Zanzibar, the ‘Spice Islands’, combines Swahili and Islamic traditions into an array of cultural richness from its historic Stone Town – a UNESCO World Heritage site – to its pristine beaches.
Zanzibar’s finest resorts celebrate this heritage while providing world-class luxury. Zuri Zanzibar stands out as the world’s first hotel with EarthCheck Sustainable Design Gold Certification. The Baraza Resort and Spa has earned its place among the world’s 60 finest new hotels according to Condé Nast Traveler.
These tropical havens range from properties with house reefs that shelter 400 fish species to expansive estates with 50-hectare gardens. The perfect 25°C weather during the June-to-October dry season makes it ideal for a getaway. Our carefully selected list of 15 resorts will guide you to your perfect Zanzibar sanctuary, especially if you’re planning a romantic escape at these award-winning properties.
Zuri Zanzibar
Image Source: Zuri Zanzibar
Zuri Zanzibar sits on Kendwa Beach’s pristine shores and stands as proof of sustainable luxury. The resort covers 13 acres of carefully designed landscape that perfectly blends contemporary elegance with authentic African charm.
Zuri Zanzibar Location & Setting
The resort lies 50 kilometers from Stone Town and its international airport, with its own 300-meter west-facing beach. The beach stays protected from tides, which makes swimming safe all day. Sweet scents from the nearby spice garden drift in with the ocean breeze. Teak, grass-roofed bungalows hide among jungle and palm trees, connected by winding paths.
Zuri Zanzibar Sustainability Initiatives
Zuri Zanzibar leads the way as the first hotel worldwide to earn EarthCheck’s Sustainable Design Gold Certification. The resort runs on its own power sources and uses 52% less energy per guest than similar properties. Its smart Evening Breeze cooling system cuts energy use by 75% compared to regular air conditioning.
Zuri Zanzibar Room Types
Guests can choose from 56 rooms, including bungalows, suites, and villas. Each space combines modern furniture with local artisan touches beautifully. Garden Bungalows come with private terraces and hammocks. The Jacuzzi Suites spread across 132 square meters with separate bedroom and living spaces. The oceanfront villas offer the ultimate luxury with their own beach access.
Zuri Zanzibar Dining Experience
The resort’s food scene features three restaurants and four bars, each with its own unique style. Upendo Restaurant sits above the resort and serves international dishes with an African-Indian Ocean flair. Maisha blends Southern European and Indian Ocean flavors, while Bahari Grill and Bar offers beachside meals with amazing sunset views. The “Dining by Design” option lets guests enjoy private meals anywhere in the resort – from breakfast on the beach to dinner by a bonfire.
Kilindi Zanzibar
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Kilindi Zanzibar stands as an architectural masterpiece on the island’s northwestern coast, originally designed for ABBA’s Benny Andersson. The resort beautifully combines Scandinavian minimalism with Middle Eastern drama in its 50-acre tropical sanctuary.
Kilindi Zanzibar Architecture
Fifteen distinctive white-domed pavilion suites dot the lush gardens across the property. Each pavilion showcases innovative design elements with glassless windows and wooden shutters that welcome ocean breezes. The domed roofs do more than provide shade – they’re part of a clever water recycling system that keeps the property cool throughout.
Kilindi Zanzibar Luxury Amenities
Privacy reigns supreme in each pavilion, complete with two connected plunge pools joined by a waterfall. Inside, guests find spacious rooms with king-size beds wrapped in mosquito netting, writing desks, and cozy lounging areas. A dedicated butler will give a customized experience throughout your stay.
The main pavilion features a stunning 25-meter T-shaped infinity pool with views of the Indian Ocean. Guests can enjoy evening cocktails at the atmospheric cascading waterfall bar. Hidden in a secluded garden, the spa offers couples’ treatments in a double hamana suite.
Kilindi Zanzibar Beach Access
The resort’s northwest location proves ideal, with minimal impact from the dramatic tide changes that affect other parts of the island. Guests enjoy exclusive access to a pristine white sand beach, well separated from neighboring properties. The western-facing position creates magical sunset views over the Indian Ocean.
