This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. Learn more

Skip to main content

Talk to an expert 1-800-242-2434 Lines open now

User menu
Kisiwa On The Beach
Kisiwa On The Beach

Kisiwa On The Beach


6°16’46.7"S 39°32’6.1"E

About Kisiwa On The Beach

Located on Zanzibar's south-east coast, near Paje, Kisiwa On The Beach is an excellent option if you're looking ...

... for a small and comfortable resort with a lovely swimming pool and white sandy beach.

With 22 rooms Kisiwa On The Beach is a wonderful mid-size property that offers good value and comfortable accommodation. The property is located on a picturesque stretch of beach, overlooking turquoise waters, and is a good option for both couples and families.

Our view

With 22 rooms Kisiwa On The Beach is a wonderful mid-size property that offers good value and comfortable accommodation. The property is located on a picturesque stretch of beach, overlooking turquoise waters, and is a good option for both couples and families.

Jessica Plumb

Jessica Plumb

Zanzibar expert

Accommodation

22 villa rooms

Children

Family friendly.

Open

Closed in May.

Activities

Cultural excursion

Cultural excursion

Kayaking

Kayaking

Scuba-diving

Scuba-diving

Snorkelling

Snorkelling

Watersports

Watersports

Traveller reviews of Kisiwa On The Beach

3 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.


80%
3 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
1
Good
1
Average
1
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Mr MfromCambridge

Arrived 3 Aug 2024, 3 nights

"Kisiwa On The Beach review"

"Beautiful location …" Read Mr M’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs. HfromToronto

Arrived 20 Jun 2024, 6 nights

"Kisiwa On The Beach review"

"Kisiwa could be an amazing place to stay for a holiday. The staff, service, …" Read Mr & Mrs. H’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Average

Mr Cfromnorth London

Arrived 30 Oct 2023, 4 nights

"Kisiwa On The Beach review"

"a beautiful location …" Read Mr C’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

See all Kisiwa On The Beach reviews

Kisiwa On The Beach: Our full report

Located on Zanzibar's south-east coast, near Paje, Kisiwa On The Beach is an excellent option if you're looking ...

... for a small and comfortable resort with a lovely swimming pool and white sandy beach.

On arrival at Kisiwa On The Beach you enter through a commanding traditional Zanzibari-style lobby, leading down steps to a network of paths and well-manicured tropical gardens. The 22 villa rooms, all similar in style, are dotted throughout the property. They have the typical local green mabati (corrugated-iron) roofs.

They are categorised into four room types:

  • Bahari Grand Beach Front Villas - These 3 villas are the largest rooms and closest to the beach.
  • Bahari Grand Villas - 2 villas which are also large, but set a little further back from the beach.
  • Raha Luxury Villa - 6 smaller villas set behind the Bahari rooms. They offer garden views but are nicely spaced apart.
  • Starehe Luxury Villa - 11 smaller villas, furthest from the ocean and set towards the back of the property in lush vegetation. These villas are a little closer together, and some are interconnected, making them a good choice for families.
Internally the rooms are similar and all feel spacious and comfortable. The furnishings are simple, but are modern and spotlessly clean, with a king-sized Zanzibari bed with fitted net, fan and very efficient air-conditioning. There is a seating area, satellite TV and tea- and coffee-making facilities. The ensuite bathrooms are functional but include a bathtub as well as a shower. Toiletries are provided, as is a hairdryer. Outside each villa is a small veranda with a couple of campaign, folding chairs.

The large, sparkling swimming pool, is located in front of the open-fronted makuti-thatched dinning room, and is inviting for guests of all ages. There's a good number of sun-beds and parasols, both here and down on the beach just beyond the pool area.

Alongside the small, well equipped and air-conditioned gym is the hotel's 'Blossom' spa. The spa has two treatment rooms and offers a range of treatments including hot stone massages, exfoliating body scrubs and manicures. Prices start from $40 and you can book treatments at reception.

Many guests simply choose to spend their time here relaxing on the beach, or around the swimming pool, but a variety of activities can be arranged. This area is particularly well known for its excellent kite-surfing, and Kisiwa makes use of the Zanzibar Kite Paradise centre, which is located right next door. The centre caters for all abilities, but the kitesurfing is best from June to September, and in December and January. Snorkelling and scuba-diving trips (both activities are best done by going out to the reef by boat) can also be easily arranged.

It is also possible to organise a guided walk into Paje village and the nearby seaweed farming centre. Zanzibar's capital, Stone Town, can be explored in a day-trip from the beach, or stay for a little longer and spend the night at sister property Kisiwa House located in the heart of the old town. Do speak to your Expert Africa consultant for more ideas and details.

Geographics

Location
Michamvi Peninsula, Zanzibar
Ideal length of stay
4 nights – or even longer if you love relaxing on a beautiful beach.
Directions
It takes around 30 minutes to fly to Zanzibar from Dar es Salaam, then it is approximately an hour by road to Kisiwa On The Beach.
Accessible by
Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Half Board
Food quality
Most guests will stay at Kisiwa On The Beach on a Half Board basis.

Guests have breakfast and dinner in the Bembe Restaurant overlooking the swimming pool.

