Tumbatu Island Guide

Tumbatu Island is part of Tanzania in East Africa, it has two islands in the south, Jongowe, and Kichangani. The island is one of the most beautiful places in Tanzania. It is a destination that must be seen. Annual visitors would enjoy snorkeling the beautiful beach of Tumbatu Island, seeing the lighthouse and having a lovely walk on the beach.

About Tumbatu Island 

Historically, the island interests islanders who belong to the Shirazi ethnic group. The Shirazi people, also known as Mbwera, are an ethnic group inhabiting the Swahili coast and the nearby Indian Ocean islands.

There is also the Tumbatu Lighthouse located in Zanzibar, Tanzania, it’s one of the oldest lighthouses in the country it’s a six-stage tower that is located in the northern tip of the island. 

The People of Tumbatu: Guardians of Tradition

The people of Tumbatu Island protect their centuries-old cultural heritage with fierce independence that shapes who they are. Around 30,000 people call this island home, and they've managed to keep their traditions alive with deep commitment.

Shirazi descendants and their heritage

The Watumbatu people trace their roots to the Shirazi ethnic group and claim they descended from Persian royalty that arrived in the ninth century. These Shirazi people, also known as Mbwera, helped spread Islam along the Swahili coast. While stories passed down through generations highlight Persian origins, new archeological findings point to a richer heritage. The evidence shows strong local African influences shaped both Swahili culture and settlements.

The Shirazi were traders who first came to East Africa between the 10th and 12th centuries. Today's Tumbatu is mostly home to the Matongo clan, known for their unique customs and outstanding craftsmanship. Their identity blends Persian, Arabic, and Bantu influences. This mix shows up in everything from their traditions to their widespread use of Swahili.

Daily life in Jongowe and Gomani

Life in Jongowe and Gomani moves at its own pace, barely touched by modern changes. These villages run without electricity or cars. People spend their days fishing, farming, praying, and taking part in community rituals. Anyone visiting Jongowe can watch local fishermen get their nets ready, make fish traps, and build boats by hand.

The islanders stick to traditional Swahili customs. Their simple, community-focused way of life has stayed the same for generations. Many locals haven't even set foot on Unguja, Zanzibar's main island. It's like a cultural bubble within Zanzibar itself. A new office now stands by the beach in Jongowe. This space brings people together for community projects, including efforts to protect marine life.

All You Need to Know Tumbatu Island

Location

The island is located off the north-west coast of Zanzibar's main island.

Best Time to Visit

During the short rains in November and December, downpours are followed by blue skies. It’s only very wet during the peak of the long rains in April and May.

Being the third largest island making up the Zanzibar Archipelago, the best time to visit Tumbatu Island is during the dry season, from July to September. It is very popular to travel during this time.  

However, as with most of Tanzania, it is worthwhile to visit the island during any time of the year. The average temperature is between 28°C and 34°C, with sunshine. 

Accommodation

There are plenty of accommodation choices to choose from in Tumbatu Island. However, Aluna Nungwi, Coccobello Zanzibar, Village View Hostel are the top rated hotels in Tumbatu. 

Transportation 

The main transportation method in Tumbatu island is bicycles as there are no vehicles on the island.

Cultural etiquette and what not to do

The island's customs deserve utmost respect:

• Women should cover their hair with a scarf/khanga while everyone wears clothes covering shoulders and knees
• Taking photos of people requires their clear permission
• Your guide should accompany you at all times
• The island is a living community, not a tourist spot, so keep your voice down

What to expect during your visit

Tours last between 2.5 hours for basic exploration and 5-6 hours to experience the complete cultural immersion, focused on creating conversations rather than performances. Visitors might wade through knee-deep water to reach boats or the island, so pack waterproof shoes. 

Things to Do in Tumbatu Island

Tumbatu Island is a very charming island in Zanzibar It has something to offer everyone. It is a great place for beach lovers who want to have a tranquil time experience. It also serves a great deal for adventurers who like to explore and discover. 

 For beach lovers, the island is a great place to chill, you can stretch out on the soft sandy shores, bask in the warm sun, and simply enjoy the tranquil rhythm of island life. The calm environment makes it a great place to disconnect and recharge.

For adventurers, they can explore the island’s sea treasures by having uninterrupted sessions of diving and snorkeling, Its crystal-clear waters invite you to dive beneath the surface and uncover the secrets of the Indian Ocean. With uninterrupted sessions of snorkeling and diving, you’ll encounter vibrant marine life, colorful coral reefs, and hidden underwater wonders that make the experience unforgettable.

What Makes Tumbatu in Zanzibar Unique

Tumbatu in Zanzibar engages visitors with an otherworldly atmosphere that sets it apart from the rest of the archipelago, adding a unique charm to many Tanzania tours, beyond its historical importance.

Spiritual atmosphere and silence

The island radiates a spiritual energy that visitors can feel. Traditional healers maintain ancient practices at its heart and connect with spirits before treating patients. These healers work in small circular mud huts and use powders like Nkana, similar to sandalwood, to cleanse bodies and attract good fortune. Sacred spaces often give visitors goosebumps when they enter. The island's extraordinary silence breaks only during prayers and occasional celebrations with traditional Goma music.

No electricity or cars: a step back in time

The island's 20,000 residents live without functioning roads or vehicles.  Porters carry goods across the island, while people transport their sick on stretchers to the only hospital. The residents depend on an irregular water supply that flows under the ocean from Unguja. Life without modern conveniences offers a genuine window into the pre-industrial era.

Stories, smells, and memories you'll carry home

Visitors take home lasting sensory memories: burning cloves and incense from private ceremonies fill the air, while locals share whispered stories about ancestors who never left. The vine-covered ruins make striking photographs. Most importantly, visitors gain deep respect for communities that keep their cultural heritage alive.

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