Kilindi’s dining options reflect its luxury status with multiple venues from the alfresco terrace to intimate beachfront settings. Fresh seafood dishes with local spices shine on the menu along with international cuisine. Guests can also enjoy private dining in their pavilion, served by their personal butler.
Mnemba Island Lodge
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Mnemba Island Lodge stands as a perfect example of exclusive beach luxury. This hidden gem on a private island off Zanzibar’s northeastern coast features 12 intimate bandas that overlook pristine coral sand beaches.
Mnemba Island Location
This teardrop-shaped paradise lies just 4.5 kilometers from Zanzibar’s northeastern shore and measures 1.5 kilometers in circumference. Guests reach the island after a 90-minute drive from Zanzibar International Airport and a short 10-15 minute boat ride. The beachfront bandas blend naturally into the landscape. Local craftsmen built each one using hand-woven coconut palm and native timber, nestled within a peaceful casuarina forest.
Mnemba Island Activities
The island’s surrounding waters offer some of Africa’s best diving spots. A two-minute swim takes you to the house reef, home to over 430 species of reef fish. Certified divers can enjoy two complimentary dives each day at the PADI dive center. The island offers more than just diving. Guests can go kayaking, try stand-up paddleboarding, or explore the waters while snorkeling. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the island’s role as a sanctuary for endangered species, including the rare Ader’s duiker and suni antelope.
Mnemba Island Dining
The island’s exceptional dining reflects its dedication to quality. Traditional ngalawa outriggers bring fresh seafood daily. Each day starts with freshly made preserves, juices, and artisanal bakery creations. Guests choose when and where to eat, from forest clearings to private beach spots. The chef meets with guests to discuss daily menus and ensures their dietary needs are met.
Mnemba Island Conservation Efforts
The resort leads marine preservation through the Mnemba Island Marine Conservation Area (MIMCA). They work with Zanzibar’s government to protect a zone extending 400-700 meters around the island. Their conservation work includes restoring coral reefs through nurseries that grow coral fragments for damaged areas. Green turtles find a safe haven here too. These endangered creatures nest on the island, with peak laying season in February and March.
Matemwe Retreat
Image Source: Zanzibar Retreats
Matemwe Retreat sits on Zanzibar’s northeastern coastline. The property features just four spectacular villas that look out over the Indian Ocean and Mnemba Island.
Matemwe Retreat Villa Features
Local materials and expert craftsmanship shine in each two-story sanctuary. The ground floor welcomes guests with a private cocktail bar and an air-conditioned bedroom with a king-size bed. A twin vanity bathroom adds to the luxury. The room’s centerpiece, a sunken stone bathtub, gives you stunning views of azure waters. Deep sofas and hammocks fill the spacious veranda. This spot lets guests watch traditional fishing dhows sail home at sunset.
A rooftop terrace crowns each villa with a private plunge pool. Sun and shade decks offer sweeping ocean views. The high position rewards guests with breathtaking scenes of nearby beaches and distant islands.
Matemwe Retreat Beach Experience
The private beach reserved for retreat guests has crystal-clear waters. Swimming is best during mid-tide. Low tide limits swimming but creates a fascinating inter-tidal zone to explore. The watersports center’s Asilia staff leads free reef walks for interested guests.
The resort takes part in turtle conservation. Staff members move nests from risky beach areas and watch over them until the eggs hatch. This dedication to marine life adds depth to the coastal experience.
Matemwe Retreat Spa Services
The Sea and Spice Spa’s menu includes the signature “Swept Away” package that spans three days. Guests can try unique therapies like “Konokono Healing” which uses seashells’ natural ocean energies. The villa’s rooftop terraces serve as private treatment spots with Indian Ocean views.
Each villa comes with a dedicated butler who arranges individual-specific experiences. They handle everything from private dining setups to spa bookings. The food experience stands out too. Chefs talk with guests about daily menu priorities, serving meals in garden settings or on roof terraces.
