Tanzania Beaches. Luxury Tanzania Beach Holidays, Destinations
Tanzania Beaches. Luxury Tanzania Beach Holidays, Destinations. Tanzania provides diverse beach holiday experiences, ranging from the vibrant coasts of Zanzibar to the more isolated retreats of Mafia and Pemba islands. Zanzibar is a premier destination, renowned for its exquisite beaches, dynamic culture, and historical landmarks such as Stone Town. Nonetheless, other coastal regions, including Mafia Island and the mainland shore, provide distinctive experiences, such as diving and snorkelling chances.
Tanzania’s status as a premier safari destination frequently eclipses its extensive 800-kilometer stretch of stunning Indian Ocean coastline, not to mention the allure of exotic Zanzibar and other tropical islands inside its territory.
Why Visit Tanzania’s Coast
A Tanzania beach break offers sufficient variety to serve as the perfect conclusion to a safari or as an independent vacation, appealing to all travellers. The beaches are among the finest on the East African coast, and the array of world-class dive spots will please scuba divers and snorkelers. Couples on their honeymoon will appreciate the luxurious beachside resorts, while parents will value the variety of family-oriented accommodations and activities offered.
However, the Tanzanian coast encompasses more than just beaches and coral reefs; it boasts a rich amalgamation of cultures and culinary traditions. Engage in the exploration of back-street markets, savour local cuisine, and mingle with local merchants; the ambiance is amicable and laid-back, although, owing to the significant Islamic influence, rather conservative, necessitating respect for local customs and sensitivities.
Zanzibar Vacations
What are the reasons for visiting Zanzibar? The name alone is likely to evoke images of spice markets, palm-lined beaches, and white-sailed dhows on a blue sea — and fortunately, the reality does not disappoint. Situated a few distance from the Tanzanian coast and at the intersection of Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, Zanzibar has historically been pivotal to the Indian Ocean narrative in East Africa, making a trip in Zanzibar an unparalleled sensory experience.
From spice tours and cobblestone alleyways to premier luxury resorts in Zanzibar, here are compelling reasons to include this place on your bucket list:
Zanzibar is the quintessential Indian Ocean island, featuring extensive stretches of exquisite beaches adorned with palm trees and azure waters.
Zanzibar Town, the hub of the island, is bustling with activity. This hub of local culture draws tourists to its central ‘Stone Town‘, a labyrinth of small lanes where visitors examine the town’s intriguing architecture, negotiate at market booths, and discover the island’s captivating history. A visit to the island is incomplete without an overnight stay in Stone Town to recognize the significance of this small locale.
Fanjove Island
Fanjove is a rare private island that offers exceptional value for money. A diminutive isle, around a coral reef south of Dar es Salaam, Fanjove offers all the attributes one desires from a private island: pristine white beaches, warm waters, and a forested interior resonating with avian melodies. This exclusive and stylish lodge features only six individual suites, making it perfect for travellers seeking privacy, honeymooners, and those desiring bush-and-beach retreats. Offshore, stunning reefs offer visibility of 20 meters (66 feet), alongside pods of inquisitive bottlenose and spinner dolphins, and transient sandbanks ideal for a picnic lunch. Be vigilant for endangered green turtles and migrating humpback whales.
Pemba Island
Pemba is the most extensive island in the Zanzibar Archipelago. Pemba, situated north of Zanzibar, features a limited selection of premier resorts, yet offers a distinctly secluded ambiance and a relaxed island lifestyle.
It is not a quintessential beach resort, as the beaches are significantly inferior than those of Zanzibar. The diving is exceptional, and there are exquisite offshore islands featuring powdery white beaches. This is an excellent location for the active individuals. Pemba’s pristine coral and rich marine biodiversity render it ideal for snorkelling, diving, and fishing, while boat excursions facilitate exploration of nearby offshore islands.
The island has a limited number of lodges, including two that we frequent: the adventurous and costly Fundu Lagoon and the traditionally opulent Constance Aiyana.
When to visit
Pack minimally for your beach break in Tanzania, as the climate is often hot, sunny, and humid throughout the year, with average temperatures ranging from 25 to 30°C. There are, however, separate rainy seasons: it is advisable to avoid the shore during the prolonged rains from March to April (when several lodges close), but the short rains from November to January pose fewer concerns.
The optimal period for a beach holiday in Tanzania is widely recognised as the drier and milder months from June to September; the December to January holiday season is also favoured, albeit with elevated temperatures and occasional rainfall.