Kizimkazi- Travel Tips

What to See, How to Plan & Tours

While the northern beaches of Nungwi and Kendwa draw the party crowds, Kizimkazi—located on the southernmost tip of the Zanzibar archipelago—offers a profound silence, broken only by the rustle of palms and the call of the muezzin. Historically a walled city and now a tranquil fishing community, Kizimkazi is the gateway to the Menai Bay Conservation Area and a sanctuary for travelers seeking the "real" Zanzibar.

1.1 Beyond the Crowds: Why Choose the South Coast?

Kizimkazi is not for the traveler looking for beach bars and full-moon parties. It is for the explorer who values heritage and nature. The region is rugged, authentic, and deeply traditional. Here, the ocean is not just a playground but a livelihood; the coastline is dotted with traditional dhows repairing their nets rather than rows of sunbeds. It offers an exclusive serenity that has attracted some of the island's most luxurious resorts, making it a hub for high-end seclusion.

1.2 A Tale of Two Villages: Mkunguni vs. Dimbani

• Kizimkazi Mkunguni: The northern of the two, this is the center of tourism activity. It is where most dolphin boat tours launch and where you will find a cluster of budget-friendly lodges and restaurants.
• Kizimkazi Dimbani: Located further south, this village is quieter, more residential, and historically significant. It houses the famous Old Mosque and offers a glimpse into the daily lives of the local Shirazi people.

The primary draw for 90% of visitors to Kizimkazi is the ocean. The village sits on the edge of the Menai Bay Conservation Area, a marine protected zone teeming with tropical fish, seagrass beds, and, most famously, dolphins.

2.1 Bottlenose and Humpback Dolphins: What to Expect

The bay is a permanent habitat for populations of Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins and the shy, rarer humpback dolphins. Unlike migratory whales, these dolphins are resident year-round. Early mornings (around 6:00 AM) are the prime time for sightings, as the pods move into shallow waters to hunt and socialize before the heat of the day drives them deeper.

2.2 The Ethics of Interaction: Chasing vs. Passive Watching

• The Ethical Approach: Avoid eager "beach boys" selling cheap tours. Instead, book through reputable lodges or operators who adhere to the Moms for Coral or local conservation guidelines.
• Best Practice: Instruct your skipper that you do not want to chase the dolphins. The most magical encounters happen when the engine is cut, and the dolphins approach the boat out of curiosity. Jumping in to swim should only be done if the dolphins are stationary and calm, never when they are traveling.

2.3 Snorkeling and Marine Life in the Conservation Area

Beyond the mammals, Menai Bay offers incredible snorkeling. The coral reefs here are less bleached than in some northern areas. Tours often combine dolphin watching with a stop at a sandbank (visible only at low tide) for a seafood BBQ and snorkeling session, offering a full "Blue Safari" experience.

Kizimkazi is arguably the most historically significant village on Unguja Island, predating Stone Town as a capital of trade and culture.

3.1 The Kizimkazi Dimbani Mosque (1107 AD): East Africa’s Oldest

• Architecture: While the upper structure was rebuilt in the 18th century, the ornate trefoil arch and the ancient coral stone inscriptions remain.
• Visitor Tip: It is a functioning place of worship. Visitors must dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees) and women may need to cover their heads. A small donation to the caretaker is customary and supports the mosque's maintenance.

3.2 Shirazi Heritage and the Persian Connection

The people of Kizimkazi proudly trace their lineage to Shirazi settlers from Persia (modern-day Iran) who arrived in the 12th century. This unique heritage is visible in the local dialect, the architectural styles, and the annual Mwaka Kogwa (Shirazi New Year) festival celebrated in the nearby Makunduchi region.

3.3 Village Life: The Fishing Economy and Local Vibe

A walk through the village reveals the heartbeat of the south. You will see women in colorful kangas farming seaweed in the tidal flats at low tide—a major export for Zanzibar. Fishermen return in the late morning to auction their catch at the fish market, a vibrant spectacle of commerce that welcomes respectful observers.

4.1 The Tidal Truth: Swimming, Mudflats, and Lagoons

• High Tide: The water hits the cliffs and sea walls, creating a beautiful, swimming-pool-like lagoon effect perfect for kayaking and swimming.
• Low Tide: The ocean retreats hundreds of meters, revealing rocky coral flats and seaweed farms. Swimming is impossible during low tide, so a hotel with a swimming pool is essential here.

4.2 Where to Stay: From Eco-Lodges to 5-Star Luxury

• Luxury: The Residence Zanzibar offers private pool villas and butler service, ideal for honeymooners seeking total isolation.
• Mid-Range/Boutique: Fruit & Spice Wellness Resort blends luxury with nature, offering a unique "jungle" feel.
• Budget/Eco: Promised Land Lodge and Mama Root offer a laid-back, Rastafarian vibe with outdoor showers and hammocks overlooking the ocean, perfect for backpackers.

5.1 Getting There: Distance and Transport from Stone Town

Kizimkazi is approximately 60 kilometers (about 1 hour and 15 minutes) drive from Stone Town or the airport.

• Taxi: A private taxi costs between $40–$60 USD one way.
• Dala-Dala: For the adventurous, the number 326 dala-dala runs from Stone Town to Kizimkazi, costing just a few dollars but taking significantly longer.

5.2 Best Time to Visit for Weather and Wildlife

• Dry Season (June to October): Cool, dry, and sunny. Perfect for exploring the village and comfortable boat trips.
• Green Season (April to May): Heavy rains can make the dirt roads to some lodges difficult to navigate, though the lush vegetation is beautiful.
• Dolphin Season: Sightings are possible year-round, but the sea is calmest from December to March and July to October.