Pongwe Beach Hotel
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Pongwe Beach Hotel nestles amid swaying coconut palms on Zanzibar’s northeast coast, creating a tranquil retreat within a secluded coral-rock bay. This intimate property has earned a TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice award and delivers a perfect blend of simplicity and comfort.
Pongwe Beach Location
The hotel lies about one hour from Zanzibar’s international airport on a pristine stretch of coastline famous for white sand and calm waters. A scenic cove behind a coral lagoon houses the property and provides exceptional privacy. The Kiwengwa Pongwe Forest stands just five minutes away by car, where visitors can spot red colobus monkeys and sunni antelope.
Pongwe Beach Activities
Adventure enthusiasts will find plenty of complimentary activities at their disposal. The hotel provides free kayaks and paddleboards while snorkeling equipment comes at no extra cost for Pongwe Bay exploration. A striking infinity pool overlooks the ocean, and guests can enjoy drinks right at poolside.
Low tide reveals extensive stretches of sand that guests can explore. Sturdy footwear proves essential against razor clams and sea urchins. The location suits those who prefer beachfront relaxation since premium diving sites are an hour away.
Pongwe Beach Dining Options
The hotel’s culinary offerings stand out remarkably. A large timber-and-thatch structure among palm trees houses the restaurant, which serves breakfast from 7:30 to 10:30 with cooked options and fresh fruits. The kitchen delivers excellent quality with daily lunch specials and pizza twice weekly.
Dinner becomes a three-course celebration of local cuisine and seafood. The menu features Friday night Swahili buffets and Tuesday BBQ buffets. Local small farms and fishing communities supply fresh ingredients. Guests can select bed & breakfast or half-board options, and room service brings morning tea and coffee upon request.
Xanadu Villas
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The pristine white sands of Zanzibar’s southeastern coast are home to Xanadu Villas, a collection of nine luxurious villas that capture the essence of African and Arabian folklore.
Xanadu Villa Types
Each villa at the property has its own unique design. You can choose from cozy one-bedroom retreats or spacious two-bedroom sanctuaries. The largest one-bedroom option, Mawingu Villa, stands out with its circular dome design. It features a spacious bedroom, living area, and a large bathroom with recycled wood vanity units. Kimwondo Villa, the architect’s personal favorite, comes with a rooftop pool and dining terrace. Families will love the Korongo and Mlima villas. These two-bedroom spaces have large living areas, private plunge pools, and outdoor showers.
Xanadu Beach Access
The warm Indian Ocean is just steps away from every villa. Guests can explore vibrant coral reefs and local marine life during guided ocean walks at low tide. The beach loungers are well-spaced to give guests plenty of sun and privacy.
Xanadu Dining Experience
A talented team of international chefs creates innovative dishes that showcase Zanzibar’s best flavors. The kitchen focuses on clean, fresh, and healthy food using organic ingredients from their garden. Guests can eat wherever and whenever they want – from shady garden lunches to romantic sunset dinners. Your stay includes non-alcoholic drinks, local beers, and house wines. Premium options are available for an extra charge.
Xanadu Activities
Water adventures like sea kayaking and snorkeling start right from Xanadu’s beach, coordinated by the activities team. The beachside Kiota Spa offers treatments in an indoor suite or on an open-sided terrace with ocean views. The staff can arrange island excursions and traditional Zanzibari Dhow boat trips along the coast for cultural experiences.
Zawadi Hotel
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Zanzibar’s southeast coast is home to Zawadi Hotel, an adults-only sanctuary with breathtaking Indian Ocean views.
Zawadi Hotel Setting
The hotel’s cliffside location creates a private beach getaway with a pristine sandy cove nestled below. Nature has carved out the cliff’s center to reveal a beautiful white sandy beach you can reach by a short staircase. Swimming is possible throughout the day thanks to a lagoon that keeps water levels steady even at low tide.
