About Baraza Resort & Spa
Baraza Resort and Spa is an all-inclusive resort set in beautiful gardens along a long stretch of white-sand ...
... beach on the Michamvi Peninsula. The architecture is classic Swahili, the villas stylish, and the facilities extensive.
Baraza's design feels a bit over the top – with gold everywhere – but it has a high-quality air and is very well finished, so never feels tacky. The hotel has remained much the same over the years, and has maintained a high standard. The service is efficient and the food good, and this, combined with extensive facilities, makes it feels more like a smart hotel than a 'resort'. The price tag is relatively high, but Baraza should appeal to those wanting somewhere smart – especially to families, for whom the two-bed villas are ideal.
Our view
Baraza's design feels a bit over the top – with gold everywhere – but it has a high-quality air and is very well finished, so never feels tacky. The hotel has remained much the same over the years, and has maintained a high standard. The service is efficient and the food good, and this, combined with extensive facilities, makes it feels more like a smart hotel than a 'resort'. The price tag is relatively high, but Baraza should appeal to those wanting somewhere smart – especially to families, for whom the two-bed villas are ideal.
Zanzibar expert
Accommodation
30 villas
Children
Yes – excellent for families.
Open
All year
Activities
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Kayaking
Scuba-diving
Snorkelling
Watersports
Traveller reviews of Baraza Resort & Spa
14 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
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View galleryBaraza Resort & Spa: Our full report
Baraza Resort and Spa is an all-inclusive resort set in beautiful gardens along a long stretch of white-sand ...
... beach on the Michamvi Peninsula. The architecture is classic Swahili, the villas stylish, and the facilities extensive.
Owned by the same company that runs the adjacent Breezes Beach Club, Palms and Zawadi, set along the same beach as them, Baraza has a luxurious and breezy feel. Since it is all-inclusive, guests can relax without the concern of extra costs. Indeed, you don't even have to move from the beach, as guides walk up and down the sand, ready to take your order for drinks and snacks.
On our last visit we found a high-quality, international-style hotel, which retains a great deal of character and interest. The décor comprises the best of locally crafted lanterns, beds and furniture – with a blend of Arabic and Indian elements. A lot of effort has gone into the decoration, and you'll see endless white walls adorned with rustic gold pots and plates, mosaic floors and beautifully shaped archways.
The 30 villas at Baraza are all stylish, with dramatic arches, sumptuous gold fabrics, intricate carvings and baraza benches. Antiques, hand-made furniture and intricate brass lanterns decorate the rooms. All have very similar facilities, including air-con, a minibar, a coffee maker, Wi-Fi, and TV with a DVD player. Each villa has a private plunge pool.
Each of the spacious bedrooms has a large comfortable double bed, canopied with a mosquito net; cream-tiled floors and local Zanzibari furnishings. There's a separate dressing room and a lounge furnished in Arabic style, with low sofas, a sultan's lounge-bed, and an intricately carved writing desk. This faces, through sliding glass, onto a private veranda with sunloungers, another day bed and a plunge pool. The en-suite bathrooms are very spacious with a free-standing bath and a shower.
These villas stand in five rows, parallel to the seafront, and differ mostly in location and number of rooms rather than style or facilities. They comprise:
- Seven Ocean-Front Villas, which are closest to the sea, and have one bedroom.
- Seven One-Bedroom Villas which stand behind the ocean-front villas, also with one bedroom each.
- Five Sultan Villas, which are further back, each with two bedrooms.
- Ten Garden-View Villas. Standing in two rows, furthest from the sea, these also have two rooms.
- The vast (254m2) Presidential Villa is beside the sea – next to the Ocean-Front Villas. It has two en-suite master bedrooms, a large plunge pool and a small kitchenette – as well as a small self-contained unit for a maid or butler.
The spa at Baraza is built in a similar style to the rest of the property with an Arabic design and featuring a number of striking Omani arches. It is one the largest and most impressive spas we have seen on Zanzibar. Walking inside you are met with the warm smell of spices and feel instantly relaxed. There are seven treatment rooms here, these are mostly designed for one person however there are a few rooms which are suitable for couples. The team of trained therapists can offer a range of indulging treatments including Thai massages, scrubs, manicures and also hair treatments. There is also a separate yoga studio and large relaxation area set next to a beautiful pool. Pre-booking spa appointments is highly recommended, especially in high and festive seasons.
