andBeyond Mnemba Island Zanzibar

The ingredients of Mnemba Island Zanzibar are as close to “perfect” as you can get: the temperature of the sea, the soft, white sand, even the size of the island. It is recognized as one of the most romantic islands in the world—and the boutique hotel occupying it as one of the most exclusive in Tanzania.

Covered with tropical palm trees growing straight from the powdery sand, the small island is easily circumvented in 10 minutes. It is large enough to ensure maximum privacy in villas yet everything is within walking distance.

Rustic bungalows

The hotel consists of only ten bungalows, or bandas, topped with thatched roofs and constructed using local, traditional methods.

The interiors are comfortable, rustic and elegant: designed using traditional mats, hand-woven from palm leaves, light cotton fabrics and large pillows. Exquisite woodcarving—done by the best craftsmen in Zanzibar—adorns the beds’ headboards.

In the villas of such rustic character, it is almost surprising to have WiFi.

One with nature

This paradise of palm trees and white sand, surrounded by coral reefs and warm waters of the Indian Ocean lies within a marine reserve.

Coral reefs are home to hundreds of species of fish and three species of dolphins live in the waters around Mnemba. Whale sharks can be spotted too, and from July to September humpback whales visit these waters. Mnemba beaches are a nesting spot for the endangered green sea turtles, the island is also a breeding ground of many local and migratory birds.

As if this wasn’t enough for the picture-perfect idyll: roaming free amongst the palms are tiny deer. Could there be anything more romantic?

Marine life and untouched coral reefs make the waters around the island great for diving and snorkeling—and the water sports, diving, and fishing are included in the hotel rate.

Celebrities looking for this kind of idyllic island charm are frequent quests of the Mnemba Island Zanzibar — amongst the former guests were Naomi Campbell, Tom Cruise, and Bill Gates.

in our opinion

Mnemba Island Zanzibar is a small, authentic boutique resort is full of rustic character. It's one of the most romantic, idyllic places—perhaps in the whole of East Africa.

What we love

• Relaxed atmosphere and friendly hospitality of the staff
• Exclusivity at its best
• The best thing about the hotel is the untouched nature surrounding it: it’s all about white sand, turquoise waters, and nature
• Diving and snorkeling can be enjoyed directly from the beach
• All meals and drinks are included in the room rate

What you should know

• There is no TV and other unnecessary elements of modern life (the internet being the only exception) but this is intentional: that is the nature of Mnemba
• Consequently, the villas do not have refrigerators. And, there is no way to call the room service, so guests must go to the hotel bar to order drinks. Plan what you want and when
• Guests who are familiar—and perhaps a little bit bored—with the classic luxury will recognize the value of Mnemba experience. Others may have difficulty in justifying the relatively high cost of stay
• Mnemba Island Lodge is closed annually from 08 April to 20 May