Zawadi Hotel Setting
Twelve private villas spread across 100 square meters showcase elegant design touches. These roomy villas feature en-suite bathrooms and large terraces with clear ocean views. Modern comforts include air conditioning, plunge pools, and blackout curtains in each villa. The rooms blend understated beach décor to create a relaxed atmosphere.
Zawadi Hotel Amenities
World-class cuisine at multiple dining spots makes up the all-inclusive experience at Zawadi. Mswakini beach bar serves casual meals throughout the day. The Drift Wood dining room welcomes guests for breakfast and dinner. Mali Mali lounge opens as the sun sets, serving cocktails with stunning ocean views.
The resort’s recreational options go beyond dining. Health enthusiasts will find a well-equipped fitness center. Water activities are right at your doorstep. Rising Sun Dive Center, a PADI 5* Gold Palm and National Geographic certified facility, welcomes divers of all skill levels. Professional Thai and Balinese therapists bring massage services to your villa, letting you relax to ocean waves. A 900-meter jogging trail weaves through tropical gardens, perfect for exercise among lush greenery.
The Residence Zanzibar
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The Residence Zanzibar spreads across 32 hectares of tropical paradise on the southwest coast. This stunning resort beautifully combines African, Omani, and European heritage to create an extraordinary retreat.
The Residence Location
A scenic 55-minute drive from Stone Town and the international airport brings you to this magnificent resort with its mile-long powdery white-sand beach. Guests can easily reach the nearby Kizimkazi village, where dolphin safaris are just 20 minutes away. Coconut palms and the Indian Ocean surround this secluded paradise, creating a peaceful haven.
The Residence Accommodation
66 luxuriously appointed villas showcase the island’s rich cultural heritage. These private sanctuaries range from garden-view to oceanfront settings. Each villa features its own 1.2-meter-deep swimming pool. Modern amenities include 40-inch LCD satellite TVs, direct dial telephones, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Guests receive bicycles with their villas to explore the beautiful grounds freely.
The Residence Facilities
The resort’s stunning centerpiece is a 45×15-meter infinity pool with glass walls. A 150-meter jetty serves as a nautical club during the day and transforms into a charming lounge bar at sunset. The spa sits within five acres of private gardens, where treatments use local flora and spices. Kids will love the air-conditioned Kids Club, which runs from 7:30 am to 7:30 pm. They can join cooking classes and learn Swahili.
The Residence Activities
Water lovers can try complimentary non-motorized activities like catamaran sailing, pedal boating, and kayaking. Guided marine walks happen based on tide conditions. The resort’s grounds offer plenty to explore – from sprawling gardens to a petting zoo and bird sanctuary. Cultural adventures include trips along the Zanzibar spice trail and visits to see giant tortoises and native Red Colobus monkeys.
White Sand Luxury Villas
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White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa stands as Tanzania’s only Relais & Chateaux property on Paje Beach with its award-winning charm. This family-owned resort blends thoughtful luxury and environmental care across four hectares of coastal greenery.
White Sand Villa Features
The resort’s 18 villas each span up to 1500 square meters of private space. Guests enjoy complete privacy surrounded by tropical plants. These air-conditioned villas feature private plunge pools, lounge areas, and dining spaces. The architecture showcases organic materials, shapes, and textures that capture Zanzibar’s coastal beauty naturally.
White Sand Beach Experience
The property sits perfectly on Paje beach’s pristine white sands along Zanzibar’s east coast. Its prime location gives guests direct access to world-class kitesurfing waters, making it one of the island’s best spots for the sport. The beachfront setting is perfect for water activities, especially at its premium kitesurfing center that runs for six months each year.
White Sand Dining Options
Guests can choose between two restaurants and three bars. The main restaurant, Doors to Zanzibar, offers elegant fine dining under high ceilings with a beautiful nacre chandelier. The Beach Restaurant creates a casual mood with fresh seafood, crisp salads, and refreshing smoothies.
The kitchen uses fresh produce from the resort’s organic herb, fruit, and vegetable garden, showing its dedication to sustainability. Three distinct bars – the lounge, beach bar, and sunset bar – each create their own atmosphere. The Sunset bar stands out with its amazing views and offers telescope stargazing on request.
