During a stay in Zanzibar, plan an excursion to the small village of Paje on the southeastern coast of Unguja Island. Turquoise waters, endless white sand, stunning coastal panoramas, and a delightful culinary experience await you in this fishing village. Don't delay—discover one of Tanzania's most beautiful villages. Paje awaits!

History

Many travelers remain unaware of Paje, a small traditional fishing village. Located approximately one hour from Zanzibar City's historic center, it has quickly become a top destination for kitesurfing enthusiasts. Spanning nearly 5 km, Paje Beach ranks among the finest beaches in the Zanzibar archipelago.

Every day, fishermen set out in their traditional dhows to catch fresh fish. Seaweed farming began on the island in 1989 and became a turning point for women's economic empowerment in Paje. When the tide recedes, women rush to harvest the seaweed.

This practice spread rapidly, evolving into a full economic activity. The harvested seaweed is then sold to pharmaceutical manufacturers or food industries. Seaweed farming has become the second most important economic activity after tourism in Paje.

What to Do in Paje?

If you crave tranquility, you'll love your stay in Paje. This small paradise village offers endless surprises. Whether traveling solo or with companions, you'll always find something enjoyable to do.

Enjoy the Beach

Paje's beach invites both relaxation and discovery. Settle comfortably on the sand or beneath a palm tree to savor the peaceful surroundings. Swimming depends on the tides: at high tide, the warm, shallow water is perfect for serene swimming, while at low tide, the sea recedes far, revealing vast sand banks and the seaweed fields cultivated by locals.

Go Snorkeling

Paje's clear waters reveal a fascinating natural spectacle. On a boat excursion, you can glide over coral reefs and admire thriving marine life. Vividly colored fish, delicate starfish, and corals unfold in a peaceful and mesmerizing atmosphere.

Explore Paje Village and Surroundings

To enjoy the scenery and meet locals, nothing beats a village stroll. You can rent a bicycle or scooter to tour the beach and wander through Paje's surroundings (Nungwi Beach, Kendwa Beach, and more). Rest assured—you won't sink into Paje's immaculate white sand. Locals use these transport methods to get around the island.

Visit Paje's Seaweed Center

The Seaweed Center is a family-friendly activity worth experiencing. It's the perfect place to spend quality time with your children while sparking their curiosity. This enriching and enjoyable experience showcases how women have organized into a seaweed farming cooperative.

Seaweed is processed into cosmetics (soap, oil, scrubs, creams, and more). You can join the women during harvest and lend a hand if you wish, gaining insight into farm operations and each woman's role.

After your visit, purchase beauty products and souvenirs. You'll also have the chance to try seaweed juice—a slightly sweet beverage rumored to have rejuvenating properties.

Learn to Kitesurfing

Increasingly popular, kitesurfing—also called kiteboarding—is an activity you absolutely must try during your vacation in Paje. It's the best place to get started with kitesurfing. With an ultra-flat beach and shallow water, beginners will have no trouble. Plus, the wind is consistent nearly year-round, with a side-on-shore direction.

Savor Local Gastronomy

While traveling, tasting local cuisine and savoring restaurant specialties is always a pleasure. The island's multicultural essence shines through its food.

Village dishes typically feature fresh seafood and local vegetables. Octopus and crabs are absolute delights. You'll equally enjoy sweet potatoes and cassava. The freshness of ingredients elevates every dish's flavor.

Practical Information

From Zanzibar City to Paje, several options exist. Taxis or private cars are fastest and most comfortable, with a direct journey of roughly 45 to 60 minutes. Shuttles offer a practical and affordable alternative, while local minibuses called dala-dala represent the cheapest but slowest and least comfortable option. The distance between Zanzibar City and Paje is approximately 50 km.

Paje village is small enough to explore on foot if you wish. You can also rent a bicycle or scooter to explore the surroundings. If you prefer, take the dala-dala.

Climate and Weather

Paje enjoys a humid tropical climate with warm, stable temperatures year-round. However, the best time to visit Paje is January, February, June, July, August, September, and October. Avoid April, May, and November—the wettest months. If budget is a concern, also avoid July when hotel rates peak.

FAQ

Where to Eat in Paje?

Paje offers beachfront restaurants serving grilled fish, fresh seafood, and Swahili specialties, alongside a few international options.

Where to Go Out in Paje?

In the evenings, beach bars come alive with music and cocktails. The atmosphere remains friendly and more relaxed than in Nungwi.

What are the Tide Times in Paje?

Tides rhythm life in Paje, changing daily. Schedules are posted locally and available online or through hotels.

What is the Distance Between Zanzibar Airport and Paje?

The distance between Paje and Zanzibar Airport is approximately 50 km. Plan roughly 1 hour and 5 minutes for the journey to the village.