About Xanadu Villas
Since opening in 2016, Xanadu Villas has gained a reputation as one of Zanzibar's most luxurious boutique hotels.
Its nine private villas are set against the palm-fringed beach of the Michamvi Peninsula and their striking architecture underlines its contention to be a sophisticated, exclusive beach retreat.
Xanadu Villas sets high targets for itself, striving to “exceed tranquillity, luxury and expectation”. Despite the hyperbole, it does achieve really high standards: spectacular villas; 'on point' service; and some of the best food we've eaten on Zanzibar. If you are looking for a small, contemporary hotel with highly personalised service and in an intimate setting, it makes a great choice.
Our view
Xanadu Villas sets high targets for itself, striving to “exceed tranquillity, luxury and expectation”. Despite the hyperbole, it does achieve really high standards: spectacular villas; 'on point' service; and some of the best food we've eaten on Zanzibar. If you are looking for a small, contemporary hotel with highly personalised service and in an intimate setting, it makes a great choice.
Zanzibar expert
Accommodation
9 villas
Children
Best for 6+
Open
1 June to 30 April
Activities
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Fishing
Kayaking
Scuba-diving
Snorkelling
Watersports
Traveller reviews of Xanadu Villas
3 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
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View galleryXanadu Villas: Our full report
Since opening in 2016, Xanadu Villas has gained a reputation as one of Zanzibar's most luxurious boutique hotels.
Its nine private villas are set against the palm-fringed beach of the Michamvi Peninsula and their striking architecture underlines its contention to be a sophisticated, exclusive beach retreat.
The Michamvi Peninsula, on Zanzibar's south-east coast, is famed for its extensive white-sand beach, which forms the perfect backdrop for Xanadu Villas: with its towering white domes and organic curves, this is one of the most unusual properties on Zanzibar. Modern design is balanced by traditional Zanzibari touches such as makuti thatch, dhow-wood furniture and local artwork. But what really makes Xanadu Villas stand out is the attention to detail; every aspect has been carefully considered, from the handmade soaps in the bathrooms to the tropical landscaped gardens. The result is a stylish, elegant hotel where everything appears to work seamlessly.
Xanadu Villas consists of nine individually designed villas, all providing an exceptional level of luxury. Bright African batik cushions and fabrics add the occasional splash of colour to a fairly neutral colour palette of pale greys and clean whites. Much of the furniture is bespoke, having been designed and created specifically for Xanadu; our favourite pieces were the beautiful wardrobes and wooden sofas created from reclaimed dhow sailing boats. All villas come with a private butler who can be reached 24 hours a day via the radio in the bedroom.
Despite Xanadu's reasonably small plot, careful design and planting ensure that the villas feel very private and are not overlooked by each other. The air-conditioned bedrooms are spacious and tastefully designed, with a double king-size bed, oversized furniture, and amenities including a Smeg fridge minibar, hairdryers, bathrobes and slippers. In the en-suite bathrooms, with a powerful rain shower, twin basins and a tiled bench seat, complimentary Africology toiletries are provided. Each villa has a private plunge pool, and some also have their own private lounge with cosy sofas and a small kitchenette. In design, however, each villa is quite distinctive:
- Mawingu is the largest one bedroom villa featuring an outside seating area with wonderful ocean views, and a private plunge pool
- Mawimbi is a slightly smaller one bedroom ocean view villa, but no less delightful! It too features an outside seating area and plunge pool
- Umande is a cozy garden view villa. The beautiful en-suite bedroom opens on to a large outside space, with comfortable loungers and a big plunge pool.
- Alfajiri feels very private and secluded, and is a popular choice with honeymooners. Downstairs is a spacious lounge, while the first-floor bedroom has a sizeable wooden balcony overlooking the plunge pool below. There are ocean views from the balcony
- Kimwondo has, in our opinion, the most impressive design (we're told it is the architect's favourite too!). It is dominated by a spectacular rooftop terrace, with a private plunge pool, soft seating and outside dining area. Downstairs is the bedroom, which opens out onto a patio with tropical plants and a baraza bench.
- Mlima and Korongo are very similar in style and design, each with two bedrooms, a private plunge pool and a separate lounge topped with one of Xanadu's trademark white domes. These are great options for families with older children, or friends travelling together.
- Mbingu is the presidential suite, spread over three storeys and the largest of Xanadu's six villas. On the ground floor, the stylish lounge and bar leads on to the patio with large kidney-shaped plunge pool, while the bedrooms are on the first and second floors. The pièce de résistance, however, is the stunning rooftop plunge pool with views over the Indian Ocean.
- Nyota (Swahili for 'star') is the newest addition to the property. An impressive two bedroom presidential villa featuring a large private pool and sleeping up to six. This is a wonderful option for a family group
Narrow paths wind down to the beach, where hammocks are strung between palm trees and sunloungers are shaded by makuti-thatch umbrellas. A small seating area raised up on a wooden deck overlooking the beach is the site for occasional beach dinners.
The beach is also the setting for the Kiota Spa, where you’ll find a single therapy room, seating area and plunge pool. The selection of treatments includes massages, facials, manicures, pedicures and reflexology. Prices starting from US$90 for a 30-minute back and shoulder massage, rising to US$220 for a 90-minute deep-tissue massage.