Dining plans range from bed & breakfast to all-inclusive packages. Special occasions become memorable with private dining options, including romantic dinners, picnics, and exclusive BBQs.
Tulia Zanzibar
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Tulia Zanzibar Unique Beach Resort sits on the beautiful Pongwe Beach. This luxury haven opened its doors in 2016 and blends modern comfort with authentic island charm.
Tulia Resort Overview
The resort has 16 well-designed rooms in three categories. You’ll find five standalone seafront luxury villas, ten deluxe garden bungalows, and one royal villa. Pale Tanga sandstone adorns the seafront villas that feature polished coconut wood floors. Each villa has a freestanding bathtub with ocean views. The royal villa sits in tropical gardens and comes with an outdoor Jacuzzi-style spa pool.
Tulia Beach Access
The property’s elevated position above the Indian Ocean makes it special. Guests can reach the beach during mid-to-low tide. The resort created a smart solution with an artificial sand-covered ledge below pool level. This area has loungers and parasols. The private beach stays pristine with white sands that look stunning at both low and high tide.
Tulia Activities
Guests can enjoy many experiences here. The resort boasts Zanzibar’s first waterslides that wind through green foliage and end in a sunken swimming pool. The main pool stretches 25 meters and features a submerged bar. Here, guests sip drinks while taking in ocean views.
The resort provides free bicycles to explore nearby villages. Visitors can join various trips including the Semi Submarine Cruise to see marine life. They also arrange guided tours to Jozani Forest where Red Colobus Monkeys live. Adventure seekers can ride quad bikes through remote African villages or try skydiving over Kendwa beach.
Two expert therapists work at the spa offering relaxing treatments. When evening comes, guests gather at the main bar. They can watch sports on the large flat-screen TV or enjoy sunset views by the pool.
Essque Zalu
Image Source: Essque Zalu Zanzibar
Essque Zalu stands as a boutique destination on Zanzibar’s far northern coast, where traditional Makuti roofs go together with contemporary luxury. The intimate resort sits on a natural coral cliff and gives guests an extraordinary mix of comfort and style.
Essque Zalu Location
The resort sits just 10 minutes from Nungwi’s vibrant atmosphere and offers breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. Instead of a typical sandy beach, guests will find a long pier that stretches into azure waters. The endless beaches of Kendwa are available with a short drive, which gives guests different coastal options to enjoy.
Essque Zalu Accommodation
You’ll find 40 suites and 9 spacious villas, each with spectacular ocean or garden views. The suites showcase local materials and native artwork under traditional Makuti roofs. Each suite comes with a master bedroom, lounge, and private terrace or balcony. These spaces can host three adults or two adults with two children.
The villas take luxury living to new heights with three or four bedrooms. These private sanctuaries feature their own pools, massage areas, kitchen facilities, and large terraces. Three-bedroom villas can host six adults, while four-bedroom options welcome up to eight guests.
Essque Zalu Facilities
Three distinct restaurants and two bars create a variety of dining options. The Jetty, wrapped in ocean views, serves modern Arabic cuisine. The Zalu Spa offers a peaceful retreat with two couples treatment rooms, four single rooms, and a vichy shower. Natural healing takes center stage here with 100% organic ingredients.
The resort features a Technogym fitness center, an art gallery, and a kids club. Guests can enjoy activities like windsurfing, diving, and snorkeling adventures. Each night brings a special culinary experience with themed dinners and entertainment.
Baraza Resort & Spa
Image Source: Baraza Zanzibar
Baraza Resort & Spa sits gracefully on Zanzibar’s southeastern shoreline and brings Swahili design to life through its detailed architectural style. This boutique sanctuary ranks among the world’s 60 best new hotels and holds a perfect spot on the famous Bwejuu-Paje Beach.
