Description
Mnemba Island forms part of an exquisite atoll, which has been declared a marine conservation area. Mnemba Island Lodge is on a private island off the coast of Zanzibar. 10 bandas, with spacious outdoor verandas, are tucked away in a very private and secluded stretch of shade within the tropical beach. Pristine sandy white beaches fringe this exclusively romantic piece of heaven, forming a halo around Mnemba Island. These rustic and simple, yet luxurious bandas ensure absolute privacy.
The bandas are hand woven from traditional Zanzibari palm fronds, all with their own private verandah which is perfect for escaping the midday heat and enjoying an afternoon siesta. The emphasis is on total relaxation in natural surroundings, with the fully stocked bar on the beach and alfresco dining adding to the laid-back atmosphere.
Food at Mnemba is out of this world, with delicious fresh seafood and local Zanzibari and Italian specialities served daily. Days are spent swimming in the crystal clear waters and strolling on the pristine beach that circles the island. For the active, the Mnemba Atol and the surrounding waters offer some of the best scuba diving and fishing to be found in Africa. A spectacular array of activities allows you the best possible opportunity to enjoy the magnificent protected coral reefs that Mnemba Island offers. Giant turtles, ghost crabs and incredible tropical fish are some of the spectacular underwater marvels and delights available for viewing.
Accommodation
The Lodge consists of 10 Zanzibari bandas, with direct access to the beach. Each banda is built of indigenous materials, mostly woven and thatched with palm leaves. The bandas have en-suite bathrooms with a shower, double-basins, separate w.c., fresh water (obtained from a desalination plant), ceiling fans, personal bar and a spacious outdoor veranda. Each banda also has a private beach sala with traditional Zanzibari sunbeds.
| Double Room | There are 10 very private and spacious bandas all of which are cleverly hidden along the beach with gorgeous views of the Indian Ocean. Each en-suite banda offers rustic luxury with Wi-Fi, mini-bar and a gym-bag. |
Childcare
Although there are no specific childcare facilities children of all ages are welcome at the lodge (a maximum of 2 children on the island at any one time). An extra bed can be arranged for a child 16 years and younger sharing their parents’ banda. Food and meal times can easily be adjusted to suit younger guests and babysitting can also be arranged for those that require it.
Facilities
The dining area is adjacent to the sitting room/bar. There is a small library with a selection of books, games and magazines. Guest areas are all open-sided, cooled by sea breezes, informal and relaxed. Fresh fish and seafood is served at lunch and dinner. Weather permitting, dinner is always served on the beach.
Activities
Some of the activities to participate in at Mnemba Island Lodge include scuba diving outings (two per day), snorkeling, kayaking, swimming, windsurfing and fly–fishing. Additionally guests can arrange a wide range of Scuba diving, training and appropriate certification for beginner and advanced divers. There is also deep sea fishing for barracuda, mackerel, king fish and Marlin
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
Mnemba Island, Zanzibar, Tanzania
Mnemba Island Lodge lies 4.5 km (3 miles) off the northeastern tip of Zanzibar Island, Tanzania. The Island is 1.5 km in circumference and is surrounded by a tropical Indian Ocean coral reef.
How to get there
Upon landing at Zanzibar International Airport, a chauffeured transfer will transport you in a north easterly direction to the launch point where a boat awaits your arrival (1-hour drive). Once you have hopped into the boat, you will set sail to Mnemba Island, a 20-minute journey. Boats depart and land directly to and from the beachfront as there are no jetties. Expect to get a little wet as your wade your way from the boat to and from Mnemba Island Lodge.
