Sea, Sand and Sun - your perfect beach vacation in Zanzibar!
A real-life paradise island, Zanzibar boasts an array of stunning white sand beaches with vivid coral reefs alongside the quaint charm of the historic Stone Town.
The Essential Zanzibar Tanzania Vacation – the Spice Island Is Calling!
A vacation to Zanzibar will allow you the luxury of indulging yourself in the idyll best white sand beaches with palm trees blowing in the warm, tropical breeze drifting over crystal clear waters of the Indian ocean. 🏖️ After a safari-filled adventure, Zanzibar is where you will unwind and soak it all up.
Sea, Sand and Sun – Your Perfect Vacation in Zanzibar!
As you can imagine, perfect beaches surround Zanzibar Island, with fine sand that squeaks underfoot, water so blue it blends with the sky, and a line of palm trees finishing the picture-postcard scene. Zanzibar offers you the perfect dream vacation that exceeds all your expectations. It is here where the sunrises are soothing while sunsets are magical. Beaches glisten beneath the moonlight, wild dolphins will play as you swim alongside them in Mnemba, and giant turtles will greet you as you arrive on one of the exotic sandbanks for relaxation near Stone Town.
Zanzibar Island is also a province of Tanzania and part of the broader Zanzibar archipelago. Thanks to its accessible location, Zanzibar has historically been a focal point for traders and settlers traveling up and down the east coast of Africa. Walking through Stone Town, you are instantly immersed in this rich heritage of predominantly Arabian and Indian, which has influenced the stunning Zanzibari traditional architecture. Zanzibar island has been shaped by various cultures, lifestyles, and traditions for more than a thousand years. A living UNESCO World Heritage Site, Zanzibar is a tribute to peace and harmony.
Best Beaches in Zanzibar
The most well-known beaches on the island, which are the picture-postcard settings that have helped put Zanzibar on the tourist map, are located in the north of the island. From the airport, a one-hour drive will take you to some of the most stunning beaches on earth, where you can settle into your beachfront bungalow and start indulging. Below is the exact location of pristine beaches in Zanzibar:
- Kendwa, located on the northwest, and Nungwi beach in the north. These beaches will allow you to swim in the ocean all day!
- Matemwe, located in the northeast of Zanzibar
- Kiwengwa and Pongwe, situated in the eastern part of Zanzibar
- Bwejuu and Dongwe are both located in the southeast of Zanzibar
- Kizimkazi, situated in the southern part of Zanzibar
Getting Around the Capital of Zanzibar – Stone Town
The capital of Zanzibar, Stone Town, is both fascinating and disorientating. A labyrinth of alleys amid whitewashed houses reveals a treasure around every corner! Whether it is the colors that draw you in, the sounds and pungent smells of a market or the lively street vendors, you will feel as if you have stepped into a living legend. Our Stone Town tour incorporates the Palace of Wonders, the Arab Fort, and the Anglican Church. While you are there, you can even get a snapshot of the house where Freddie Mercury was born! Take your time to get lost among the alleyways and drop into some of the quaint shops in town before indulging in a sunset drink at Africa House.
Things to do while on vacation in Zanzibar, Tanzania:
A vacation in Zanzibar will allow you to relax and enjoy a wide range of different activities that can be combined with excellent accommodation, which we have hand-picked for you on the island or offered separately upon request. From spice farm private tours to fantastic underwater adventures and unforgettable sunset cruises, we provide unique options for an authentic Zanzibari experience that are as limitless as the possibility of seeing a zebra on a safari in the vast Serengeti!
Why not snorkel offshore in sparkling gin-like waters encompassed by colourful fish and – if you are lucky – you will get escorted by a pod of friendly dolphins? To feed your adventurous self, try the dive sites for kitesurfing, windsurfing and water-skiing or attempt a romantic sail in a dhow, a conventional wooden sailing boat, to capture the magical African sunset. Beneath the surface of the waves, vibrant coral reefs form the backdrop to a wide variety of colourful marine life, including giant whale sharks, ghostly manta rays and elusive dugongs.
