Top Hotels in Zanzibar Archipelago Villas
Top Things to do in Zanzibar Archipelago
10 Top-Rated Villas in Zanzibar Archipelago
A group of islands and islets some 25 miles off the Tanzanian coast, the Zanzibar Archipelago is headlined by Unguja (often referred to simply as Zanzibar) and Pemba. Once a separate nation, Zanzibar has a long history of trade with the Arab world, dating back to at least the 11th century. The capital, Stone Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has many interesting historic attractions. Zanzibar's bright white beaches and nearby coral reefs make it very popular with the sun and sea set.
Things to do in Zanzibar Archipelago
1. Seasons Lodge Zanzibar
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 282 reviews
Book your Pongwe Hotels, Pongwe Zanzibar, Stone Town Zanzibar and Stone Town Zanzibar Hotel and enjoy a luxury holiday at affordable prices.
Charming Lodge on the Sea
Reviewed By ajpearse12Well. Seasons Lodge is an absolutely charming little resort/lodge on the east coast of Zanzibar. It has a lush tropical look and a luxurious feel whilst still maintaining a modest vibe. It's a truly special place. The lodges each have a little private garden right over the beach/sea. All the outside areas are wonderfully planted and impeccably maintained by the groundskeepers. You see them out and about weeding or sweeping every day. Give them a big smile and a "Jambo Jambo" or "Mambo vipi"! They'll give you a massive smile in return. It's quite remote other than a few other local resorts that all have bars/restaurants you could walk to along the beach. For the main islands attractions (spice tours, stone town, Jozani forest etc) expect a drive of around an hour by taxi or hire car. It's such a nice place to spend time that it's a genuine dilemma whether to hang out there or go see the sights. We settled on a balance of the two but we were there for 14 days. If we were only staying 4-5 days or so we probably wouldn't have wanted to leave much. In hindsight we could have stayed somewhere less nice whilst we were seeing the rest of the island. The lodge is right on the beach and the beach is stunning. When the tides are big all the water disappears at low and you can walk out along the rock pools. The beach feels private but isn't so you will get the odd tout trying to sell you tours or souvenirs but they are all friendly and none too pushy. Wear water shoes if you're walking out as there are some spikey urchins around. Pack earplugs. If it's at all wavey at high tide the nice ocean sounds can be a touch loud so I needed plugs to sleep. The small pool is lovely and was never busy when we were there. The bar/restaurant area was a great place to hang out with a cold beer or a delicious cocktail whilst taking in the swaying palm trees. The rooms have a totally luxurious feel but aren't 5 star so dont expect perfection. We had a few minor maintenance issues but the staff are always quick to fix it (door handle fell off, flush broken etc) very minor things but don't expect western 5* type of standard because this is Zanzibar! Bear in mind the housekeepers come around twice a day (even if the sign says do not disturb). I assume they'd come back later if you asked but they're keen to sort the mosquito nets for you before dusk so we didn't mind this. Currently there is only one kayak available and if you take the bikes out be aware that they are "local" style and slightly ropey! I took one 14km round trip to the local village with an ATM and it did fine. The manager was away when we stayed so John took the reigns and did an incredible job taking care of us and made us feel like personal friends straight away. He handled anything that went wrong and arranged plenty of trips and taxis for us. Lovely guy and would make a great manager if he wanted one day. If you want an evening of incredible spoiling then book the private seafood feast and you won't regret it. Obsurd amount of incredible seafood and sides all privately served alongside sparkling white wine. All the staff are super friendly and get genuine enjoyment from helping you out. Very smiley. They love it if you try to talk to them in Swahili (or they found it amusing..) The food was all brilliant. The chef is a sweetheart. Chat to him and say how nice his food is if you get a chance. Some reviews sais the breakfasts weren't ideal but I loved them! Every day was a big buffet with a mix of continental and English. Always fresh fruit, juice, tea and coffee. Then spiced pancakes, eggs, sausages and usually other variety of sweet or savoury pastries. I loved it! The evening meals were always delicious and usually 4-5 different options which varied every night. I'd recommend the beef stir fry and any of the seafood meals particularly. Id advise taking plenty of cash if you're doing daytrips. There's a culture of tipping and not that many cash points lots of which charge you for withdrawals. Worth having mostly USD and then some TSH for tips/stalls. The staff can sort the trips and taxis for you. We did the main ones. Stone town tour, spice tour, prison island, Memba snorkeling, Jozani forest. All were well worth it. We used Hassan whenever we needed a taxi/ local guide to sort things for us. He used to work at Seasons Lodge and has fantastic English and is a great guy. He'll take good care you you. +255 777 505 052. The guide we used for Stone Town and Prison island was Munta. He's a lovely friendly young guy who also has impecible English and was very laid-back. Not at all pushy and genuinely lovely. ±255654331206. We hired a car for a couple of days to see some of the beaches to the south of the island. We went with Kibabu cars on recommendation and they were fantastic. Great communication on whatsapp and very punctual. (Important as we were returning the car to the airport so didn't want them to be late) I think a lot of hire companies are concerning relaxed with times. Kibabu were also very reasonable. Around 30usd per day for a rav4 the 15 to deliver car and 10 for a permit. If you hire a car expect to be stopped at the police checkpoints but just show your local permit and normal driving licence and they are friendly. Wholeheartedly recommend Seasons Lodge to anyone but would have had an even better time if I had known a few of the above tips.
