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Find exceptional hotels in Zanzibar's serene coral village. From white-sand beaches to vibrant reef waters, discover the perfect base for your Matemwe stay.
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About Hotels in Matemwe
Matemwe is one of Zanzibar's most unspoilt coastal retreats, drawing visitors with its powder-white beaches, world-class snorkelling and diving on Mnemba Atoll, traditional dhow sailing excursions, and the warm rhythms of a working fishing village. Whether you're exploring the reef at sunrise or watching local fishermen haul in their catch, Matemwe offers an authentically tranquil slice of the East African coast.
Accommodation ranges from intimate boutique lodges along the northern beachfront to more secluded private villas tucked behind the palms of the southern shoreline. The village itself is compact and easily navigated on foot, with tuk-tuks and local dala-dalas connecting guests to Stone Town and the wider island.
Where to Stay in Matemwe
Matemwe Beach Village
The classic first base for Matemwe visitors. Directly on the beach with easy access to snorkelling, dhow hire, and the main strip of restaurants and dive centres. Ideal for those new to the area.
Matemwe North
The most exclusive stretch of coastline, home to Matemwe's finest lodge properties with private beach frontage and direct boat access to Mnemba Atoll. Best for a high-end, peaceful retreat.
Matemwe Village Centre
Staying close to the fishing village gives a genuine sense of local life. Small guesthouses and family-run lodges sit among baobabs and palms, within walking distance of the daily fish market.
Matemwe South
A quieter, less-visited part of the shoreline offering excellent value and more seclusion. Ideal for couples or independent travellers who want space, with tuk-tuk connections to the beach and dive operators.
Airport and Transport Guide
Matemwe is served by Zanzibar's Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ), the main gateway to the island with scheduled connections via Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, and Addis Ababa. Regular Coastal Aviation and Auric Air light aircraft flights connect ZNZ to Matemwe's closest airstrip at Nungwi, taking around 15 minutes, while shared minibus transfers from Zanzibar Town reach Matemwe in approximately 45 minutes to one hour.
On the island, dalla-dalla minibuses are the local public transit option, though most visitors rely on private taxis or pre-arranged hotel transfers. Taxis from Zanzibar Town to Matemwe typically cost between 30,000 and 50,000 Tanzanian shillings. Bolt operates on Zanzibar and offers a more transparent fare structure than negotiating independently with street taxis.
Tips for Finding the Best Hotel Deal in Matemwe
- Book at least 8–10 weeks ahead for the peak dry season — the Zanzibar International Film Festival in July fills accommodation across the north coast fast.
- Properties around Pwani Mchangani and Kiwengwa, just south of Matemwe, often offer lower nightly rates while remaining within easy reach of the reef.
- Look for hotels and guesthouses that include breakfast — fresh tropical fruit, chapati, and Swahili tea make a good hotel breakfast well worth the addition.
- Choose free-cancellation rates where possible, as flight connections through Nairobi or Dar es Salaam can be disrupted, shifting arrival dates unexpectedly.
- Midweek stays are noticeably cheaper than weekend arrivals in Matemwe, particularly at boutique lodges catering to short-break visitors flying in from Nairobi.
- Join loyalty programmes with Zanzibar Collection or Aman — both have a meaningful presence on the island and offer member-exclusive rates and upgrades.
When to Visit Matemwe for Lower Prices
Winter (High Season)
June to October is Matemwe's peak season, with dry skies, calm seas ideal for snorkelling the Mnemba Atoll, and the best visibility for diving. Demand is highest in July and August, so book well in advance and expect premium rates throughout.
Spring (Value Season)
March to May brings the long rains, significantly reducing prices across all accommodation tiers. Showers are typically short and intense rather than all-day, leaving plenty of beach time. Expect rates from around £60–£110 per night at mid-range hotels.
Summer (High Season)
November to December marks the short dry season, with warm weather, quieter beaches than the July peak, and strong hotel occupancy driven by European winter sun-seekers and festive holiday travel. Prices rise sharply through December.
Autumn (Value Season)
January and February offer a genuine shoulder period — warm temperatures, lower humidity than the approaching rains, and hotel prices that have eased from the December festive peak. A comfortable and underrated time to visit the north-east coast.
Popular Areas to Stay in Matemwe
Matemwe Village
The heart of Matemwe, where local guesthouses and small lodges cluster near the beach road. Convenient for snorkelling, diving outfitters, and the daily fish market, with authentic community atmosphere throughout.
Matemwe Beach
The prime stretch of white sand facing the Indian Ocean and Mnemba Atoll. Upscale boutique hotels and exclusive resorts command premium rates here, rewarding guests with direct beach access and spectacular reef views.
Matemwe North
A quieter, less-visited section beyond the main village favoured by travellers seeking seclusion. Small owner-run lodges offer genuine value, with calmer tidal flats ideal for low-tide walks and seaweed-farm exploration.
Matemwe South
Closer to Pwani Mchangani and popular with repeat visitors combining diving with cultural day trips. Mid-range guesthouses sit alongside simple local eateries, making it practical for longer stays on a modest budget.
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