How to get to Zanzibar?
Conveniently located just one hour flight from fantastic Tanzanian safari destinations, Zanzibar Island is a tropical paradise with gorgeous white-sand beaches that lead to turquoise waters, capped with narrow, historic streets of Stone Town. Abeid Amani Karume International Airport is the main point of entry to Zanzibar. Zanzibar Airport offers a few international connections, a quick flight to Dar es Salaam and some domestic flights within Tanzanian wildlife safari circuits, including north and south. If you want to combine a safari in Tanzania with time spent in Zanzibar, the main airport in Zanzibar will provide scheduled flights to Serengeti, Ruaha, Mikumi and Selous.
Since Zanzibar is just off the coast of Dar es Salaam, it can also be accessible by ferry in under two hours. In contrast to the hustle and bustle of Dar, the Zanzibar archipelago will promise exclusive white beaches and escapism like no other. The flight from Zanzibar to Dar takes about 20 minutes!
Want to add Pemba? From Zanzibar Town to Pemba, you can travel by scenic flight over the archipelago in just 30 minutes. When people say Pemba is like Zanzibar was in the past, they mean that there is not a lot of tourism there. Pemba, just like its larger brother, has a long history and a unique way of doing things. So, in addition to all the marine splendor, you will also experience the local hospitality and culture.
Seaweed & Fishing Vessel
You can book a one-day cruise on a dhow fishing vessel to visit reefs and nearby islands. Seaweed thrives around the coast of Zanzibar, and you will see it blooming like flowers in the clear waters. As a result, exports of cleaned and dried seaweed have generated a new source of wealth for the fishermen and women of this region.
Ready to start planning a tailor-made beach vacation to Zanzibar, Tanzania? Our experts make planning your Zanzibar beach vacation experience a walk in the park. To help you with trip planning, browse our travel guide to find expert advice on all things beach holidays in Zanzibar. Get inspired with our sample itineraries and let our Wito experts customize a dream trip just for you!
Are you planning a Zanzibar vacation? Here are the best months to go.
We recommend you plan your Zanzibar beach vacation during the dry season of June through November. During this time, excellent weather conditions can be expected across the country, and wildlife viewing should be spectacular.
The weather is hot with low humidity around July and October, which makes for the best beach times from July to October. From December through March, you will get high humidity.
We do not recommend travelling to Zanzibar during the rainy season months, April and early May. Many resorts tend to stay closed in April.
This is what your typical vacation in Zanzibar would look like:
From wherever you have just arrived, Zanzibar will be the perfect place to escape. After an African safari, a beach in Zanzibar will give you some downtime, a quiet location to reflect, and a chance to relax and rejuvenate.
You can spend a few days in Zanzibar however you like, with the primary goal being to unwind. It’s nice to take the time to rest before your flight home and after a few busy days on your safari. A combination of safari and beach will have you feeling calm, connected with nature and free from the stresses of the everyday world. Zanzibar will complete your sense of solitude by providing you with nothing but the Indian Ocean and white sand as a company. So relax under the palms, enjoy a cocktail on the sand, and reflect on your safari through Tanzania.
You can view the ocean from a bungalow on the sand. The waters around here are calm and serene, reflecting the sun’s path across the sky in hues of emerald and azure. The waves are occasionally audible but barely visible. They will create a lagoon when they crash against a coral wall a mile offshore. Due to the temperature and lack of currents, you might feel like you are wading or swimming in a bath. In all other cases, regardless of your age, this will be a very safe place to float and swim. The waters could be a little too high for swimming during high tide.
