Kilindi Zanzibar, comprising of a series of white-domed Pavilion guest rooms all set in 50 acres of lush tropical gardens, is a rarity in the world of luxury boutique hotels. Originally designed for Benny Andersson – one of the members of the 1970’s pop group ABBA – Kilindi is a true blend of the very best of diverse cultures to be found in Tanzania and on its adjacent island of Zanzibar.

Kilindi achieves the perfect marriage between Scandinavian minimalism and the dramatic architectural overtones of Middle Eastern heritage, whilst encouraging an open, ‘back-to-nature’ ambiance throughout.

In each of the Pavilion suites, white wooden-slatted shutters embrace wide-arched glassless windows each affording spectacular views over the Indian Ocean. This same openness allows the gentle ocean breeze to waft throughout each of the rooms and carry with it the delightful soundtrack of Kilindi’s colourful birdlife. Any stay at Kilindi will be a delight for the senses.

IF YOU LOVE NATURE, YOU WILL LOVE KILINDI
Kilindi’s ‘open-to-nature’ approach provides the true essence to any stay and crafts a private, intimate and ‘barefoot’ appeal that so many crave. If you love nature, you will adore Kilindi.

THE MAIN PAVILION
A ‘waterfall’ bar with the Main Pavilion overlooks a large 25-metre infinity pool which itself affords views out across the sparkling warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Dining takes place either on the alfresco terrace or even along the pristine white beach, which runs the length of the property.

THE PAVILIONS – SIMPLE PERFECTION.
15 eastern-styled domed Pavilions nestling amongst a 35-acre tropical garden are the perfect and intimate retreat for each and every guest.

The Pavilions have their very own private plunge pool, and possess a separate but extraordinary ‘rainfall’ shower room which is annexed to each of the Pavilion rooms. These same showers provide not only a spectacular view to the Ocean but the liberating sensation of being ‘at one with nature’.

INTIMACY, PRIVACY AND TRANQUILITY
With each Pavilion set in its own private tropical gardens and served by a dedicated butler, privacy is guaranteed. It is this same dedicated butler who will offer you a wide selection of places to enjoy your breakfast, lunch and dinner.

And should our guests wish to leave the oasis of tranquility and calm of their private Pavilion, the butler can help, advise and arrange as to the many activities and excursions that Kilindi and the island can offer.

A PURE RETREAT FOR COUPLES
Kilindi Zanzibar is certainly a rarity and one that will reward all those who venture to experience all that it has to offer. A favourite with honeymooners and lovers, any stay at Kilindi will not only become a memory of a lifetime, but also the standard to surpass.

SUITES
15-domed Pavilion Suites, nestling amongst a 50-acre tropical garden estate, are the perfect intimate retreats for all who come to stay at Kilindi Zanzibar. The Pavilion Suites have their very own private plunge pool, and possess extraordinary ‘rainfall’ shower rooms that truly give the liberating feeling of being ‘at one with nature’.

The windows are glasless being instead replaced with traditional wooden shutters that allow the sea breeze to permeate throughout the room. The Pavilion Suites complex extends to a seperate Shower Room Pavilion annex that provides a rainfall shower, his and her vanity wash basins, a toilet and affords views across the gardens to the ocean beyond. Each domed Pavilion Suite includes:

• Magnificient Ocean Views
• Adjoining ‘rainfall’ shower Pavilion
• Private plunge pool
• Day Pavilion, sun terrace with lounge furniture
• In-room electronic safe
• Internal telephone system
• WiFi available in both the main areas and Guest Pavillions
• Room service from guest ambassador
• Laundry service

SPA & WELLNESS
Tucked away in a peaceful corner of Kilindi’s tropical gardens we invite you to discover Kilindi Spa. Reflecting its picturesque island setting and inspired by the natural elements , the spa offers a range of treatments in a serene and elegant setting to improve well-being and enhance relaxation.

We have created spa programs and treatments to suit your needs using only the best products. This experience will transform your holiday. We can design a bespoke or custom made spa program for you to either Relax, Pamper, Detox or be Rejuvenated.

Our skin care products have been developed to revitalize the skin and prevent damage done to the skin by free-radicals, stress and the African climate. The active ingredients in our skin care products are valuable in the repair process and assist with the restoration of damaged skin tissue. You can never be too young to start this preventative process.

While our physical bodies will eventually age, we can slow the process down in a powerful way. Derma cosmetics focus on the dermis, protecting it from water loss and damage from free radicals. The use of energy in daily practice helps repair damage in each and every cell in our bodies, working from the inside out.

A positive inner world creates an ageless being. With every thought, sensation and feeling you have, your nervous system undergoes subtle shifts in physiology, generating chemical messages that regulate your body. These bio-chemical communicators continuously mould the molecules that comprise your cells, tissues and organs.

HISTORICAL STONE TOWN TOUR
Enjoy a comprehensive view and walk in Stone Town, and attain a deeper insight into the rich cultural heritage and history of the island of Zanzibar. The tour highlights include:

• Visit the City Market where tropical fruits, vegetables, spices and fresh fish are sold
• Visit the old Anglican Church of Christ
• Visit the Sultan’s Palace Museum built for members of the Sultan’s family
• House of Wonders built in 1883
• Africa House formerly the English Club
• Forodhani Park, a local evening food market
• The Old Fort built by Arabs for defense against the Portuguese

SAFARI BLUE DOLPHIN & SNORKELING TOUR
Experience the beautiful Minai Bay Conservation Area whilst cruising in one of the traditional Zanzibari dhows. Get a chance to see the dolphins, as well as swim on one of the pristine sandbanks.

Your tour will also visit some of the nearby islets and provide opportinuties to snorkel at the coral reefs. Your full-day includes snorkeling equipment with guides and instructions and a sea food barbeque with fish, calamari and slipper lobster served hot from the grill.

A PRIVATE SUNSET DHOW CRUISE
Following a short 10-minute transfer arranged by the hotel, you will join the dhow crew who in turn will warmly welcome you aboard a wooden sailing dhow. This hand-crafted dhow, constructed with the same traditional techniques that have been used for a thousand years, willl then take sail to begin what will be an undeniably memorable 2-3 hour journey along the coastline of north-west Zanzibar.

As part of this exotic and iconic experience, you will have the opportunity to snorkel in the warm and soothing ocean and admire the marine life that can be found along the Kendwa reef. Snacks and a selection be provided ahead of your return to Kilindi and your evening dinner.

ISLAND SPICE TOUR
Enjoy a unique chance to visit to a local spice farm on Zanzibar and see why traders from afar would travel the oceans to reach this magical isle. A spectacular opportunity to see, smell and taste a variety of spices such as cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, black pepper, tumeric, nutmeg, and vanilla, as well as tropical fruits and tropical plants.

DEEP SEA FISHING
With its location on Zanzibar’s northern tip, Zanzibar Watersports is situated in close proximity to some of Africa’s best deep sea fishing grounds. The waters between Zanzibar and Pemba are home to some excellent game fishing opportunities.

Three professional deep sea fishing boats are on offer: Haraka, Timimi and Suli Suli. All are equipped to the highest international safety standards. They also have the latest technology, with GPS navigational aids, echo sounders and fishfinders.

A full set of tackle is provided with Shimano, Fenwick, Harnell or KC rods and Shimano or Penn international reels, spooled with 80 1b, 50 1b and 30 1b mono line. Clients who wish to use their own lighter tackle are welcome, and we are conversant with the IGFA fly – fishing regulations.

Our experienced skippers can instruct novices and talk fishermen through any procedure in the course of reeling in their catch. Tag and release is generally encouraged for all big fish unless it is the fisherman’s first ever catch, his biggest to date, or if it is likely to be an East African or All Africa record.

August to November provides really good sport for the big Yellowfin Tuna, one of the strongest fish around. Big Blue Marlin and a number of Striped and Black Marlin are also found, as well as Sailfish. During this season, multiple hook ups are normal, when the ocean can come alive with huge schools of Tuna in pursuit of smaller fish.

During the billfish season, which is from November to March, Striped Marlin are the most prolific, sometimes showing in packs of up to ten. Large Blue and Black Marlin are also quite common during this period.

ZANZIBAR
Located on the north-west coast of Zanzibar, and lying adjacent to the clear turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, sits the extraordinary and mesmerising resort of Kilindi Zanzibar airport is a 1hr 15min drive from the hotel.

• Many regional airlines service this airport, including Coastal Aviation, Regional Air, Precision Air, ZanAir and Auric Air.
• International airlines service this airport, including Qatar Airways, Alitalia, Kenya Airways and Ethiopian Airlines.

Dotted across over 50 acres of lush tropical garden and blessed with a secluded powder-white sand beachfront extending over half a kilometre, Kilindi Zanzibar with its arched pavilion style villas overlooks an ocean that has witnessed the spice trade route for over 500 years.

The very mention of Zanzibar – the beautiful and historic spice island lying just off the coast of Tanzania – is enough to conjure up a multitude of mental images that are both exotic and striking. It is this emotional reaction that has caused this Indian Ocean island to become one of the world’s most sought-after holiday destinations.

STEPPING BACK IN TIME
The island’s history is indelibly stamped by hundreds of years of trade in spices – nutmeg, cinnamon and saffron to name-but-three – with itinerant merchants traveling by sailing ship from as far away as Europe, the Middle East and even China. It has been this commodity – one as valuable as gold in its time – that has driven and shaped the cultural flavors of the island.

Zanzibar’s architecture, language and religion are a reflection of both the island’s distant and recent past; with the passing dhows that constantly sail along the coastline and the murmurs of the fishermen drifting on the sea breeze, that past is seemingly not so distant.

The magical island has been likened to that of a time capsule, one that has been unopened by modern tourism. And now – courtesy of Kilindi Zanzibar – the opportunity has arisen to unlock all that is best of this wondrous destination.

DID YOU KNOW THESE FACTS ABOUT ZANZIBAR

• The people of Zanzibar are known as Zanzibaris and their native language is Kiswahili, commonly known internationally as Swahili.
• Zanzibar used to be the world’s largest producer of cloves, and its history was heavily influenced by the this activity.
• Zanzibar is popularly known as the “spice islands.”
• Zanzibar is located about 30Km off the coast of mainland Tanzania in the Indian Ocean.
• Zanzibar is actually an archipelago with the two main Islands of Zanzibar (also known as Unguja, the larger one) and Pemba (the smaller of the two).
• Zanzibar was incorporated into the United Republic of Tanzania in 1964.
• Zanzibar, has its own democratically elected president and government that run the internal affairs of the Islands.
• Zanzibar’s Stone Town has 50 mosques and four Hindu temples.
• The House of Wonders is one of the first buildings in East Africa to have electricity and Stone Town’s oldest existing building.
• Zanzibar’s oldest remaining building is the 11th century mosque at Kizimkazi
• The name Swahili comes from the Arab word sawahil which means ‘coast’
• The rare Kirk’s Red Colobus monkey is only found in Zanzibar, predominantly in Jozani Forest.
• The Shortest War in History was fought in Zanzibar in 1896. On 25 August, Sultan Hamid bin Thuwaini died, and two hours later, an usurper broke into the Palace and declared himself ruler. In a show of Victorian Gunboat Diplomacy, the Royal Navy was asked to evict him. At precisely 9 o’ clock on the 27th, three warships opened fire and in 45 minutes reduced the Palace to rubble, and deposed the usurper. The bombardment has since been called the “Shortest War in History” as verified by the Guinness Book of Records.

Rooms: 15

Price: from 935 EUR per night

Source: www.elewanacollection.com

Zanzi Resort sits on the edge of the Indian Ocean, 15 km from the historic Stone Town and 30 minutes from the airport. Thirteen spacious, artistically designed villas and bungalows offer an intimate environment with patios, some featuring private pools.

The resort, spread over six hectares of plush tropical gardens, has an excellent in-house restaurant and treatment area, offering oceanside massages and the Japanese hot-stone treatment, gambanyoku.

Local cuisine is prepared for an international palate with fresh seafood, organic vegetables, and spices from our own eco-plantation. Guests can dine in the restaurant, in the privacy of their villa or bungalow, or on the beach. A guest relations attaché is available to help plan day trips and excursions.

Beginning with the Bantu, Zanzibar’s cuisine has been heavily influenced by visitors to our shores. Arab, Portuguese, Indian, German, British, and Chinese flavors and contribute to the exciting fusion we have today. Our wines are specially chosen from vineyards in Australia, France, Italy, and South Africa. Our beers are local and our cocktails are imaginative.

OCEAN ACCESS VILLA
This cliff-top villa has direct access to the ocean via a private garden. The villa has a private pool and consists of one king-size bedroom, a bathroom, and a spacious living room with dining area. In the private garden, there is also a gazebo-style bed and furniture on which to relax.

OCEAN VIEW VILLA
This cliff-top villa boasts a private pool and a king-size bedroom, bathroom, and spacious living room. With spectacular ocean views, it offers a private garden with an outdoor pool and a gazebo-style bed and furniture on which to relax.

GARDEN BUNGALOW
Made of local materials, including wood and clay, this bungalow showcases African design. Soak up the sun or relax with a book in the private garden. The bungalow is close to the main swimming pool and restaurant, while the beach and jetty are just 2 minutes away.

DINING
Located in the center of the property, the restaurant and bar are surrounded by tropical gardens. We serve breakfast all day. Choose from French toast with local spices, a Swahili traditional breakfast, and many different styles of eggs. All are accompanied by fruit juices, teas, and coffees from Tanzania.

Lunch includes local specialties like samosas and fish soup and offers fish, seafood, and meat dishes with fresh salads. Our dinner menu changes daily but always includes two appetizers, three main courses, and two desserts to choose from.

The bar stocks fresh juice drinks; wines from Australia, France, Italy, and South Africa; local Tanzanian beers; and creative cocktails. We adapt our menu according to dietary/religious preferences, including Hallal.

From time to time, we organize BBQs at our BBQ pit. There is a library, where you can read or watch a game while sipping on a cappuccino or enjoying a local beer. Enjoy your drink at any of the many seating areas in the garden.

JETTY DINNER
Dining at Zanzi Resort is not restricted to the restaurant. If you want to take advantage of the sunset (and keep your shoes on), we’d be happy to move your table to the jetty where you can enjoy a candlelight dinner by the ocean. If you love seafood, order our special seafood platter and choose a delicious South African wine as an accompaniment. Romantic dining at its best.

BEACH DINNER
For a completely different dining experience, why not take your shoes off and feel the sand in your toes. Dine on our manmade beach and enjoy a glass of champagne or South African wine to accompany our delicious local seafood.

ROOM SERVICE
If you don’t feel like getting up in the morning to come to the restaurant for breakfast, we can bring it to you. Start your day with a leisurely breakfast in your villa or bungalow or next to your private pool. Throughout the day, you can order lunch, dinner, cocktails, wine, even a bottle of Champagne to enjoy in the privacy of your villa or bungalow.

ACTIVITIES & EXCURSIONS
For some of us, our idea of a holiday is doing nothing. Late mornings, leisurely swims, strolls through the gardens, some poolside reading, followed by a quiet dinner are all we need. Whatever pace suits you, you’ll find it at Zanzi Resort.

The grounds are ideal for early morning jogs. The ocean and pools offer a choice of open-sea swimming or meditative laps. Those who enjoy reading and writing will find plenty of nooks to sit and contemplate.