Baraza Resort Architecture
The resort’s design celebrates Zanzibar’s rich cultural heritage with elements from the grand Sultan’s Palaces. Local artisans skilled in cement carving have created beautiful handmade designs throughout the villas and buildings. You’ll find 30 stunning villas that showcase elegant Swahili arches, detailed hand-carved decorations, and beautiful antiques. Local craftsmen who are experts in the island’s famous wood carving traditions have handcrafted every piece of Zanzibari furniture.
Baraza Resort Amenities
Frangipani spa, the resort’s pride and joy, stands as one of Zanzibar’s biggest wellness retreats. This elegant facility blends traditional Swahili elements with aromatic candles, essential oils, and spices. Expert therapists from Thailand, Bali, and India offer special massage techniques, with the signature Sultan’s Bath treatment being the highlight.
Baraza Resort Activities
The Water Club offers exciting experiences for both families and thrill-seekers. Kids can explore marine life through snorkeling lessons and enjoy beach sports at their dedicated club. Guests can explore pristine diving spots through the PADI five-star Gold Palm and RAID certified Dive Center, which caters to all skill levels.
The Baraza experience puts culture at its heart. Guests can learn to cook traditional dishes in Swahili cooking classes led by expert chefs. They can also join reef safaris with professional guides who know everything about coral formations and marine life. The resort organizes guided tours to Bwejuu village where visitors can experience local life firsthand, and the proceeds help support community health and education programs.
Fumba Beach Lodge
Image Source: fumbabeachlodge.com
Fumba Beach Lodge sits peacefully in a pristine peninsula of the Menai Bay Conservation Area. The World Wild Life Federation recognized this beautiful hideaway in 1998 as an area of outstanding natural beauty. You’ll find this authentic Zanzibari retreat just 30 minutes away from Stone Town’s international airport.
Fumba Beach Setting
The wilderness stretches across 161,874 square meters, and nature has carved out three perfect coves with sheltered beaches. This beautiful marine sanctuary also serves as an eco-project. Ancient baobabs and palm trees create a natural canopy over the property. Local guides lead visitors through nature trails to spot almost 50 different bird species, making it a paradise for nature lovers.
Fumba Beach Rooms
Twenty-six charming whitewashed bungalows built in traditional Zanzibari style offer private ocean views. The accommodation choices include 20 deluxe cottages, four luxury suites, and two baobab suites. Each room comes with all the comforts you need – tea/coffee facilities, mini-fridges, room safes, and premium bed linens. The luxury suites stand out with their private roof terraces and open-air showers, plus ocean-view baths. The crown jewels are two special baobab suites built around a 900-year-old tree, featuring bathrooms that embrace the elements.
Fumba Beach Activities
The PADI dive center runs daily trips to nearby reefs, with depths between 10-30 meters. Swimming is jellyfish-free during high tide, while low tide creates perfect conditions for beach walks. The dive center’s snorkeling trips start early, helping guests beat the crowds at the best spots. Guests can also explore local spice farms or take trips to Stone Town. The dhow bar, crafted from an old Zanzibari boat, offers the perfect spot to enjoy cocktails as the sun sets.
Qambani Luxury Resort
Image Source: Zanzibar Retreats
Qambani Luxury Resort stands at the tip of a secluded peninsula on Zanzibar’s eastern shores. This architectural masterpiece blends ancient Swahili craftsmanship with modern coastal design.
Qambani Location
Reaching this hidden gem takes an eight-hour direct night flight from Europe to Dar es Salaam and a quick 15-minute hop to Zanzibar. A scenic drive across the island for an hour and a half brings guests to their destination. The resort’s location gives guests a big advantage with minimal jet lag since the time difference from Europe is just 2-3 hours.
Qambani Accommodation
Six distinctive villas make up the resort, each with its own character and name: Sultan 1 & 2, Africa, Plantation, Coastal, Castaway, and Sundowner. Modern amenities come standard in every villa including air conditioning, ceiling fans, WiFi, minibars, coffee machines, and Bluetooth sound systems. The Africa villa stands out as a luxurious one-bedroom retreat with an entree featuring a daybed, spacious wardrobe, and a stunning bathroom that looks straight out of design magazines.
