About Fundu Lagoon
Fundu Lagoon is a beautiful and peaceful beach lodge, set into a tropical forest on the west side of Pemba Island.
Part of the Zanzibar archipelago, the rural island of Pemba is one of Zanzibar Island's close neighbours, yet in comparison it sees very little tourism. As a result, it is relatively untouched and offers the visitor a more remote beach experience.
Fundu Lagoon has a reputation as a honeymoon destination. It is true, the location is romantic, but the atmosphere is fun meaning a stay at Fundu is very sociable, and non-honeymooners will certainly not feel left out. After sharing activities during the day, most guests end up chatting at the bar before dinner.
Our view
Fundu Lagoon has a reputation as a honeymoon destination. It is true, the location is romantic, but the atmosphere is fun meaning a stay at Fundu is very sociable, and non-honeymooners will certainly not feel left out. After sharing activities during the day, most guests end up chatting at the bar before dinner.
Tanzania expert
Accommodation
18 rooms and suites
Children
Best for aged 12+
Open
mid June to March
Activities
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Cultural excursion
Fishing
Kayaking
Scuba-diving
Snorkelling
Watersports
Traveller reviews of Fundu Lagoon
9 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
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Black Pepper Beach Holiday
7 days • 1 location • 1 country
DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT
Beautiful sunsets, excellent diving opportunities and utter relaxation await you at Pemba Island’s Fundu Lagoon. Enjoy a remote beach experience with varied activities on a quiet stretch of tropical island.
Visiting Pemba Island
US$2,610 - US$3,980 per person
Fundu Lagoon: Our full report
Fundu Lagoon is a beautiful and peaceful beach lodge, set into a tropical forest on the west side of Pemba Island.
Part of the Zanzibar archipelago, the rural island of Pemba is one of Zanzibar Island's close neighbours, yet in comparison it sees very little tourism. As a result, it is relatively untouched and offers the visitor a more remote beach experience.
To reach Fundu Lagoon, you first drive about 60 minutes from Pemba's airport, then you hop aboard a boat for a further 15 minutes until you reach the jetty of Fundu. Walking down the jetty gives you a wonderful panoramic view of the lodge, with all of the rooms discretely tucked into lush tropical greenery. Stop at the jetty bar for a drink and an introduction to Fundu Lagoon, before being given a quick tour and shown to your room.
The rooms at Fundu Lagoon vary in size and category – from 12 standard rooms to two suites and two ‘superior’ suites – but all share very similar features. All are large walk-in tents set on wooden decks, with a veranda, small lounge area and en-suite bathroom. The dark wooden floors, huge bed and crisp cotton sheets make the rooms feel stylish and comfortable, reminiscent of a tented safari lodge. Yet canvas walls add a rustic feel, resulting in a cosy room that has character and comfort rather than luxury.
Sandy paths and wooden walkways lead through Fundu's tropical forest, linking the rooms to the various parts of the lodge, where there are plenty of places to relax, all – like the rooms – with views out to sea.
The main bar and lounge is set slightly above the beach on a wooden deck, under a high thatched roof. Natural fabrics and wicker furniture add to the rustic style – Fundu feels very in keeping with its surroundings. This is often a sociable and friendly spot before dinner, and can become quite lively at times. The managers and dive team are usually around to chat with guests in the evenings and to discuss activities for the following day.
Part way along the jetty, and hovering out over the sea, is Fundu’s open-sided jetty bar. In the evenings it's a great place to watch the sunset over the sea – while enjoying one of the house cocktails.
The beach at Fundu isn't a perfect white beach, like the postcards of east coast Zanzibar, but – typical of beaches in this part of Pemba or, indeed, of any island fringed by mangroves – is lined with vegetation and changes with the winds and tides. Thus – as one of Expert Africa's team found when she lived on a nearby beach for four months while doing marine research – on one day, you'll find pristine white sand and turquoise waters, whereas on the next the sand will be dotted with natural flotsam and jetsam and the water clarity will be gone. Either way, though, it is very quiet, has loungers set out on it daily, and has plenty of space for guests to relax in privacy.