The well-stocked watersports centre and PADI dive centre at Baraza is shared with Breezes and Palms, and sited at Breezes. Other facilities at Baraza itself include a beautiful spa (with Jacuzzi and pool); yoga classes; a large swimming pool; a 'Sheesha bar' – where you can sit and smoke Morroccan-style; a tennis court; fitness centre; library; business and conference centre, and an impressive children's club.
Geographics
- Location
- Michamvi Peninsula, Zanzibar
- Ideal length of stay
- 4 - 5 nights
- Directions
- It takes around 30 minutes to fly to Zanzibar from Dar es Salaam, then it’s a further hour by road to Baraza.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board
- Food quality
- On our last visit to Baraza we did not have time to eat here however when we visited previously a buffet barbecue lunch was served on the beach with a great selection, including several different salads, breads and pizzas. The barbecue consisted of beef, chicken, vegetable kebabs and king prawns served with rice and potatoes. An ice-cream dessert and coffee were served to the table.
Dining times are somewhat flexible but generally breakfast is served 7.30–09.30am, lunch 12.30–2.30pm, and dinner 7.30–9.30pm. Dinner is usually served in the Sultan Restaurant and is sometimes buffet-style and sometimes table service.
Afternoon tea is also served, and if you’re hungry between meals there are snacks available. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- Yes, at an extra charge.
- Drinks included
- Drinks are included with the exception of champagne, premium wines and top shelf spirits.
Special interests
- Family holidays
- The luxurious Baraza, built in a beautiful Swahili-Arab style, is fantastic for family beach holidays in Zanzibar with children of all ages. Come for a sandy beach and sheltered lagoon, a pool, water sports centre and beautiful gardens!
- See ideas for Family holidays in Zanzibar
- Beach holidays
- Baraza sits on a beautiful long stretch of sandy white palm fringed beach on the Michamvi Peninsula. With plenty of comfy loungers, a very large swimming pool and a great water sports centre it is a fantastic beach getaway.
- See ideas for Beach holidays in Zanzibar
- Diving & snorkelling
- Located on Zanzibar's south east coast, Baraza is close to some fantastic dive sites. Walk along the beach to the PADI dive centre at Breezes Beach Club, novices can learn to dive while more experienced divers can explore the outer reefs.
- See ideas for Diving & snorkelling in Zanzibar
- Wellbeing
- Baraza has an extensive spa, including an impressive Sultan’s bath where couples can enjoy a double relaxation treatment. There is a wide range of other treatments and sunrise yoga is held daily. A tennis court and fitness centre are also available.
- See ideas for Wellbeing in Zanzibar
- Private villas & houses
- A luxurious resort with an opulent design, offering spacious villas suitable for families. The resort provides access to a pristine white sandy beach and a variety of onsite activities and facilities.
- See ideas for Private villas & houses in Zanzibar
- Luxury
- A luxurious resort with a rather opulent design, Baraza is a great choice for couples, friends and families looking for a high-end beach retreat with access to a pristine white sandy beach and lots in the way of onsite activities and facilities.
- See ideas for Luxury in Zanzibar
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Baraza welcomes children of all ages.
- Property’s age restrictions
- There are no age restrictions at Baraza.
- Special activities & services
- Baraza has an excellent children’s club suitable for 4 -12 year olds. There are a large selection of toys, games, crafts and even a small swimming pool covered in a sun shade. The club is open and staffed in high season. During off peak periods it can be opened on request but requires adult supervision.
Childminding and babysitting are also available, at extra cost. - Equipment
- Baraza has equipment such as highchairs for children.
- Generally recommended for children
- Yes. Baraza is a large resort with plenty of activities on offer, a large beach and a pool to keep children busy.
- Notes
- Parents should be aware that children are their responsibility for the duration of their stay.
Communications
- Power supply notes
- There are three round pin plugs in all of the rooms and there are adaptors at reception for guests to use.
