This small fishing village on the south coast of Zanzibar consists of two adjoining settlements: Kizimkazi Dimbani to the north and Kizimkazi Mkunguni to the south.

The coastline here is very different from the classic palm-backed lagoon of the east coast.

Here, a coral rag cliff elevates the waterfront above the ocean and the beaches take the form of small coves rather than broad expanses of sand.

For this reason, there are fewer accommodation options and the area has a distinct and authentic atmosphere.

The village of Kizimkazi is famous for its dolphin safaris. However, if you’re visiting Kizimkazi please be mindful about joining boat trips which offer the opportunity to swim with dolphins.

There are no regulations regarding dolphin tourism in Zanzibar and most tours are run by boat drivers with no experience or interest in animal behaviour.

Often boats crowd round the dolphins and chase them, and tourists jump into the water to swim, with no monitoring of the dolphin’s behaviour.

Instead, contact us to ask about how to swim with dolphins responsibly in Zanzibar during your holidays, if this is something you are keen to do.

The Best Resorts Around Kizimkazi Beach

• The Residence Zanzibar is a luxurious and family-friendly hotel on the southwest coast of Zanzibar, 20 minutes’ drive from Kizimkazi, surrounded by 32 hectares of tropical gardens and fringed by a pristine mile-long beach.
• Unguja Lodge is a small beach lodge on the southern tip of Zanzibar, near Kizimkazi Mkunguni. This is a very quiet part of the island with small beaches and lush green surroundings. The lodge has an excellent relationship with the local people who live in Kizimkazi Mkunguni and most of the staff are from the village.