If you want to be pampered, enjoy an open-air massage or detox with our hot stone spa, a Japanese ganban’yoku. Lie on heated body-sized stones and feel the cleansing effects as the toxins leave your body, your circulation improves, and your skin glows.

If you fancy something a little more adventurous, we can arrange boat rides, sunset cruises, or snorkeling day trips. We’re very proud of our Masai heritage and will happily treat you to a Masai dance and share our music and culture with you.

PRIVATE BEACH EXPERIENCE
Secluded white-sand beaches dot the cliff side of Zanzibar. If you want to enjoy a day on the beach close by the hotel, we can take you to the sand by boat. Order wine, bubbly, or beer from our menu and make a day of it as you lounge on sunbeds and enjoy complimentary snacks and soft drinks. We’ll bring our Massai security along, too.

TREATMENTS
On our treatment platform set on a cliff, enjoy an oceanside massages, facials, and scrubs while relaxing to the natural sound of waves swooshing on the shore. If you want to try a Japanese hot-stone treatment, we have our own ganban’yoku.

GARDEN
In the garden, you can sit on a couch and enjoy a cup of coffee, take a nap in a hammock, play some darts in the wild, read a book or watch a game in our library, or dive into our swimming pool. Check out our families of Bush Babies, two families of monkeys, Elephant Shrews and numerous birds.

MANMADE BEACH
Zanzi Resort is located on the western side of the island, the sunset side, with incredible nature and cliff shores. We have created an intimate pebble beach, with sunbeds and a hammock over the water.

OPEN-AIR GYM
After warming up on our track, you can exercise using ropes, TRX, punching bag, bars, etc. We can organize yoga sessions upon request (at your villa, in the gym, next to the pool, anywhere you feel comfortable). Ask Guest Relations for more details.

NGARAWA
If you are adventurous, we will put our Ngarawa (traditional fisherman’s boat) into the ocean and you can paddle away, free of charge. We have some local-style fishing lines, or you can simply jump into the ocean and snorkel wherever you wish. Book in advance.

SWIMMING POOL
Take a swim in our swimming pool in the middle of the bush. Why not take a break and enjoy a fresh coconut from our garden, coctail, snack? Hakuna matata

RUNNING TRAIL
Although you can enjoy walking and jogging outside the resort, for those who would like to do so in our tropical garden, we have created a 1km track where you can see various types of trees and vegetation.

STONE TOWN
When you visit Stone Town you will have a feeling that the time stopped 200 years ago. There is a clear and fascinating imprint of the rich history and architecture. You can spend your time meandering through a labyrinth of small narrow alleys and streets, old and renovated houses made from coralline rock, mosques and ground Arab houses.

The unique signature of this town is in more than 500 brass-studded, carved, wooden doors made by local craftsman. Stone Town was declared a World Heritage Site City by UNESCO in 2000.

SPICE FARM
Known as Spice Island, Zanzibar was once one of the world’s leading producers of spices such as cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon. This tour takes you to an organic farm with a wide variety of plants that grow year round

CHANGUU ISLAND (PRISON ISLAND)
Changuu Island (aka Prison Island) has had a colorful history. Once a detention center for slaves before they were transported to Europe or the Middle East, the British built a prison there in the late 1800s. And while its name suggests its prison status, it was actually used as a quarantine center where those with infectious diseases were banished and contained.

Today, it’s a nature reserve, home to a large creep of giant tortoise (some weighing as much as 200kg) imported from the Seychelles in the late nineteenth century, who share their space with an ostentation of peacocks. It makes a lovely half-day excursion from Stone Town.

SANDBACK EXPERIENCE
This full-day excursion includes something for everyone. Take a cruise and relax on the white sands of a sandbank.

SUNSET CRUISE
Take a romantic cruise from Zanzi Resort in a traditional African Dhow. We depart from our pier on the seafront of Kama village and sail along the coast as the sun sinks into the Indian Ocean.

SAFARI BLUE EXPERIENCE 
Spend a magical day exploring the Menai Bay Conservation area in a traditional wooden dhow. Enjoy swimming and guided snorkeling in the beautiful clear waters – quality equipment provided. Watch dolphins at play.

Feast on our delicious Swahili seafood BBQ followed by our gastronomic tropical fruit tasting. Price includes drinks and snacks throughout the day. Take a swim in the hidden mangrove lagoon. Available daily except Fridays.

PADI – DIVING
Scuba diving around the Zanzibar Archipelago caters to divers of all experience levels, from shallow coral gardens surrounding Mnemba Island, to deep walls and even a couple of wrecks for advanced divers. Most of the diving is from boats, and with up to 5m of tidal water movement, a majority of the diving is drift diving.

JOZANI CHWAKA BAY NATIONAL PARK
The only national park on the island, Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park was once home to antelope and leopards. Today, it’s the last remaining sanctuary in the world inhabited by the rare Red Colobus monkey. Just 35km south-east of Stone Town, it’s a perfect day trip for monkey lovers and tree enthusiasts.

Hike the trails with an experienced guide and catch a glimpse of the Red Colobus or the Blue Sykes monkeys. After visiting the National Park, we recommend driving to Paje and enjoying a meal at The Rock restaurant.

SHORT SAFARI
Tanzania’s best known asset is the Ngorongoro Crater Selous Game Reserve. It’s part of the luxury Northern and Southern Safari Circuit which includes Lake Manyara, Tarangire, and the famous Serengeti. Home to the annual wildebeest migration, the Northern Circuit has long been known to be one of the best wildlife viewing opportunities in the world.

BIKE TOURS
Enjoy a unique cycling holiday with the only dedicated bicycle tour operator in Zanzibar. Thanks to the extensive knowledge of our professional guides, you can explore corners of the island that would otherwise remain hidden.

GOLF ZANZIBAR
The 9-hole layout on the west coast of Zanzibar – the course meanders through an old sand quarry and past a mangrove swamp with two of the finishing holes routed alongside the Indian Ocean – the beach runs alongside the par four 7th and forms a spectacular backdrop to the par three 9th which is literally by the water – just two steps and you can dive in the warm waters.

There is a nice variety of holes – short and longer threes, drivable short par fours and a couple of fun par fives – to test your game and offer the pleasure of playing.

HORSE RIDING
We also have activity for the horse lovers – the experience of riding a horse through a tropical paradise down to a sparkling blue ocean. The property right next to us has a professionally managed stable yard with a qualified riding instructor catering for riders of all levels.

Guests can choose from a spectacular beach sunset ride, a beautiful scenic trail around and across the golf course to the beach or the exhilarating once in a life-time ‘swimming experience’ with your horse at high tide. There’s also a pony, Prophet, for younger children. Other activities include pony camps, mini gymkhana’s and outrides through the coconut plantations.

AT DHOW COUNTRIES MUSIC ACADEMY
The only music school on the island – we are proud to be the cultural ambassadors, teaching, preserving and developing the unique musical heritage of Zanzibar and the Swahili coast.

Website: www.zanziresort.com

Rooms: 12

Price: from 294 EUR per night

Tulia Zanzibar Resort inspires extraordinary journeys for the soul, with an expansive host of complimentary services and inclusions. Guests in each room category enjoy the services of an attentive staff, graciously orchestrating every activity and dining arrangements for you.

With thoughtful, surprising touches, each suite is transformed into your own personal sanctuary with exquisitely arranged details, accented for comfort and privacy. Whatever your wish, no task is too big or too small. Privacy and empathy is what matters most to us.

Sustainable hotel operation excels mainly in an environmentally-friendly approach. Recycling the hotel waste on our own, then using it to produce soil for our own organic farm, where we grow own vegetables, herbs, spices, and fruits. This makes Tulia one of the most eco-friendly resorts in Zanzibar.

Best quality. Fresh. Local. It describes our exceptional cuisine, prepared by the best Tanzanian Chef. All Inclusive meal plan includes also premium drinks and all fine dining À la carte food.

Tulia grows its own fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices in the Farm, just a few steps away from the reception. Also, the hotel recycles 70 % of the waste by itself and make own soil to use it for farming and food production.

Tulia is located on the East coast of Zanzibar with one of the cleanest beaches and pure blue Indian Ocean. Watch the sunrise just right from your bed or hammock from your private terrace.

Complimentary Minibar, Massage, Room service, Yoga, Gym, Electric scooter, Water sport activities, Bicycles, Farm tour, Tulia boat sailing, Welcome wine, Airport transfer. Truly free of charge.

You can hardly find such a beautiful and unique tropical garden like in Tulia. There are more than 400 different plants designed as a botanic paradise with a fresh smell and perfect quietness.

Tulia supports the local community with several projects. Charity Bike supports gardening students. Tulia car ride supports a school of car mechanics. Local schools and villages are supported annually.

Rooms & Suites
Whether you are coming for a luxury romantic holiday as a couple or you are coming as a family with kids, we have a great selection of the rooms for you. It’s up to you to choose a room with jacuzzi, with a private location or with the best ocean view. All four room categories are designed to provide a great holiday experience.

Seafront Luxury Villa
The most beautiful and the most popular room type at the resort. Villas are located on the cliff above the water. It is the best location in the resort.

You can see a breathtaking sunrise from the bed or your seafront terrace. In front of the villa, there are a wooden terrace and a small sandbank with the hammock. The villa has one big bedroom open space combined with the living room.

Royal Garden Villa with Jacuzzi
Villa with big private space, own jacuzzi and with a big terrace in the front. The only room where you can see both sunrise and sunset from the bed. Great for families or people looking for privacy.

Behind the villa, there is a big private garden with jacuzzi and with the hammock. The Royal Garden Villa has one bedroom and one separate living room. It is located in the garden with no sea view.

Deluxe Garden Bungalow with Partial Sea View
Under the roof of one bungalow, there are two separate units to sell. The rooms can be connected with interconnecting doors with a neighboring unit. The bungalow has one big bedroom with a big terrace surrounded by the garden with a partial sea view.

Excellent Gastronomy
Tulia has an exceptional fine dining restaurant, where you can fully enjoy extraordinary food from fresh and local ingredients in high quality.

Our Chef has been named as “The Hidden Gem of Tanzania” in the cookbook of the same name. He shows his magical art of cooking every day, from breakfast until dinner. Chef changes the 3-course lunch menu and 5-course dinner menu on a daily basis.

Chef Mgeni always prepares meals from the fresh, local and best quality ingredients. He uses products from our own Farm as fruits, vegetables, and herbs to ensure the freshest food for you. We bake fresh homemade pastry of all kinds three times per day in our wooden oven.

Imagine having your dinner in a private and romantic place, with beautiful decoration, and under the stars. It is your choice where you enjoy your dining time.

We offer three meal plans. We personally recommend choosing All Inclusive to fully enjoy our amazing cuisine without limitations. All meals are served based on the À-la-carte menu. There are no buffets.

Breakfast
Breakfast includes morning meals. Coffee, tea, and homemade juices are included only during the Breakfast. Minibar is included in this meal plan as well.

Breakfast meal plan is good only for active guests, who would love to explore Zanzibar. If you spend most of the day outside of Tulia and try other restaurants on the Island, then a Breakfast meal plan is a suitable option.

All Inclusive
All inclusive includes everything. Truly everything without limitations. Minibar is included in this meal plan as well. All Inclusive meal plan is a great choice for guests, who prefer to enjoy their private and relaxing time at Tulia. All delicious food from morning till night together with all Premium branded drinks is included.

Activities & Services
Enjoy your tailor-made trip, where you can explore beautiful Zanzibar. Choose exciting activities if you prefer to stay at Tulia. Book the SPA treatment to relax your body, mind, soul and enjoy an unforgettable holiday on the island of dreams.

Trips & Excursions
A list of the activities which you can do on the island. All trips, tours, and excursions can be combined and tailored to your needs.

Jozani Forest
For those who would like to see Zanzibar from another look. We can offer you trip to the last Zanzibar big forest. This place is home for Zanzibar Red Colobus Monkeys and many other animals.

The guide will take you to three different places, where you can watch monkeys in their natural environmental. Visit Mangrove tree lagoon, which protects Zanzibar from tsunami and big fish and make a tour into the big forest.

Spice Tour
Spice Tour is one of the most popular excursions on the Island. Walk through the spice farm with your guide. Touch, smell and taste different spices and tropical fruits. Try to guess which is which, from the crushed leaves and the fruit.

In history, Zanzibar was known as a spice island, exporting cloves, vanilla, nutmeg and cardamom across the world. Nowadays the plantations are a tribute to the island’s past, swapping spices for tourism, combining both in a spice tour.

Swimming with Turtles
In the north of Zanzibar, you can find one of the natural lagoon full of sea turtles. In Baraka Aquarium they are buying the turtles, caught by fishermen and they are releasing them back to the fresh ocean water in the lagoon.

Use the unique opportunity to swim with sea turtles. During the visit you can also feed turtles with sea weed or just spend your time in the water. Also, you can take snorkelling mask to dive and watch them in their natural environment.

Inhouse Activities
A list of the activities which you can enjoy in our hotel. All activities are complimentary and we are happy to provide them to you.

Water sports
Water sport lovers are very welcome to use our paddle boards or kayaks. All complimentary, of course! You will find them on the beach. Just ask the staff around the pool bar for help and they will carry the equipment for you.

Enjoy the paddling in pure blue ocean, where you will be able to see rich sea world, while your ride. Waters are very calm and shallow, especially when it is close to low tide.

Yoga
You are most welcome to enjoy our private yoga lessons on your terrace or in the middle of the tropical garden. Choose any day time to deepen your practice or try yoga for the first time with certified instructor, either you prefer sunrise session or evening relaxing stretching. Yoga is a great practice, where you will take care of your body, mind and soul.

Gym
Do you wish to enjoy your holiday actively? Use the unique opportunity to visit fully equipped gym. Either you prefer cardio training, HIIT, boxing, TRX of weight lifting, the gym is great for all workout styles. Also, if you wish to have a guidance for your workout, you can book a complimentary private fitness class, suitable for your fitness level and health situation.

SPA
List of SPA treatments, which you can enjoy during your stay to relax your body and mind. Choose from full body massage, refreshing massage, facial treatments, foot reflexology or manicure and pedicure. Your first treatment is complimentary.

Ayurvedic Massage
Ayurvedic massage is very relaxing full body treatment with gentle touch. Specific Ayurvedic massaging technics helps to increase circulation in your body and energy level. Special Ayurvedic oil will also balance your mind and spirit.

After this healing massage you will feel very relaxed and connected with your body and mind. Enjoy welcoming home made hibiscus juice and also home made spice tea after the treatment as a last touch of your SPA visit.

PRE-SUN treatment
Start your holiday with the best treatment. PRE-SUN is specially prepared for beginning of your vacation, when the old skin is removed and you will get ready for tanning.

Brown sugar scrub will gently exfoliate the outer layer of the old skin. Organic oil will deeply nourish your body and prepare your body for bronze tanning. Exfoliation brings newer, healthier and glowing skin. Let yourself glow.

Facial Tropical Treatment
Facial treatment nourishes your face with pure and fresh fruits from Zanzibar. Combination of blended tropical fruits helps to regenerate the skin with the benefit of Vitamins to calm down and rebalance oil rich pores.

