Description
Matemwe Bungalows has a stunning setting, on low coral cliffs at the end of one the best beaches in Zanzibar. This laid-back, friendly lodge has a relaxed, unpretentious feel and comprises 12 thatched bungalow suites all overlooking the Indian Ocean. Outsized bathtubs, private verandahs (all with a hammock) and warm sea breezes add to the chilled out atmosphere.
Seafood is, understandably, a speciality, a delicate mix of African and European flavours, and the new Sail Bar is an excellent place to round off the day with a cocktail under the stars. The lodge is just a few minutes by boat from the superb diving and snorkelling reefs at Mnemba Atoll and is a perfect place to unwind.
The north east part of Zanzibar Island is known as Matemwe. This area is famous for its fine white sand beaches, the contrasting colours of the Indian Ocean and the beauty of the coral reef around the Mnemba Island. Matemwe borders a small fishing village where local fisherman set out on a daily basis in their traditional dhows passing close to Matemwe.
The stretch of perfect beach alongside the lodge is shared only with the fishing village, which is situated on the far side of the soft sand. There are not many beaches in Zanzibar still featuring only one resort; care has been given to ensure privacy and exclusivity through out the resort.
Matemwe is just 60 minutes drive from Stone Town, allowing for easy day trips and excursions to the many different and varied interesting places on offer in Zanzibar.
Guide price
£2,265 Per person
£2,265 Guide price is per person based on two sharing in a suite for 7 nights on a full board basis, and includes flights, air taxes and transfers.
Accommodation
The lodge consists of 12 beautiful bungalows, built from local materials and surrounded by lush garden. Each suite has a private veranda with a hammock and couch, overlooking the Indian Ocean. The bathroom is large and has a deep bathtub and walk-in shower. All rooms are equipped with a large mosquito net.
Childcare
Although there are not specific childcare facilities, children are most welcome at Matemwe Bungalows where food and meal times can easily be tailored to suit the younger guests. Babysitting can arranged for those that require it.
Facilities
Matemwe has a multi-level swimming pool surrounded with lounge chairs overlooking the ocean. Freshly mixed cocktails are served at the poolside bar.
Activities
Local snorkeling and diving sites are suitable for all levels of experience, from beginners to experienced divers. Guests can snorkel straight from the beach or during reef walks and kayaks are available to explore the crystal clear sea.
From Matemwe, day-trips can be arranged to the historic centre of Stone Town, Jozani Forest or Prison Island, or a Spice Tour to learn about the great variety of spices that the island is famous for.
When to travel
Situated only 6° south of the equator, Zanzibar enjoys ideal holiday weather. Temperatures average between 24°C and 27°C throughout the year with 7-9 hours of sunshine per day.
There are 2 rainy seasons: Acute, brief showers, lasting about an hour in the morning occur for a couple of weeks during November. The rains last slightly longer in April and May, but even then it does not rain every day. These rains replenish the Island and are often referred to as the “Green Season”.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Best time to visit
Good time to visit
Average time to visit
Not applicable
Location and directions
Matemwe, East Coast Zanzibar, Tanzania
Matemwe lies perched on a coral rock, surrounded by beaches and right opposite the Mnemba Atoll, which offers spectacular diving and snorkelling. The north east part of Zanzibar Island is known as Matemwe, just a 60 minutes drive from Stone Town.
How to get there
The easiest and most direct way to reach Zanzibar is to fly via Dar es Salaam, on Tanzania's coast (9.5hr international flight). The connecting flight from Dar es Salaam to Stone Town Airport on Zanzibar take 20 minutes. Matemwe is an hours drive from Stone Town.