Depending on where you’d be enjoying your beach vacation from, some of the pristine beaches in the northern part of the island will allow you to swim in the ocean all day. On the other hand, the scene produced at low tide is another appealing feature of some of the beaches in Zanzibar, especially the eastern coast. You’ll be able to walk across the water that is ankle to knee-deep as the ocean recedes. At certain times of the day, you can observe a myriad of marine life without donning a snorkel thanks to coral outcrops that stud the water and are home to swarms of tropical fish. There will also be a tranquil first impression. Little will disturb the silence because this side of the island is still undeveloped. So remove your shoes, acclimate to the leisurely Zanzibari rhythm, and discover a tropical paradise. On the island, there will be time to do things, but they will all be saved for later.
Ready to start planning your Zanzibar holiday? Select your preferred time to travel, then let a Wito Africa safari expert create an itinerary that meets your needs for a perfect beach vacation and incorporates the highlights of that season. We can save you time, money, headaches and heartache by helping you plan your dream beach holiday. To start planning your vacation in Zanzibar, please call us at 1-315.805.4040 or send our safari experts a message via email.
The Ultimate Guide to Plan Your Dream Vacation in Zanzibar, Tanzania:
Known for its picturesque white sand beaches and turquoise blue waters, Zanzibar is the perfect paradise for your dream beach holiday in Tanzania. We can organize your stay on the best beaches in Zanzibar, where you can do as little or as much as you like.
On this island off the coast of Eastern Africa, idyllic white sand beaches meet azure waters. Just a short hop off the coast of Tanzania, which offers some of the best wildlife experiences in the world, Zanzibar shines as the ideal island getaway while housing a wealth of cultural riches. Stone Town is the largest metropolis in Zanzibar and has a distinctive past. It creates the impression of a medieval city in North Africa, complete with colorful doors, street markets, and crafts from local artisans. Zanzibar is unique in Tanzania because of its spice plantations, historic forts, and opulent lodgings.
There are many factors to consider when planning a beach vacation to Zanzibar. Overall, a total of three to four nights in Zanzibar is perfect if you are planning to do anything other than relax at the beach resort. Two nights is too short because the flight from Arusha would typically arrive in Zanzibar in the afternoon, and it takes about an hour or so to get to your beach resort. Therefore by the time you arrive at the resort, it will be close to late afternoon. And when you check in to your hotel and refresh, it would be evening, the perfect time to experience the magical sunset by the beach.
Since Zanzibar is only 25 miles wide, getting around is simple, and you can visit beaches all over the island from your central base. Nearly all the beaches are blissfully quiet, some are isolated and immaculate, and others have charming wooden shack bars. Spend the day lying in the sun and listening to the gentle waves, or go underwater and explore the fascinating marine life of the archipelago. No matter how active or inactive your day is, the opulent charm of your hotel will be there every evening.
What we love so much about Zanzibar Island is that the paradise setting allows you to relax and enjoy a wide range of different activities designed to fit perfectly with your interests and travel style. Some of these optional extras on the island can easily be combined with the superb accommodation, which has been hand-picked for you.
Start by gathering enough information to help you decide on the best destination. It is possible to combine the north, Zanzibar, and south parks on a nine-to-fourteen-day trip thanks to safari flights’ quick and direct connections. Safari flights are necessary for itineraries that connect Zanzibar and the north and south. These flights, which travel in small planes, stop at various parks and airports, dropping off passengers at different locations. A 33 pounds is the strict weight limit, and soft-sided bags should be used for luggage. The schedules are established and generally relatively accurate.
Deciding which reliable tour operator (s) to use for your dream beach vacation is not an easy task. With a sea of general online tour operators, it is hard to find the ONE that truly speaks to your discerning tastes and genuinely understands your travel needs and expectations.
With several accommodation options to select from, we can guarantee that your beach holiday will be meticulously created just for you with your specific interests, travel style and schedule. Everything will be tailored to your preference, allowing you to enjoy a perfect balance of comfort, adventure and maximum relaxation. We will only recommend the places we have stayed in and inspected thoroughly, and we can guarantee you will be safe.