2. Kena Beach Hotel
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 471 reviews
Kena Beach Hotel is the ultimate barefoot paradise; sitting on the east coastof the laid-back tropical island of Zanzibarin East Africa. Here you will find the answers you have always been looking for. Whether you are in need of reconnecting with your significant other and children on a fun-filled Zanzibar Family Holiday or simply resting your head against the heartbeat of your new lover, Kena Beach Hotel can offer you everything and more!
Wonderful beach-front hotel!
Reviewed By Timo20We loved out stay at Kena Beach Hotel: the hotel is beautiful, well appointed, and very comfortable. The staff is very friendly and helpful. The rooms are bright and airy, spacious, and each have a private outdoor seating area. We had half-board (breakfast + dinner), but ended up eating almost all of our lunches there because the price was reasonable, food delicious, and the menu always changing. We took advantage of the free bikes (adult + kid sizes) to bike on the beach, the reef walk at low tide, and playing in the waves at high tide.
3. Breeze Residence Apartments
Overall Ratings
5 based on 117 reviews
Fully furnished apartments with daily cleaning service and breakfast, located in Zanzibar, in Kiwengwa in the area called Cairo. Suitable for couples, families, groups. All apartments in the residence are pool front. Available to guests Fitness Area, private beach and equipped with sunbeds (150 meters from the residence) An ideal oasis for your African holidays, a perfect mix of hotel comforts and home privacy.
Perfect holiday
Reviewed By Rianne ZI have a great time with my son in an amazing styled appartement. The service of the manager was excellent (Solomon), the other people in the residence lovely and the masai security friendly and helpfull. Try out the italian restaurant in la Pili. I absolutely recommend this place!! many thanks Rianne
4. Qambani Luxury Resort
Overall Ratings
5 based on 98 reviews
Qambani is set on the tip of a secluded peninsula, with a seasonal beach, on Zanzibar’s eastern shores. For a tropical island, Zanzibar is very accessible, and from Europe, you wont have to deal with jet-lag, as there’s only 2/3 hours time difference . A direct eight-hour night flight delivers you direct from Europe to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Then there’s a 15-minute flight to Zanzibar. From the airport, the drive to Qambani is an hour and a half, across the island. Qambani’s generous proportions provide seven bedroom villas, living spaces, two pools and lush tropical garden, a promise of complete relaxation and indulgence. A fusion of ancient Swahili crafts – perfected in the palaces of the sultans along the East African shores – and modern coastal design, it gives shady sanctuary, while turning the inside out, so every space takes great gulps of the sea and the balmy tropical air.
Simply stunning! A must stay…
Reviewed By Meriem MA wonderful secluded hotel that used to be a home to a rich European family, comprised of 8 individual spacious villas and tasteful decorated with antique and modern pieces of both African flair and European touches. It is a true gem and the service is customized to your every need at the 5 star standard that you would expect! They take care of everything and submit your menus to you ahead of time to make sure it fits your dietary restrictions and preferences and that you are eating to your liking - all served by a professional chef and served in an idyllic setting. The staff and the hotel concept is very discreet, you have their contact and you communicate via messages, Priscilla was literally at my finger tips. Maite was very welcoming and managed to organize everything for me so my stay is as smooth as possible and it was!
5. Villa Serenity
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 56 reviews
A luxury beachfront resort located in Paje in eastern Zanzibar. Each four-bedroom private villa fuses striking North African architecture with traditional Zanzibari design sensibilities, promising the utmost in comfort, privacy and comfort. The two-story villas each showcase an exotic blend of Moorish and Maghrebi-Andalusian-style features, from stunning cusped arches, private pool on each villa.
Serene Place
Reviewed By Kelvin KJust like the name the property is calm, well maintained and very private with loving and professional staff we were attended mostly by Baraka. Mr. Lawrence the GM, we consider him to be the best host as he made our stay safe and peaceful as he help us throughout the stay. He made us calm as he constantly checked on us before saying good night. A sure place to visit again with family.
6. Matemwe Retreat, Asilia Africa
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 231 reviews
The four elegant villas that make up the Retreat are set high in the palm trees with uninterrupted Indian Ocean views. With its secluded location and dedicated private butler, the Retreat is considered one of the most exclusive choices of accommodation on Zanzibar Island. If you are looking for pure escapism, these villas – which combine the spirit of Zanzibar with the highest standards of comfort – were designed for you
Wonderful, thank you
Reviewed By alisonjane_11What a fabulous place to relax and do very little if you choose to. After touring and safari for 9 nights, we were ready to chill and what a wonderful place to do that. We did have plans to go around the island and visit places, however, we realised we didn't want more time in a car and less time in our beautiful villa. The space and views are just lovely. As our the grounds of the lodge which you walk through to the beach. Having a butler taking care of you is very special, so we felt very priviliged. Razel the hotel manager was brilliant checking in on us and making sure we were being well looked after. We stayed 6 nights and apart from walks along the beach and some activities we did very little but relax and enjoy. We enjoyed our reef walk and snorkle trip with Ibrahim, he pointed out fish we would never have seen. Swimming in the sea is limited to high tide (every 12 hours) but we swam in the sea at least once every day. This seems to be the case in most places in Zanzibar. The sand was like powder, so soft and the sea so blue, beautiful. If swimming in the sea is important to you, check the tide schedule and water heights, higher near the full moon. We had been concerned 6 nights would be too much as we are active people, but no, we could have stayed longer and we were sad to leave. Well done Razel your staff are a credit to you, we are already wondering when we can come back.
