About Manta Resort
In the far north-west of Pemba Island, The Manta Resort is a remote, laidback beach retreat with fantastic ...
... views, a powder-white beach and a range of accommodation that includes a unique underwater room.
Manta Resort is certainly one of the more remote lodges featured by Expert Africa. On a far corner of the undeveloped Pemba Island, it is not a resort in the typical sense of the word, but it is laidback and unpretentious, and the views are spectacular. It commands a fairly high price tag but if you want somewhere a little different and off the beaten track, we think it's well worth the money. And for something very special consider night in the unique underwater room.
Our view
Manta Resort is certainly one of the more remote lodges featured by Expert Africa. On a far corner of the undeveloped Pemba Island, it is not a resort in the typical sense of the word, but it is laidback and unpretentious, and the views are spectacular. It commands a fairly high price tag but if you want somewhere a little different and off the beaten track, we think it's well worth the money. And for something very special consider night in the unique underwater room.
Tanzania expert
Accommodation
18 rooms
Children
Best for 12+
Open
Closed April and May
Activities
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Cultural excursion
Fishing
Kayaking
Scuba-diving
Snorkelling
Watersports
Traveller reviews of Manta Resort
12 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
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View galleryHolidays visiting Manta Resort
Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you
Jasmine Beach Holiday
7 days • 1 location • 1 country
DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT
Relax on Pemba Island’s Manta Resort, a laidback and remote beach retreat with superb views. Enjoy a range of land- and water-based activities, and spend a night in the unique underwater bedroom for a truly special experience.
Visiting Pemba Island
US$3,380 - US$3,950 per person
Manta Resort: Our full report
In the far north-west of Pemba Island, The Manta Resort is a remote, laidback beach retreat with fantastic ...
... views, a powder-white beach and a range of accommodation that includes a unique underwater room.
We have visited The Manta Resort a number of times over the years and every time we go back we are reminded what a wonderful property it is. The owners continuously work hard to upgrade the facilities and maintain the high standard of the lodge and their efforts have not gone unnoticed.
The 18 rooms at The Manta Resort fall into two main categories: six Seafront Villas, and 12 Garden Rooms. These vary considerably in size and location, with the spacious Seafront Villas being much closer to the ocean whilst the Garden Rooms – both ‘standard’ and ‘superior’ – are set further back among tropical gardens. Inside they are all light, airy and beautifully designed, with 'evening breeze cooling systems above the beds, and their bathrooms feature complimentary toiletries by Inaya Zanzibar.
For something very special we would recommend a night in the unique Underwater Room. Anchored 250m offshore, this private, three-storey timber structure features a lounge and bathroom on the landing deck, with a set of wooden stairs leading up to a top deck with a large sunbed. But the Underwater Room’s pièce de résistance is three metres down: an impressive submarine bedroom surrounded on all sides by panoramic windows looking out onto the ocean, where on our last visit we were enthralled by an abundance of marine life day and night, courtesy of efficient spotlights.
The elevated central areas of The Manta Resort have some of the best sunset views in Pemba. The large open-sided bar and restaurant is a cool and breezy place to enjoy these panoramic views, book in hand, or while sipping a cocktail from the inclusive cocktail bar. Quirky touches such as a bookcase constructed from an old dhow and a large old cannon lend character and individuality.
Steps from the main area lead down to a nicely designed pool area, where shaded sunloungers and chairs overlook the sparkling ocean beyond. On one side, the swimming pool flows into a small waterfall that cascades down a tiled wall into a plunge pool at the bottom. Bartenders are on hand to whip up a drink from the well-stocked beach bar, which leads directly on to a beautiful white sandy beach dotted with hammocks, and pairs of sunloungers beneath makuti thatch umbrellas.
Guests at The Manta Resort stay on an ‘all-inclusive’ basis, which means that almost everything, from drinks and food to laundry and even spa treatments in their Kipipeo Spa (although limited to one per day), is included in the rates. The only extras are activities and any excursions.
During dinner, the staff came around and chatted to us about our day and whether we'd like to do any excursions the next day as well as organising what time we would like to have a massage.
Activities focus on snorkelling and diving, but there are several other options, including sunset cruises, deep-sea fishing, bird watching trips to nearby Ngezi Rainforest, and visits to a local village.
