Matemwe Bungalows; Luxury Beach Lodge in Zanzibar, Tanzania

Matemwe Bungalows

This is an especially remote and scenic choice, tucked beyond a sandy palm fringed local fishing village on a windswept beach on the East Coast.

Matemwe Bungalows – The Facts

Matemwe Bungalows – The Detail

Consisting of 14 thatched and whitewashed bungalows Matemwe Bungalows extends along a grassy stretch over a private, pale sandy beach, linked by flower-covered walkways to an open restaurant. The restaurant is highly recommended as among the best on the island, specialising in seafood and an original and diverse menu, and has views over the Indian Ocean and a southerly second beach where children play and fishermen draw in and out with the tides. (Tides are extreme all along this coastline.)

Rooms retain a rustic atmosphere but recent renovations under the nurture of its original Swedish management have enhanced their hand-crafted elegance, with sprung mattress beds now built onto a raised plinth to ensure lazy ocean views. All room self contained and include wonderfully coloured Persian baths all using solar power for electricity and hot water, and each has their own hammock on the veranda.

Activities include sailing in traditional nglawa outriggers, snorkelling, diving and big-game fishing, as well as reef-walks across the reef in front of the bungalows, bicycle-hire and day trips with picnics.

Matemwe Bungalows – Our view

A great small lodge with fantastic rooms and great views out to Mnemba Island. The only slight issue is the beach which although good is not quite as good as others on the island. However we love Matemwe for offering a great escape from the bustle and hustle that surrounds much of Zanzibars East Coast. One of our top three accommodations on Zanzibar.