Escape to Fanjove Island, a secluded gem in Tanzania's Songo Songo Archipelago, where pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and rich cultural heritage converge to offer an unparalleled luxury retreat.
Fanjove island is secluded and exclusive with soft white-powder sands, clear turquoise waters and 19th century ruins
Getting to Fanjove Island is an experience in itself, arriving onto this small private island via a traditional dhow is a true Robinson Crusoe experience.
Enjoy bare foot luxury in this intimate camp comprising of only six villas on the beach.
Enjoy an array of activities such as diving and snorkelling, kayak trips or marine safaris in search of dolphins and maybe even whales.
Fanjove Island is an exclusive, barefoot-luxury retreat offering a rare blend of natural beauty, cultural charm, and refined simplicity. Accessible only by a short flight and a dhow transfer from Dar es Salaam, this pristine private island is the ultimate escape for those seeking tranquility and authenticity in a truly off-grid setting.
Accommodation is understated yet elegant, with 18 villas crafted from sustainable materials and designed to blend seamlessly with the environment. Thatched roofs, teak floors, and open-air bathrooms reflect traditional Swahili architecture, while panoramic ocean views and direct beach access invite you to immerse yourself in island life.
Days on Fanjove unfold gently. Snorkel or dive in the island’s untouched coral reefs, home to an extraordinary variety of marine life, from turtles to dolphins. Sail on a traditional dhow at sunset, or simply unwind on the soft, powder-white beaches. For the adventurous, nature walks reveal rare coconut crabs and migratory birdlife, while the historic lighthouse-turned-restaurant offers atmospheric dining under the stars, with seasonal, locally sourced cuisine crafted by a French-trained chef.
This is luxury with purpose — solar-powered, community-supported, and committed to conservation. Whether you’re a couple in search of romance, a family craving meaningful adventure, or a solo traveler looking to reconnect with nature, Fanjove Island offers a truly soulful escape in one of Africa’s last untouched paradises.
When to visit
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Enquire NowFanjove Private Island is in the Songosongo Archipelago off the coast of Tanzania and is one of six small islands. Access is via Dar es Salaam on a small charter flight to the main island in the Archipelago, Songo Songo, before catching a traditional dhow sailing boat to the small private island.
Epic Southern Tanzania
Get ready to dive into the wilderness of southern Tanzania on an off-grid safari and beach getaway. We’ve handpicked the most stylish camps and lodges so you can immerse yourself in this barely touched land in luxury, with some extraordinary experiences along the way. Explore the Selous by river and wander through the baobab dotted landscapes of Ruaha. Journey across the azure ocean to a private island retreat, which promises days filled with tranquillity, indulgence and a dose of adventure.
Thanda Island
The exclusive Thanda Island offers guests a fantastic base for a family celebration or holiday with friends. Situated within a private marine reserve, this luxurious villa is ideal for adventures at sea and barefoot relaxation.
Baraza Resort and Spa
Located on the east coast of Zanzibar, Baraza is a luxurious, family-friendly hotel with a variety of one and two bedroom villas set on a beautiful stretch of beach. With only 30 villas in total, each with private pools, the feel is small and exclusive.
The Palms Zanzibar
The Palms is a luxury complex of six villas set on the award winning beach of Bwejuu on the South East coast of Zanzibar. With only six villas, it is small and intimate - perfect for honeymooners or couples looking for privacy.
Breezes Beach Club & Spa
Breezes Beach Club & Spa is a charming and relaxed resort set on a beautiful stretch of white sand beach on the east coast of Zanzibar. 71 rooms including 20 suites are divided between 11 villas in a pretty garden, all close to the main pool and beach.
Xanadu Villas
Xanadu Villas is a luxury collection of nine villas nestled on Zanzibar's east coast. Surrounded by verdant tropical gardens, white sands and the sparkling waters of the Indian Ocean, Xanadu makes for the ideal hideaway.
Zawadi Hotel Zanzibar
Zawadi is a small boutique hotel on Zanzibar's south east coast, with just nine guest rooms dotted along the cliff enjoying sublime views of the Indian Ocean. There is a small spa, swimming pool and an idyllic beach accessed by steps from the lodge.
Park Hyatt Zanzibar
The Park Hyatt Zanzibar occupies a superb position in the heart of UNESCO World Heritage site, Stone Town, on the west coast of Zanzibar. Offering international standards and excellent facilities, it is a comfortable base for exploring this historic town.
&Beyond Mnemba Island Lodge
Mnemba Island is a tiny atoll off the east coast of Zanzibar which offers the ultimate in barefoot luxury. Its rustic exclusivity is unparalleled on the East African coast, it has just 12 secluded bandas hidden in the shady palms beside pristine beach.
Zuri Zanzibar Hotel & Resort
Zuri Zanzibar is a brand new resort based on the beautiful white sandy beach of Northern Zanzibar offering a tranquil and relaxed environment. The resort comprises 55 bungalows, suites and villas looking out over the turquoise waters of the Indian ocean.
Spice Tour
With the Spice Islands named as they are you cannot visit this particular part of the world and not delve into its history by taking a Spice Tour on the island.
A dhow trip on the coast of Zanzibar
Sailing in a dhow, the traditional sailing boat used in Zanzibar, is the best way to view the island's coastline. Sailing in the late evening to watch the sun set is the best time of day and is wonderfully romantic.
A historic walk through Stone Town
Visit Zanzibar Towns old quarter, Stone Town on the west coast of Zanzibar. Here you will find beautiful architecture and historic buildings dating back to the 19th century, revealing the complex history of Zanzibar and its links with the slave trade.