If you want to explore the beauty of Zanzibar and participate in tours, we highly recommend using qualified local guides. With our personalized beach excursions, you will have control over your experience and enjoy all the flexibility you need to plan your daily beach activities. Ultimately, you will have an opportunity to choose what you would like to do, when you would like to start your private beach experience, and where you would like to go.
Similar to your safari arrangements, in Zanzibar, we will provide you with a private transfer driver/guide and vehicle to take you anywhere and everywhere. Our dedicated team on the ground will look after you; from when you arrive in Zanzibar until you leave. Moreover, we can accommodate all kinds of dietary requirements such as vegetarian, vegan, halal, and kosher to pescatarian.
Our unique approach to offering a stress-free Zanzibar vacation starts with ensuring that you are well-informed about the specific requirements of the country you visit so you know exactly what to expect. Understanding how beaches in Zanzibar work, what is involved before and during, and what key points to consider when booking ensures an unforgettable beach holiday. Topics like when to visit, how to get there, and what to pack are addressed by Wito Africa safari experts.
Is Zanzibar a good holiday destination?
Known for its picturesque white sand beaches and turquoise blue waters, Zanzibar is the perfect paradise for your dream beach holiday. Vacationing in Zanzibar means enjoying the island’s powder-soft beaches, clear waters, and complete relaxation. The charming tranquillity and cultural mystique of Zanzibar Island follow the safari adventure.
A sensory extravaganza awaits you as you meander through Stone Town’s congested streets. A historically significant mosque’s melodic call to prayer, school children singing nearby, and softly ringing bells from a Hindu temple are among the sounds that drift on the breeze. Every turn in this labyrinth reveals something new, from the opulent wooden doorways of venerable merchants to the aromas of fresh seafood being grilled on roadside stands.
We can organize your stay on the best beaches in Zanzibar, where you can do as little or as much as you like. Some of these optional extras can easily be combined with the fantastic accommodation we have hand-picked for you on the island.
Why not let our specialists spoil you with an inclusive Zanzibar beach vacation that includes everything you have always dreamed of?
Your Stay in Zanzibar
Best Accommodation in Zanzibar
Zanzibar Island is a tropical paradise with gorgeous white-sand beaches that lead to turquoise waters and are enhanced by Stone Town’s historic streets. The majority of our suggestions for lodging are intimate beach bungalows, secluded resorts, and well-known beach hotels.
Our selection of Zanzibar lodging includes both opulent lodges and more reasonably priced hideaways, offering everyone a chance to experience this fascinating and diverse island. Think of private beach villas nestled in the most incredible beach settings when thinking of Zanzibar’s exceptional and opulent lodging.
Our Selection of Top Accommodation in Zanzibar Includes:
- Charming properties are ideal for couples or parents traveling with children or other groups.
- Perfectly hidden luxury resorts for the most romantic beach honeymoon.
- Exclusive beach bungalows with breathtaking views of tropical islands.
Your safety is guaranteed with excellent service, comfort and food because resort locations are always carefully selected.
If you need assistance, get in touch and let one of our Wito Africa safari experts guide you in choosing the best option for your needs and budget.
What type of clothing should I wear for my beach vacation?
Light casual attire in sensible and neutral colors is essential when packing for an African beach vacation. Women should respect Muslim cultural beliefs by dressing modestly in the main towns when visiting Zanzibar. Generally, it is preferable to wear long skirts, capri pants, and t-shirts that cover the shoulders rather than tank tops and shorts. On the beaches and in resorts, beachwear and bathing suits are acceptable.
Etiquette
Tanzania has a strong religious culture, with Christianity and Islam being the two main religions. Visitors should be aware of the conservative nature of these locations, especially Stone Town, and dress and behave accordingly. The majority of Muslims reside on the coast and in Zanzibar.
All essential and specific information will be provided in a booklet (along with your itinerary) to help you prepare well for your safari in Tanzania with us. See our Africa Safari Guide for more information on what to bring on a safari in other destinations.