Your skin will be cleaned, toned, polished, massaged, all with pure and organic cosmetic, made in Zanzibar. Enjoy relaxing Indian massage of the head with a special hair oil, while the fruit mask is nourishing your face.

Services
A list of the activities which you can enjoy in our hotel. All activities are possible to be booked at the reception and we will be happy to arrange them for you.

Website: www.tuliazanzibar.com

Rooms: 16

Price: from 600 EUR per night

Konokono Zanzibar Beach Resort is located on the Michamvi Peninsula, on the South East Coast of Zanzibar – one of the most authentic and secluded places on the island – and overlooks the wonderful Chwaka Bay.

Several kilometres of white pristine beach face Konokono. The resort is a quiet paradise offering privacy and tranquility in the heart of nature.

In this quiet surrounding you will find all the modern luxuries such as a main swimming pool bar, restaurant, plunge pools and spa which were designed with your comfort in mind.

The equatorial geographical position is responsible for an average temperature of around 25 °C. There are two dry seasons – from December to March and from June to October, when temperatures can reach over 30 °C, and two rainy seasons – from mid-April to May and in November (“short rains month”).

The Konokono Zanzibar Beach Resort is open 12 months a year.

Zanzibar and Tanzania
Zanzibar, also called The Spice Island, is part of Tanzania, in East Africa. It is composed of the Zanzibar Archipelago in the Indian Ocean, 25–50 kilometers (16–31 mi) off the coast of the mainland, and consists of numerous small islands and two large ones: Unguja (the main island, referred to informally as Zanzibar), and Pemba.

Zanzibar City is the main urban centre of Zanzibar, and its old part is Stone Town also known as Mji Mkongwe (Swahili for “old town”): it is located on the western coast of Unguja. Stone Town is a city of prominent historical and artistic importance in East Africa.

Its architecture, mostly dating back to the 19th century, reflects the diverse influences underlying the Swahili culture, with a unique mixture of Arab, Persian, Indian and European elements. For this reason, the town was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000.

The heat of summer (corresponding to the northern hemisphere winter) is often cooled by strong sea breezes associated with the northeast monsoon (known as Kaskazi in Kiswahili), particularly on the north and east coasts.

Being near to the equator, the islands are warm year round. Rains occur in November but are characterised by brief showers. Longer rains normally occur in March, April, and May in association with the southwest monsoon (known locally as Kusi in Kiswahili).

Endemic mammals with continental relatives include the Zanzibar red colobus, one of Africa’s rarest primates, with perhaps only 1,500 existing. Rare native animals include the Zanzibar leopard and the Zanzibar Servaline Genet.

There are no large wild animals in Unguja, and forest areas such as Jozani are inhabited by monkeys, bush-pigs, small antelopes, civets, and, rumor has it, the elusive leopard. Various species of mongoose can also be found on the island. There is a wide variety of birdlife and a large number of butterflies in rural areas.

As for Zanzibar, the tourism sector of Tanzania is steadily rising year after year. Tanzania is the home of the world-famous Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain.

In addition to Zanzibar you might want to consider a safari in Tanzania mainland, the country has dozens of National Parks like the Serengeti, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Ruaha, Selous and other smaller parks, such as Mikumi National Park, which is located near Dar es Salaam or Katavi.

Our conservation program
Konokono Zanzibar Beach Resort loves and respects its host environment. For this reason it has created its Conservation Program, aimed at preserving the delicate balance of fauna and flora, which covers more than 40% of the resort’s surface.

In Konokono Zanzibar Beach Resort and in the Jozani Forest, Chwaka Bay Conservation Area you can admire many protected species, including the red colobus monkey and the Aders duiker.

Isaraya Luxury Over Water Villas
The “Isaraya Water Villas” are located overwater on Konokono Beach Resort’s jetty, these exclusive Water Villas have been conceived with style and comfort with all the luxuries you might need for your stay, in addition to an impeccable service to ensure you enjoy a privacy and exclusivity.

Each Water Villas covers an area of 100 m2 (an 65 m2 villa interior and a 35 m2 private patio sundeck).

From this patio/sundeck, designed for two, with a private plunge pool you can also enjoy the pristine water of the Indian Ocean, with a direct access through a private stairs, or simply relax on a sun-bed or watch the picturesque and romantic sunsets of Chwaka Bay with a Sundowner or outside dinner!

Sea View Villas
The sea view villas overlook the beautiful Chwaka Bay. Each of the villas covers an area of 135 m2 (an 85-m2 interior and a 50-m2 patio) with amazing ocean views and a king-size bed, and to ensure you enjoy the picturesque, romantic sunsets there is a patio designed for two, which includes a garden with a private plunge pool.

Beach Pavilions
The brand new Beach Pavilions are located on the beautiful white beach. Each of the pavilion covers an area of 60 sqm (a 40sqm interior and a 20sqm patio) with amazing beach and sea views and a king-size bed, and to ensure you enjoy the picturesque, romantic sunsets there is a covered patio and a plunge pool.

Taste, charm and an unforgettable view
Perched on top of a cliff, the restaurant offers a panoramic view of Michamvi bay. Guests will enjoy splendid cocktails and dinners while viewing sunsets, or star-filled nights.

The 900-m2 restaurant offers the guest a unique culinary experience which matches its location and the menu, a fusion of local and international flavors, is conceived to satisfy all sensory needs.

The attentive service offered by our staff will meet all your standards of what is expected of 5-star service. The restaurant includes an infinity pool.

Pool bar
The pool bar is located in the heart of the resort, gently brushed by a soft breeze. An experience of pure relaxation overlooking kilometers of a pristine white sand beach. Enjoy its the view with a wide list of wine, cocktails, sandwiches and snacks will delight your senses from the morning till night.

It also offers its guests grilled fish at lunch time as well as a selection of cocktails and snacks from the morning till the afternoon to enjoy the beautiful sunsets.

Beach & pool
The pool at Konokono Zanzibar Beach Resort is an oasis of relaxation. The white and blue hues of the pool mirror the colors of the sea and its vast white beach stretching several kilometers. Guests can enjoy long private walks along the beach surrounded by lush forests.

At the end of the day beautiful sunsets will provide the perfect setting for sundowners. With its huge white pristine beach, Konokono Zanzibar Beach Resort is the ideal place to indulge in rest and regeneration.

The resort’s unique and exclusive atmosphere is present also in the Infinity pool, overlooking the magnificent Chwaka Bay.

Jungle health spa
Well-being and exclusiveness, the Jungle Health spa is the place to achieve this. The spa will energize your body and mind to experience a perfect and relaxing holiday.

Through the use of world-renowned and local products the Jungle Health spa promotes physical and mental regeneration thanks to purifying and invigorating treatments offered by our highly trained staff, including massages with essential oils.

ONE DAY SAFARI
Enjoy the thrills and beauty of Selous Game Reserve – the biggest reserve in Africa, whereby you will explore the park with a full day game drive safari, served at a total cost of 950,00 $ per person, under all inclusive treatment of Private plane Cessna 206 Zanzibar – Selous – Zanzibar, all game drives in a modified 4WD Land Cruiser/Land Rover with a Professional safari guide, Packed picnic lunch, Park fees and Flying Doctor medical insurance.

ITINERARY

• 08h00 Private plane departs to Selous Game Reserve
• 09h00 Arrival meet & greet with your private safari guide
• 09h10 Begin your Selous Safari, discovering untamed wilderness and plentiful wildlife
• 12h30 Packed lunch is served in the shade, out in the bush (food provided by Mivumo River Lodge)
• 13h30 After lunch, continue on your game drive
• 16h00 Private flight back from Selous to Zanzibar Airport
• 17h00 Arrival in Zanzibar

THE SULTAN CRUISE
Indulge in an exclusive 8 hour luxury cruise on a 27-year old refurbished traditional wooden dhow, Sur. On the Sultan Cruise, experience the unique multicultural charm of Stone town while sailing from Park Hyatt Zanzibar all the way to a hidden Sandbank in the middle of the Indian Ocean.

During the cruise, you will be treated to exciting water activities such as snorkeling, fishing, spear fishing, kayaking and swimming, under the supervision of a certified captain. You will then enjoy a gourmet lunch featuring a traditional Arabic menu, specially prepared by Park Hyatt.

Inclusive of:

• Welcome beverage upon arrival
• Exotic fruit platter at set sail
• Ocean activities with equipment (snorkeling, fishing, kayaking, spear fishing, swimming)
• Gourmet lunch on board of Sur
• Arabic coffee ceremony during sun-downer
• House wines and soft beverages

PRIVATE CONNECTING FLIGHT
With night hour inbound flights to Dar Es Salaam, you wont be able to get direct internal flight connect to the Zanzibar Island. To get away with overnight in Dar Es salaam and internal flight charges to the Island. We offer you the best aircraft solution at any time.

Starting from 390,00 EUR per person we will provide you special Seneca (5 seater plane) or any other plane you would like, and we will transport straight to Zanzibar at anytime, day and night!

Website: www.konokonozanzibar.com

Rooms: 21

Price: from 317 EUR per night

The Island is an adult only lodge with unique features in Zanzibar. Staying on the island or just enjoying few hours at lunch or dinner will be an unforgettable life experience. This is the ultimate romantic escape: couple, experienced travellers, nature lovers, food lovers, The Island welcomes whoever is willing to try an unconventional detox journey.

Lost between the green of our lush garden and the blue of the Indian ocean,you’ll spoil yourself with our gourmet restaurant and our attentive and personalized service in the most exclusive location in Zanzibar.

​Our gourmet restaurant offers fine and exquisite food paired with a sophisticated artistic touch in order to create a blissful experience satisfying your senses and every culinary expectation. Each and every one of our meals are freshly made and are prepared with the purpose of blending the local flavours and the demanding expectations of gourmet cuisine.

​Furthermore, the ambience, being surrounded by nature and crystal-clear ocean, will be perfect and relaxing in every moment of your permanence at our restaurant. If you are searching for an unconventional holiday with the best culinary experience, you can’t miss The Island Pongwe Lodge.

​After our launch in February 2018, The island quickly placed itself in the Zanzibarian market as the best boutique hotel in Zanzibar and our gourmet restaurant became a must visit for most tourist when visiting Zanzibar archipelago “A place for real Travelers”.

The Island offers 5 Standard Villas (35sqm) and 1 Sultan Villa (70sqm), all facing the ocean. Each room is hidden in the shadow of the trees and has its own veranda with a romantic seating outside to enjoy sunset, sunrise and Zanzibar starry sky.

The unique feature of The Island guarantees a really exclusive stay with total privacy and relax, but the real peculiarity lies in the attention in details. All rooms are eco-friendly, not television or music from electronic devices is allowed, no A/C in the rooms. Every details are aimed to put our Guests in contact with the nature that surrounds them, to protect their privacy and the harmony of the place.

SULTAN VILLA
In the Sultan villa lovers can find privacy, intimacy and exclusive design. Relax, silence and romantic atmosphere are key for The Island Pongwe’s philosophy. Love, nature, attention to details are values of the luxurious Island Pongwe resort in Zanzibar.

70sqm and 2 pax max occupancy, extraordinary sunrise view, ocean view bathtub, private veranda and butler service. The customized furniture mixes African and Arabic style, making the environment unique and full of charm.

The king bed facing the ocean offer the best wake-up view of Zanzibar that, with our high- level services, make Sultan villa the best choice for a romantic escape. Perfect for couple who want to enjoy intimacy and luxury service.

STANDARD ROOM
In the Double standard room partners will enjoy the quietness of Zanzibar and the exclusive service offered by the Island Pongwe Resort. A romantic atmosphere with the unspoilt nature of Zanzibar and the Taylor-made service of The Island Pongwe Zanzibar make your honeymoon unique.

A private terrace for the intimacy of lovers, the blu sky and sea of Zanzibar recreate a romantic atmosphere. Each room is hidden in the shadow of the trees and has its own veranda with a romantic seating outside to enjoy sunset, sunrise and Zanzibar starry sky.

All rooms are eco-friendly: no television or music from electronic devices is allowed, no AC. Everything is thought to be nature oriented to help our guest to fully disconnect and regenerate their spirit in harmony. The Island is the perfect choice for a romantic break or for those clients that after a Safari still want to have the same kind of connection with nature.

DINING
Our gourmet restaurant offers fine and exquisite food paired with a sophisticated artistic touch in order to create a blissful experience satisfying your senses and every culinary expectation. Each and every one of our meals are freshly made and are prepared with the purpose of blending the local flavours and the demanding expectations of gourmet cuisine.

Furthermore, the ambience, being surrounded by nature and crystal-clear ocean, will be perfect and relaxing in every moment of your permanence at our restaurant. If you are searching for an unconventional holiday with the best culinary experience, you can’t miss The Island Pongwe Lodge.

​On The Island we are proud to use locally sourced and seasonal ingredients that are delivered daily from the areas near our hotel. Enjoy fresh sea urchins collected in Pongwe bay or agar agar seaweed from local farm in front of The Island we use in our gourmet dishes. From farm to plate concept guarantees the best quality and freshness, and give guests the taste of the area.

ROMANTIC DINNER 
Book Romantic Dinner Experience on our private Ocean view terrace with local flower décor and personal butler service to enjoy unforgettable moments in tranquility, with only sound of waves and wind surrounding you and delicious meal prepared with care only for you.

Let us organize acoustic guitar romantic music duo or exciting masai show to brighten up your special moment and create even more memorable memories of The Island”

LIVE MUSIC & MASAI SHOW
Enjoy The Island entertainment with live local band performance or exciting masai show we surprise our guests once a week with. Our romantic guitar solo will provide a light atmosphere throughout the dinner for you to feel relaxed and joyful. Join in traditional dance of masai group and dive into the energy of the tribe.

All dances and songs performed in the show are passed through the generations and are used up to this day during important life periods of masai

EXPERIENCES & ACTIVITIES
Enjoy our bikes and ride around the bay to discover its secrets during the morning or sunset time. Once you have explored Pongwe bay closest surroundings, take our free use bicycles and go for longer ride to Uroa or Kiwengwa villages, that are both about 40 minutes away either south or north from The Island.

Both villages have some beach restaurants and water sports where you can enjoy something different from your daily routine at our property. Explore different areas of Zanzibar and keep yourself fit. P.S. Ride safe!

SAILING & SNORKELLING
A very local experience where you will be taken by captain of a traditional dhow boat to the Pongwe reef, just in front of The Island. With snorkeling equipment provided you will have few stops close to the reef to explore an underwater world and sail around the bay with the tide.

FISHING
Love fishing and want to learn a very local fishing style teached by the villagers? This is a low tide fishing experience where you will be shown ways like fish spotting in seaweed and hand spearing it, catching fish with your hands, sea urchin collection and tasting. Freshest fish cached by yourself – what can be better for your meal? Our team of chefs can prepare a perfect meal made of your lucky catch.

Local fishing experience on the traditional sailing dhow boat with fisherman from the village. They will show you all their skills, share secret techniques and will make sure you learn line fishing Zanzibari way.

Delicious meal will be cooked for you on The Island Restaurant from your catch by our chefs. Please note that all timings for these experiences depend on tides, so book in advance and we will let you know best time for it to have the best experience.