- Communications
- There is WiFi in all the rooms.
- TV & radio
- All rooms have a large satellite TV/DVD players.
- Water supply
- Transported in
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- Baraza has a clinic on site, and there is a doctor nearby for more serious medical situations.
- Dangerous animals
- Low Risk
- Security measures
- Baraza’s front gate is normally closed and watched, and there are discreet security guards around the property 24 hours a day.
- Fire safety
- There are fire extinguishers in the main areas and smoke detectors in all of the rooms.
Activities
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Kayaking
Scuba-diving
Snorkelling
Watersports
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- A laundry service is available for an extra charge.
- Money
- Baraza has the facility to exchange US Dollars, GB Pounds and Euros.
- Accepted payment on location
- Baraza will accept payment for any extras in US dollar or Tanzanian shilling cash, or by MasterCard, Visa and Amex.
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Baraza Resort & Spa's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Baraza Resort & Spa.
Excursions from Baraza Resort & Spa
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Baraza Resort & Spa. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.
Jambiani Village Tour
Half-day - mornings
Tear yourself away from the soft white sands of Zanzibar to get under the skin of the history and culture of Jambiani village. Join a knowledgeable local guide to discover the intricacies of day-to-day life in this traditional coastal village, with much of the profits being ploughed back into the community.
More about Village Tour
Jozani Forest Tour
Half-day or combine with other tours
For nature lovers, Jozani Forest is a must. One of the last sanctuaries of the red colobus monkey, it features a diverse range of habitats, from mangrove forests to salt marshes. Keep your eyes peeled for other forest residents, including Sykes’ monkey, bushbabies, duikers and more than 40 species of bird.
More about Jozani ForestOther lodges in Michamvi Peninsula
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
Breezes Beach Club
Breezes Beach Club is a family-style resort that also appeals to honeymooners, and is perfect if you want plenty of facilities.
Qambani
Qambani is a luxury property on the tip of the Michamvi Peninsula, set on a low cliff above a white, sandy beach, with stunning ocean views.
White Sand Villas
Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa is a stylish, small resort lodge located near the town of Paje.
The Palms
The Palms is an exclusive and luxurious beach getaway - though the main areas are small – next to Breezes and sharing Breezes' facilities.
Xanadu Villas
Situated on a picturesque beach on the Michamvi Peninsula, Xanadu Villas is a sophisticated boutique hotel with six luxurious private villas.
Kono Kono
Kono Kono is a contemporary beach resort on a quiet stretch of west-facing beach on the Michamvi peninsula.
Anna of Zanzibar
Anna of Zanzibar’s warm atmosphere and five spacious and inviting villas make it a great place for a relaxed stay on a lovely stretch of beach.
Zawadi
Set on a pretty cove on Zanzibar’s Michamvi Peninsula, Zawadi is a modern boutique hotel offering lots of space and privacy.
When to go to Michamvi Peninsula
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Baraza Resort & Spa in Michamvi Peninsula
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Zanzibar in January
As on the Tanzanian mainland, January typically marks the start of the short dry season in Zanzibar. Conditions are likely to be hot and mostly dry, with temperatures exceeding 30ºC, although it is not uncommon to get a tropical shower in the afternoons. January can feel very humid at times, and this is particularly noticeable in Stone Town, although this can be tempered by the cooling sea breeze.
New Year is one of the most popular times to visit Zanzibar, with many hotels being fully booked over the festive period. The island generally becomes much quieter after 10th January, and prices drop too.
- Mostly hot with the occasional shower.
- High humidity, which can be relieved by the refreshing breeze.
- Very busy over New Year, with high prices and long minimum stays often
- Quieter and better value later in the month.
- Wind from the northeast, and so the southwest coast is more sheltered.
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in January
Zanzibar in February
The weather in February is fairly similar to January, with days typically being hot and sunny although expect the occasional rainy spell. The humidity remains high, however the coastal areas often have a refreshing breeze. Zanzibar is fairly quiet in February, and with comparatively low prices it can be excellent value for money.