Recommendation for Your International Flights to Zanzibar
If all you need to do is book your international flight to Africa, we can recommend several reliable and cost-effective options for you! While most of our guests choose DELTA/KLM direct through Europe, other popular airlines are Emirates, Turkish and Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya and Qatar Airways.
Please let us know your exact requirements and we’ll do everything we can to meet them. If needed, we can even book a business-class flight for you if you’d prefer. Trust us, you’ll be all booked and on your way in no time!
Is Zanzibar a good location for a honeymoon?
Zanzibar is a paradise for newlywed couples. A blend of a romantic Zanzibar honeymoon and an idyllic luxury safari in the Serengeti will set the perfect stage for you two to enjoy exhilarating wildlife adventures and relaxation after the big day.
On a private island and beneath the stars, dance the night away. As waves from the Indian Ocean gently touch the white sand beaches, indulge in style. Drift into the sunset on a wooden dhow while taking in Stone Town’s exoticism. This is Zanzibar, an affluent island where romance abounds, and there is a sense that everything could be perfect.
Arrival & Getting Around Zanzibar
Main International Airports
If your trip begins anywhere in northern Tanzania, such as Kilimanjaro or Serengeti, or if you are flying in for the northern safari circuit, Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA/JRO) is the best airport to use. Another gateway to take into account if you want to combine a trek or safari in Tanzania with time spent in Zanzibar and other east African nations is Arusha (ARK).
If your safari is in southern Tanzania, think about flying into Dar es Salaam (DAR). The airports in Kilimanjaro and Dar es Salaam provide direct flights to numerous significant European airports along with flights to other east and southern African nations. To combine a safari experience with some downtime on Zanzibar’s white beaches, Zanzibar offers a few international connections and some flights out of the Serengeti.
Safari flights are necessary for itineraries that connect Zanzibar and the north and south. These flights, which travel in small planes, stop at various parks and airports, dropping off passengers at different locations. A 33 pounds is the strict weight limit, and soft-sided bags should be used for luggage. The schedules are established and generally reasonably accurate.
Meet & Greet – Wito Africa Kilimanjaro Team
Upon arrival in Tanzania, you will find your private driver/guide at the airport holding a signboard with your group name written on it and a big smile! Next, our representative will help you gather your belongings and hop into the vehicle for a road transfer to your first overnight accommodation in Kilimanjaro or Arusha.
Your Transfer Vehicles in Zanzibar
For your vacation in Zanzibar, we use luxury mini-vans for road transfers to and from the beach. If you are vacationing in large groups, we use shuttle buses that accommodate up to 20 guests.
To enhance your beach experience in Zanzibar with us, we will also include bottled drinking water, some snacks and soft drinks!
Zanzibar Landscape & Wildlife
Zanzibar Wildlife & Red Colobus Monkey
For wildlife, your most prized sighting in Zanzibar is likely to be one of Africa’s rarest primates, the Zanzibar red colobus monkey. Found only at Jozani Forest National Park, the troops have been isolated on the island for at least 1,000 years and have evolved into their distinct species, with unique coat patterns, calls and food habits. With as few as 1,500 remaining, the Zanzibar red colobus has become a symbol of conservation.
How long should I spend on Zanzibar Island?
While most of our guests spend most of their time in the wilderness and less time in Zanzibar, we suggest that you spend at least three nights in Zanzibar. Depending on your interests, you’ll have two options:
- One is to go straight to the beach resort to rejuvenate whilst enjoying some optional activities from the property at your own pace. With this option, you will stay at the beach accommodation for three nights. With three nights, you will have just enough time to enjoy a day or two of unwinding and still have some time to explore the island and experience its beauty. Zanzibar offers unique experiences to travellers as it has many stunning little islands that collectively make Zanzibar an excellent destination to visit. You can go from the resort to a few small islands, towns or villages for optional activities.
