Kendwa Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, and eat in Kendwa, Tanzania. Find out about the culture, customs, and local products in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Kendwa

Kendwa is a village located on the northwest coast of the Zanzibar Island, in the country of Tanzania, East Africa. Famous for its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, it is a favorite destination for travelers looking for a relaxing and peaceful getaway.

List of Places to Visit in Kendwa

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kendwa Village
  • Shirazi Ruins
  • Mnarani Natural Aquarium
  • Nungwi Natural Aquarium
  • Palace Museum
  • Slave Market Museum

Natural Attractions of Kendwa: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kendwa Beach
  • Nungwi Beach
  • Sunset Cruise
  • Snorkeling and Diving
  • Scuba Diving
  • Deep-Sea Fishing
  • Water Sports

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kendwa

  • Climbing Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa
  • Trekking through the Usambara or Uluguru Mountains
  • Biking in the Pugu Hills or Mikumi National Park

Best Things to Do in Kendwa: Activities and Tours

  • Visit Kendwa Rocks, a resort that offers activities like parasailing and beach volleyball
  • Go on a Spice Tour, visiting a local farm to learn about the many spices grown on the island
  • Take a tour of Jozani Forest, a protected reserve where you can see monkeys, birds, and other wildlife
  • Do a Dolphin Tour, where you can see dolphins swimming in the wild
  • Enjoy a leisurely sailing trip on a dhow, a traditional wooden boat found on the East Coast of Africa

Week-Long Itinerary for Kendwa

Day Activity
Monday Arrival and check-in at hotel
Tuesday Visit Kendwa Rocks
Wednesday Go on a Spice Tour and visit a local farm
Thursday Take a tour of Jozani Forest
Friday Do a Dolphin Tour
Saturday Enjoy a leisurely sailing trip on a traditional dhowboat
Sunday Relax on the beach or explore the village center

Food and Drink Scene of Kendwa

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ugali and Fish Curry
  • Pilau Rice with Cow Peas
  • Zanzibari Pizza
  • Octopus Curry
  • Grilled Seafood Platter

Local Beverages

  • Coconut Water
  • Casera, a local carbonated drink made with sweetened lemon and ginger
  • Zanzibar Coffee
  • Kilimanjaro Beer

Where to Stay in Kendwa: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Kendwa Rocks Hotel
  • Diamond Star of the East Hotel
  • Mnarani Beach Cottages
  • Kendwa Beach Resort
  • Amaan Bungalows

What to Buy in Kendwa: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Hand-carved wooden items
  • Spices and herbs grown on the island
  • Handmade baskets
  • Kanga and Kitenge fabrics, traditional African clothing
  • Tanzanite, a precious gemstone found only in Tanzania

Local Culture and Customs of Kendwa

The locals in Kendwa are predominantly Muslim, so visitors are encouraged to dress modestly when outside the beach area. It is also appropriate to remove shoes before entering a mosque or a private home. When greeting someone, it is customary to say “Jambo”.

Best Time to Visit Kendwa

The best time to visit Kendwa is from June to October or December to February when the weather is dry and sunny, and rain is minimal. The peak season is from December to February, so expect higher prices and crowding during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kendwa

Do:

  • Respect the culture and dress modestly outside the beach area.
  • Bargain when shopping or hiring a local guide.
  • Tip your tour guide, driver, or hotel staff.

Don’t:

  • Engage in public displays of affection.
  • Take photographs of locals without asking for their permission.
  • Leave your valuables unattended.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kendwa

Kendwa is generally safe for tourists. However, it is best to take precautions like not walking alone at night, avoiding unlit places, and staying aware of surroundings.

Health in Kendwa

Visitors to Kendwa should take the necessary vaccinations before arriving, and it is also recommended to take prophylactic malaria medication. It is also essential to drink only bottled water and avoid eating street food to prevent food-borne illnesses.

Getting to Kendwa: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kendwa

The closest airport to Kendwa is the Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ), located in Stone Town, Zanzibar. From there, visitors can either take a taxi or hire a private driver to Kendwa, which is about a 1-hour drive away.

Bus Stations Near Kendwa

Daladala, a local bus service, connects Kendwa to other parts of Zanzibar Island. Visitors can take a shared taxi or private transfer from the bus station in Stone Town.

Other Options

Visitors can also get to Kendwa by ferry from Dar es Salaam, the capital city of Tanzania. The Azam Marine Ferry or the Kilimanjaro Fast Ferries provide daily scheduled services between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar.

How to Get Around in Kendwa

Walking is the easiest and most convenient way to get around Kendwa, especially within the beach area. Taxis and private drivers can also be hired to explore other parts of the island.

Where to Go Next from Kendwa: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Stone Town, the historic capital of Zanzibar, known for its narrow alleys, spice markets, and old Arab houses
  • Prison Island, a former prison turned a popular spot for snorkeling and turtle watching
  • Pemba Island, another beautiful island in the Zanzibar Archipelago, known for its unspoiled beaches and diving spots

Conclusion

Kendwa offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure. Whether you are looking for a beach vacation, a culinary journey, or a cultural immersion, this village on the northwest coast of Zanzibar has something to offer to every traveler.