They sail to Somalia, taking wood poles and bringing dry shark meat. A few kilometres away, Ras Nungwi village is home to Zanzibar's best dhow builders. A guided visit will explain all stages of craftsmanship of small and big dhows. Ask to see the impressive bending of poles with fire - appropriate technology in use for centuries. At the sanctuary for injured turtles, half a dozen leatherback and hawkbill turtles swim in a pond.
Photographs are unwelcome unless permission is sought.
Owned and managed by South Africans, Ras Nungwi consists of 60 beds in 30 thatch-roofed bungalows. Rooms are simple, bordering on basic. The bar and restaurant is airy and pleasant. Guests and hotel staff leave you pretty much on your own. Food is simple but tasty.