It is possible to take a boat out to Misali Island, this is around a 30 minute boat ride away. The beach here is formed from powder white sand and is arguably much more picturesque than Fundu Lagoon's main beach.
Set high above the beach, up a number of steps, is a split level infinity pool, with fantastic views across the sea. The broad open pool deck is dotted with loungers and shade umbrellas, while just behind is the pool bar – a jaunty, open-sided wooden structure painted vibrant orange and red – and again, looking out to sea.
The adjacent spa offers pedicures and manicures, plus a variety of massages and beauty treatments.
Quite a number of Fundu's team come from the nearby village, and will take guests to meet people from the community: a complementary and memorable cultural experience. Travellers are made to feel very welcome –.greeting children at the local school, or sharing a conversation with your guide’s family. Fundu Lagoon is heavily involved with the community; they support a local vegetable farm and a chicken farm, and help fund a school that has 400 pupils; more recently they have also opened a pharmacy, providing vital medical supplies.
On the activities front, Fundu Lagoon specialises in diving and snorkelling. Qualified staff from their fully equipped PADI dive center 'Dive 710' lead daily dives to sites in the Pemba Channel and around Misali Island. Although we didn't have time to dive here on the last visit, the centre looked great, with a full range of kit to hire, and we had an extensive chat with the onsite dive guide - it sounded excellent! The reefs around Pemba have a steep drop off, and conditions can be quite challenging, with some sites prone to strong currents. For experienced divers the diving can be very good, and large pelagic species such as barracuda and hammerhead shark can sometimes be seen. Misali Island, however, is a protected conservation area, and the shallower waters provide some excellent snorkelling and macro opportunities. Travellers should note that the diving at Fundu is quite costly in comparison to other properties on the island.
After a morning of snorkelling and diving we’d recommend exploring Misali Island itself. The beach here is beautiful, and because the island is uninhabited you will have it to yourself. Depending on the time of year you can sometimes find green and hawksbill turtles nesting on the shores, and vervet monkeys can be seen. Misali Island has important cultural significance, too; you can take a short walk to a cave in the interior of the island, which was reputedly used for voodoo.
Other activities at Fundu Lagoon range from village tours to kayaking through the mangrove forest, deep-sea fishing and sunset boat trips. On one of our previous stays here we went on a dolphin-watching trip where we joined a resident pod of spinner dolphins; the pod made a beeline for the small boat and took great pleasure in riding the bow wave and leaping out of the water.
Geographics
- Location
- Pemba Island, Tanzania
- Ideal length of stay
- At least four nights, whether you want to take part in a range of activities or simply to lounge around on a tropical island.
- Directions
- It takes about an hour and thirty minutes to reach Fundu Lagoon from Pemba's airport. A 26km drive along good roads brings you to the port of Mkwoani, where you take a boat to Fundu Lagoon.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board
- Food quality
- When we last stayed at Fundu, the food was one of the stand-out features, with as many ingredients as possible bought from local farmers. The menu features international-style cuisine, often with a Swahili twist, and there is always plenty of fresh seafood on offer as well as vegetarian dishes.
There are a few options at each meal, listed on a chalkboard by the entrance to the dining area. A waiter will ask for your choice as you enter the restaurant and this will be served to your table.
For breakfast, served between 7.30am and 10.00am, there is a buffet with a variety of fresh fruits, cereals and yoghurt, and home-baked sweet bread. There is also the choice of a cooked breakfast. We particularly enjoyed the French toast, and the sweetcorn fritters.
Lunch usually consists of two or three courses. We went for a salad starter followed by a ‘Fundu basket' of prawns, calamari, deep-fried snapper and chips. There was also a heavier pasta option, and a light seasonal salad. Lunchtime is generally quite flexible and for those heading out on a day trip, a delicious (and huge) packed lunch will be provided with a variety of salads and cold meats.
Dinner is a slightly more formal occasion with a fantastic three-course meal served to your table. Guests generally congregate around the bar for a few drinks and then slowly head to their table when they are ready. We enjoyed carpaccio of beef to start, followed by rock lobster and roast potatoes – which was delicious! Once a week guests experience a Swahili night, with traditional dishes being served. Then weather permitting, there is also a very atmospheric weekly beach barbecue. A large table with storm lanterns is set out on the beach, and a variety of barbecued meat and fish is served. On this occasion the guests will often dine together as though they were at a dinner party. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- No
- Drinks included
- Most drinks are included – except for premium-branded spirits, wines and champagne.