At this time the wind blows from the northeast, and so the southwest coast is often more sheltered and there can be good diving in the Menai Bay. The northeast winds can also lead to good conditions for kite surfing, with many kite surfers heading to the southeast coast and Michamvi Peninsula. For music lovers, Stone Town hosts an annual African music festival ‘Sauti za Busara’ each February. The festival's dates change each year; ask us for details.
- Variable: mostly hot and humid with some cloud and rainy spells.
- Fewer tourists and comparatively low prices.
- Popular time for kite surfing, especially around the southeast coast.
- North easterly wind, better diving in the south west of the island.
- ‘Sauti za Busara’ music festival in early February.
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in February
Zanzibar in March
March sees the start of the ‘long rains’ in Zanzibar, although the exact start date varies every year. The weather can be unpredictable, with a combination of hot sunny days, rain showers, and the occasional tropical storm. The arrival of the rains lowers the humidity, and it can also lead to some beautiful sunsets – most obviously on the west coast where you can watch the sunset over the ocean. Prices remain low during March, and the island is likely to be relatively quiet.
Diving is generally not recommended during the rainy season, as variable conditions can lead to reduced visibility from rainfall runoff, and choppy water.
- Hot and humid, leading to heavy rains later in the month.
- Low prices, and the island is comparatively quiet.
- Variable weather leads to poor conditions for diving.
- The start of the rains can lead to beautiful sunsets.
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in March
Zanzibar in April
April is typically the wettest month of the year in Zanzibar, and the long rains are in full force. The average rainfall is more than 250mm during this month, and tropical storms are common. Flooding regularly occurs, which can impact the quality of the roads, and consequently cause difficult, slow journeys across the island. Many of the hotels and beach lodges close at this time, so accommodation options can be limited. Having said this, prices are at their lowest, and if you don’t mind the risk of bad weather you can get some real bargains.
Despite the poor conditions, Easter weekend is often popular, and advance booking is recommended. Due to the strong likelihood of rain and poor conditions diving is inadvisable at this time.
- Heavy rain and tropical storms expected throughout the month.
- Areas of flooding leading to poor travel conditions.
- Many hotels close for refurbishment at this time.
- Low prices and few other tourists.
- Diving inadvisable due to heavy rain and reduced visibility.
Our view
A time to avoid if possible
Weather in April
Zanzibar in May
The long rains continue into May, and as with April you can expect thunderstorms and heavy showers, although these typically ease up towards the end of the month. Parts of the island can experience flooding, causing damage to roads and impacting travel times. The temperature typically drops a little in May, with a daytime average of around 25ºC. The rains lead to a lower humidity too, and mornings and evenings can feel a bit cooler.
Many of the hotels and lodges are still closed, however a handful stay open and prices remain low. While diving is possible, the rain and storms mean that diving conditions are not at their best.
- Continuation of the long rains, with thunderstorms and lightning.
- Flooding common, but conditions becoming drier as the month progresses
- Drop in temperatures, with cooler mornings and evenings.
- Prices low, and many hotels remain closed.
Our view
A time to avoid if possible
Weather in May
Zanzibar in June
June marks the start of the long dry season in Zanzibar. While the island still gets rainfall, especially early in the month, it’s becomes less likely as the month progresses. Temperatures remain steady, with daytime highs averaging 25ºC, and it likely to be mostly dry. Any rain you do experience is likely to be in shorter bursts rather than heavy storms and hours of continuous rain, although conditions vary from year to year.
The wind direction switches to blow from the southeast, and the northeast coast is likely to be more sheltered at this time. Diving conditions can be variable, and while they are generally good there can be some rough days.
- Variable weather: mostly hot and dry, with some rainy showers.
- Wind from the southwest, and more sheltered in the north east.
- Diving conditions variable, dependent on the wind and rain.
- Lower prices and generally good weather can lead to great value.
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in June
Zanzibar in July
July is a very popular time to go to Zanzibar, and this coincides with the long dry season. July and August are the school holidays throughout much of Europe, and Zanzibar can often be busy with families. Weather conditions are generally hot and dry and pretty ideal for a beach holiday, however there is still a chance of an occasional short shower. Conditions for diving are typically pretty good, however this will be dependent on recent weather conditions.