7. Baridi Villa
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 28 reviews
Located in Kiwengwa in the Zanzibar region, Baridi villa features accommodation with free WiFi. There is also a kitchen in some of the units equipped with a microwave and fridge. Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at the villa. Kichwele Forest Reserve is 24 km from Baridi villa. Couples particularly like the location
Wonderful place
Reviewed By K9823ZXmicha_wVery nice and well-equipped rooms with air conditioning. Very close to the beach in Kiwengwa. Delicious breakfast included in the price of the stay, and most importantly a very quiet place, ideal if you are looking for peace. The host and ladies taking care of the villa are very nice and always helpful. Mr. Ally will always arrange everything, car, trip. I would highly recommend
8. Villa Huruma
Overall Ratings
5 based on 36 reviews
Villa Huruma, Is At 1 Minute Walking From The White, Sandy Beach Of Paje, Famous Spot In Zanzibar For Kitesurf And Nightlife But Also Suitable For A Relaxing Holiday. With Its 6 Independent Double En-suite Rooms, The Equipped Beach And The Tropical Garden, Is Perfect For Couples, Families Or Groups Of Friends, For An Unforgettable Experience! The Infinity Pool Is Ideal To Swim Or Just To Relax! The Strategic Position Places The Villa At Walking Distance From Restaurants And Bars, Shops, Supermarkets, Local Markets. Being At The Border Of The Village Of Paje, Here You Can Feel And Live The Zanzibarian Culture And The Daily Life Moments Of The Local People: The Farmer Coming Back From The Fields On His Old Bicycle, The Fisherman Fixing His Nets After A Long Day In The Ocean, The Children Playing Free Around… Without Forgetting That, If Every Travel Leaves Its Own Mark, Africa Will Leave You One Indelible.
Amazing stay in Paje
Reviewed By mynameismartin91Our stay in Villa Huruma was beyond our expectations. Breakfast was delicious and variable. The room size was enough and it was very cozy and cleaned every day. We felt like at home. There is also a very nice pool you can use all the time surrounded by a well maintained and nice garden. The location is great as it is close to the beach and many restaurants and shops. We want to mention Lucy who has made our stay special and we have felt welcomed all the time. She helped us with everything and answered all the questions we had. Also Sauma was very kind and friendly as the rest of the staff. We can only recommend Villa Huruma and if possible, we would come definitely back!
9. Kijani Beach Villas
Overall Ratings
5 based on 11 reviews
A piece of heaven on earth!
Reviewed By C7222SDrsAbsolutely wonderful place to stay at! We stayed with two couples in one house. The beds are amazing (big and comfy!) and the shower is great too. The view over the ocean from your own balcony is breathtaking, the little private pool makes it even more perfect. On the resort there are 4 villa's and a big restaurant. The food is delicious and the staff amazingly friendly. The pool is big and has enough space for little kids but for grown ups as well and there are plenty of beds around the pool and on the area to relax in the shade, while watching the people walk by on the beach and the tides coming in and out. You're directly on the beach, so you can make nice beach walks too. Last thing to mention: the owners were very friendly and checked in on us a lot. They strife to be eco-friendly wherever possible, which is something other resorts can still learn from. Can't wait to return to this beautiful place!
10. Kigwedeni Villas
Overall Ratings
4 based on 70 reviews
Kigwedeni Villas is an excellent choice for travelers visiting Nungwi, offering a family-friendly environment alongside many helpful amenities designed to enhance your stay. Rooms at Kigwedeni Villas offer a flat screen TV, a refrigerator, and air conditioning providing exceptional comfort and convenience, and guests can go online with free wifi. Room service is one of the conveniences offered at this bed and breakfast. Free breakfast will also help to make your stay even more special. If you are driving to Kigwedeni Villas, free parking is available. If you like Asian restaurants, Kigwedeni Villas is conveniently located near Kivulini Restaurant. Enjoy your stay in Nungwi!
Comfortable stay in a good location
Reviewed By Paulina_TravelerPROS: - close to the beach - close to the Maasai markets (that can be advantage or disadvantage ;)) - very good and full breakfast - good lunches and dinners to order - beer or water available to order at late time - beautiful villas and their surrounding - comfortable bed, spacious room, hot water in the shower with good water stream - every day cleaning service, very clean - friendly personnel - check out possible at later time (12) CONS: - expensive laundry service (almost two times more expensive than in Arusha hotel) PS.: Sorry, on my Booking com review the wrong photo of the breakfast has been uploaded and I don't know how did it happen XD