Bottled water is supplied in all rooms.
Special interests
- Honeymoons
- Fundu Lagoon is a perfect destination for a Tanzania honeymoon. It has a fun, social atmosphere and is particularly popular with young honeymooners, while the staff try hard to make you feel spoilt and special.
- See ideas for Honeymoons in Tanzania
- Beach holidays
- Fundu Lagoon organises day trips by boat to Misali Island, which has some of the best beaches around Tanzania's Pemba Island. You can scuba dive here, snorkel, or just relax and enjoy a great beach holiday.
- See ideas for Beach holidays in Tanzania
- Diving & snorkelling
- For diving off the coast of Tanzania, Fundu Lagoon offers plenty of choice. The Pemba Channel offers some extremely challenging drift dives and the chance to see the larger pelagic fish, while for gentler dives and snorkelling there are the reefs around Misali Island.
- See ideas for Diving & snorkelling in Tanzania
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children over the age of 12 years are welcome.
- Property’s age restrictions
- Minimum age of 12
- Special activities & services
- No
- Equipment
- No
- Generally recommended for children
- Best for 12+
- Notes
- There is the potential for strong currents around Pemba, and some locations are not suitable for a weak or inexperienced swimmer.
Communications
- Power supply notes
- There is 24-hour electricity and European 3-pin style plugs in all of the rooms.
- Communications
- There is intermittent cellphone reception, and free Wifi in the main area.
- TV & radio
- There is a small TV room with a satellite TV and library.
- Water supply
- Mains
- Water supply notes
- All rooms are plumbed and have hot running water.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- Fundu Lagoon has a comprehensive first-aid box and every head of department is first-aid trained, as are staff members at the dive centre. There is a doctor in Mkwoani.
- Dangerous animals
- Low Risk
- Security measures
- Askaris (traditional guards) are posted around Fundu both day and night. Fundu is also guarded by police officers, and there is a fence around the lodge for added security.
- Fire safety
- There are large and small fire extinguishers placed around the lodge, and these are checked twice a year.
Activities
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Cultural excursion
Fishing
Kayaking
Scuba-diving
Snorkelling
Watersports
Extras
- Disabled access
- Not Possible
- Laundry facilities
- Extra cost, usually a 24 hour service depending on the weather.
- Money
- There are lockboxes in all rooms, and a safe in the manager’s office. Small amounts of cash can be exchanged.
- Accepted payment on location
- You can settle your bill for extras using cash (British pounds, US dollars, euros or Tanzanian shillings) or credit card. Mastercard, Visa and American Express are accepted, though there is a 6% charge for this.
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Fundu Lagoon's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Fundu Lagoon.
Other lodges in Pemba Island
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
Manta Resort
Manta Resort is a remote lodge in northern Pemba. It is relatively expensive, but some guests – especially divers – will find it good value.
Pemba Lodge
Pemba Lodge is a rustic, eco-friendly lodge on a stunning stretch of beach on Shamiani Island, just off the main island of Pemba.
When to go to Pemba Island
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Fundu Lagoon in Pemba Island
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Pemba Island in January
January marks the start of the short dry season on Pemba Island, though there will still be rain from time to time. Clear blue skies and sunshine prevail, with temperatures gradually increasing. The Pemba Channel Conservation Area offers excellent visibility for diving and snorkelling, with chances to spot manta rays and vibrant coral reefs. Misali Island's pristine beaches are perfect for relaxation. Birdwatchers can enjoy observing resident species in breeding plumage at Ngezi Forest Reserve. The Pemba flying foxes at Kidike Flying Fox Sanctuary are particularly active during this time.
January offers good value for visitors, with shoulder season accommodation rates. It's an ideal time to explore historical sites like Ras Mkumbuu and Mkama Nduma Ruins. However, some areas in southern Pemba may still experience occasional rainfall.