The Zanzibar International Film Festival takes place in July, with lots of people flocking to Stone Town to soak up the atmosphere. The dates for the festival change every year, so chat to Expert Africa for details.
- Typically hot and dry with clear skies, although showers are possible.
- Can become very busy, with many families traveling during holidays.
- Zanzibar International Film Festival takes place in Stone Town.
- Great beach weather result in high prices.
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in July
Zanzibar in August
August is one of the most popular times of year to visit Zanzibar, and with good reason; this is one of the driest months and it is typically hot with clear skies – ideal for relaxing on the beach. Many families choose to visit during August, and the island can be busy, and this is particularly noticeable in Stone Town and around the more popular snorkelling sites.
High demand can mean that many of the more popular hotels and beach lodges can be booked up more than 6 months ahead, so advance booking is crucial. Due to the popularity and great beach weather prices are high.
- Hot and sunny, generally ideal for relaxing on the beach.
- Popular time for families and the island can be busy.
- High demand leads to higher prices, and advance booking is essential.
- With little rain falling and causing soil run-off, the sea is clear.
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in August
Zanzibar in September
September is an excellent time of year to visit Zanzibar. Weather conditions are typically very good, with clear skies and temperatures ranging from 20¬–30ºC. September is also one of the driest months, averaging 50mm of rain during the month, however rain showers are still possible. Due to the great beach conditions prices remain high, however with fewer families travelling in September the island can be a little quieter at this time.
September to December are often some of the calmest months at sea, which can result in superb conditions for diving. The wind typically blows from the southeast, and the northeast coast can often be a little more sheltered. You can find some beautiful snorkelling and diving spots around Mnemba Island.
- Warm temperatures and clear skies, with the off-chance of rain.
- Fewer families travelling, and the island can be a little quieter.
- Great beach weather means that prices remain high.
- Relatively calm seas result in good conditions for diving.
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in September
Zanzibar in October
October is the tail end of the dry season and you can generally expect hot, dry conditions. The short rains typically start in early November, and so this does mean that there is an increased likelihood of rainy spells as the month progresses. October remains a popular month to travel, particularly so during the European half-term school holidays, and advance booking is advised.
With high demand and great weather prices remain high, however there are some long-stay special offers to be found. South-easterly winds mean that the northeast coast can be more sheltered and conditions for diving can be good.
- End of the dry season, generally good beach weather.
- Increased chance of rain, particularly near the end of the month.
- Popular with families during the half-term school holiday.
- High demand means prices remain high.
- Northeast coast generally more sheltered.
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in October
Zanzibar in November
The short rains start during November, however their exact start varies year on year. You are likely to experience a mixture of hot, dry days with the occasional tropical shower, however we find that short showers can actually be quite refreshing. With the start of the rains the humidity can shoot up and while the coastal properties tend to receive a pleasant cooling breeze Stone Town and the island interior can feel quite hot and clammy.
Prices drop in November and there are some real bargains to be found. This time of year can be great value for money, especially near the start of the month when the weather conditions are very comparable to late October. The demand is generally lower, and the island starts to feel much quieter.
- Variable weather: mostly hot and dry but with some clouds and rain.
- Hot temperatures, with humidity on the rise.
- Less busy than October, and with lower prices it can be great value.
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in November
Zanzibar in December
December falls in to the short rainy season, and the weather can be variable. Days are likely to be hot and humid, with the occasional patch of rain, although showers can be a blessing in disguise as they help to lower the temperature. Early December is fairly quiet and prices are low, however this changes dramatically over Christmas and New Year.
The festive season, from around 20th December to 5th January, is arguably the most popular time to visit Zanzibar. Prices are at their highest, and long minimum stays are imposed. Due to the very high demand booking early is essential, especially if you’re a group or a large family. Book six months to a year in advance, or even more, if possible.
- Variable weather, with a mix of hot, sunny days and tropical showers.
- High humidity, which may be mitigated by the cool ocean breeze.
- Quiet with lower prices earlier in the month.
- Busy and exceptionally popular over Christmas and New Year.
- Advance booking over Christmas and New Year is essential.
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in December
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