MNEMBA
There is only you and the boat`s team taking care of smooth sailing and delicious fresh lunch preparation directly on the boat while you swim and snorkel in turquoise water with thousands colorful fishes under you. Come back watching sun gently setting on the beach – what a romantic final of the beautiful day…will be just on time back to The Island for a dinner.

Mnemba Atoll with local Dhow Boat and professional PADI certified team. Group boat trip for Half Day where you can swim surrounded by turquoise clear water and thousands of colorful fishes.

Rest in between and take sun while enjoying fresh fruits and local snacks. If it is your first-time diving or you are certified diver – our team will make sure you are comfortable and safe.

BIKING
Enjoy our bikes and ride around the bay to discover its secrets during the morning or sunset time. Once you have explored Pongwe bay closest surroundings, take our free use bicycles and go for longer ride to Uroa or Kiwengwa villages, that are both about 40 minutes away either south or north from The Island.

Both villages have some beach restaurants and water sports where you can enjoy something different from your daily routine at our property. Explore different areas of Zanzibar and keep yourself fit. P.S. Ride safe!

MORE EXPERIENCES
At the reception of our property you can ask for all Zanzibari classic excursions such as: Stone Town tour, Spice Farm visit, Prison Island with giant tortoises, Jozani Forest with red monkeys and mangroves, Safari Blue, Quad Adventure village tour and more. Private meditation and yoga sessions are also available. We work only with trusted and professional partners to ensure the best experiences for our guests

SUSTAINABILITY 
Our boutique hotel in Zanzibar, The Island Pongwe Lodge and all our hotels in Maldives and as well Gold Zanzibar , are plastic free, eco friendly and built with extreme attention to the environment.

​We are well aware that the beauty of nature is the reason why our clients choose our destination. It is our main resource and as such needs to be preserved. ​​​On The Island we use only locally sourced fresh and seasonal ingredients from closely located suppliers to create delicious and fresh menu.

​​The Island is eco-friendly boutique hotel where we use recycled wood and natural local materials in our design elements and building. “Makuti” roofs made of palm leaves provides natural cooling, old fishing boats stands as creative and strong tables, chairs, mirror frames to wow our guests on every corner.

​To implement plastic free policy on The Island we refuse using plastic straws and bottles, instead we are using glass and metal bottles for drinking water and paper or natural straws.

THE CULTURE
Simply staying on Zanzibar is a cultural experience in itself. The exotic, vibrant atmosphere of bustling Stone Town is an assault on the senses, but aside from the heady spices, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is steeped in history.

Zanzibar’s Swahili culture is the result of a fusion of African, Asian and European influences meeting here. Historically Zanzibar was an important staging post for explorers and traders, and a key trading centre for spices and a centre for the slave trade.

Now Zanzibar offers many different cultural experiences, but accessing these in a short visit can be tricky. We’d often suggest basing yourself in Stone Town for a few days. We’ve also hand-picked a few insightful and enjoyable day trips – each of which focuses on different cultural aspects of Zanzibar.

SEAWEED FARMS
The Island is located in picturesque Pongwe Bay – one of the most beautiful bays in Zanzibar. The cycle of high and low tide creates a magic atmosphere. Depending on tide phases you will need a canoe to reach the coast.

In other moment of the day, you can reach the beach around The Island easily by walk. This kind of throw back to old and primitive sensation that put our guests in an amazing exploration mood.

Take a walk to the seaweed farm just in front of The Island on a low tide and see how local women are working in a peaceful manner on harvesting agar-agar – world known sea moss that will be dried and used for natural medicine, food, beauty products and more.

​Equipped with coral shoes that we provide in the hotel reception, go even further to look for various ocean creatures that are hiding under the rocks or look for deeper natural pools where also you can cool down and find yourself surrounded by spectacular white sand lines.

Don`t be surprised if our friendly dogs Luna and Ara join you for a walk. When tide will raise, take snorkeling masks from reception and explore underwater world.

SUNSET SHADES
Zanzibar is also synonymous with stunning red sunsets. The Island Pongwe is likely to be the most spectacular place to witness the last light of day. Clear view of the horizon, the Sunset Lounge Balcony of this unassuming hotel has a vibrant atmosphere, comfortable seating areas and the ultimate vantage point from which to watch the sun go down.

SCHOOL OF PONGWE
For real travelers who likes to explore and exchange experiences, we offer local Village tour and School visit. Pongwe village is old fishermen village that is not only makes living from fishing, but also is famous for it`s seaweed farming. After walking through village small roads, meet kids in our local school during their lessons and see how happy they are to see you.

Rooms: 6

Price: from 279 EUR per night

Source: www.theislandpongwe.com

Upon arrival, Thanda Island instantly becomes your Indian Ocean home. This storied place is located on an uninhabited, 8-hectare tropical island in the turquoise waters of a marine protected reserve off the coast of Tanzania, East Africa.

A member of The Leading Hotels of the World that opened in 2016 as a luxury private island, Thanda Island has repeatedly been voted by the World Travel Awards as the World’s Leading Exclusive Private Island.

Offering an exclusive, single-key Villa for you, your family and friends to enjoy completely for yourselves, it has five romantic, air-conditioned suites that open directly onto the beach, accommodating ten adults with additional beds available for children. On the island are also two traditional, open-air Tanzanian bandas (beach chalets) for your exclusive use.

This unique luxury getaway has been created for adventure, relaxation and total privacy. It offers spectacular snorkelling, diving, big game fishing and many other aquatic activities in this place of absolute natural beauty in the protected Shungimbili Island Marine Reserve.

At your disposal is Thanda Island’s 36-foot adventure yacht Sazi, 28-foot reef runner, deep-sea fishing cat, Real Magic, and 34-foot Cobalt motor cruiser, Island Princess, commandeered by the highly experienced captain and crew.

They are part of the select team on Thanda Island, looking after your every need, including your own Chef, Hostess and Housekeeper, Activities Guide and Boatman.

Thanda Island is deeply committed to conservation and partners with the Tanzanian Marine Parks and Reserves Unit in a range of marine conservation programmes including coral restoration and conserving the five species of marine turtles that occur in Tanzania’s waters, as well as the largest fish in the world – the gentle, human-friendly whale shark.

Thanda Island participates in community programmes on nearby Mafia Island, including education, sustainable fish harvesting and sport. Thanda’s Star for Life programme empowers young people on Mafia Island to reach for their dreams and lead healthy positive lives.

From above you see a teardrop of sand in a turquoise sea under East Africa skies. As you get closer, you see a secret, private island getaway that is so clearly unique. Thanda Island’s single-key Villa is for your exclusive use and has repeatedly been voted the World’s Leading Exclusive Private Island by the World Travel Awards.

Stepping onto you own private 1100 metre beach, you know you will have the most beautiful, natural, adventurous, luxurious time here. The Villa offers sublime living and sleeping areas, including five exquisite, air-conditioned suites that open directly onto the pool and outdoor living area, surrounded by turquoise seas and silken sands. On the island are also two traditional open-air Tanzanian bandas (beach chalets) for your exclusive use.

You have a choice of thrilling water adventures, excursions and activities, including swimming with whale sharks, scuba diving, island tennis, dining on ocean-fresh seafood or a choice of dishes to suit every dietary requirement.

You are free to explore the 8-hectare island where the only sign of human habitation is the occasional, traditional fishing dhow in the distance. This is a luxury getaway at another level, with all the activities, adventures, amenities and requirements you desire during your stay.

If you look up exclusive island getaways, or Tanzania or Tanzania private island, you will find Thanda Island in the tropical turquoise waters off the coast of East Africa. Of all the exclusive island getaways in the world, Thanda Island is hard to beat. As you step off the helicopter, the breathtaking Villa is right there and yours to enjoy.

There is only one Villa on the island. This is an exclusive-use, single-key experience of a lifetime on a private island within a protected marine reserve. It’s your home, with a paradise-inspired living area featuring five beautiful air-conditioned bedroom suites leading directly onto the beach.

The expansive living area has a wrap-around dining area with its 180-degree view of the ocean. Dining on Thanda Island is a taste adventure of delectable cuisine. Dine on the beach or on an Arab dhow or al fresco under African stars.

Adventure-wise, you have a choice of activities, with a boathouse full of equipment. A boatman is dedicated to you as your personal guide and the resident, highly experienced captain leads excursions in Thanda Island’s 36-foot adventure yacht Sazi, its 28-foot reef runner, deep-sea fishing cat, Real Magic, and 34-foot Cobalt motor cruiser, Island Princess.

Snorkel around Thanda Island or scuba dive with the island’s accredited, 5-star dive partner at Chole Bay for spectacular diving, including an intriguing diversity of coral reefs, five species of turtles and 400 species of enchanting reef fish.

Thanda Island is deeply committed to conservation and partners with the Tanzanian Marine Parks and Reserves Unit in a range of marine conservation and educational programmes including coral and turtle conservation.

Thanda Island participates in a range of community programmes on nearby Mafia Island, including education, sustainable fish harvesting and sport. Thanda’s Star for Life programme empowers young people to reach for their dreams and lead healthy positive lives.

THE VILLA
Thanda Island’s luxury accommodation will provide you with the greatest experience possible. For those that require something more than the traditional bandas bungalows, we offer a luxury island villa, respectively called The Villa, which has relaxed living and sleeping areas as well as everything you’d expect from an extraordinary beach house, such as an indoor aquarium, a variety of musical instruments, a magnificent wine collection, a glass rim-flow swimming pool, an air-conditioned gym, a library with an extensive Ernest Hemingway book collection, and a wraparound dining area with a 180-degree view of the ocean.

The five on-suite bedrooms are air-conditioned with king-size beds, and an idyllic island feel. If required, additional beds for children can be set up in bedroom suites or the library.

Thanda Island with its Luxury Villa is offered in its entirety for your sole use and the island’s remote location assures complete privacy. Personifying beach house romance, the Villa is designed in coastal whites, greens and blues and features everything you would want in an extraordinary home, including an indoor aquarium, connoisseur wine collection, gym, glass rim-flow swimming pool, and a wraparound dining area with its 180-degree view.

The Villa has five beautifully appointed suites that open directly onto the beach, accommodating ten adults with additional beds available for children. A discrete and dedicated team, including the manager, executive chef, hostesses and butlers, housekeepers, guides and spa therapists take care of your every need. It is a home away from home, with all the comforts, amenities, facilities and adventures on tap.

The 82-foot Sea Leopard and her captain are at your disposal for short excursions, sunset cruises and fun days in the sun. We offer a wide range of island adventures, water sports as well as big game fishing. On the island you can play tennis, relax in a copper bath on the beach, make pizzas, explore the island and have as much fun as possible with your family and friends.

Upon arrival, Thanda Island instantly becomes your exclusive use Indian Ocean home. Unlike a hotel or other private islands villas with more than one villa, Thanda Island has one luxurious Villa that you have all to yourself in complete privacy.

In addition to the Villa it has two traditional Tanzanian bandas (bungalows) also for your exclusive use. It is without doubt one of the world’s most exclusive island getaways. Situated in your own protected marine reserve you can swim with the gentlest giant of the ocean, the whale shark, and watch sea turtles nesting.

Experience thrilling watersports, a classic cruise, super yacht sailing and superlative game fishing, or simply relax and restore in a world where shades of turquoise infuse your days and tropical spices your nights.

Thanda Island’s single-key private Villa is inspired by the tradition of iconic family properties where generations and friends reconnect and spend precious time together. It is part of the African dream of the owners, the Olofsson family from Sweden, who styled the Villa and Thanda Island to offer everything they would want on a private island.

The island is off-grid and 100% self-sufficient, with excellent wi-fi internet access and mobile phone reception and at the same time it personifies idyllic natural beauty. There is no equivalent, it is natural, pristine, luxurious, magical, and it is entirely for you and your family and friends to enjoy on your own. It is so special and unique it reminds us the world is still a place of great beauty and wonder.

TANZANIAN BANDAS
If you would like to experience traditional Tanzanian life during your stay on Thanda Island, or you need extra accommodation in addition to the five sumptuous suites in the Villa, just up the beach you have free run of not just one double-story luxury beach bungalow, but two, or ‘bandas’ as they are called in Tanzania, for your exclusive use.

Our private island bungalow accommodation is a different take on unique luxury accommodations. Each of the two is every bit a luxury bungalow house, designed to exquisite standards, and offering all the comforts and services that define the Thanda way.

During your stay, you can come and go as you please from your bungalows, which are situated next to each other, right on the beach. They are fully air-conditioned, with two king-size beds and en-suite bathrooms in each, and are equipped to suit your every need, while offering distinctive island style and atmosphere.

Beautiful, locally hand-carved furniture and fabrics from Mafia Island in soft, natural colours enhance the authentic feel. With an ocean-cooled, open-living design, you can spend the day in your luxury beach bungalow, relaxing and dining, or you can sleep over if you choose.

Every part of Thanda Island is yours to enjoy, explore and restore in complete safety and privacy. The moment you arrive, the island instantly becomes your Indian Ocean home. This storied place is inspired by the tradition of iconic properties where generations of families and friends reconnect and spend precious time together.

It is part of the African dream of the Olofsson family from Sweden who styled Thanda Island to offer everything they would want on a private island, including luxury beach bungalows.

Together with Thanda Island’s select team, the Olofssons are the dedicated custodians of this sanctuary. The island is situated in its own marine protected reserve – the largest in the Indian Ocean where you can bathe in blue heaven and enjoy some of the most spectacular snorkelling and diving off the East African Coast.

Here you can swim with the gentle whale shark, experience sea turtles and a showstopping variety of tropical fish. Ride the trade winds in a traditional Arab dhow; go big game fishing, play island tennis and relax in Thanda luxury with delectable island cuisine, luxurious living and attention to detail.

No city lights, no traffic, no noise, just a few people surrounded by marine wilderness and wildlife. The island is off-grid and 100% self-sufficient, with excellent wifi internet access and mobile phone reception, as many of our guests require this.

DINING
As part of Thanda Island’s utterly private, magical island adventure, we offer a luxury dining experience. The cuisine is fresh, delicious and customised to your specific palate. We will contact you ahead of your visit to discuss the menu of your choice and to find out if you have any allergies or specific dietary requirements.

The Chefs source the freshest quality food, including ocean-fresh fish and shellfish, vegan and vegetarian produce, steak, game and chicken; crisp seasonal vegetables and tropical fruits. A variety of herbs are grown in the herb garden on Thanda Island, and tropical fruit and vegetables produced by local farmers are brought in from nearby Mafia Island.

The Chefs make their own coconut milk for the curries, as well as ice cream, sorbet, yoghurt and muesli. If you enjoy fish and seafood, this is paradise, and the Chefs are fish and seafood masters: the menu includes fish cooked to perfection, fish carpaccio, sashimi, sushi, prawn curries, lobsters freshly caught off Mafia Island, mangrove crabs, tuna, red snappers and a choice of other sea-fresh fish, caught by you or our team.

Gather round the Villa’s magnificent dining table or under a canopy of stars for an exotic royal feast. Breakfasts on the beach, picnics on a sandbank in the ocean and spicy Tanzanian cuisine are all part of the Thanda Island dining experience.

Dining on Thanda Island is a taste adventure of the region’s delectable cuisine. Enjoy lunch al fresco on the beach, or on a traditional Arab dhow. Indulge in ocean-fresh seafoods and experience a Swahili feast dedicated to the exotic flavours, spices and aromas of Tanzania.