Qambani Experiences
A stunning infinity pool sits at the heart of the resort with breathtaking views of the turquoise Indian Ocean. Guests can explore a miles-long white sand beach that curves around the headland from June to November. A smaller beach is available within a ten-minute walk at low tide from December to May.
Flexible dining lets guests eat whenever they want. Multiple dining spots dot the property, from the timber dining room with three-sided louver doors to casual poolside barbecues. Entertainment options include a cozy room with HD TV, satellite channels, and comfortable sofas. The gym comes equipped with bicycle and rowing machines, free weights, and mirrors.
The resort takes pride in its customized service with thoughtful touches like free late checkouts until 10 pm for guests with late-night flights. The general manager’s personal visits during dinner rounds add to the warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Upendo Zanzibar
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Upendo Zanzibar stands as a boutique hotel on Michamvi’s pristine coastline. This remarkable property blends exclusive private villas with social spaces and puts sustainability first.
Upendo Resort Overview
The property features four luxury beachfront villas that show incredible attention to detail. The main villa comes with six suites and a private swimming pool. Its expansive decks provide clear views of the sea. Two more beachfront villas are perfect for couples or solo travelers. These villas come with spacious bedrooms that look out to the ocean, private rooftop pools, and sun decks. The resort naturally blends modern elements with traditional Zanzibari style. You’ll find crisp white walls, thatched roofs, and beautiful decorative lanterns throughout.
Upendo Beach Access
Just 328 feet from Pingwe village, the resort sits on one of Zanzibar’s most secluded and unique tidal beaches. Its location provides guests with amazing views of The Rock Restaurant, which creates a stunning backdrop for their stay. The resort’s steadfast dedication to conservation helps guests enjoy pristine shorelines while supporting local environmental projects.
Upendo Dining
The food at Upendo is a celebration of fusion cuisine with carefully crafted dishes. An infinity pool adds to the restaurant’s charm, where fresh seafood meets local and international flavors. Sunday brunch has become a guest favorite with live music setting the mood. The kitchen uses local ingredients, seasonal fruits, and fresh spices from the island.
The resort goes beyond dining to offer spa services right in your suite or villa. Round-the-clock management and butler service will give a personal touch throughout your stay. Adventure lovers can join various excursions. These include swimming with dolphins and exploring Stone Town’s UNESCO heritage sites.
Comparison Table
| Resort Name | Location | Accommodation | Key Features | Beach Access | Dining Options | Notable Activities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zuri Zanzibar | Kendwa Beach, 50km from Stone Town | 56 units (bungalows, suites, villas) | EarthCheck Sustainable Design Gold Certification, spice garden | 300-meter private west-facing beach | 3 restaurants, 4 bars | Sunset views, tailored dining |
| Kilindi Zanzibar | Northwestern coast | 15 pavilion suites | 50-acre tropical sanctuary, 25m T-shaped infinity pool | Private beach stretch | Multiple dining venues, waterfall bar | Couples’ spa treatments |
| Mnemba Island Lodge | Private island, 4.5km from northeastern shore | 12 bandas | House reef with 430+ fish species | Private coral sand beaches | Fresh seafood daily | PADI diving, marine conservation |
| Matemwe Retreat | Northeastern coastline | 4 villas | Private plunge pools, rooftop terraces | Private beach | Tailored dining | Reef walks, spa services |
| Pongwe Beach Hotel | Northeast coast | Not mentioned | Infinity pool, coral-rock bay setting | Secluded coral-rock bay | Restaurant with daily specials | Free kayaking, snorkeling |
| Xanadu Villas | Southeastern coast | 9 villas | Individually designed villas | Direct beach access | Multinational chef team | Water sports, spa treatments |