The on-site PADI dive centre, Dive 360, offers a range of snorkelling and diving trips as well as training courses. The coral and marine life here are plentiful, colourful and in good health, making for one of the best places in this region to dive or snorkel. There is plenty of kit for hire and we loved our time in the water with the competent dive guides. Dive sites vary from shallow dives on the house reef through to more challenging deepwater dives; Manta Resort can accommodate new divers as well as those with many years of experience. Please note, however, that away from the house reef, these waters are known for their strong currents, so they are not recommended for novice divers.
The Manta Resort has strong links with the charity, Kwanini Africa, whose initiatives include building a school in the nearby village of Mnarania and establishing an organic farm. Manta is also working hard to conserve Pemba’s coral reefs; they have set up a no-fishing zone around their house reef, and are working with local fishermen to introduce sustainable fishing practices.
Geographics
- Location
- Pemba Island, Tanzania
- Ideal length of stay
- We’d recommend at least five nights to enjoy the beach and explore the area.
- Directions
- The lodge is one and a half hours’ drive along bumpy roads from Pemba airport.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board
- Food quality
- On our most recent visit the food at The Manta Resort was excellent. Much of the fresh produce comes from their organic farm, and the menu places an emphasis on fresh fish and seafood. Guests are assigned their own personal ‘fundi’, who will be on hand to serve you drinks and meals during your stay.
The Manta is very flexible and that guests are encouraged to tell them what they'd like; they will then try and accommodate their choices (given the limited supplies available).
Breakfast is usually a platter of fruit, banana bread and pancakes, followed by eggs and cooked food to order. Tea, coffee and fresh juices are also available.
Lunch is a three-course menu with a choice of two mains and three main courses and a dessert. We started with freshly baked sesame bread with a carrot and peanut purée; this was followed by grilled chicken with a satay sauce and rounded off with a fruit salad.
Dinner usually begins in the bar, where guests are served snacks to enjoy with their cocktails. There is then a three-course menu with three options for each course. We enjoyed a tomato soup to start, followed by grilled lobster and prawns, served with rice and a pineapple salad, and finished with a passion-fruit tart. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- Possible - but there are no phones in the room, so room service would need to be organised in advance.
- Drinks included
- All drinks available are included in the price. Drinking water is provided.
Special interests
- Beach holidays
- The Manta Resort sits on a beautiful stretch of white sandy beach. Its isolated location means that guests are unlikely to be disturbed during their beach break on Zanzibar – other than to be offered a fresh cocktail from the beach bar!
- See ideas for Beach holidays in Tanzania
- Diving & snorkelling
- For diving and snorkelling in Zanzibar, Manta Resort on Pemba Island offers coral reefs and – for experienced divers only – waters with exhilarating currents. And in its new Underwater Room you have the underwater world around you, even while you’re sleeping!
- See ideas for Diving & snorkelling in Tanzania
Children
- Attitude towards children
- The lodge welcomes older children.
- Property’s age restrictions
- No children under the age of 7 are permitted, and the underwater room has a minimum age of 12.
- Special activities & services
- There are no special activities.
- Equipment
- None.
- Generally recommended for children
- The pool at Manta is a good size, which children would enjoy, but the atmosphere here does lean slightly more to honeymooners and couples than to families.
- Notes
- With no lifeguard at the pool, and direct access to the beach, children should be supervised at all times.
Communications
- Power supply notes
- There is a back-up generator
- Communications
- There is WiFi in the central areas.
- TV & radio
- There is a TV in the dive center that is used for training courses.
- Water supply
- Borehole
- Water supply notes
- All the land-based rooms are plumbed and have hot running water.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- There is a first-aid kit in the lodge. Manta Resort has links to doctors in Pemba who will come out to the lodge in an emergency.
- Dangerous animals
- Low Risk
- Security measures
- The lodge is gated, and security guards patrol both night and day. There is also a guard boat which patrols the reef at night.
- Fire safety
- There are fire extinguishers dotted around the lodge.
Activities
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Cultural excursion
Fishing
Kayaking
Scuba-diving
Snorkelling
Watersports
Extras
- Disabled access
- Not Possible
- Laundry facilities
- Included
- Money
- The Seafront Villas have wooden safes, and there is a safe at reception where guests can store valuables.
- Accepted payment on location
- Visa and Mastercard credit cards are accepted with a 3.5% surcharge. Cash payments may be made in US dollars (newer than 2013 only), euros, Tanzanian shillings and British pounds.
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Manta Resort's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Manta Resort.
Other lodges in Pemba Island
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
Fundu Lagoon
Pemba's best-known beach lodge, Fundu Lagoon attracts honeymooners for its remote location, and divers for its proximity to some deep wall dives.
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 Manta Resort 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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