Properties

Makunduchi Plot.

Location & Geography

Makunduchi is a town on the southeastern tip of Unguja Island (Zanzibar), in Kusini District in the Unguja South Region of Tanzania.

The town consists of two main areas: Old Makunduchi, which is the more traditional coastal/village-style fishing settlement, and New Makunduchi, which has more modern buildings, shops, and infrastructure. They are about 2 km apart.

Culture & Historys

Makunduchi is known for its traditional Swahili / Shirazi heritage and deeply rooted customs.

One of its most famous events is the Mwaka Kogwa (also spelled “Mwaka Koga” sometimes), a New Year festival in July/August (according to the solar calendar), including ritual battles, hut burning, and community prediction of the coming year via smoke direction.

Also notable: the Ras Makunduchi Lighthouse, built in 1919, is located near the historic old settlement. It’s a concrete tower painted in red and white bands, about 27 m tall, visible from the sea and land.

What to Do / Attractions

• Beach life: Makunduchi has beautiful beaches with clear waters — relaxing, swimming, beachcombing. It’s less crowded compared with the more tourist-heavy northern beaches.
• Cultural immersion: Walking through Old Makunduchi gives a sense of local life — fishermen, community living, craft making, etc. Attending Mwaka Kogwa if your visit coincides is a rich experience.
• Scenic and nature spots: Nearby areas have coral reefs, snorkeling, maybe boat trips. Also coastline views, sunrises/sunsets, quieter beach stretches.

Distance: Makunduchi is about 59-61 km from Zanzibar City (Stone Town / main city) by road.

Travel time from Zanzibar Airport is roughly 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes depending on route, traffic, and your starting point.

Transportation: You can get there by private car/taxi, shuttle, or possibly using local transport. Transfers are available between Makunduchi and the airport.