| Zawadi Hotel | Southeast coast | 12 villas (100sqm each) | Cliffside position, private pools | Private sandy cove | Multiple dining venues | Diving, fitness center |
| The Residence Zanzibar | Southwest coast | 66 villas | 32-hectare property, private pools | Mile-long beach | Not mentioned | Water sports, cultural excursions |
| White Sand Luxury Villas | Paje Beach | 18 villas | Relais & Chateaux property | Direct beach access | 2 restaurants, 3 bars | Kitesurfing, organic garden |
| Tulia Zanzibar | Pongwe Beach | 16 rooms | Waterslides, 25m pool | Elevated beach position | Not mentioned | Water activities, cultural tours |
| Essque Zalu | Northern coast | 40 suites, 9 villas | Natural coral cliff setting | Long pier, no conventional beach | 3 restaurants, 2 bars | Diving, wellness activities |
| Baraza Resort & Spa | Bwejuu-Paje Beach | 30 villas | Swahili architecture, Frangipani spa | Direct beach access | Not mentioned | PADI diving, cultural activities |
| Fumba Beach Lodge | Menai Bay Conservation Area | 26 bungalows | 161,874 sqm wilderness | Three natural coves | Dhow bar | PADI diving center, nature trails |
| Qambani Luxury Resort | Eastern shores | 6 villas | Infinity pool | Seasonal beach access | Multiple dining venues | Fitness center, flexible dining |
| Upendo Zanzibar | Michamvi coastline | 4 beachfront villas | Private pools, ocean views | 328 feet from Pingwe village | Restaurant with infinity pool | Spa services, cultural tours |
Conclusion
Zanzibar’s luxury resorts are amazing sanctuaries that provide unique experiences along the archipelago’s pristine coastline. These properties skillfully combine traditional Swahili architecture with modern comforts. They range from cozy 4-villa retreats to sprawling 66-villa havens nestled in tropical gardens.
Many resorts are leading the way in green tourism. Zuri Zanzibar proudly holds an EarthCheck Gold Certification, while Mnemba Island Lodge runs vital marine conservation programs. Guests can enjoy private beaches and house reefs full of marine life. The thoughtfully designed accommodations create memorable stays for guests who appreciate quality.
Each property showcases luxury in its own way. Baraza’s handcrafted Swahili designs catch the eye, while Kilindi’s innovative water recycling system shows environmental care. White Sand’s prestigious Relais & Châteaux status speaks for itself. Water lovers can enjoy world-class diving at Fumba Beach Lodge. The rooftop spa at Matemwe Retreat provides a peaceful escape.
These resorts show there’s more to Zanzibar than its beautiful beaches. Guests can connect with the island’s rich heritage through traditional dhow cruises, spice farm tours, and cultural village visits. Fresh seafood and local spices create exceptional dining experiences that make these properties perfect for unforgettable Indian Ocean getaways.
FAQs
Q1. What is the best time to visit Zanzibar for a beach vacation? The best time to visit Zanzibar for a beach vacation is during the dry season from June to October. During this period, the weather is pleasant with temperatures around 25°C, making it ideal for beach activities and water sports.
Q2. Which resort in Zanzibar is known for its sustainability efforts? Zuri Zanzibar stands out for its sustainability efforts. It’s the world’s first hotel to receive EarthCheck’s Sustainable Design Gold Certification, operating on self-sufficient power sources and consuming 52% less energy per guest compared to similar developments.
Q3. Are there any private island resorts in Zanzibar? Yes, Mnemba Island Lodge is a private island resort located 4.5 kilometers off Zanzibar’s northeastern shore. It offers an exclusive experience with just 12 intimate bandas overlooking pristine coral sand beaches.
Q4. Which Zanzibar resort is best for diving enthusiasts? Fumba Beach Lodge is excellent for diving enthusiasts. It features a PADI dive center that arranges daily diving excursions to surrounding reefs, ranging from 10-30 meters in depth.
Q5. Can you recommend a resort in Zanzibar suitable for families? The Residence Zanzibar is a great option for families. It spans across 32 hectares of tropical paradise, features 66 luxurious villas with private pools, and offers a Kids Club with activities ranging from cooking classes to Swahili lessons.