Tanzania on the East Coast of Africa is one of the only countries where you can enjoy the best safaris combined with a relaxing beach holiday.
The mainland and islands along the coastline have some of the most stunning beaches in the world, with powder white sands and turquoise blue seas. The balmy temperatures are around 30 degrees centigrade throughout the year, making Tanzania and its islands the perfect beach getaway, whatever time of year you want to go.
Here’s a look at seven incredible beaches in Tanzania and the islands along its coast.
Fanjove is a private island with only six beach huts lined along the spectacular beach.
If you want peace and quiet, you’ll find it here. Fanjove is one of the most remote and secluded beach destinations in the world.
Flop out on the beach and watch the locals – colourful coconut crabs and different bird species – or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters before dining on the freshest seafood and coconut curries.
Zanzibar Island is just 25 km off the coast of Tanzania, and it features some stunning beaches. One of the best is Paje in the southeast corner. It’s a popular beach destination and offers a good selection of beach bars and restaurants, as well as water sports activities.
Just off the southeast coast of Dar es Salaam, the charming island of Mafia is the perfect spot for divers and snorkelers. The marine park in the coastal waters offers a magnificent underwater experience, while the palm-fringed beach is wonderful for soaking up the sun in peace and tranquillity.
This unspoiled island in the Zanzibar archipelago is one of the best dive locations in the world. It’s also the ideal holiday destination for those who want privacy and seclusion away from the crowds. The beaches here are beautiful, but it’s the sand bars and spits around the island that will really take your breath away.
Back on the Tanzanian mainland, the small Swahili town of Pangani, an ex-colonial trading outpost, is surrounded by stunning beaches that are practically deserted. South of the Pangani River, Ushongo Bay is a lovely wide beach, perfect for romantic walks, while the calm waters here are safe for swimming whatever the tide.
Dubbed ‘Tanzania’s best kept secret’, this beautiful and secluded beach located between Pangani and Saadani National Park, features powder white sands fringed with shady palms and a mangrove forest. Snorkel in the turquoise waters, spot dolphins off the coast, or sip on a sundowner while the evening sky fills with stars in this untouched paradise.
Another hidden gem is the long stretch of fine sand beach at Kilwa Masoko, halfway between Dar es Salaam and Mtwara. The water here is so low, you can easily walk from one sand bar to another. Kilwa Masoko beach is the perfect spot to enjoy the freshest seafood dinner with the sand between your toes.
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