africa are extraordinary in the depth of their knowledge …" Read Mr W.’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mandolin from Surrey

Arrived 25 Oct 2020, 41 nights

"The trip of a lifetime."

"The trip of a lifetime …" Read Mandolin’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr &Mrs W from Bamford

Arrived 20 Dec 2019, 16 nights

"My Dec 2019 trip"

"Amazing family holiday. So pleased with Richard's recommendations for us. …" Read Mr &Mrs W’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mrs S from London

Arrived 16 Sep 2019, 16 nights

"Zambia / Zanzibar"

"Amanda's advice and organisation were invaluable. …" Read Mrs S’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all South-west Zanzibar reviews

Where to stay in South-west Zanzibar

Our suggestions for beach lodges in South-west Zanzibar


Unguja Lodge

Unguja Lodge

Unguja is a small, rustic lodge in southern Zanzibar standing on a quiet beach, with some of the most spacious rooms we have seen on Zanzibar.


92% (79 reviews)
Chumbe Island Lodge

Chumbe Island Lodge

Situated on the tiny Chumbe Island, this lodge is an award-winning example of eco-tourism, with excellent snorkelling.


98% (50 reviews)
Fumba Beach Lodge

Fumba Beach Lodge

Fumba Beach Lodge is stylishly put together, with spacious, luxurious rooms, comfortable communal areas and a fantastic infinity pool.


87% (39 reviews)
The Residence Zanzibar

The Residence

The Residence is a very large resort hotel in south-west Zanzibar. Each villa has its own 8-metre lap pool.


100% (2 reviews)

View all places

When to go to South-west Zanzibar

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit South-west Zanzibar in Zanzibar


Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Zanzibar in January

As on the Tanzanian mainland, January typically marks the start of the short dry season in Zanzibar. Conditions are likely to be hot and mostly dry, with temperatures exceeding 30ºC, although it is not uncommon to get a tropical shower in the afternoons. January can feel very humid at times, and this is particularly noticeable in Stone Town, although this can be tempered by the cooling sea breeze.

New Year is one of the most popular times to visit Zanzibar, with many hotels being fully booked over the festive period. The island generally becomes much quieter after 10th January, and prices drop too.

  • Mostly hot with the occasional shower.
  • High humidity, which can be relieved by the refreshing breeze.
  • Very busy over New Year, with high prices and long minimum stays often
  • Quieter and better value later in the month.
  • Wind from the northeast, and so the southwest coast is more sheltered.

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in January

Zanzibar in February

The weather in February is fairly similar to January, with days typically being hot and sunny although expect the occasional rainy spell. The humidity remains high, however the coastal areas often have a refreshing breeze. Zanzibar is fairly quiet in February, and with comparatively low prices it can be excellent value for money.

At this time the wind blows from the northeast, and so the southwest coast is often more sheltered and there can be good diving in the Menai Bay. The northeast winds can also lead to good conditions for kite surfing, with many kite surfers heading to the southeast coast and Michamvi Peninsula. For music lovers, Stone Town hosts an annual African music festival ‘Sauti za Busara’ each February. The festival's dates change each year; ask us for details.

  • Variable: mostly hot and humid with some cloud and rainy spells.
  • Fewer tourists and comparatively low prices.
  • Popular time for kite surfing, especially around the southeast coast.
  • North easterly wind, better diving in the south west of the island.
  • ‘Sauti za Busara’ music festival in early February.

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in February

Zanzibar in March

March sees the start of the ‘long rains’ in Zanzibar, although the exact start date varies every year. The weather can be unpredictable, with a combination of hot sunny days, rain showers, and the occasional tropical storm. The arrival of the rains lowers the humidity, and it can also lead to some beautiful sunsets – most obviously on the west coast where you can watch the sunset over the ocean. Prices remain low during March, and the island is likely to be relatively quiet.

Diving is generally not recommended during the rainy season, as variable conditions can lead to reduced visibility from rainfall runoff, and choppy water.

  • Hot and humid, leading to heavy rains later in the month.
  • Low prices, and the island is comparatively quiet.
  • Variable weather leads to poor conditions for diving.
  • The start of the rains can lead to beautiful sunsets.

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in March

Zanzibar in April

April is typically the wettest month of the year in Zanzibar, and the long rains are in full force. The average rainfall is more than 250mm during this month, and tropical storms are common. Flooding regularly occurs, which can impact the quality of the roads, and consequently cause difficult, slow journeys across the island. Many of the hotels and beach lodges close at this time, so accommodation options can be limited. Having said this, prices are at their lowest, and if you don’t mind the risk of bad weather you can get some real bargains.

Despite the poor conditions, Easter weekend is often popular, and advance booking is recommended. Due to the strong likelihood of rain and poor conditions diving is inadvisable at this time.