Ginger, cinnamon, cloves, cumin, coriander and saffron from the spice island of Zanzibar and coconut milk are used in many of the local dishes. Tanzanian traditional food includes a culinary crossover of Swahili, Arabic and Indian cuisine.

As part of the Island dining experience, there is a romantic, Swahili-themed night dedicated to the flavours of Tanzania and the spices of Zanzibar. The dishes include Swahili curries, prawn curries, rice, chapatis, samosas, local vegetable dishes, local desserts and Swahili chai.

Rice and ugali are two of the Tanzanian national dishes. Ugali is a stiff porridge made with maize, cassava, sorghum and millet. One of the most famous Tanzanian dishes is wali wa nazi – a fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk.

For a taste of Italy, join the Chefs in making your own Italian pizza, cooked in the pizza oven. Or travel by boat for an adventure feast on neighbouring Mbarakuni Island. If you would like to fish, Thanda Island’s team will lead your fishing expedition to bring home the catch of the day for the Chefs to prepare for your dinner.

From ocean-fresh fish and seafood to beef, game and poultry dishes as well as vegetarian and vegan options, Thanda Island’s cuisine is delectably fresh and tailored to your individual tastes. The Chefs will contact you ahead of your visit to discuss your preferred menu options, and special care is taken to cater to all dietary requirements and personal culinary desires.

As part of Thanda Island’s luxury dining experience, the Chefs take great pride in offering our guests a taste adventure that includes traditional Tanzanian cuisine, European flavours and Asian fusions.

For an experience of Tanzanian cuisine, the Chefs prepare a Swahili feast dedicated to the flavours and aromas of Tanzania, tickled with spices from Zanzibar. Swahili curries, rice dishes, grills, local desserts, chai and more.

Ancient Arabian culture is very much part of the East African cultural mix, and the Thanda Island team offers an utterly exotic Arabian evening of indulgence and culinary delights.

Each and every meal and setting on Thanda Island is carefully conceived. From tropical fruit breakfasts at the pool to romantic candlelit dinners on the beach to completely indulgent feasts at the Villa’s vast dining table, island dining on Thanda Island is one of the reasons our guests repeatedly return.

EVERYTHING IS FRESH
Our chefs set a high value on healthy food. Every meal they prepare is fresh, from herbs freshly picked from the Island herb garden to papayas, coconuts, watermelons and pineapples. They make their own coconut milk for the curries, and they handmake the ice cream, sorbet, yoghurt and muesli.

FISH & SEAFOOD PARADISE
If you enjoy fish and seafood, this is paradise, and our chefs are fish and seafood masters: the menu includes fish cooked to perfection, fish carpaccio, sashimi, sushi, prawn curries, lobsters freshly caught off Mafia Island, mangrove crabs, tuna, red snappers and a choice of other sea-fresh fish, caught by you or our team, as well as seasonal oysters freshly-picked from Thanda Island.

THANDA ISLAND PIZZA
Pizza-making on our private island resort is part of the entertainment. Everyone gets involved at the alfresco dining area, where there is a traditional hand-built Italian pizza oven.

Here you can help make the pizzas with a choice of delicious ingredients, including flour from Italy, delicious cheeses, original prosciutto di Parma, cured hams and meats, artichokes, fresh tomatoes and fresh herbs from the island herb garden.

SWAHILI FEASTS
You can experience a Swahili feast dedicated to the flavours and aromas of Tanzania, tickled with the spices from Zanzibar. Swahili curries, rice dishes, grills, local desserts, chai and more.

Ancient Arabian culture is infused in East Arica, and we offer your friends and family an exotic experience of Arabian nights with a themed evening of indulgence, with chiffon drapes, incense, Afghan rugs, low tables, Arabian music and culinary delights.

SPA & WELLNESS
Wellness and happiness sum up the Thanda Island ethos, and the spa and wellness team goes out of their way to ensure that guests experience a profound sense of well-being and rejuvenation during their stay.

Most island getaway spas are shared with other guests, but on Thanda Island, the spa therapists are exclusively dedicated to you and the treatments can be customised to your individual needs. The spa therapists are brought in from nearby Mafia Island or Dar es Salaam during your stay.

To utterly pamper your body, they use an exquisite range of non-allergic products by Africology, leaders in holistic beauty care and wellness. This premium spa brand offers natural, organic products that harness the restorative powers of Africa’s rich natural resources, made from only the purest natural ingredients.

Thanda Island’s expert beauty and massage specialists have created a suite of special massages, facials, and body treatments, especially for Thanda Island. Given the absolute privacy you enjoy on the island, your treatments, including an island spa massage, can be done in the luxury island spa, on the beach, in your villa suite, or wherever you choose.

The entire island is exclusively yours, and this includes the island spa range of treatments that have been created with every need in mind. Thanda Island guests, men, and women alike, all say the island spa and wellness experience in its exquisite setting is so special and unforgettable that they would return to Thanda Island specifically for this.

A full list of treatments is presented to you ahead of your stay, so that the Thanda Island team can customise them, especially for you.

On arrival, many of our guests say they find it difficult to relax, but the wonder of Thanda Island is that it does it all for you. You’ll find yourself spontaneously letting go while you restore your vital force in this place of paradise, boosted by the specially formulated treatments offered by the island spa team.

The Africology range used on Thanda Island is completely natural, beneficial and non-allergic, with specific products for different skin types. The range includes high-performance masks, gels, serums, balms and regenerative creams, made from the finest natural products renowned for their healing, revitalisation and anti-aging properties.

Yoga, meditation and reiki are part of the wellness offering on the island. Your personal wellness specialist will guide you to experience a profound sense of health and happiness during your stay.

It will help you release tension, manage stress, have more fun, and enhance your mental strength, emotional resilience and physical fitness. There is no better place to experience this than on your own private island.

PRIVATE ISLAND WATER ADVENTURES
At Thanda Island, you have exclusive access to the stunning Shungimbili Island Marine Reserve as well as a fantastic range of water and marine sports. Our 36-foot adventure yacht Sazi, our 28-foot reef runner, deep-sea fishing cat, Real Magic, and our 34-foot Cobalt motor cruiser, Island Princess, are all at your disposal.

Our dependable captain and crew have taken command of all three vessels. Thanda Island is thus the finest choice for an exclusive family vacation destination.

SAILING, PADDLING & KAYAKING
Explore the reefs around your island in a kayak, sailboat or on your stand-up paddle-board. We can also organise a sailing trip on a traditional Arab fishing dhow. Enjoy a power ride on one of our jet-skis or go wakeboarding behind our speedboat, Island Princess.

SCUBA DIVING
If you enjoy scuba diving at any level, or you would like to learn to scuba dive, we will arrange this for you with Mafia Island Diving, our accredited 5-star dive partner at Chole Bay on nearby Mafia Island.

All dives are done from traditional Arab dhows in the Mafia Island Marine Park. The largest marine protected area in the Indian Ocean offers some of the most spectacular diving off the East African Coast, including an intriguing diversity of coral reefs, five species of turtles and 400 species of enchanting reef fish.

SNORKELLING
We have a resident snorkelling guide on Thanda Island who can take you on seven different snorkelling adventures around our Island. All ages and novices can enjoy this.

Marine turtles have frequently been sighted during snorkels, along with plenty of exciting marine species, including trumpet fish, threespot dascyllus, blue-spotted stingray, jewel damselfish, cleaner wrasse, goldbar wrasse, reef needlefish and cornetfish.

BIG GAME FISHING
If you would like to do some big game fishing, our captain and fishing guide will lead your fishing expedition on Real Magic to seek out iconic catch-and-release species or bring home the catch of the day for our chefs to prepare for lunch or dinner at your private villa.

Our guides are very passionate about all types of fishing and go out of their way to make sure you have the best possible experience. Children are also welcome to fish or learn how to fish. The fishing season is from September to March, with Sailfish from November to January.

SWIMMING WITH WHALE SHARKS
One of the most emotional and spectacular ocean wonders you can ever experience is being up close with a whale shark, which can grow to an astonishing 18 metres.

These harmless, gentle giants – the largest fish in the world and categorised by the IUCN as vulnerable to extinction – are an incredible part of the Thanda Island experience, as they feed just south of the Island from October to March.

We are privileged to be able to share these beautiful creatures up close with you: you can either swim with them or view them from our luxury adventure vessel, ably commandeered by our trusted captain.

CRUISE THE ISLANDS
Cruise around Thanda Island and the surrounding islands in Thanda’s boat, beautifully appointed with a luxurious cabin, cocktail bar, dedicated waiter and a music system with a wide range of song choice. Sip on champagne and enjoy Island delicacies as you explore the magnificent marine reserves.

ISLAND ACTIVITES & FACILITIES
We have island activities for quests who want to relax and for those who want fun in the sun. For our guests who want to relax, there’s music, yoga, spa treatments and time out at our magnificent rim-flow pool. For our energetic guests, we’re geared for action.

From scuba diving and snorkeling, big game fishing, exploring the ocean in our catamaran or cruiser to playing tennis and volleyball, working out in the gym, walking and jogging on the beach and exploring the Thanda luxury island. Enjoy our special Egret Walk and, of course, dancing in the moonlight under African skies, before going back to your Bandas bungalow or Villa.

TENNIS & VOLLEYBALL COURT
In the early mornings, late afternoons or evenings (when it isn’t too hot) you might want to have a game of tennis or volleyball on our 16 x 35m artificial lawn court. It has white lines for tennis and yellow lines for volleyball. Constructed especially for your enjoyment on Thanda Island, it has night lights for those who would like to play after dark.

We are fully equipped with rackets, balls and even partners and opponents if you need them. Alongside the tennis court is the gazebo where friends and family can cheer on the match while having tea or cocktails.

VILLA GYM
We know that many of you enjoy your regular exercise and gym routine, and we have created your own private, air-conditioned Thanda Villa Gym for all types of training.

We offer a wide range of equipment – from running and bicycle machines to weight training and boxing equipment. Irrespective of your fitness level, we have all sorts of options. The gym is large enough to accommodate groups who can exercise simultaneously, if you so choose.

BIRD WALK
An interesting activity is the Thanda Island Egret Walk, where you head through the bush behind the Villa and onto a white-sand trail to visit the white, grey and black Egrets that inhabit our private island.

Thanda Island is an ideal home for them, with excellent fish, and they manage to hatch a great number of their delicate baby-blue eggs. At different times of the year you can watch them interacting with each other and with their young.

ADVENTURES & EXCURSIONS
When visiting Thanda Island, Tanzania’s exclusive luxury destination, you will be able to experience the mystery of ancient lands were agriculture, fishing, and commerce date back to the Iron Age, with remarkable findings at Juani’s Ukunju Cave. Trade in this area has traditionally been centered on the sea, led by the trade winds.

Traditional wooden dhows float between cargo ships in Tanzania’s main city of Dar es Salaam, and the culture and architecture reflect the country’s various African, Arabic, Indian, British, and European influences. Chole’s people have traveled in Arab dhows since the 8th century, and Zanzibar’s ancient spices came from the East.

EXPLORE CHOLE ISLAND
One of the most popular island excursions is the Chole Island Tour. We partner with our agents on nearby Chole Island who lead our guests on this community-based and historical journey to the east side of Mafia Island.

Weather permitting, the journey from Thanda Island takes about an hour and includes an experience of a traditional Arab dhow: the sea-going vessel used along this coastline for thousands of years.

EXPLORE DAR ES SALAAM
Explore Tanzania’s thriving harbour capital of Dar es Salaam, or ‘Dar’ as it is called, with its colourful mix of African, Arabic, Indian, British and German architecture and culture.

Experience the fishermen bringing in their daily catch and shop for intriguing African fabrics and artefacts in the markets. For Dar Es Salaam excursions we can even arrange a helicopter for an overnight stay or just a day visit.

EXPLORE THE LEGENDARY SPICE ISLAND OF ZANZIBAR
From ancient times, cloves, peppers, cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg from India, Indonesia and Malaysia were brought to Zanzibar by wooden dhows sailing the monsoon winds. Spice farming is the mainstay of Zanzibar today.

Experience a spice tour and the mystique of the old city of Stone Town. We can arrange a helicopter or fixed-wing charter plane visit or an overnight stay in Zanzibar.

EXPLORE MAFIA ISLAND
Mafia Island is the closest inhabited island to Thanda Island. We can sail you over to Mafia for a day’s exploration of the Eleventh Century ruins, visits to the village communities and traditional boat-building craftsmen who use hand tools and hand-forged nails.

Road safaris around Mafia in the island’s legendary Landrover taxis are another option. Visit villages famous for their clay pots, ukili mats and coconut plantations.

EXPLORE JUANI ISLAND
One of the nine islands in the Mafia Island archipelago is Juani Island, with its extraordinary natural, amazonesque channel and blue lagoon on the eastern side of Mafia Island.

On board a traditional Arab dhow you experience stunning views of the southern part of the archipelago as you sail up the Juani Island channel with its azure waters, bordered by lush mangrove forests and populated by a fascinating range of bird species.

The journey takes you to the blue lagoon, which, with its sandy bottom and shallow waters is the perfect place for a refreshing swim with unimaginable views.

MARINE LIFE & COMMUNITIES
Thanda Island is part of research and conservation projects as well as the preservation and rehabilitation of the Shungimbili coral reef. The island provides a basis for its neighbouring Mafia Island’s Marine Park Rangers to patrol the western side of Mafia and several other islands to stop illegal fishing in the area.

Thanda Island is deeply committed to the Mafia’s young people education and wellbeing, including programmes on sustainable fishing and marine conservation and the development of healthy sporting activities. We employ members from the community on the Island and offer high-end hospitality skills development and employment advancement.

A COMMITMENT TO CONSERVATION
Thanda Island partners with the Tanzanian Marine Parks and Reserves Unit on a range of marine conservation and educational programmes including the Ropes of Hope restoration of the coral reef project.

These include research conservation initiatives associated with the marine reserve and Mafia Island Marine Park, of which our flagship conservation project is the restoration of the Shungimbili Island coral reef in collaboration with local conservation partners.

Five species of marine turtles occur in Tanzania’s waters. The largest fish in the world – the gentle, human-friendly whale shark – feeds just south of the Island.

TURTLE NESTING
Five species of marine turtles occur in Tanzania’s waters: Green, Hawksbill, Loggerhead, Olive Ridley and Leatherback turtles. All are categorised by the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) as endangered or critically endangered species.

We often have sightings around Thanda Island and know that you will be utterly amazed by these creatures. Our focus on sea turtles conservation has led to recreating a conservation haven for them, which has proven successful; the first Green turtle hatchlings were born at the end of May 2017.

We hope that increasing numbers of turtles will return to nest on the Island. It is still a rare occurrence and only seasonal, yet if you are lucky, you may witness this unique event during your stay.

WHALE SHARK CITIZEN SCIENCE PROGRAMME
We invite you to participate in our citizen science programme where photos you take of the whale sharks near Thanda Island can be uploaded to ecoocean.org and sharkbook.ai.