Depending on the number of guests dinner may be served as a buffet, or a set menu with a few options for each course. If there is a buffet there will always be a 'live cooking' station, to ensure that everything is fresh and hot. We found the food at Kisiwa On The Beach to be varied and tasty. We enjoyed a Swahili buffet, with a selection of seafood, meat and vegetable dishes.

Breakfast is usually served from 7am and includes a range of fruits and cereals with hot food cooked to order. We loved the fluffy pancakes! An à la carte menu is available from the Poa bar for lunch and snacks throughout the day.
Dining style
Individual Tables
Dining locations
Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service
Room service is possible – a tray charge will be added.
Drinks included
Drinks (reasonably priced) are an additional cost and payable locally.

Children

Attitude towards children
Kisiwa On The Beach welcome children of all ages.
Property’s age restrictions
There are no age restrictions.
Special activities & services
Babysitting (not professional) can be arranged informally with a member of staff.
Equipment
Kisiwa On The Beach can provide baby cots, extra beds for children, and high chairs in the dining area.
Generally recommended for children
Yes.

Communications

Power supply notes
24/7 electricity - charging points in room and A/C.
Communications
WiFi is provided in guest rooms.
TV & radio
There are small satellite TVs in rooms.
Water supply
Borehole
Water supply notes
All bathrooms have flush toilets and showers are plumbed.

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
Yes
Medical care
There is a comprehensive first aid box on site. The hotel has access to an on-call doctor and there is medical clinic in nearby Paje. For more serious matters guests would be taken to Stone Town.
Dangerous animals
Low Risk
Security measures
Kisiwa On The Beach has discrete security guards around the property and on the beach front.
Fire safety
There are fire extinguishers in all the main areas and outside the rooms.

Activities

  • Cultural excursion

    Cultural excursion

  • Kayaking

    Kayaking

  • Scuba-diving

    Scuba-diving

  • Snorkelling

    Snorkelling

  • Watersports

    Watersports

Extras

Disabled access
On Request
Laundry facilities
Additional cost - 24 hour service.
Money
There are electronic safes in the rooms. Small amounts of major foreign currencies can be exchanged at reception.
Accepted payment on location
All major cards are accepted, with a 6% surcharge.

Plan and book your trip with Expert Africa

All of our trips are tailor-made, so we'll always adapt them to suit you.
Talk to an Expert and let us plan and arrange your perfect trip.


Talk to an Expert

Call or email us now!
We’ll match you with the Specialist in our team who is best suited to help you. Then together we can start planning your trip.

Set up your itinerary

Based on our experience and your ideas, your specialist will create a detailed, costed itinerary. We’ll refine it together, until we have a trip that you’re perfectly happy with.

Prepare for your trip

The same Specialist will make the seamless arrangements for your trip, send you detailed travel documents, and be available to answer any questions before you depart.

Travel with peace of mind

After you set off, you’ll be cared for by our partners in Africa, most of whom have worked with Expert Africa for decades. And if you ever need us urgently, we’re available 24/7.

When you return

We love to learn about your trip, and so will always be grateful if you’ve the time to give feedback to your Specialist when you return.

Kisiwa On The Beach's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Kisiwa On The Beach.


Other lodges in Michamvi Peninsula

Alternative places to stay in this same area.


Breezes Beach Club

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.


91% (39 reviews)
Qambani

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.


94% (14 reviews)
Baraza Resort & Spa

Baraza Resort & Spa

Baraza is a high-quality resort, with a buzzing atmosphere and a range of activities that appeal both to families and lively honeymooners.


94% (14 reviews)
White Sand Villas

White Sand Villas

Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa is a stylish, small resort lodge located near the town of Paje.


100% (6 reviews)
The Palms

The Palms

The Palms is an exclusive and luxurious beach getaway - though the main areas are small – next to Breezes and sharing Breezes' facilities.


100% (5 reviews)
Xanadu Villas

Xanadu Villas

Situated on a picturesque beach on the Michamvi Peninsula, Xanadu Villas is a sophisticated boutique hotel with six luxurious private villas.


100% (3 reviews)
Kono Kono Beach Villas

Kono Kono

Kono Kono is a contemporary beach resort on a quiet stretch of west-facing beach on the Michamvi peninsula.


73% (3 reviews)
Anna of Zanzibar

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.


80% (1 review)
Zawadi Hotel

Zawadi

Set on a pretty cove on Zanzibar’s Michamvi Peninsula, Zawadi is a modern boutique hotel offering lots of space and privacy.


100% (1 review)

When to go to Michamvi Peninsula

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Kisiwa On The Beach 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

Inspire me

Looking for inspiration on where to travel next?

Visit our trip chooser to explore your options and find inspiration for your perfect African adventure

Inspire me

Login to Expert Africa

Login or create an account below.

Forgotten your details?

Enter your email address and we'll send you a link to re-set your password.

Create wish-lists, send enquiries, make and manage your safari bookings, and more...

It's free & quick to set up

Benefits from creating an account.

  • Save your wish-list
  • Send us an enquiry
  • Pay online and manage your trip
  • Subscribe to our newsletter
  • Give us feedback on your trip
  • Enhanced features

Need some help? Talk to our team
Africa