About this route
Riu Palace Zanzibar is an adults-only all-inclusive resort on the beach at Nungwi, at the northern tip of the island. Matemwe on the north-east coast is a peaceful fishing village and the launch point for Mnemba Atoll snorkelling.
Our Riu Palace Zanzibar to Matemwe 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 21 km. Most trips take around 34 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 Riu Palace Zanzibar to Matemwe 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 Riu Palace Zanzibar to Matemwe?
A private car costs $25, a minivan $40 and a coaster bus $65.
How long does it take?
Around 34 minutes for about 21 km.
Is the return trip available?
Yes — book the Matemwe to Riu Palace Zanzibar transfer for your way back.