27 December 2023
Feeling the need for a proper break from daily life? A beautiful, laid-back place like Zanzibar makes an excellent destination, whether you travel alone or with your family. The island offers facilities and activities to suit most people, whether you’d rather spend your days sightseeing or stretched out beside the pool.
Perhaps your flight is almost booked and everything looks sorted, but where will you stay once you arrive in Zanzibar? How do you find a hotel that combines luxury with many of the comforts of home?
In this article we’re looking at the finest luxury hotels in Zanzibar, spread across several parts of the island, that will make your escape even more comfortable and restorative. Keep reading to turn your next holiday into one you will not forget.
The 5 Best Hotels In Zanzibar
1. Melia Zanzibar
First up is a resort on the northeast coast of Zanzibar, where long stretches of pearl-white sand look out over the Indian Ocean.
The interiors are light and airy, so wherever you choose to sit you are surrounded by modern fittings of five-star class and service. The staff are known for being welcoming, energetic and proud of their work, whether they are behind the bar or showing guests around.
Make the most of this hotel: there is a large gym, a bar and free internet, and the whole place is ringed by a natural coral reef. A few minutes further north you will also find restaurants, local shops, dive centres and tour operators. Melia Zanzibar sets a remarkable benchmark for luxury hotels across Tanzania!
2. Boutique Hotel Matlai
If what you want is somewhere to switch off and relax completely, this hotel is ideal! Boutique Hotel Matlai looks out over Pingwe beach, which stays fairly quiet at low tide, and nearby cafés serve anything from tasty grilled snacks to a full breakfast.
Closer to the hotel itself you will find a large infinity pool framed by tall palm trees, bicycles to borrow free of charge and several dining and barbecue options.
Each of them serves freshly prepared dishes, ranging from a simple mango soup to more indulgent choices such as rock lobster, which can be prepared on request.
There is also a beach volleyball pitch and a boules court, so when you return from an excursion there is always something to suit your mood. You can equally settle back on the terrace or head to the local spa, which is sure to lift your spirits.
3. Royal Zanzibar Beach Resort
This resort sits at the very northern tip of the island. Here you can expect an all-inclusive package with 36 restaurants less than a mile away, serving everything from sushi and noodles to flavourful Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cooking.
When you have had your fill here, head over to Nungwi Beach for something different. This picturesque spot is the starting point for wonderful boat trips to the nearby islands of Tumbatu and Mnemba.
While you’re in the area, visit the best snorkelling spots, where you can swim beside playful dolphins and possibly come across stingrays, puffer fish and stone fish. It is a genuine hidden gem waiting to be found.
4. Fun Beach Resort
This hotel lies a few minutes from Jambiani, with the Kuza and Swahili caves close at hand and Muyuni forest a short way inland.
The hotel itself has spotless rooms with a rustic charm. The soothing yet bold colours really make you feel you have escaped to paradise. Once you have taken it all in, try a zingy cocktail, the Swahili fish curry or one of the many pasta dishes.
On top of that there is table tennis, table football and even a library for when you feel curious about the surrounding area. And finally there are the 3 pools overlooking the beach on the southeast coast, with other facilities just a short stroll away.
5. Moja Tuu Luxury Villas & Nature Retreat
On the northeast coast of Zanzibar, at Kwangwa to be exact, this heavenly resort sits inside a nature reserve. If luxury, nature and relaxation are what you are after, this is where you should be.
The property is fairly large and offers a mix of rooms and private villas, all fitted with locally handmade furniture and decorated in Zanzibar style. To explore the lush forest and lovely scenery close by, simply hire a bike and get your (green) heart beating a little faster.
Besides bars, restaurants and a kids’ club there is a gorgeous pool only steps from the Indian Ocean. This lodge takes idyllic relaxation to another level.
Where is the best place to stay in Zanzibar?
If you like a little variety, the east and northeast of the island are a great choice. Here you’ll find a wide range of the best luxury hotels in Zanzibar, lovely beaches and the chance to visit local villages.
Hotels in this part of the island are well spread out, so crowding won’t be a problem. While you’re here, you can’t skip the charming fishing village of Pwani Mchangani, which lets you connect more deeply with the beauty of the island. It’s the perfect balance of relaxation and cultural discovery.
Conclusion
So you’re all set to leave for the ultimate getaway. Before you go, though, make sure you pack properly for your holiday: daywear and evening wear, a swimsuit, sunscreen and a decent pair of walking shoes.
Many of Zanzibar’s wonders simply have to be seen in person, so expect your trip to include plenty of walking, boat trips and even car journeys. Some of these can take a while, so a flexible attitude helps.
Allow us to make your Zanzibar adventure as good as it can possibly be: get in touch today and let’s plan the holiday of a lifetime together!