2. The second option is to do some activities on your first day (night) in Stone Town, including a fine dining experience, before you proceed to the beach resort for relaxation for two nights. With your stay in Stone Town, you will be right in the heart of the historical city where you can safely explore on foot, discover many of the great restaurants and coffee houses and even browse through the city’s iconic night food market, Forodhani Gardens.
Two nights is too short because the flight from Serengeti or Arusha would typically arrive in Zanzibar in the afternoon, and it takes about an hour or so to get to your beach resort. When you arrive at the resort, it will be close to late afternoon, and by the time you check in to your hotel and refresh, it will be evening, the perfect time to experience the magical sunset by the beach.
A Wito Africa safari expert can advise you on how many days to spend at each location when you’re ready to start planning your beach vacation in Zanzibar, Tanzania.
What are the top activities offered in Zanzibar?
RECOMMENDED TOURS & ACTIVITIES IN ZANZIBAR
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- Nakupenda Sandbank, Turtles & Prison Island Experience (Half Day with Lunch included)
- Ocean Blue Safari Experience by Wito Africa (Full Day with Lunch included)
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- The Mnemba Experience – Sand, Swim & Snorkel (Half Day with Lunch)
- Private guided tour of the Spice Farm (road transfers included)
- Architectural Tour of Stone Town (entrance fees included)
- Jozani Forest Tour (entrance fees included)
- Meet the Seaweed Local Mamas & Swahili Cooking Lesson Experience
When is the best time to vacation in Zanzibar?
The best months to enjoy a beach holiday in Zanzibar are July, August, September, and October. Also, the beach weather is excellent in December, January, February, March and June. Please remember that these are the busiest times of the year, so you must make your reservations well in advance during these months.
On the other hand, April, early May and mid-November are rainy season months. We tend to avoid planning a beach vacation during the wet season.
No matter when you decide to travel to Zanzibar, superb beaches, first-rate resorts, and friendly staff will guarantee a truly exceptional and unforgettable holiday experience.
Select your preferred time to travel, then let a Wito Africa safari expert create an itinerary that meets your needs for a beach vacation and incorporates the top attractions of that season.
How does my vacation help local communities in Zanzibar?
We are a local tour operating company, and all the team members—including the guides, staff and drivers—are natives of Zanzibar. We grew up in the African tourism industry, so we understand that tourism can be a force for good. Our mission is to help contribute to the local economy by ensuring that the money from tourism stays in the area. The restaurants, lodges, and other establishments we will be visiting are all locally owned, so the money spent on the trip will go directly to support the communities you will be visiting.
What medication do I need to take for a beach holiday in Zanzibar?
Make an appointment with your doctor to discuss any necessary travel vaccinations and other medications, such as those to prevent malaria or yellow fever, that you may need to take both before and during the trip. You may also need a Yellow Fever certificate if your travel takes you to other African countries; you can find out more information on the CDC website.
Can Wito Africa Safaris help me with flights?
While we will help you book all your domestic flights within Africa, our personalized service takes the hassle out of finding and booking the best international flights for your upcoming vacation. Our Wito Africa experts will help you through the entire planning of your safari experience.
Finding the ideal flight for your trip is made simple by using the same personalized service you can get from planning a trip with Wito Africa. We offer support and a free consultation on flights and ticketing.
Do I need travel insurance?
Once you’ve committed to your ideal safari adventure, it’s strongly advised that you get travel insurance. You must have comprehensive coverage for the unexpected, and starting your journey with that peace of mind is a wise choice.
What should I pack for my beach holiday in Zanzibar?
When you reserve your safari with Wito Africa, you’ll get paperwork that includes a thorough packing list. Additionally, try to resist the urge to overpack because laundry services will be available in the locations we visit.
Will someone meet me at the airport?
Absolutely. We would like to extend a warm welcome to you as one of our valued visitors to our country. After clearing customs at the airport of your arrival, a member of the Wito Africa Safaris staff will welcome you and drive you as quickly as possible to the convenience of your hotel.
What if I have a question that is not listed here?
If you still can’t find what you’re looking for, we invite you to contact us by email. We’ll always get back to you within 12 – 24 hours.