  • Heavy rain and tropical storms expected throughout the month.
  • Areas of flooding leading to poor travel conditions.
  • Many hotels close for refurbishment at this time.
  • Low prices and few other tourists.
  • Diving inadvisable due to heavy rain and reduced visibility.

Our view

A time to avoid if possible

Weather in April

Zanzibar in May

The long rains continue into May, and as with April you can expect thunderstorms and heavy showers, although these typically ease up towards the end of the month. Parts of the island can experience flooding, causing damage to roads and impacting travel times. The temperature typically drops a little in May, with a daytime average of around 25ºC. The rains lead to a lower humidity too, and mornings and evenings can feel a bit cooler.

Many of the hotels and lodges are still closed, however a handful stay open and prices remain low. While diving is possible, the rain and storms mean that diving conditions are not at their best.

  • Continuation of the long rains, with thunderstorms and lightning.
  • Flooding common, but conditions becoming drier as the month progresses
  • Drop in temperatures, with cooler mornings and evenings.
  • Prices low, and many hotels remain closed.

Our view

A time to avoid if possible

Weather in May

Zanzibar in June

June marks the start of the long dry season in Zanzibar. While the island still gets rainfall, especially early in the month, it’s becomes less likely as the month progresses. Temperatures remain steady, with daytime highs averaging 25ºC, and it likely to be mostly dry. Any rain you do experience is likely to be in shorter bursts rather than heavy storms and hours of continuous rain, although conditions vary from year to year.

The wind direction switches to blow from the southeast, and the northeast coast is likely to be more sheltered at this time. Diving conditions can be variable, and while they are generally good there can be some rough days.

  • Variable weather: mostly hot and dry, with some rainy showers.
  • Wind from the southwest, and more sheltered in the north east.
  • Diving conditions variable, dependent on the wind and rain.
  • Lower prices and generally good weather can lead to great value.

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in June

Zanzibar in July

July is a very popular time to go to Zanzibar, and this coincides with the long dry season. July and August are the school holidays throughout much of Europe, and Zanzibar can often be busy with families. Weather conditions are generally hot and dry and pretty ideal for a beach holiday, however there is still a chance of an occasional short shower. Conditions for diving are typically pretty good, however this will be dependent on recent weather conditions.

The Zanzibar International Film Festival takes place in July, with lots of people flocking to Stone Town to soak up the atmosphere. The dates for the festival change every year, so chat to Expert Africa for details.

  • Typically hot and dry with clear skies, although showers are possible.
  • Can become very busy, with many families traveling during holidays.
  • Zanzibar International Film Festival takes place in Stone Town.
  • Great beach weather result in high prices.

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in July

Zanzibar in August

August is one of the most popular times of year to visit Zanzibar, and with good reason; this is one of the driest months and it is typically hot with clear skies – ideal for relaxing on the beach. Many families choose to visit during August, and the island can be busy, and this is particularly noticeable in Stone Town and around the more popular snorkelling sites.

High demand can mean that many of the more popular hotels and beach lodges can be booked up more than 6 months ahead, so advance booking is crucial. Due to the popularity and great beach weather prices are high.

  • Hot and sunny, generally ideal for relaxing on the beach.
  • Popular time for families and the island can be busy.
  • High demand leads to higher prices, and advance booking is essential.
  • With little rain falling and causing soil run-off, the sea is clear.

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in August

Zanzibar in September

September is an excellent time of year to visit Zanzibar. Weather conditions are typically very good, with clear skies and temperatures ranging from 20¬–30ºC. September is also one of the driest months, averaging 50mm of rain during the month, however rain showers are still possible. Due to the great beach conditions prices remain high, however with fewer families travelling in September the island can be a little quieter at this time.

September to December are often some of the calmest months at sea, which can result in superb conditions for diving. The wind typically blows from the southeast, and the northeast coast can often be a little more sheltered. You can find some beautiful snorkelling and diving spots around Mnemba Island.

  • Warm temperatures and clear skies, with the off-chance of rain.
  • Fewer families travelling, and the island can be a little quieter.
  • Great beach weather means that prices remain high.
  • Relatively calm seas result in good conditions for diving.

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in September

Zanzibar in October

October is the tail end of the dry season and you can generally expect hot, dry conditions. The short rains typically start in early November, and so this does mean that there is an increased likelihood of rainy spells as the month progresses. October remains a popular month to travel, particularly so during the European half-term school holidays, and advance booking is advised.

With high demand and great weather prices remain high, however there are some long-stay special offers to be found. South-easterly winds mean that the northeast coast can be more sheltered and conditions for diving can be good.

  • End of the dry season, generally good beach weather.
  • Increased chance of rain, particularly near the end of the month.
  • Popular with families during the half-term school holiday.
  • High demand means prices remain high.
  • Northeast coast generally more sheltered.

