About this dhow-building walk
Nungwi, at Zanzibar's northern tip, has a long tradition of building wooden dhows on the beach. Builders shape the hulls largely by hand, and boats at different stages often sit side by side on the sand.
A local guide introduces you to the builders, explains how a dhow comes together, and walks you through the fishing village to the morning fish market or the evening return of the boats.
Highlights
- Dhows under construction on the beach
- How hulls and sails are made
- Fishing village and fish market
- Late-afternoon option ends with sunset on the west-facing beach
Dhow-building walk itinerary
Timings are a guide.
- StartMeet at your Nungwi or Kendwa hotel.
- 45 minDhow-building yards with the builders.
- 45 minVillage walk: homes, school and mosque (exterior).
- 30 minFish market (morning) or boats returning (afternoon).
- EndWalk or drive back to your hotel.
Your private options
Private walk
Your own guide in Nungwi.
With turtle pond
Add the turtle conservation pond.
All our Zanzibar activities are private: only your group takes part. Upgrades are quoted on request.
Transfer from your hotel
The tour price above does not depend on where you stay. Getting to the start is priced separately, per vehicle for up to 6 guests, return. If you stay near the start, pickup is included.
| Your hotel area | Trip starts at | Return transfer |
|---|---|---|
| Stone Town & airportStone Town, Shangani, Mbweni, airport area | Nungwi / Kendwa | $130 |
| West coastFumba, Chukwani, Bububu, Mtoni | Nungwi / Kendwa | $160 |
| South-east coastPaje, Jambiani, Bwejuu, Michamvi, Dongwe | Nungwi / Kendwa | $140 |
| North coastNungwi, Kendwa | Nungwi / Kendwa | Included |
| North-east coastMatemwe, Kiwengwa, Pwani Mchangani, Pongwe | Nungwi / Kendwa | $70 |
| South tipKizimkazi, Makunduchi | Nungwi / Kendwa | $170 |
Not sure of your area? Tell us your hotel name and we confirm the price. See all transfer prices.
What's included
- Local guide
- Contribution to the builders' group
- Bottled water
- Pickup from hotels in the North coast area
Not included
- Transfer from other areas (see transfer prices below)
- Tips
Add-ons
- Nungwi turtle conservation visit
- Sunset sail from Nungwi
Children and groups
Good for curious children. Keep them away from tools and boats on supports. Group rates are available for six or more travellers.
Booking and cancellation
Send us your date, number of travellers and hotel. We confirm availability and the full price in USD before you pay. Changes and cancellations follow our booking terms. If weather or sea conditions make a trip unsafe, we reschedule or refund it.
Dhow-building walk FAQs
Can I photograph the builders?
Ask first. Most are happy to be photographed once introduced.
Will boats always be under construction?
Usually, but work depends on orders. Your guide will show you what is being built that day.
What should I wear?
Light clothes covering shoulders and knees for the village.
Make it a full day
This trip is part of our North Coast Day: Mnemba Snorkel & Nungwi.