The two activity managers at Xanadu will guide you through their wide range of activities, from stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, kitesurfing and sunset cruises to island excursions such as visits to Stone Town and the famous spice farms. They can also arrange snorkelling and diving through the PADI-affiliated Buccaneer Diving Centre.
Geographics
- Location
- Michamvi Peninsula, Zanzibar
- Ideal length of stay
- Spend at least four nights at Xanadu to relax and enjoy the hotel and beautiful beach.
- Directions
- It takes around 30 minutes to fly to Zanzibar from Dar es Salaam, and then it is a further hour by car to Xanadu Villas.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board
- Food quality
- The food is one of the real highlights of a stay at Xanadu Villas, and these were among the best meals we've eaten on the island. The cuisine is international in style, with fresh fish and seafood always on the menu, as much as possible being bought locally – and the fish often caught by a member of staff the same morning. A top international chef and his team produce culinary marvels: fresh, inventive and incredibly tasty – guests are told to arrive hungry!
Dining times are just as flexible as the dining locations, with everything arranged to suit your preferences.
A wide-ranging breakfast includes a range of fresh tropical fruits, yoghurts, breads and pastries. Eggs are cooked to order. Our eggs Benedict with hollandaise sauce and fresh spinach was delicious, and an unusual option on a breakfast menu in Zanzibar.
Lunch is normally light and fresh, with dishes such as grilled octopus salad or tempura prawns. This may be followed by a homemade ice-cream or fruity sorbet.
During our stay we were served a traditional Swahili dinner, albeit elevated to a whole new level. We started with a creamy, beautifully spiced bean soup, then feasted on an exquisite medley of curries, salads, chutneys and pilau rice served with chapatis. Dessert consisted of spiced masala tea served with, sticky, Swahili-style doughnuts. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- Room service is included as standard. Each villa is assigned its own private butler who is always on hand to provide cool drinks and meals to your room.
- Drinks included
- The majority of drinks are included at Xanadu Villas, with some excellent wines. Premium wines and champagnes are at additional cost, as are – unusually for a hotel of this quality (and price!) – all sprits, with cocktails costing US$12 each.
Special interests
- Honeymoons
- Situated on the Michamvi Peninsula, Xanadu Villas has access to miles of palm-fringed white sandy beach and azure water. With no direct neighbours, the beach remains quiet much of the day, resulting in an idyllic spot for a beach holiday on Zanzibar.
- See ideas for Honeymoons in Zanzibar
- Beach holidays
- Xanadu Villas exudes peace, tranquillity, and provides an idyllic setting for a romantic honeymoon on Zanzibar. Stroll along the beach, indulge in a massage, or enjoy a gourmet meal in the privacy of your own exquisite villa.
- See ideas for Beach holidays in Zanzibar
- Private villas & houses
- A luxurious boutique hotel with nine private villas set against the palm-fringed beach. Some villas have two bedrooms, making them suitable for families with older children.
- See ideas for Private villas & houses in Zanzibar
- Luxury
- Xanadu Villas is undoubtedly one of the most luxurious hotels on Zanzibar. With six exquisitely designed villas, private plunge pools, butler service and exceptional food, Xanadu provides a sumptuous and intimate beach retreat.
- See ideas for Luxury in Zanzibar
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Xanadu Villas welcomes mature children over the age of five.
- Property’s age restrictions
- 5+
- Special activities & services
- There are no special services for children, but there is a large pool and plenty of child-friendly excursions such as snorkelling and boat trips.
- Generally recommended for children
- While Xanadu Villas accepts children over the age of five, it has a very adult atmosphere, and encourages an ambience of peace and tranquillity. That said, the two-bedroom villas can work really well for families with teenage children.
- Notes
- The swimming pool is deep and parental supervision is recommended.
Communications
- Power supply notes
- There is a backup generator in case of power cuts.
- Communications
- Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, including on the beach. There is a good phone signal.
- TV & radio
- There are no TVs at Xanadu Villas.
- Water supply
- Transported in
- Water supply notes
- All bathrooms are fully plumbed with flushing toilets and hot and cold running water.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- There is a comprehensive first-aid kit on site and staff are trained in its use. For anything more serious there is a hospital in Stone Town, which is around an hour's drive away.
- Dangerous animals
- Low Risk
- Security measures
- Discreet security guards are on duty 24 hours a day, including on the beach. There are also CCTV cameras in place in the communal areas.
- Fire safety
- Fire extinguishers are present throughout the property.
Activities
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Fishing
Kayaking
Scuba-diving
Snorkelling
Watersports
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- Laundry is included; this is machine washed and line dried.
- Money
- Each villa has an electronic safe. Xanadu Villas is able to exchange small sums of money.
- Accepted payment on location
- All major currencies are accepted, including US dollars, Tanzanian shillings, GB pounds and euros. Credit and debit cards are accepted, including AMEX, but note that these carry a 3% surcharge.
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Xanadu Villas's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Xanadu Villas.
Other 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.
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.
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.
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 Xanadu Villas 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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