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in October

Zanzibar in November

The short rains start during November, however their exact start varies year on year. You are likely to experience a mixture of hot, dry days with the occasional tropical shower, however we find that short showers can actually be quite refreshing. With the start of the rains the humidity can shoot up and while the coastal properties tend to receive a pleasant cooling breeze Stone Town and the island interior can feel quite hot and clammy.

Prices drop in November and there are some real bargains to be found. This time of year can be great value for money, especially near the start of the month when the weather conditions are very comparable to late October. The demand is generally lower, and the island starts to feel much quieter.

  • Variable weather: mostly hot and dry but with some clouds and rain.
  • Hot temperatures, with humidity on the rise.
  • Less busy than October, and with lower prices it can be great value.

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in November

Zanzibar in December

December falls in to the short rainy season, and the weather can be variable. Days are likely to be hot and humid, with the occasional patch of rain, although showers can be a blessing in disguise as they help to lower the temperature. Early December is fairly quiet and prices are low, however this changes dramatically over Christmas and New Year.

The festive season, from around 20th December to 5th January, is arguably the most popular time to visit Zanzibar. Prices are at their highest, and long minimum stays are imposed. Due to the very high demand booking early is essential, especially if you’re a group or a large family. Book six months to a year in advance, or even more, if possible.

  • Variable weather, with a mix of hot, sunny days and tropical showers.
  • High humidity, which may be mitigated by the cool ocean breeze.
  • Quiet with lower prices earlier in the month.
  • Busy and exceptionally popular over Christmas and New Year.
  • Advance booking over Christmas and New Year is essential.

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in December

Map of South-west Zanzibar

Choices for where to stay in South-west Zanzibar


South-west Zanzibar: Beach holidays


Showing 1-1 of 1
Name
Duration
Cost
Most popular
Itinerary image

Papaya Beach Holiday

7 days • 2 locations
DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT

A relaxing holiday with a range of activities, where Chumbe Island Lodge and Matemwe offer tranquil atmospheres, considerable exclusivity and the chance to learn about worthwhile local conservation efforts.

US$2,730 - US$4,370 per person

Showing 1-1 of 1

Our top 4 beach lodges and resorts in Southwest Zanzibar

This particular area of Zanzibar is the friendliest corner of the island. Listed below are our favorite resorts, perfect for beach holidays and some relaxation.


Showing 1-4 of 4
Name
Traveller's rating
No. of reviews
Unguja Lodge

Unguja Lodge

Unguja is a small, rustic lodge in southern Zanzibar standing on a quiet beach, with some of the most spacious rooms we have seen on Zanzibar.


92% (79 reviews)
Chumbe Island Lodge

Chumbe Island Lodge

Situated on the tiny Chumbe Island, this lodge is an award-winning example of eco-tourism, with excellent snorkelling.


98% (50 reviews)
Fumba Beach Lodge

Fumba Beach Lodge

Fumba Beach Lodge is stylishly put together, with spacious, luxurious rooms, comfortable communal areas and a fantastic infinity pool.


87% (39 reviews)
The Residence Zanzibar

The Residence

The Residence is a very large resort hotel in south-west Zanzibar. Each villa has its own 8-metre lap pool.


100% (2 reviews)
Showing 1-1 of 4

Excursions in South-west Zanzibar

Optional, extra day-trips and excursions that are possible while you’re staying in South-west Zanzibar. Talk to us: these excursions are usually best arranged before you go.


Jambiani Village Tour

Jambiani Village Tour

Half-day - mornings

Tear yourself away from the soft white sands of Zanzibar to get under the skin of the history and culture of Jambiani village. Join a knowledgeable local guide to discover the intricacies of day-to-day life in this traditional coastal village, with much of the profits being ploughed back into the community.

More about Village Tour
Jozani Forest Tour

Jozani Forest Tour

Half-day or combine with other tours

For nature lovers, Jozani Forest is a must. One of the last sanctuaries of the red colobus monkey, it features a diverse range of habitats, from mangrove forests to salt marshes. Keep your eyes peeled for other forest residents, including Sykes’ monkey, bushbabies, duikers and more than 40 species of bird.

More about Jozani Forest
64% (5 reviews)
Zanzibar Dhow Safari

Zanzibar Dhow Safari

Full day - approx. eight hours

Discover the coast and islands of the Menai Bay from a traditional Zanzibari dhow. Explore this beautiful marine conservation area with a local guide, snorkelling over coral reefs, swimming through mangrove lagoons and keeping an eye out for dolphins. To top it all, you’ll also be treated to a fabulous beach barbecue.

More about Zanzibar Dhow Safari
80% (1 reviews)
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