About this route
Pongwe is a small, secluded east-coast beach known for palm-fringed bays and calm water. Hotel Riu Jambo is a large all-inclusive beach resort in Nungwi, next door to Riu Palace Zanzibar.
Our Pongwe to Hotel Riu Jambo transfer is a private, door-to-door ride — no shared shuttles and no waiting for other guests. Your driver tracks your flight or ferry, waits with a name sign, helps with luggage and takes the fastest road, roughly 46 km. Most trips take around 57 minutes depending on traffic and road works.
The price is fixed per vehicle, not per person, and includes fuel, bottled water and waiting time. Pay by card, mobile money (M-Pesa, Tigo Pesa, Airtel) or cash in USD or TZS to the driver.
Your Pongwe to Hotel Riu Jambo journey
The drive to Nungwi follows the main northern road out of Stone Town through Mtoni, Bububu and Mahonda, then up past Kinyasini and Mkokotoni to the very tip of the island. The road is fully paved and your driver knows every hotel entrance, so you are dropped at reception, not at the village junction.
Popular Nungwi hotels we drive to every day include Riu Palace Zanzibar, Hotel Riu Jambo, Royal Zanzibar Beach Resort, The Z Hotel, Essque Zalu and Sandies Baobab Beach. If your hotel is down a sandy lane, we use a vehicle that can reach the door safely.
Night arrivals are no problem: drivers work 24/7, track your flight and wait for free if you are delayed. A stop at an ATM, a SIM card shop or a supermarket on the way is fine — just tell the driver.
Frequently asked questions
What if my flight is delayed?
Your driver tracks your flight and waits at no extra cost, with a name sign at arrivals.
How much is a taxi from Pongwe to Hotel Riu Jambo?
A private car costs $40, a minivan $60 and a coaster bus $100.
How long does it take?
Around 57 minutes for about 46 km.
Is the return trip available?
Yes — book the Hotel Riu Jambo to Pongwe transfer for your way back.