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WHY TRAVELERS CHOOSE US
At Wito Africa Safaris, giving our customers unbiased advice and exceptional safari experiences is what we live and breathe. Our Africa safari experts are well-traveled and have in-depth first-hand knowledge of the places they suggest. To make sure these offerings live up to the expectations of our guests, the experts at Wito Africa routinely inspect new lodges, experiences, and activities. Nothing beats current, pertinent travel advice obtained directly from a local expert. The Wito Africa 'dream team' will be there for you every step of the way to ensure that even your smallest needs are met and no detail is overlooked, so you can embrace your experience with complete peace of mind.
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Our expertise is unique as we grew up in the safari industry in Africa, we know our home like the back of our hands. We can't wait to share it with you!
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Get the best shots of your life with the help of our experienced wildlife photographers. Whether you are just getting started with photography, a wildlife enthusiast, or a professional photographer seeking new adventures, our tailor-made Africa photo safaris are suitable for all levels of photographic experience. Hosted by professional wildlife photographers from start to finish, we will take you on a journey to some of Africa’s most prolific wildlife areas.
WHERE TO STAY IN ZANZIBAR ISLAND
Just for you, we have hunted out the very best lodges, villas, camps and even treehouses in Tanzania to suit every budget, itinerary and personal preference. Trust us – you’re going to be spoilt for choice! An awe-inspiring setting is just the beginning… Every one of our recommended accommodation options will blow you away with personal service, attention to detail and various levels of luxury.
Kilindi Zanzibar
This is one of our top recommendations for honeymooning couples, as it offers exclusive luxury in abundance and seems to have been designed with romantic indulgence at its heart. The Eastern-inspired domed pavilions are double suites, each with two private plunge pools, and are connected by fairytale water features and a magical waterfall.
You can also enjoy a private verandah and sunbeds overlooking the Indian Ocean and a dramatic rainfall shower. The infinity swimming pool and palatial bar, with its waterfall feature, are the finishing touches to your paradise.
White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa
Located on Paje Beach, White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa offers everything from fine dining and a rooftop lounge to a spa and water sports center specializing in kite surfing. All the villas have private pools. In addition, there is a large swimming pool and a smaller one for children and general use, making this property a perfect spot for families. There’s something for everyone, combining ultimate relaxation with high-energy activity.
The prime location, though, is the beachfront villa, which is perfect for a romantic holiday for two. You will have private access to the beach, a private pool, a panoramic rooftop terrace, and an outdoor bathtub and rain shower. We highly recommend this unique property for an unforgettable honeymoon or couple’s getaway.
Zawadi Hotel
This is one of our favorites for laid-back luxury, with a relaxed atmosphere that encompasses everything from the décor to the service. The nine en suite villas are private and intimate, and you can soak up the view from your private oceanfront terrace.
The prime cliff-top location offers an unbroken panorama of the glistening Indian Ocean, and you also have exclusive access to a cove and lagoon for swimming and snorkeling.
The service is friendly and personal, and your stay is all-inclusive, so you can indulge as much as you like with no nasty surprises. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind with someone special – as if you’re the only two people on the planet.
Breezes Beach Club and Spa
Set in its secluded tropical beach paradise on the southeastern coast of Zanzibar, Breezes Beach Club & Spa is known for its friendly and attentive service and authentic Zanzibar charm.
We’d recommend Breezes to those who want a complete escape in one of the most peaceful and untouched areas of Zanzibar island. The bustle of Stone Town is only about an hour away, but Breezes is about getting away and switching off. You can expect a warm welcome, personal service, and an intimate stay with all the elegant allure of traditional Zanzibar.
andBeyond Mnemba Island
This award-winning private beach hideaway manages to be both exclusive and easy-going, offering something for every traveler. The ten rustic bandas blend into the tropical forest and overlook a stunning coral reef. Ideal for scuba diving enthusiasts and sun worshippers alike, each banda gives direct access to the beach. You can get active by snorkeling, swimming or kayaking, or only sit back and enjoy a relaxing massage. We love the family banda, combining two bandas to accommodate a family of four, and this is an ideal spot for all ages.