- Variable weather: clear, dry, or rainy
- Occasional thunderstorms may occur
- Good time for birding, migrant species present
- Warm waters ideal for snorkelling and diving
- Quieter tourist season, better rates available
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in January
Pemba Island in February
February is one of the hottest months on Pemba Island, with temperatures reaching around 33°C/91°F. The warm waters around Misali Island provide perfect conditions for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts. The Pemba Channel Conservation Area teems with marine life, offering exceptional underwater experiences.
February is particularly rewarding for birdlife, as northern hemisphere migrants join resident species in Ngezi Forest Reserve. A visit to a clove farm offers fascinating insights into the island's spice production. Visitors can explore the Pemba Museum in Chake Chake to learn about the island's rich history and culture. The Chwaka Ruins are less humid to explore during this dry period.
- Hot and dry weather on Pemba Island
- Excellent visibility for underwater activities
- Ngezi Forest Reserve lush and vibrant
- Cultural tours less crowded this month
- Perfect time to explore historical sites
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in February
Pemba Island in March
March begins to see the onset of the long, heavier rains on Pemba Island, though the timing can vary year to year. As rainfall increases, the lush vegetation in Ngezi Forest Reserve becomes even more vibrant. This is an excellent time to observe the Pemba flying foxes, as they become more active with the increased humidity.
While diving and snorkelling conditions may be less ideal, the Pemba Channel still offers opportunities to see diverse marine life. The ancient ruins at Ras Mkumbuu and Mkama Nduma take on a mystical atmosphere amidst the occasional rain showers.
Many lodges and hotels offer lower rates during this period. March is perfect for visitors seeking a quieter, more authentic island experience.
- Increasing humidity before rainy season
- Marine life abundant in Pemba Channel
- Flying foxes active in Kidike Sanctuary
- Low season rates for accommodations
- Ideal for tranquil beach holidays
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in March
Pemba Island in April
April is the wettest month on Pemba Island, with an average of 250mm of rain. The increased rainfall transforms Ngezi Forest Reserve into a lush, green paradise, ideal for nature walks and birdwatching. While marine activities may be limited, this is an excellent time to explore the island's cultural heritage.
Some of the lodges and hotels close in April and flight connections may be less frequent. However, visitors at this time are rewarded with exclusivity and low accommodation rates.
- Heavy rains expected with thunderstorms
- Some resorts may close for maintenance
- Lush landscapes, but challenging for hiking
- Not ideal for beach or water activities
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in April
Pemba Island in May
As Pemba Island is close to the equator, May sees only a slight drop in temperatures. In between the rains it can be very pleasant and sunny, although humid. This period offers a unique opportunity to experience Pemba's lush landscapes, particularly in Ngezi Forest Reserve. While marine activities might be limited, the occasional clear day provides excellent opportunities for snorkelling around Misali Island.
May's lower visitor numbers make it ideal for exploring historical sites without crowds. The Pemba Museum in Chake Chake offers a dry alternative on rainy days. Some of the lodges remain closed in May but those that are open offer great value with lower accommodation rates for budget-conscious travellers.
- Heavy rains and storms likely
- Misali Island beaches less crowded
- Spice farm tours available between showers
- Wildlife more dispersed in Ngezi Forest
- Low prices make visits more affordable
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in May
Pemba Island in June
June marks the end of the rainy season on Pemba Island, with drier conditions gradually returning. June tends to be the windiest month. This transition period is excellent for nature enthusiasts, as Ngezi Forest Reserve remains lush while becoming more accessible. The Pemba Channel Conservation Area begins to offer better visibility for diving and snorkelling, with marine life becoming more concentrated around coral reefs. Historical sites are pleasant to explore in the cooler temperatures. A visit to a clove plantation is at this time is fascinating as harvesting season approaches.
June presents a balance of good weather and fewer tourists, making it an attractive time to visit Pemba.
- Weather improving, occasional rain possible and stronger winds
- Start of peak season for diving activities
- Clove harvesting begins on spice farms
- Historical ruins easier to explore
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in June
Pemba Island in July
July marks the start of the peak season on Pemba Island, with no rainfall expected and pleasant daytime temperatures. The Pemba Channel Conservation Area offers excellent conditions for diving and snorkelling, with clear visibility and abundant marine life. Misali Island's beaches are perfect for relaxation and water activities. July is ideal for exploring Ngezi Forest Reserve, home to the endemic Pemba flying fox. The clove harvesting season begins.