Photo identification of the whale sharks, each with a unique pattern of ‘fingerprint’, is used to study their little known feeding, migratory and breeding habits. Our marine guides are equipped with GoPro cameras to record your time with the whale sharks.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
The Thanda Island team participates in a range of social upliftment programs on Mafia Island, which has approximately 60 000 people. The closest community village on Mafia Island is Ras Mbisi, eight nautical miles from Thanda Island.

We are committed to the education of young people concerning sustainable resource utilization and fish harvesting, and education in marine conservation and the development of healthy sporting activities, such as football.

COASTAL COMMUNITIES
Thanda participates in a range of social upliftment programmes on neighbouring Mafia Island, which has approximately 60 000 inhabitants. We are committed to the education of young people in sustainable fish harvesting, marine conservation, and the development of sporting activities, such as football.

UPLIFTMENT
A new private tropical island will be opening its doors in April 2016. Thanda Island is the beach residence of Swedish entrepreneur and philanthropist couple Christin and Dan Olofsson and is situated within southern Tanzania’s Shungi Mbili Island Marine Reserve.

Furthermore, Thanda Island seeks to mirror the conservation and community upliftment successes that Thanda Safari has achieved in South Africa by partnering with the Tanzanian Marine Parks on a range of marine conservation and education programmes in the region.

STAR FOR LIFE
The Star for Life programme seeks to empower young people with the attitudes and emotional skills they need to focus on their school education and to make wise choices outside of school in order to stay healthy, positive and make positive contributions to their families and communities.

This programme, founded by the Olofsson Family in South Africa in 2005, has supported over 500,000 school learners over the years to reach for their dreams and live healthy lives and now operates in four countries with a staff of over 115 people.

Rooms: 5

Price: from 6.000 EUR per night

Source: www.thandaisland.com

Built in the style of a stately Edwardian manor house and featuring a light and airy atmosphere, Singita Sasakwa Lodge offers panoramic views, a sense of immense freedom, and stillness.

Striking the perfect balance between casual luxury and sophisticated elegance, it features a grand entrance, wraparound verandas, silver candelabras and coveted antiques, as well as bespoke décor elements such as local artefacts and tribal cushions.

Offering expansive en-suite bathrooms, dressing areas, fireplaces, living rooms and French doors opening onto welcoming verandas, the elegant cottages feature polished parquet floors, vintage collectables and comfortable furnishings – and provide guests with complete privacy, as well as unfiltered space and time to connect with the breathtaking surrounds.

Sasakwa Lodge provides guests with a front-row seat to the prolific wildlife in the 350,000-acre Singita Grumeti Reserve in the Serengeti. The experience makes for an unparalleled East African safari, complete with leisure activities that include bush walks, soothing wellness treatments and tennis.

WEATHER & WHAT TO PACK –  SEASONS IN THE SERENGETI
East Africa is equatorial so the climate is fairly constant and it is a year-round destination. Tanzania has a light rain season from November to March. This period is known as the ‘short rains’, often no more than a quick downpour each day, followed by clear sunshine. From December to March the weather becomes increasingly warmer with the ‘long rains’ occurring between April and May. To ensure your comfort you may want to tailor your clothing choices to the time of year:

• October – April:Casual summer clothing (shorts and lightweight shirts) with a warm jersey or sweater for the cooler morning and evening temperatures.
• May – September:Casual lightweight clothing with a very warm parka or windbreaker jacket for the very cold mornings and nights.

Your safari bag, packed properly, will ensure that you have everything you need for the ultimate African bush experience. Cotton clothing in neutral colours such as green, khaki and grey is recommended for game drives and bush walks.

It is advisable to avoid white and dark colours as they tend to attract bugs. If it rains during a game drive, waterproof ponchos will be provided. No formal wear is required at any of our lodges. To ensure a comfortable safari experience, we recommend that you bring the following:

• Comfortable walking or track shoes, or hiking boots for walks as well as sandals to wear around the lodge.
• Activewear if you plan on using the facilities at the fitness centre or your private in-room fitness area.
• A swimming costume or bathing suit, sun block, sun hat, sunglasses, lip balm, mosquito repellent. (Lip balm and insect repellent will be provided, but if you prefer a particular brand, you are welcome to bring it along.)
• Video camera, camera, binoculars and extra memory cards.
• Please note that in the event of rain during a game drive, waterproof ponchos will be provided.

All of our lodges are located in remote areas and therefore guests should remember to bring an extra pair of correction glasses (if required), contact lens solution and an extra set of contact lenses (if required) as well as a sufficient supply of any prescription medication.

• Malaria: Singita Grumeti is situated in a malaria-risk area. It is therefore essential that you consult your medical practitioner regarding anti-malaria requirements prior to your trip.
• Vaccinations: Guests are strongly advised to check the latest information with regard to vaccinations for travel to Tanzania with their local travel clinic or travel agent.

AIR ACCESS
Grumeti Air makes it quicker, easier and safer than ever before for Singita’s guests to seamlessly connect to one of Africa’s most iconic wilderness areas. The airline allows the renowned Singita experience to commence as soon as your journey across Tanzania begins, putting you in the hands of our expert team from start to finish.

Added benefits for those travelling with our partner airline include the convenience and time-saving offered by Grumeti Air. With daily direct flights from Arusha to Singita Sasakwa via Kilimanjaro, guests don’t experience the usual delay of stopping off at other airstrips along the way.

The uninterrupted journey to Singita’s 350,000-acre concession in Grumeti from Tanzania’s main travel hubs means less time in the air and more time enjoying the expansive plains of the Serengeti.

For guests travelling further north to Singita Mara River Tented Camp, it’s just a scenic, 15-minute hop to the spectacular Lamai Triangle from there. The Grumeti Air fleet comprises two turboprop Cessna Grand Caravans, each carrying up to 12 passengers and flown by a team of two highly qualified and experienced pilots.

With 30,000 hours of flying time under the belts of our captains and their co-pilots, as well as impeccable safety records throughout, every aspect of the journey to and from your Singita safari can be enjoyed in complete comfort. Every flight also comes with the warm, personalised service that Singita is known for, making you feel right at home as you take to the skies.

WINE EXPERIENCES
Singita is recognised as one of Africa’s most influential collectors of wine, with an extensive cellar showcasing a premium selection of wines, including some of the continent’s most sought-after private reserves, including exclusive release, limited single vineyard and rare auction wines.

It’s safe to say that wine is a key ingredient of the unique Singita experience. The Singita wine list has received numerous awards of excellence, the top Diners’ Club Wine List accolade as well as recognition from countless other local and international organisations.

François Rautenbach is responsible for this excellence as the director of Singita Premier Wine, he manages the selection, purchase, storage, and service of all the wines at Singita’s lodges.

François also manages Singita Premier Wine Direct which allows guests to order their favourite wines from their safari to enjoy at home. With the Singita Premier Wine Direct service, wines can either be specially packed for guests as checked luggage or shipped directly to a guest’s home.

Personalised wine tastings within the unique ambience of each lodge’s own temperature-controlled cellar are a true guest favourite, for connoisseurs and casual tasters alike. Singita’s experienced sommeliers are able to guide guests through a variety of wine styles, years and cultivars to find the wines most suited to their individual tastes.

As with all that Singita does, community upliftment is central to the Singita wine programme as well. François Rautenbach has created a special training programme for enthusiastic young wine lovers, developing the next generation of sommeliers for Africa. The training provides educational assistance, personal mentoring, formal wine training and access to Africa’s finest wine programme.

WELLNESS
Offering the luxury of unfiltered time and space, the African wilderness is the ultimate setting for complete unwinding, while the continent’s healing energies are encapsulated in rituals that nourish and nurture.

At Singita, our enduring purpose to restore the land and its wildlife extends to offering healing experiences to our guests at every touchpoint. The dedicated treatments in our massage spaces tap into the profound benefits of indigenous wisdoms and essential oils that relax, replenish and revive.

Each tailor-made therapy can be customised and timed to preference, ensuring a completely personalised experience. The massage menu has been designed to immerse guests into their beautiful surroundings, and all treatments incorporate that peace and vibrant energy to revitalize and nourish the soul.

SWIMMING POOL
Singita Sasakwa Lodge offers an expansive swimming pool next to the main house in addition to private infinity pools at each cottage and at the private villa.

FITNESS CENTRE
Fully equipped fitness centres are available for guests’ convenience. Each facility provides picturesque views of the bush, allowing you to keep an eye on the action outside while you work out.

TENNIS
Experience a game of tennis as you never would have before. Enjoy your time on court whilst being surrounded by the beauty of the African wilderness. Cool down with rewarding refreshments and a dip in the nearby swimming pool.

GAME DRIVES
Journeying into the heart of Africa’s most untouched and remote wilderness areas, Singita’s twice-daily game drives present the opportunity for intimate connections with nature and discovering the raw beauty of the continent’s most magnificent creatures up close.

Each tailormade exploration with your personal Field Guide celebrates the freedom to spend unfiltered time in wide-open spaces and while no two Singita game drives are ever the same, you are bound to be enchanted by vivid encounters with Africa’s most iconic wildlife – which flourish and thrive through the tireless efforts of Singita’s non-profit conservation Funds & Trusts.

From rolling grasslands where giraffe and elephant meander in peace to riverine woodlands where shy creatures suddenly appear from lush foliage; and from rocky outcrops favoured by big cats to hidden valleys where large herds of antelope roam and graze, each game drive traverses landscapes that are as rich in scenery as they are in wildlife.

As the warmth of the African sun slowly starts to light up the treetops and grasslands, our early morning game drives are filled with an energy that’s simultaneously exciting and soothing. Never knowing what’s around the next corner, the sense of adventure for what lies ahead for the rest of the day welcomes a continuous unfolding of magic as the bush wakes up to reveal its secrets.

And when the sun dips on the horizon, bringing the day to a close with a brightly painted sky, idyllic sundowner stops in exclusive settings encapsulate the romance of safaris deep into the bush. Accompanied by a cool evening breeze and the beauty of the clear night sky above, the tranquil journey back to the lodge often reveals the elusive magic of nocturnal Africa, making for a fitting finale.

WARMTH & WISDOM
Imparting a wealth of knowledge and intuitively responding to each guest and group’s interests, Singita’s expert Field Guides and Trackers exude an unlimited passion for Africa’s wildlife and wilderness.

Their in-depth knowledge of the area – and the inherent role of every plant, insect, bird, mammal, predator and season in its unique ecology – makes every encounter and sighting all the more meaningful, and elevates each connection with nature. “Highlighting the freedom and unhurried beauty of Africa, Singita’s game drives allow you to spend as much time as you choose at each sighting.

In our case, we spent at least five hours with a female cheetah and a series of repositions ultimately resulted in witnessing a stalk-and-kill scenario – something my children had never seen from a cheetah before… A powerful experience for everyone.” – Ryan & Malaka Hilton, Admiral Travel

During your stay at Singita, you are likely to spot a great variety of wildlife, including cheetah, bearded wildebeest, Bat Eared fox, Maasai giraffe, lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard and the rare Colobus monkey.

There is no real beginning or end to the wildebeest’s constant search for food and water. The only beginning is when calves are born – almost 400,000 wildebeest calves are born during a 6-week period usually between late January and mid-March. The migration path varies from year to year depending on weather and other environmental factors.

It’s difficult to predict exactly where the migrating wildebeest will be in a given month because movements depend so much on weather patterns. Generally over the year the animals move from the wet southern and eastern plains of the Serengeti from November to March through the western and central region to the dryer north of the Serengeti National Park, both north and south of the Mara River, from the end of May through October.

GUIDED SAFARI WALKS
Walking safaris are an incredible way to experience the bush up close and personal.Your expert guide and tracker will accompany you as you track animals on foot through the wilderness and explore the magnificent plants and landscapes around you. We suggest a minimum age of 15 years for this activity, but participation is at the discretion of your Field Guide.

ANTI-POACHING OBSERVATION POST VISIT
The Singita Grumeti Fund anti-poaching team is made up of 120 dedicated scouts. These scouts patrol the 350,000-acre private concession and are based in 12 scout camps and in 12 observation posts (OP) dotted across the reserve.

Each OP is manned by two scouts who are constantly surveying the area for any unusual activity. This could be poachers coming through the protected area or vehicles that do not belong to the company or a herd of cattle entering the area or an animal in distress.

The scouts are responsible for quickly identifying any incursions and reporting them to the rest of the anti-poaching team who can then act accordingly. Two scouts are stationed at the OP for one week at a time.

They share responsibilities of cooking, cleaning and most importantly making sure that one person is on the look-out at all times. Guests have the opportunity to visit OP 7, situated atop a hill with an incredible sunset view over the vast grassy plains below.

The experience for Singita guests includes meeting the Singita Grumeti Fund game scouts and seeing how they live and work. At the OP there is an infographic board which your guide can talk you through. It shows the main areas of focus for the Singita Grumeti Fund, as well as specific facts and figures associated with the success of protecting this area.

The combination of a morning coffee or late afternoon drinks stop makes it a great location to truly absorb the beauty of the landscape but also take in the scale and importance of the work of the Singita Grumeti Fund anti-poaching unit.

COMMUNITY VISITS
Perhaps Africa’s greatest beauty is its people and, as part of Singita’s deep commitment to community development, guests are invited to visit the nearby communities. The Grumeti Fund Community Outreach Program works with residents of the 21 villages bordering Singita Grumeti to realise their development goals.

We partner with these communities to address issues of education, natural resource management, enterprise development and water management. We encourage guests to visit these communities to experience the success of these projects firsthand.

FOR FAMILIES
Inspiring new perspectives, our tailormade safaris allow for endless discovery in nature’s abundant classroom, and with a front-row seat to the continent’s most iconic wildlife and wilderness areas, families are able to share profound and unfiltered moments in the bush throughout their stay.

Designed to specifically suit the interests of each group, our family safaris awaken the senses and the Singita experience encourages an appreciation of the wilderness from a very young age.

Africa’s untouched landscapes offer a rich environment for learning which cannot be found anywhere else and our Field Guides and Trackers take immense pride in sharing their vast knowledge – about everything from bird calls to fascinating plant species – with our guests, instilling a sense of awe and respect for the infinite beauty of the bush.

As you immerse yourself in the wide-open spaces – learning how to track animals, witnessing the raw power of predators on a hunt together, and more – a world of knowledge opens up, while strengthening the bonds with your loved ones.

From easing into the luxury of sharing family meals under the stars every night to twice-daily game drives, you’ll create memories to last a lifetime. Singita’s Mini Game Rangers’ Course confirms that nothing compares to nature’s ability to inspire, excite and transform, and the value of giving the next generation the freedom to learn more about the environment in the heart of the wilderness is simply immeasurable.

This specially crafted, fun-filled course teaches young explorers everything from outdoor survival and animal tracking skills to more about the wonders of astronomy and the secrets of tree and bird identification. Children’s activities offered at the lodge include:

• Cooking interactions
• Board games
• Stargazing
• Bush walks (minimum age 16)
• Activity booklets with a variety of games, quizzes and games
• Arts & crafts
• Movies
• Swimming

BOUTIQUE & GALLERY
Not your regular curio shop, you will find original treasures that have been gathered from all corners of the African continent. A range of collectable sculptures, home-ware and furnishings will allow you to recreate ‘the safari dream’ within your own home.