Baraza Resort and Spa
Baraza Resort and Spa is the most exclusive boutique resort in Zanzibar. We love this stunning property because it is all-inclusive with a boutique ambience. Your stay With only 30 premier villas, it evokes the heritage of Zanzibar, dating back to the era of the Sultans.
Baraza was featured in the Hot List for the 60 best new hotels in the world by Conde Nast Traveller, a Prestigious worldwide Travel Magazine, and was voted one of the Top 25 Hotels for Families & the Top 25 Luxury Hotels in Africa on Trip Advisor.
Baraza Resort & Spa offers four beautifully furnished room categories/villas:
Sultan Two Bedroom Villa
The sultan villa measures 193 sq meters and features a master bedroom with en suite bathroom and freestanding bathtub, walk-in dressing room, living room, TV, DVD Player, Sultan’s Lounge Bed, mini bar area with tea/coffee making facilities, large terrace, two sun loungers and plunge pool. This is in addition to a large terrace with two sun loungers.
One-Bedroom Villa
The one-bedroom villa measures 148 sq meters and features a master bedroom with en suite bathroom and freestanding bathtub, walk-in dressing room, living room, TV, DVD Player, Sultan’s Lounge Bed, mini bar area with tea/coffee making facilities, large terrace, two sun loungers and plunge pool. This is in addition to a large terrace with two sun loungers.
Garden View Two Bedroom Villa
The garden view villa measures 193 sq meters, featuring a master bedroom with en suite bathroom and freestanding bathtub, walk-in dressing room, living room, TV, DVD Player, Sultan’s Lounge Bed, mini bar area with tea/coffee making facilities, large terrace, two sun loungers and plunge pool. This is in addition to a large terrace with two sun loungers.
Ocean Front One Bedroom Villa
The ocean-front villa measures 148 sq meters and features a master bedroom with en suite bathroom and freestanding bathtub, walk-in dressing room, living room, TV, DVD Player, Sultan’s Lounge Bed, mini bar area with tea/coffee making facilities, large terrace, two sun loungers and plunge pool. This is in addition to a large terrace with two sun loungers.
Matemwe Retreat - Zanzibar
Personal service reaches a whole new level at Matemwe! As well as a private butler, you have your private, personal chef who will discuss a new menu with you every day. This gives you the freedom and flexibility to enjoy an exclusive moonlit dinner or to join other guests for a delicious seafood buffet in the al fresco restaurant. Each of the four private villas has a roof terrace with a plunge pool, sundeck, and a verandah for watching the fishing dhows bobbing on the Indian Ocean.
We love that so many local materials have been used to build the villas and furniture, including local stone, Makuti thatch and coconut wood. It is impressive to see that even the soft furnishing has all been handcrafted by local Zanzibari women. The villas reflect the bold, vibrant colors of Spice Island. The ambience will make you feel right at home.
Tulia Zanzibar Beach Resort
The crescent bay of Pongwe beach is a vivid wonderland of almost untouched coral reefs, making this five-star resort perfect for those who love snorkeling and swimming.
Your suite comes with a private terrace, and it is filled with luxurious furniture and fabrics. Staff are happy to be flexible to meet your needs and preferences, which is lavish for our clients who want a bespoke experience.
The Manta Resort
Pemba is a remote island off the east coast of Africa and probably as far away from civilisation as you might ever find yourselves. The Manta Resort offers something different from most tropical islands — it’s not about five-star luxury. If it’s serenity, close encounters with nature and a family of staff you crave, The Manta Resort is the place for you. Switch off the noisy, polluted electronic world and enter a completely different one, not as a tourist, but as a guest with simple needs: sunshine, fresh air, natural food, a comfortable bed and friendly company.
