Kendwa

CityUnguja North Region, Tanzania

Kendwa is a CITY in Unguja North Region, Tanzania.

Kendwa is a picturesque beach village located on the northwest coast of Zanzibar, Tanzania, renowned for its pristine white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Unlike the bustling Nungwi nearby, Kendwa offers a more tranquil and laid-back atmosphere, making it a favorite for travelers seeking relaxation. The village is famous for its Full Moon Parties, where locals and tourists gather under the stars for music, dancing, and bonfires. Kendwa's coral reefs provide excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities, while the local fishing culture offers a glimpse into traditional Swahili life. The area is also known for its stunning sunsets and vibrant nightlife, blending local charm with international appeal.

Best time to visit Kendwa

The best time to visit Kendwa is from June to October and December to February when the weather is dry and sunny. Avoid the rainy seasons (March to May and November) for optimal beach conditions.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather
Warm 25-30°C, dry

Travel notes

Crowds
Moderate
Prices
Moderate

Good for snorkeling

Know before you go

Getting there

ZNZ

Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (Zanzibar)

International

60 km away

DAR

Julius Nyerere International Airport (Dar es Salaam)

International

120 km away

Getting around

"Local transportation in Kendwa includes dala-dalas (shared minibuses), taxis, and rented bicycles or scooters. Walking is convenient for short distances, but taxis are recommended for night travel. Boat taxis are available for trips to nearby islands."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

15 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available in most hotels and resorts

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport or shops from $5

Calling code

255

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Petty theft possible; avoid isolated beaches at night.

Night safety

7/10

Petty theft possible; avoid isolated beaches at night.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Kendwa is generally safe, but petty theft can occur, so keep valuables secure. Avoid walking alone at night on the beach. Respect local customs, especially during Ramadan, and dress modestly outside beach areas."

Entry and health

Health information

"Travelers to Kendwa should ensure they are up-to-date on routine vaccines and consider vaccinations for Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Yellow Fever. Malaria is present in Zanzibar, so antimalarial medication and mosquito repellent are recommended. Drink bottled or boiled water to avoid waterborne illnesses."

Culture

Local customs

"Kendwa is a Muslim-majority area, so dress modestly outside the beach. Public displays of affection are frowned upon. Always ask permission before photographing locals. During Ramadan, eating or drinking in public during daylight hours is discouraged."
SwahiliEnglishArabic

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$5-10 | a cheap local meal costs ~$5

Hotels

$40-120 | budget hotels range $40-80/night, mid-range $80-120

Local transport

$1 | local bus ride ~$1

Cost notes

Prices higher during peak season (July-Aug, Dec-Jan).

Timezone

Africa/Dar_es_Salaam +03:00 (GMT+3)

More facts

Population

0.1 million

Area

5.2 km²

Government

Local Council

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Kendwa, Kenda

CityBeachRelaxationSnorkelingSunsetNightlifeFamily-FriendlyDiving