Jambiani Voyage Tips and guide

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Jambiani is in Zanzibar.

Jambiani is a small fishing village on the South East Coast of Zanzibar, stretching for over 6 km along the beach. There are many hotels and guesthouses along the beach as well as private villas to rent.

When coming from Stone town, you'll need to first take a bus to Mwanakwerekwe. Mwanakwerekwe can be reached by taking a dala dala from the crossroads just south of the Market on creek street. You can either take a dala dala terminating in Mwanakwerekwe or Fuoni (20mins, Tsh 300 in 2018), the latter being slightly faster (25mins). From there you can catch the 309 to Jambiani (1-1.5hrs, Tsh 2000 in 2018) which will cross the village in its entirety. When picking a dala dala go for the one that looks the most full (as this is the one most likely to leave first!). Dala dalas will only leave when they have enough passengers, so if you are the first on the bus this will mean a long wait...

The shuttle buses leave at set times and collect you directly from your accommodation. Tickets need to be booked in advance from The Zanzibus. Essentially, you get the same service as a taxi for $10 p/p, the main difference being that you will probably be sharing the vehicle with other passengers. Unlike the dala dala everyone gets their own seat and there plenty of space for luggage.

From Stone town expect to pay around US$50. Unless you enjoy lengthy haggling sessions it is highly recommended to prebook your taxi online or through your hotel!

Most in Jambiani is done by walking, although it is worth renting a bicycle.

Jambiani is famous for its beach where tourists and locals are both sharing the space. A village tour can show visitors local life, and there are plenty of restaurants to rest.

Visit Kuumbi Caves at the South of Jambiani - rent a bike and make the track through the bush. Entry fees are about $4 per person.

About 1.5 km away there is Swahili Cave, with crisp crystal clear water, suitable for swimming and a rest zone with drinks and meals above. It costs 10 USD (better pay as 20000 TZS, 2024/02).

Fish trips on local dhows are available. You’ll have the opportunity to go sea with he fishermen early in the morning, and if you’re lucky, eat some of your catch for lunch.

Bicycles can be rented from various places around town. As always be sure to check the condition before you ride, and expect to pay around tsh 15,000 to rent the bike for the day.

The Women Pottery Group is a local women initiative which offers pottery for sale in its shop.

There are many restaurants up and down the beach, each offering different dishes. Local restaurant prepare fresh food (pre-order, waiting times of up to 2 hours can be the norm but are worth the wait) while hotels offer international cuisine. Local restaurants from North to South: Seahorse, Kim's Restaurant, Starfish, Scuola, Chez Hassan.

You also have the option to eat with a local family from the village. This can be arranged though your hotel. There is no set price, but this is an ideal opportunity to put money into the hands of local people. If you ask beforehand, you can also cook with the family and learn some of the secrets behind Zanzibari food. Anything above tsh 25,000-30,000 is sufficient. Make sure to give the money to the head of the family directly.

Bars can be found along the beach, with most hotels also having a bar for outside visitors. Local bars from North to South: Shadow Bar, Starfish, Baghani, Al Hapa, Dhow Beach, Kimte

Jambiani offers for every budget.

• Mango Beach House, ☏ +255 77 34 98 94 9, [email protected]. A little gem on the South East coast - with only three rooms, this small guesthouse offers a super-personalised service and a great base for any travellers looking for rest and relaxation. Great hosts, great menu. (updated Aug 2015)
• Garden Beach Bungalows & Restaurant (Near Jambiani Secondary School), ☏ +255 620 158 067, [email protected]. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 11:00. One of the very few authentic, ocean and tropical garden view bungalows with thatch roof are right on the beach. A relaxed atmosphere where all can enjoy local and Turkish kitchen and lovingly prepared healthy detox cocktails in the juice bar. (Prices are per room and includes our delicious breakfast). 
• Marashi beach house, Jambiani, ☏ +255778320233, [email protected]. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 10:00. The house is spacious, cozy and comfortable. Features a lovely veranda, a large living room and a kitchen on the first floor, and bedrooms on the second floor. Two bathrooms with toilets and hot water, respectively on the first and the second floor. Two rooms, one facing the ocean with a spacious balcony in front, while the other overlooks the village and doesn't have a balcony. The rooms are equipped with comfortable beds, mosquito nets, fans, wardrobes and all other amenities needed for a normal stay. Free WiFI is available. €25-30. (updated Oct 2020)