Matemwe’s 8 Best Tours & Things To Do: Which To Choose?

Matemwe, a quiet village on Zanzibar’s northeastern coast, is a fantastic base for exploring the island’s natural beauty and vibrant marine life. It’s especially well-suited for travelers looking for active adventures and authentic local experiences.

Whether you want to zoom across the water on a jet ski, snorkel with dolphins, or explore spice farms and historic towns, Matemwe offers a rich variety of options.

Our favorite is the Zanzibar Jetski with Drone Photos and Video because it combines adrenaline with memorable photos — ideal for those wanting a fun, stress-free experience with hotel pickup included.

For those eager to see Zanzibar’s marine life up close, the Mnemba dolphin & snorkel tour is a popular pick, thanks to its opportunity to meet playful dolphins and explore coral reefs.

Meanwhile, history lovers will enjoy the Spice Farm, Stone Town, Prison Island & Nakupenda sand bank tour, which blends cultural insight with relaxation on a beautiful sandbank. Below is a quick overview of these experiences and more, helping you find the right fit for your trip.

1. Zanzibar: Jetski with Drone Photos and Video

Feeling the sea spray and the rush of a jetski is hard to beat. This tour offers a chance to zip along Zanzibar’s coast while a drone captures your best moments from above. With a price of $104 per group up to 2, it’s a great option for couples or small groups seeking an exhilarating experience without breaking the bank. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it as convenient as it is fun.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of fast-paced action and the chance to receive edited photos and videos—perfect for sharing your adventure with friends or keeping it as a memory. The safety briefing and life jackets ensure peace of mind, even for first-time jet skiers.

Many reviewers praise the professional staff and the high-quality drone footage, making this a top-rated activity with a 4.9/5 score from 130 reviews.

Bottom Line: If you want a lively, photo-worthy adventure with minimal hassle, this jetski tour hits the spot.

2. Mnemba dolphin & snorkel: from Matemwe, Pwani, Kwingwa, Uroa

For about $52 per person, this tour offers a satisfying mix of dolphin encounters and vibrant snorkeling. It’s designed for those who love marine life and want a chance to see dolphins in the wild. The tour also includes a visit to the sandbank if the tide allows, providing a peaceful spot to relax and soak up the sun.

What makes this experience special is the opportunity to swim with dolphins—an unforgettable moment—and explore coral reefs abundant with colorful fish. Many participants appreciate the friendly guides and the well-organized itinerary. The snorkeling component allows you to get close to coral reefs and diverse fish species, making it a rewarding underwater adventure.

Bottom Line: Ideal for nature lovers and snorkelers wanting a good chance to see dolphins and marine life without a lengthy tour.

3. Spice Farm, Stone Town, Prison Island & Nakupenda sand bank

At $115 per person, this full-day tour showcases Zanzibar’s cultural, historic, and natural highlights. It begins with a visit to a spice farm, where you can taste and learn about the island’s renowned spices. Next, explore Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site lined with narrow alleys, historic buildings, and a lively market.

The tour continues to Prison Island, famous for its giant Aldabra tortoises, some over 100 years old. Afterward, you’ll relax at Nakupenda Sandbank, where you can sunbathe, swim, and enjoy a fresh seafood lunch by the ocean. The mix of sightseeing, wildlife, and relaxation makes this a well-rounded experience.

What travelers often comment on is the quality of the seafood and the chance to see the giant tortoises up close. The tour offers excellent value for a full day of varied activities, making it suitable for families, history buffs, and those who want a taste of everything Zanzibar has to offer.

Bottom Line: Perfect for culturally curious travelers who want a comprehensive day exploring Zanzibar’s history, wildlife, and beaches.

4. 2 days 1 night to Nyerere Park from Zanzibar by flight

If your trip allows for a quick escape into Tanzania’s wilderness, this two-day safari is a fantastic choice. Starting from Zanzibar, you’ll fly to Nyerere National Park, known for its abundant wildlife. The tour includes safaris and guided game drives, giving you a chance to see elephants, lions, and more in their natural habitat.

What makes this tour stand out is the seamless logistics of flying directly from Zanzibar, saving travel time. The safari experience is tailored for those wanting a deep dive into Tanzania’s wilderness, with insights from expert guides sharing 25 years of experience. While the price of $770 per person reflects the exclusivity and quality of the tour, it’s a real treat for wildlife enthusiasts.

Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers eager for a short, high-quality safari trip that combines Zanzibar’s coastal charm with Tanzania’s stunning parks.

5. Zanzibar: Jozani Forest & Salaam Cave Sea Turtles Swim Tour

For $71 per person, this tour offers a peaceful escape into Zanzibar’s lush Jozani Forest, home to the rare red colobus monkeys. The tour also explores the underground Salaam Cave, where you can marvel at impressive rock formations. Along the way, you’ll walk through mangrove forests and learn about local wildlife with a knowledgeable guide.

What makes this experience noteworthy is the chance to see Zanzibar’s unique wildlife and venture into hidden caves. It’s ideal for nature lovers and those interested in the island’s ecology. Many reviewers highlight the tranquility of the forest and the fun of spotting monkeys. It’s a good option for travelers seeking a less crowded, wildlife-focused day.

Bottom Line: A great choice for those interested in wildlife and exploring Zanzibar’s natural environment in a relaxed setting.

6. Zanzibar: Mnemba Dolphins Tour with Snorkeling and Sandbank

This $66 per person tour combines the thrill of swimming with dolphins with snorkeling and relaxing on a sandbank. You’ll explore the Mnemba Marine Conservation Area, famous for its rich coral reefs and diverse marine species. The boat ride also takes you to a secluded sandbank which appears only at low tide, offering a perfect spot for sunbathing.

What makes this one stand out is the chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat—a truly special experience. Many guests comment on the playful dolphins and vibrant coral reefs, making it a good choice for active travelers who enjoy underwater scenery. The tour’s combination of wildlife interaction and scenic boat rides offers excellent value.

Bottom Line: Excellent for dolphin lovers and snorkelers wanting a mix of marine encounters and relaxing beach time.

7. Zanzibar: Nkupenda Island Snorkeling with Lunch

At $90 per person, this tour delivers a relaxing day on Nkupenda Island, known for its soft white sands and crystal-clear waters. You’ll snorkel in shallow, vibrant reefs and enjoy swimming among tropical fish. The highlight is the reliable phenomenon of the sandbank that appears and disappears with the tide, providing a unique photo opportunity.

A freshly prepared seafood lunch on the beach makes this trip feel like a true tropical escape. Many reviewers mention the peaceful environment and the beautiful scenery, making it perfect for couples or those wanting a leisurely day. The tour combines natural beauty with a relaxed pace.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers looking for a peaceful, scenic day with snorkeling and beach time.

8. Zanzibar: Pungume Private Safari Blue Picnic

This private tour at $130 per person provides a luxurious way to explore Zanzibar’s marine and island scenery. You’ll visit Pungume Island, relax on pristine beaches, and enjoy a private seafood picnic with drinks. The option to discover Zanzibar’s marine life in crystal-clear waters makes it a favorite among those seeking exclusivity and comfort.

The private setting allows for a more personalized experience, tailored to your preferences. Many reviewers value the secluded environment and the delicious local seafood, making it perfect for romantic trips or special occasions.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a private, boutique experience with a focus on relaxation and marine beauty.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When deciding which activity suits you best, consider your budget, interests, and time available. For adrenaline junkies, the Jetski with Drone Photos offers a quick, exciting thrill, while families or wildlife enthusiasts might prefer the Spice Farm and Prison Island tour for its variety.

If marine life is your focus, the Dolphin & Snorkel Tours provide excellent opportunities to see dolphins and colorful reefs.

Think about whether you want a full day of sightseeing, like the Stone Town and Spice Farm tour, or a relaxed day on the beach with the Nkupenda Island trip. For those pressed for time but craving adventure, the Nyerere Safari offers a memorable wildlife experience just a short flight away.

Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and avoid disappointment.

Final Thoughts

Matemwe offers a well-rounded selection of tours that cater to a variety of interests and activity levels. If you’re after a fun, action-packed day, the Jetski with Drone Photos is hard to beat.

For wildlife lovers, the Nyerere Safari and Jozani Forest tours provide unique insights into Tanzania’s natural treasures. Those seeking relaxation and marine beauty will find the Nkupenda Island or Sandbank trips perfect.

Whatever your travel style, these experiences showcase Zanzibar’s rich marine, wildlife, and cultural charm. Be sure to plan ahead and book early — these tours are popular and fill up fast. Have fun exploring Matemwe and all the adventures it has to offer.