While visitor numbers increase, Pemba remains less crowded than other Tanzanian destinations.
- Dry and warm days, cool evenings
- Excellent conditions for snorkelling trips
- Peak time for observing Pemba flying foxes
- Clove farm tours in full swing
- Higher visitor numbers, book in advance
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in July
Pemba Island in August
August is the heart of the dry season on Pemba Island, characterised by clear skies and sunny weather. Cooler temperatures in the mornings make it ideal for exploring Ngezi Forest Reserve and observing wildlife. It can get quite hot and humid in the middle of the day. The Pemba Channel Conservation Area offers exceptional diving and snorkelling conditions, with high visibility and chances to see manta rays and sharks.
Misali Island's pristine beaches are perfect for sunbathing and water activities, and August is popular for visiting historical sites and for seeing the ongoing clove harvest at spice farms. Advanced booking to secure your accommodation is recommended due to the peak season.
- Dry weather perfect for beach activities
- Vibrant marine life in Pemba Channel
- Historical sites busy but enjoyable
- Ngezi Forest ideal for nature walks
- Book accommodation well in advance
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in August
Pemba Island in September
September is an excellent time to visit Pemba Island. As the dry season continues, wildlife in Ngezi Forest Reserve becomes more visible, including the endemic Pemba flying fox. The Pemba Channel Conservation Area offers superb conditions for diving and snorkelling, with high chances of spotting diverse marine life. Misali Island's beaches are at their most inviting. September is ideal for exploring historical sites. The clove harvest is in full swing, offering fascinating insights into Pemba's agricultural heritage.
With fewer families traveling, September offers a good balance of excellent weather and manageable visitor numbers.
- Ideal weather for all island activities
- Pemba Channel great for diving excursions
- Flying fox colony active and observable
- Spice farm tours offer sensory experiences
- Quieter than school holiday months
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in September
Pemba Island in October
October marks the end of the dry season on Pemba Island. The Pemba Channel Conservation Area and Misali Island offer excellent conditions for diving and snorkelling, with clear visibility and abundant marine life. Ngezi Forest Reserve is ideal for nature walks and birdwatching, with many species easily observable. Historical sites are comfortable to explore in the mild weather, and the clove harvest continues.
While prices remain high, visitor numbers are lower than in July-August, offering a more relaxed experience.
- Mostly dry with comfortable temperatures
- Last month of peak diving season
- Cultural festivals may occur this month
- Perfect time for beach and water sports
- Visitor numbers declining, good availability
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in October
Pemba Island in November
November brings the start of the short rains to Pemba Island, though the exact timing varies yearly. These rains are more unpredictable than the long rains earlier in the year. There can be stronger winds from the north-east. Ngezi Forest Reserve becomes lush and vibrant, offering excellent opportunities for nature walks and birdwatching. While marine activities may be occasionally affected by weather, the Pemba Channel still offers good diving and snorkelling opportunities on clear days.
November is ideal for cultural experiences, with visits to historical sites or a clove farm, providing insights into the island's famous spice production. Lower visitor numbers and shoulder season rates make November an attractive time to visit.
- Variable weather: dry spells and some rain
- Stronger winds from the north-east
- Water activities still enjoyable most days
- Lower prices as low season approaches
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in November
Pemba Island in December
December on Pemba Island falls within the short rainy period, but it remains a popular time for visitors, especially during the festive season. The Pemba Channel Conservation Area and Misali Island still offer good opportunities for diving and snorkelling between rain showers. Ngezi Forest Reserve is lush and teeming with wildlife, including the endemic Pemba flying fox. December is excellent for cultural experiences, with visits to historical sites, the Pemba Museum in Chake Chake or a fascinating farm tour showcasing Pemba's spice production.
While prices peak during the festive period, early December can offer good value with pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
- Mix of dry weather and occasional rain
- Early month quiet, busy during holidays
- Misali Island perfect for day trips
- New Year's celebrations enliven the island
- Book early for Christmas and New Year stays
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in December
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