Artefacts, as well as authentic carvings and jewellery created by local craftsmen are just a few of the treasures you may find to take home as gifts. Amongst beautiful museum quality, fine-art prints and works by some of the most respected artists on the continent, there are many pieces especially designed for Singita. Here too you can find a range of quality branded Singita safari wear.

Browse the selection of items available in the Faru Faru boutique, if you would like to see more, we can happily arrange a visit to the Sasakwa Lodge boutique. We offer a worldwide shipping service so you may make your purchases at the lodges with the option to send them straight home.

PREMIER WINE BOUTIQUE
As one of South Africa’s most influential buyers of wine, Singita’s cellars are home to some of the most sought-after private reserves and vintage wines the country has to offer. Whether you are a connoisseur or just enjoy the occasional glass of wine, our experienced sommeliers delight in introducing guests to a vast selection of varietals from all over the world.

Through Singita Premier Wine Direct guests may purchase wines from our cellars: either to be taken home at the end of their trip or conveniently delivered to their door.

As an addition to cellar purchases, we have secured allocations of highly limited, sought-after wines, including ‘Icons’, ‘Single Vineyard’ and ‘Limited Release’ wines, directly from leading wineries in South Africa. Stored in temperature-controlled cellars, these wines are unlikely to be available anywhere else.

CONSERVATION
The Serengeti plains team with wildlife, including vast herds of plains game, a plethora of predators and the spectacle of the annual wildebeest migration.

As the custodian of more than 350,000 acres of the world-renowned Serengeti ecosystem in Tanzania, Singita’s partnership with Grumeti Fund has had a profound impact on the Serengeti ecosystem. The non-profit Grumeti Fund carries out wildlife conservation and community development programs in and around the Singita Grumeti Reserve.

Faced with challenges including uncontrolled illegal hunting, rampant wildfires and spreading strands of invasive alien vegetation when they took over the management of the area in 2003, the Fund dedicated itself to transform severely depleted wildlife numbers into thriving populations once more.

Restoring this once barren and highly degraded region to a flourishing wilderness, their successes include the remarkable recovery of many species – including buffalo, wildebeest and elephant populations, and in 2019, the Fund carried out the largest single relocation and reintroduction of 9 critically endangered Eastern Black Rhino.

The non-profit Fund is fiscally independent in its conservation and community project operations. Funds are derived in the form of donations from Singita guests, NGOs and philanthropists seeking to make a lasting contribution to the sustainability of conservation work in Africa.

Rooms: 11

Price: from 3.388 EUR per night

Source: www.singita.com

Cocooned among 32 hectares of tropical gardens, fringed by a pristine mile-long beach, The Residence Zanzibar immerses you in the splendour of a secluded hideaway. At this luxurious villa resort on Zanzibar Island, just off the coast of Tanzania, retreat to a world of divine relaxation, bespoke hospitality and enchanting elegance inspired by the island’s African, Omani and European heritage.

The Residence Zanzibar lies within a lush, forested 32-hectare estate where five-star luxuries sit harmoniously alongside nature’s untouched beauty. Feel your spirits soar amid extensive tropical gardens that meet with powder-soft white sand lapped by the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean.

Inspired by the island’s eclectic cultures, our luxury Zanzibar resort blends modern comforts with Swahili, Omani, British and Indian influences. Indulge in the privacy of the spacious villas, attended on if you wish by your own butler.

Enjoy carefree days relaxing by your private pool, on the beach, or exploring the gardens on foot or by bicycle. Savour a taste of the Spice Island’s unique blend of cultures and cuisines, and the pleasure of sensational spa treatments.

Discover more of the island and the waters that surround it in a myriad of activities, from visiting historic sites and rare natural wonders to deep sea fishing and diving with dolphins. Whether you dream of a quiet couple’s retreat or fun in the sun for the whole family, embrace all the delights of our island life at The Residence Zanzibar.

ACCOMMODATION
The resort’s 66 luxuriously appointed villas fuse contemporary style with the elegance of the island’s African, Omani and European heritage. Set within 32 hectares of tropical gardens, the villas offer the perfect combination of spaciousness and privacy.

Relaxing comes easy on the lounge deck outside, furnished with wicker chairs and daybeds, overlooking a 1.2-metre-deep private swimming pool and soothing garden, beach or ocean views. If you feel like exploring the beautiful gardens and local surroundings, stroll at your leisure or hop on the bicycles that are provided with each of our Zanzibar luxury villas.

DINING
Fragrance and flavour combine to create an exciting gastronomic journey at our two restaurants or in the intimacy of your villa. The Dining Room offers international dishes peppered with a hint of Zanzibar “spice”, while Indian, Arabic and Mediterranean influences are at play in The Pavilion Restaurant in an atmospheric dining experience that extends beyond the plate.

THE DINING ROOM
Begin the day in the most leisurely way with breakfast in The Dining Room, set at the heart of the hotel with spectacular views over the beach and ocean. Linger over lunch that offers a menu of tempting, light options. As night falls, savour a menu of tantalising cuisine that reflects the spice and culture which Zanzibar is so famous for, combining fresh foods and meats with Omani and African flavours.

THE PAVILION
Indulge in a mouthwatering culinary journey at The Pavilion that takes you from the Mediterranean to the Middle East, embracing the flavours of all the countries in between.

Situated within lush grounds a short stroll from the main hotel, The Pavilion merges elegant, contemporary décor with touches of Middle Eastern culture and traditonal music, offering a unique dining experience that delights all the senses.

BEACH OR POOLSIDE DINING
Relax undisturbed on your sun lounger as lunch is delivered to your side in a rattan basket. The menu includes a selection of salads, fresh seafood, fritters and pasta.

SPA & WELLNESS
Pampering pleasures abound in The Spa, the hotel’s star attraction featuring six spacious treatment pavilions, a relaxation area with a whirlpool, sauna and steam room, nestled amongst two hectares of tropical gardens. Woven seamlessly into the natural landscape, this sanctuary of well-being leads you blissfully along the path to rejuvenating mind, body and soul.

Our treatments are designed by niche British spa brand ila. Meaning ‘Earth’ in Sanskrit, ila harnesses the benefits of organic natural plant and mineral ingredients and incorporates these into their products and treatments to bring powerful healing benefits for wellbeing and moments of pleasure.

Allow our highly experienced spa therapists to nurture you from top to toe with a range of therapeutic and luxurious beauty treatments tailored for total relaxation and pure indulgence. The ultimate Zanzibar spa experience!

EVENTS & MEETINGS
Immersed in the tranquility and beauty of nature, The Residence Zanzibar provides the most astounding backdrop for life’s most memorable and important occasions, whether the exchange of wedding vows or a glittering VIP event.

The resort also provides an ideal venue for meetings and executive retreats, offering elegant, well-equipped spaces for discussions, seminars and conferences, elevated to the next level by the professional expertise of our events team, and exceptional catering options crafted by our talented chefs.

WEDDINGS & EVENTS
​When the occasion calls for somewhere special, The Residence Zanzibar more than fits the bill, offering a variety of venues for private celebrations and social events. Our dedicated wedding and event planners bring every last exquisite detail together to create wonderful memories for you and your guests.

For wedding couples, say “I do” in the beautiful setting of our gorgeous and immaculately groomed lawns, or barefoot on the beach as the leaves of the palm trees rustle in the breeze and the ocean kisses the sand. Raise a toast to your romance among family and friends, the sky aglow with a glorious sunset.

MEETINGS & INCENTIVES
​An inspiring environment and modern amenities are just the starting point for productive gatherings at The Residence Zanzibar. Our team works closely with you to tailor your event to your satisfaction, be it creating a specific theme or curating group offers and itineraries that encompass work, play and destination discovery.

With so much to experience in and around the resort, including sensational spa treatments, sports activities, cooking classes, diving and sightseeing, you’ll find plenty of opportunity for teambuilding and bonding, making for a truly rewarding retreat.

DISCOVER ZANZIBAR
Laidback beaches, coral reefs and the clear, warm waters of the Indian Ocean are only part of Zanzibar’s legendary allure. Experience the island’s unique cultural mix that reflects a melting pot of African, Indian and Arabian influences, and a strong culture of hospitality among its people that will leave Zanzibar etched forever in your memories and your heart.

Rooms: 66

Price: from 382 EUR per night

Source: www.cenizaro.com

Sanctuary Swala is located in a secluded area of Tarangire National Park, one of the most exciting and least visited parks in the country. In the heart of Maasai country and a remote corner of the Tarangire, in total seclusion amongst giant acacia trees and looking out beyond the flat savannah, Sanctuary Swala offers a very exclusive safari experience.

The picturesque landscape is filled with ancient baobab trees, ambling elephants and birds in flight. Built to the highest eco-friendly standards, this camp has a particularly low-carbon footprint.

ROOMS
Sanctuary Swala is located in a secluded part of Tarangire National Park and has twelve luxurious canvas pavilions, all shaded by acacia trees and all with views over the waterhole and plains in front of camp. The main dining area, deck and library are lifted on stilts around an ancient baobab tree.

CONTEMPORARY AFRICAN
Sanctuary Swala’s welcoming communal spaces blend chic style with relaxed open-air living. Traditional peaked thatch roofs harmonise beautifully with the surroundings bush and keep these areas cool in the hot months.

Set on stilts around ancient towering baobab trees, the elevated dining area, lounge and library, are sound-tracked by the sing-song of the hundreds of species of birds that have their home in the mature acacia trees’ canopy – ornithologists say that 23 are exclusively endemic to this corner of the world. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in the guests’ tents.

SAFARI IN STYLE
Twelve spacious canvas pavilions ensure unrivalled tranquillity, overlooking a popular watering hole. The wood-floored open-plan rooms have been staged with elegant neutral-toned interiors, matching safari-chic furnishings with rich African textiles, blending seamlessly with the raw and natural beauty of Tanzania’s cinematic savannah.

King-size beds swathed in neutral linens mingle fresh design with a new take on safari living. Indoor and outdoor bush-view showers ensure more magical moments because connecting with wildlife is key: the floor-to-ceiling 180° views, and the pavilions’ private decks, mean you won’t miss a sight.

Intriguing art has been thoughtfully placed, and each furnishing considered based on its eco-friendly design; from repurposed artefacts to bespoke creations. Sanctuary Swala treads with the lightest of footprints, without compromising on luxury.

BREAKFAST UNDER A BAOBAB
All of the scrumptious meals served at Sanctuary Swala are enjoyed on the main dining deck which is lifted on stilts around an enormous and ancient baobab tree. A full English and continental breakfast is served before your morning game viewing activity.

Lunch can be enjoyed back in camp where the menu might include your favourite meats; or alternatively a picnic basket can be arranged should you wish to stay longer in the park. We have many favourite spots to go to for a quiet lunch in the bush or for special sundowners – toasting to the end of yet another beautiful day in Africa.

DELECTABLE DESSERT
As evening sets in, enjoy drinks around the campfire; followed by a three course plated dinner as you discuss the great game viewing and events of the day. The camp’s signature dish – and a definite favourite amongst guests – is our mouth-watering dessert called “Chocolate Kilimanjaro.”

It resembles the white snow-capped peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro and simply melts in your mouth – but don’t take our word for it, try it for yourself when you visit this very special camp. If you are celebrating a special occasion we could arrange a private dinner under the stars on your tent deck.

GAME DRIVES
Sanctuary Swala is at the heart of Tarangire National Park, where Northern Tanzania’s largest population of elephant makes its home, as does a rare white giraffe. Abandoned termite mounds become the sanctuary of dwarf mongoose.

Drives out from Sanctuary Swala reward you with exciting wildlife encounters, while herds of elephant, and prides of lions all roam within sight and earshot of the camp. The low volume of visitors to the park offers a truly unique and private experience and our customised open safari vehicles offer unobstructed viewing and great photography opportunities.

BUSH BREAKFASTS, PICNICS & DINNERS
You may have decided with your guide to take a picnic breakfast or lunch with you but equally lovely in the evening is to enjoy a bush dinner. A secluded clearing is prepared for a traditional East African meal in the middle of the Tarangire bush.

With a sundowner in hand watch as the sun swiftly sinks and your setting becomes illuminated by a magnificent log fire. Once you have settled into your surroundings let our chef introduce you to traditional Swahili fare and experience a memorable evening under the African night sky.

BEEKEEPING PROJECT
Sanctuary Swala has developed a beekeeping project located in the village of Mwika on the border of Tarangire National Park. Through beekeeping we are able to preserve the natural environment while providing a valuable source of income to the community.

Sanctuary Swala not only provided the village with the materials to make the hives, but with the knowledge and the equipment to keep bees which produce organic acacia honey. The honey that is harvested is sold through Sanctuary Swala with all proceeds going back to the project.

With the success of the first harvest of honey in August 2010 the project has plans to develop and grow to over 100 hives, providing more families with income from a traditional foodstuff. While at Sanctuary Swala you have the opportunity to meet with the beekeepers on a visit to Mwika village and learn firsthand how the project operates.

GAME DRIVES AT NIGHT
Experience the wonders of a safari at night in Tarangire. As dusk falls, relax in the comfort of Sanctuary Swala’s customised safari vehicle as you venture into the park transformed by night.

Search for nocturnal animals rarely seen as this is one of the few places in northern Tanzania where you can enjoy a safari by moonlight. At night, you may encounter an African wild cat, the elusive leopard or feel the round eyes of a bushbaby peering down at you as the moon rises into the sky.

With specialised lighting you will be able to look for lion and hyena, as well as smaller creatures such as spotted genet, serval, bat eared foxes, owls and nightjars. (Maximum 5 people, additional cost)

WALKING SAFARIS
Put on your walking shoes and experience beautiful Tarangire National Park from a different perspective with a walking safari at Sanctuary Swala. With our professional walking guide and armed ranger, guests can now explore the grassland around camp in one of the most secluded areas of the park.

Our qualified guide has a wealth of knowledge and will explain how to understand animal behaviour while tracking a variety of game. You may encounter zebra, waterbuck, impala, ostrich, elephant as well as a number of birds. Sanctuary Swala is one of only a few camps within Tanzania’s Northern Park that is able to offer walking safaris. (Maximum 6 people per walk, additional cost).

Rooms: 12

Price: from 744 EUR per night

Source: www.sanctuaryretreats.com

Located on the outer slopes of the Ngorongoro Crater lies Gibb’s Farm. Founded in the 1920s as a coffee plantation, we embrace traditional East African hospitality with our roots extending deep into the land and our heritage here.

An idyllic retreat while exploring the Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara national parks, as well as Lake Eyasi, on safari in Tanzania. Recline with a cup of freshly roasted coffee overlooking the Great Rift Valley in lush surroundings.

Awaken to the sound of bird call and while-away the days sipping on freshly roasted coffee grown here on the farm. A haven of tranquillity and imbued with the classic charm of a traditional farm, our cottages and houses will beguile you.

Each of our recently refurbished cottages has a distinct theme founded on an element of East Africa. Discover the spacious interiors, eclectic artworks, verdant garden settings and award-winning sense of wellbeing awaiting you.

We encourage our guests to immerse themselves in the rhythms of the farm and enjoy a sense of tranquillity and well-being. Surrounded by the rich traditions of East African life, share in the eternal sense of history and community.

Generations of local families have helped to create a truly authentic, serene and memorable experience here. Share in their lifestyle with activities both on the farm and in the area from long walks to milking our cows.

