Zanzibar, Tanzania
10 uncomfortable travel moments most of us run into at some point. Our guide shows you exactly how to respond to each one, so you never blank when it matters. Used by women from 50+ countries.
Nungwi has the busiest beach scene on Zanzibar with all-day swimming and a young crowd. Feels safe with constant activity but very touristy and crowded in peak season.
Up at Zanzibar's northern tip, Nungwi went from a dhow-building village to the island's busiest beach scene. The big advantage here: you can swim any time of day. East coast beaches lose the water at low tide for hours, but Nungwi stays swimmable. The crowd skews young with beach bars, dive shops, and regular parties. Lots of travelers, including women on their own, so the constant activity feels safe. Everyone speaks English since tourism runs the place. Restaurant staff don't blink at people eating alone or working on laptops. Things stay busy late with people moving between beach bars. Most resorts have their own security, and Tourist Police patrol. The downside: very touristy, crowded in peak season. If you want authentic local culture, look elsewhere. For safe beach life with diving and swimming any time, this works.
Daytime Safety
ExcellentNight Walking Safety
GoodHarassment Risk
LowPublic Transport Safety
GoodPickpocketing Risk
ModerateScam Risk
ModeratePolice Visibility
GoodEmergency Services
GoodEvening Venues
ExcellentSolo Dining
ExcellentDrug Activity
LowHomelessness Visibility
LowGetting By in English
ExcellentMost solo women learn the hard way how to handle situations that feel off. Our free guide gives you the exact words for 10 of them. Used by women from 50+ countries.
"Felt safe with plenty of other travelers around"
"Swimming any time without checking tides is nice"
"Crowded but that means you're never isolated"
"Beach bars stay open late so walking around at night was fine"
"Not authentic Zanzibar but easy to meet people"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
Kendwa has all-day swimming like Nungwi but with a wider beach and fewer crowds. Safe and more relaxed than Nungwi, though fewer restaurants.
Paje is the kitesurfing and backpacker hub with a young, active vibe. Tidal beach and budget places to stay. Good for meeting people and beach activities.
Matemwe has upscale, quiet beach life with luxury hotels. Good for relaxation with quality service and security, but expensive and limited social interaction.
Help other women stay safe in Nungwi
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.