Nungwi sits at the very top of Zanzibar, famous for its white-sand beaches and legendary sunsets. It's a fantastic base — and with your own car, the whole north coast opens up.
Why rent a car in Nungwi
Taxis from Nungwi are expensive because everything is far: Stone Town is about 60 km south, and most day-trip destinations spread along the coast. Two or three taxi rides quickly cost more than a full day's rental. With a car from $25/day, no deposit, you drive on your schedule — sunrise swims, sunset dinners, no negotiating fares.
We deliver to Nungwi and anywhere on the island, so your car is waiting when you arrive at your hotel.
Day trips from Nungwi
Kendwa (15 minutes south)
Zanzibar's other great sunset beach. Park near the main beach access and walk in. Arrive by 5 pm, swim, and stay for sunset — then drive back along the coastal road as the sky turns orange.
Nungwi Lighthouse and the village
Drive to the northern tip to see the historic lighthouse, then wander Nungwi village itself — the dhow boatyards where wooden boats are still built by hand are worth an hour.
Mnemba viewpoint
You can't land on private Mnemba Island, but the boat trips depart from nearby beaches, and the drive along the northeast coast to the departure points is half the fun.
Stone Town (about 1.5 hours)
Make it a full day: drive down in the morning, explore the old town and Forodhani Gardens, and be back in Nungwi for dinner. The main road is paved all the way.
Roads and parking in the north
The main Nungwi–Stone Town road is paved and in decent shape. The last stretches into beach areas can be sandy — this is why most visitors choose the Toyota RAV4: it handles both tarmac and sand without drama. Parking at beaches and restaurants is informal but easy; hotel parking is free and secure.
A few honest tips: drive on the left, watch for speed bumps near villages (they're everywhere and unmarked), and avoid driving after dark — the roads are unlit and you'll enjoy the drive far more in daylight.
The north coast is made for driving
Nungwi to Kendwa at golden hour, with the windows down and nowhere to be — that's the trip people remember. We make it easy: car delivered to your hotel, permit arranged, no deposit.
Book on WhatsApp: +255 678 723 942 — tell us your hotel in Nungwi and your dates.