Each day at Gibb’s Farm follows a gentle rhythm. Discover a sanctuary for the senses to rejuvenate the mind, body and soul. A destination in itself and sanctuary for safari goers, take time to immerse in the sense of wellbeing at Gibb’s Farm.

This historic organic farm and family coffee plantation covers over 80 acres on the forested outer slopes of the Ngorongoro Crater. Share in the eternal sense of history and community with two-family houses and seventeen cottages.

THE HISTORY
Walking around Gibb’s Farm surrounded by gardens planted in the 1960’s, farm relics dotted around the area, and the centuries old Great Rift Valley and the Ngorongoro Forest nearby, I began to realise what a special place we found ourselves in. After an exciting east African safari, we arrived at one of the first guesthouses in northern Tanzania.

Upon arrival, we were beckoned by an intimate garden path leading us towards the authentic farmhouse which has been refurbished to offer a rustic, luxurious and welcoming sanctuary. The sense of history is palpable as you stroll through the gardens.

Dr. Albert Freiherr von Poelnitz, a German duke purchased the land (the area that is now Gibb’s Farm) from his brother-in-law and continued to cultivate it as a coffee plantation. The original farmhouse was built in 1929, and what is today known as the Deutsche House cottage was built to commemorate the German heritage of the farm.

In the late 1920’s a coffee farm was established by a German farmer, which was subsidized by the German Government. During the Second World War, the British Custodian of Enemy Property took over the farm.

Neglected through the war years, the farm was bought in 1948 by James Gibb, a British war veteran, who returned it to production. In 1959, he married Margaret, who was born in Tanzania to British parents. Margaret was an avid gardener and started the extensive vegetable and flower garden. We have her to thank for our beautiful gardens!

In 1960, the Serengeti National Park was partitioned, and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area was established along the north boundary of the farm. To accommodate the influx of visitors attracted to the conservation area and surrounding national parks, James and Margaret built guest cottages in 1972, making Gibb’s Farm one of the first guest houses in northern Tanzania.

James Gibb died in 1977, but Margaret continued to run the farm until 2003, when she and her late second husband, Per Kullander, passed on the Gibb’s Farm tradition to current owners, Rick & Judi, and under their guidance Gibb’s Farm continues to build upon the gracious hospitality and legacy of conservation, an organic farm for over 27 years, so carefully cultivated for future generations to enjoy.

FARM COTTAGES
Immerse within the age-old rhythms of the farm, freshly roasted coffee in hand, from a private veranda. A welcome retreat, our cottages showcase hand-selected local artwork, many pieces from our “Artists in Residence” program. 17 refurbished one-bedroom cottages, twin queen beds or king-sized, are perfectly located around the farm.

Each offers a private terrace, living area, en-suite bathroom, garden or valley view and outdoor shower to create a personal, richly appointed space to soak up the sense of welcome and rhythms of the farm. Each of our 17 cottages has a unique story to tell through art, furnishings and history. Discover one that speaks to you.

To name but a few, the front door of Ngorongoro Cottage faces the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, less than 40 feet away. Rebuilt in 2014, Zamani Cottage now stands on the site of the last existing guest room built by Margaret and James Gibb. Mulberry Cottage’s present legacy are the Mulberry trees that surround the house.

FARM HOUSES
A sense of togetherness comes to the fore with a stay in one of our 2-bedroom Farm Houses, Bustani and Deutsches. Perfectly suited for families and friends travelling together, our farm houses each sleep up to 4 adults or 2 adults and 4 children.

Deutsches is located close to our main farm house and is ideal for families with younger children, while Bustani is set back on the farm and offers spectacular views. Find a stay to suit you.

BUSTANI HOUSE
Named for the Swahili word meaning garden, Bustani House offers the most spectacular views of all our farm stays. While retaining the farm cottage feel, Bustani has been inspired by nature, the remarkable vista before it with landscaped gardens directly below and the Great Rift Valley beyond.

Charming with modern accents and dark wood finishes, the spacious two-bedroom farm house offers a master en-suite bedroom with a king-size bed and a second en-suite bedroom with two queen-size beds.

Each bathroom features an indoor shower and bath as well as an outdoor shower. The lounge area connects the bedrooms and all areas lead onto an expansive private terrace to enjoy the tranquil landscape.

DEUTSCHES HOUSE
Named in honour of the German Duke who founded Gibb’s Farm in the early 1900s, Deutsches House is a comfortable family retreat for up to 4 adults, or 2 adults and 4 children. The house features an en-suite master bedroom with a king-size bed and a second en-suite bedroom with two queen-size beds.

Both en-suites offer an indoor shower and bath as well as an outdoor shower. Relax in the comfort of the spacious living room beside a roaring fireplace with a cup of freshly roasted coffee, or enjoy the chatter of birds from the large, private veranda.

A SENSE OF ADVENTURE
As you unwind and relax amidst the peace and tranquillity of Gibb’s Farm, you may wonder what lies beyond our uninterrupted panoramic views. To allow you to fully experience the rhythms and beauty of the farm, community and nature, Gibb’s Farm offers a variety of activities, adventures and opportunities to explore on and around the farm.

Gibb’s Farm is private property and priority of activities and services are given to our in-house guests. We are restricted in capacity, especially whilst adhering to Covid safe procedures. Guests may visit Gibb’s Farm for lunch or dinner with a prior confirmed reservation. No pets are allowed at Gibb’s Farm.

When staying at our farm, be sure to book an extra day to enjoy all of the activities available throughout our gardens, farmyard, bordering forests and the nearby village of Tloma. Gibb’s Farm is a cashless operation. Guests are asked to charge any extras to their room during their stay and then settle accounts with a credit card or direct deposit on their last day.

A SENSE OF ENVIRONMENT 
As a model for sustainable and environmentally respectful practices, we work to continue the legacy of our founders Margaret and Jim Gibb through projects including solar energy, community upliftment and organic farming.

Operation of the entire organic farm—consisting of 30 acres of coffee, 10 acres of vegetables and fruit, 5 acres of flowers and herbs and a working dairy and pig farm—is based upon sustainable farming methods.

Everything is grown organically using only natural fertilizer and compost from the farm. Each thing we do is a step towards creating a sanctuary for the senses, where our guests, our team and our animals feel nourished and content.

DINING
Healthy, farm cuisine prepared fresh daily by attentive, gracious hands is the essence of our food philosophy. Organic farm-to-table dining inspires the senses and ignites the soul to restore and replenish your well-being.

All of our fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs are freshly picked from our organic gardens and meat is sourced from local, sustainably-raised farms. Fresh milk, cream and baked delicacies create balance for nutritious and sumptuous breakfast, lunch and dinner menus.

Start your day with organic Arabica coffee, grown and roasted right on the farm and a hearty farm breakfast. Lunch time sees a smorgasbord of organic dishes and outside guests are welcome to join us.

Enjoy afternoon tea in the garden with a delicious assortment of coffees, teas, fresh cream and scones. In the evening, share stories over candle-lit dinners featuring English and Tanzanian-influenced cuisine.

RISE & SHINE, BAKING TIME
Join us for our early morning bread making ritual. What could be more fun than baking bread, and of course sampling it hot from the oven?

COFFEE & TEA
We have 20 acres of Arabica coffee planted throughout the farm and each morning, the aromas of freshly roasting coffee fill the air. Savour a cuppa in the terraced gardens, on your private cottage terrace or beside the fire … And don’t forget to take some home with you for later.

Tanzania is equally well known for its incredible teas. Enjoy a pot in the afternoon sun with a selection of biscuits, a slice or two of freshly baked cake or a fruit bun accompanied by home-made jams and butter.

COFFEE ROASTING
Experience traditional coffee cultivation and roasting, just as it has been done for generations. Enjoy the aroma and taste of a cup of wonderful organic, fresh-roasted Arabica coffee each day at the main lodge.

COFFEE HARVESTING
Join us as we harvest the coffee berries the traditional way. The harvest is seasonal and starts from late June until November.

DRINKS
Gibb’s Farm offers a premier drinks list. From impressive wine, whiskey, gin, rum selection and craft beer on tap. Our wine selection boasts South African wines, personally chosen for our guests. Or sip on a Gin & Tonic, the quintessential safari drink of Africa, our curated selection features over 50 different gins from all around the world from which to choose.

WELLNESS
As you unwind and relax amidst the peace and tranquillity of Gibb’s Farm, you may wonder what lies beyond our uninterrupted panoramic views. To allow you to fully experience the rhythms and beauty of the farm, community and nature, Gibb’s Farm offers a variety of activities, adventures and opportunities to explore on and around the farm.

Gibb’s Farm is private property and priority of activities and services are given to our in-house guests. We are restricted in capacity, especially whilst adhering to Covid safe procedures. Guests may visit Gibb’s Farm for lunch or dinner with a prior confirmed reservation. No pets are allowed at Gibb’s Farm.

There is perhaps nothing grander than the peace of nature to restore one’s equilibrium. Gibb’s Farm takes a holistic approach to well-being as a sanctuary for the senses.

Unwind with a choice of revitalising wellness treatments refresh the body and mind in between days on safari, while the tranquil surroundings allow the mind to be still and reflect uninterrupted. Enquire upon making a reservation for the latest treatment menu and prices.

POOL & TERRACE
Take a refreshing dip or relax poolside with a gin & tonic while soaking up the afternoon sun. Our lap-pool and pool terrace overlook the picturesque coffee fields and Great Rift Valley.

BOUTIQUE
Bring home the feelings awakened during yourtime here. The Zawadi Boutique offers a wonderful selection of unique East African books, artwork, carvings, textiles, decorative art, exotic jewellery and Gibb’s Farm’s special Arabica coffee.

FAMILY TRAVEL
The perfect retreat for families of all shapes and sizes, Gibb’s Farm offers two family houses or the choice to combine garden cottages for extended family stays. Bustani House and Deutsches House each have 2 ensuite bedrooms, a living area, indoor and outdoor showers, and terrace to enjoy, sleeping up to 4 adults or 2 adults and 4 children.

Our cottages can be used in combination for family stays and each cottage is ensuite with a living area and terrace. Twin cottages sleep up to 2 adults and 3 children, double cottages sleep up to 2 adults and 1 child.

There is a host of things to do at Gibb’s Farm for the whole family to enjoy. From milking cows to collecting eggs, jumping in the pool, painting with the resident artist or exploring the coffee fields.

The perfect stop in between safari camps, parents – take some time to relax while our farm naturally entertains the younger generations with complete freedom to explore 32 acres of safely guarded, sprawling land.

With prior notice, we can even arrange to watch the kids for you (enquire for childminding rates). Please note, our pool does not have a cover and there is no lifeguard on duty.

Our chefs create nutritious and delicious meals which will not only appeal to your children’s taste buds but give them the energy to continue to explore and have fun during their time here.

We offer a range of meals from which to choose. A highlight for the children is certainly afternoon tea where a cascade of muffins, pastries and cake takes pride of place in our restaurant.

Please let us know if you or your children have any dietary requirements. Guests travelling with children 6 years and under are requested to dine before 7.00 pm. Baby sitting and room service available on request.

BIRD WATCHING
A guided early morning walk through the gardens and around the plantation to observe the early risers. Take a census and understand behaviour.

GIANT CHESS
Gather your friends and family around for a game of ‘giant’ garden chess.

CARPENTRY, BUILD A DESK
Contribute to new school furniture, distributed through the Karutu Education Fund. At schools in the area, three to four children typically share one desk, so new furniture is always appreciated.

CONSERVATION AREA WALKS
We offer two walks directly from the farm into the Ngorongoro Conservation Area: Elephant Caves & Waterfall Walk (2 hours) and the Farm to Crater Rim Walk (6-7 hours). Explore the forest where you may encounter buffalo, bushbuck, abundant birdlife and unique plants.

NGORONGORO CRATER
Located 56 km, or a two-hour drive, from our front gate, explore this bucket-list safari destination on a full-day excursion. There is an abundance of plant, bird and wildlife for the opportunity to experience this natural marvel first-hand. Uncover just why the Ngorongoro Crater is considered to be among the world’s great wonders.

The Crater boasts approximately 25 000 large animals and has one of the densest populations of lions anywhere in Tanzania. You will be collected from the farm early in the morning in closed safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for 360° views.

For the truly adventurous, explore the Conservation Area with a two-hour hike to the Elephant Caves. Discover towering waterfalls and the incredible “elephant caves”, created by elephants digging through dense rock with their tusks to ingest the vitamin-rich soil.

LAKE MANYARA & LAKE EYASI 
Explore not one, but two beautiful lakes and their wildlife-rich national parks close to Gibb’s Farm. Well known for flocks of thousands of flamingos that feed along the edge of the lake in the wet season, Lake Manyara is located just a short 45 min drive from our farm.

The close proximity of this renowned wildlife region means you can enjoy a full-day or half-day safari to this bird haven. Did we mention that there are more than 350 bird species have been observed on the lake?

Slightly further afield, and absolutely worth the drive, Lake Eyasi is 1.5 hours away from our gates. A culture-rich experience, spend time with the Hadzabe tribe learning about their history and traditional ways of living. Spend the day exploring the Tanzanian wilderness in search of elephants. Be on the lookout for African spoonbill, flamingoes, great white pelicans and more.

FULL DAY SAFARI (NGORONGORO CRATER | LAKE MANYARA | LAKE EYASI)
Head out on an East African safari in the nearby national parks: Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and Lake Eyasi. Lake Eyasi also offers cultural experiences with the Hadzabe tribe (don’t forget to taste the local brew).

HALF DAY SAFARI (LAKE MANYARA)
This nearby safari paradise offers dense bush, open plains, a vast lake, and natural watering holes – all a safe haven for a rich array of wildlife. A short 45-minute drive from Gibb’s Farm makes this half-day safari in Tanzania ideal for guests who still want to enjoy time on the farm.

ELEPHANT CAVES WALK (NGORONGORO CONSERVATION AREA)
Leave on-foot directly from your cottage on this two-hour walking safari through the forested slopes of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Discover towering waterfalls and the incredible “elephant caves”, created by elephants digging through dense rock with their tusks to ingest the vitamin-rich soil.

ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE
Through the Gibb’s Farm artists-in-residence program, East African artists stay at the farm and create commissioned artwork. Meet some of East Africa’s most talented artists, learn about their influences and inspiration and watch them create their artwork (available for purchase).

TLOMA VILLAGE
Spend time in Tloma, a nearby village. Choose from a school visit, cycling tour or the opportunity to meet a local family and learn about Iraqw culture and traditional ways of life. Explore the markets, businesses and learn about the rural life.

HELPING HANDS SAFARI
Get to know our people while on safari by lending a helping hand in the communities that support your travel experience. SCHOOL DESK PROJECT – US$70: At schools in the area, three to four children typically share one desk, so new furniture is always appreciated.

CULTURAL SAFARIS
While on a safari to Lake Eyasi, spend time with the Hadzabe Tribe and learn the art living in the wild and using the land to support a sustainable way of life. Discover how to hunt with a bow and arrow, learn how to make a fire from seemingly nothing and how to read the landscape. Feel connected to the tapestry of cultures in Tanzania with the rich stories of the Masaai.

Website: www.gibbsfarm.com

Rooms: 17

Price: from 954 EUR per night