About Zanzi Resort
Zanzi Resort is located on the quiet west coast of the island, around 30 minutes north of Stone Town.
This is the ultimate luxurious hideaway if you are looking for a few days of privacy and pampering. The resort is nestled in 15 acres of manicured tropical garden and offers sweeping cliff-top views.
Zanzi's emphasis is privacy and service. The staff here are impeccably trained and will go above and beyond to ensure that guests have everything that they need - and more - when you stay here. What it lacks in a decent-sized beach, it makes up for with its beautiful swimming pools, manicured gardens and peaceful atmosphere. With first class service and food, it is a great a place to relax and be pampered in a very quiet area of Zanzibar.
Our view
Zanzi's emphasis is privacy and service. The staff here are impeccably trained and will go above and beyond to ensure that guests have everything that they need - and more - when you stay here. What it lacks in a decent-sized beach, it makes up for with its beautiful swimming pools, manicured gardens and peaceful atmosphere. With first class service and food, it is a great a place to relax and be pampered in a very quiet area of Zanzibar.
Zanzibar expert
Accommodation
13 villas
Children
Best for 10+
Open
All year
Activities
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Horse-riding
Scuba-diving
Snorkelling
Watersports
Traveller reviews of Zanzi Resort
1 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
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View galleryZanzi Resort: Our full report
Zanzi Resort is located on the quiet west coast of the island, around 30 minutes north of Stone Town.
This is the ultimate luxurious hideaway if you are looking for a few days of privacy and pampering. The resort is nestled in 15 acres of manicured tropical garden and offers sweeping cliff-top views.
Arriving at Zanzi you'll be greeted with fresh coconut water and a warm smile from the friendly staff. Almost immediately you notice how quiet this area of the island is; Zanzi is a secluded haven without any direct neighbours.
The spacious resort is surrounded by lush vegetation and is thoughtfully designed throughout. There are 13 villas at Zanzi, and these are as follows:
If you’d like to venture out of your villa – and it’s easy to envisage spending your entire stay enjoying the privacy of the villa pool and garden – you'll find a number of communal facilities. Just off the large, stylish restaurant-bar, there’s a small library and TV room, with games and DVDs. Near the main swimming pool an open air gym has natural work-out weights and ropes. Or if you fancy something a bit less energetic, you can book a yoga class. For ultimate relaxation, book a hot stone session in the Japanese ganban'yoku house, or a full body massage in the spa overlooking the ocean.
In common with many parts of north-west Zanzibar, there’s not much of a beach at Zanzi due to the rocky terrain of old coral reefs. The team have worked hard to create a small artificial sandy area, and this is very pleasant indeed, although it is not big enough for all the guests to enjoy at once. To help overcome this, they have built an impressive long wooden jetty, with sun loungers and a telephone at the end so you can order from the bar. Steps from the jetty will take you straight into the crystal blue ocean, so it is possible to swim from here at all stages of the tide.
When we stayed in 2019, we didn’t find the lack of a real beach was a problem, as there’s ample relaxation space in your villa garden or around the main pool, and the ocean can be very easily accessed throughout the day. However if you were hoping for long beach walks it’s important to understand that this might not be the property for you.
Zanzi can arrange and book many of the activities usually available in Zanzibar, including diving, snorkelling, sailing, fishing, bicycle hire, and even horse-rising and golf. The team can also organise island excursions such as spice tours and Stone Town trips.
Geographics
- Location
- Northern Zanzibar, Zanzibar
- Ideal length of stay
- 4 nights or even longer if you enjoy relaxing on the coast.
- Directions
- It takes around 35 minutes to fly to Zanzibar from Dar es Salaam, and then then it is a further one hour by car to Zanzi. As with many of the beach properties on Zanzibar the immediate approach to the resort can seem a bit a rough, but do not be alarmed - the bumpy journey is worth it when you get there.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board
- Food quality
- The team at Zanzi is very experienced and as a result the quality of the food is very high. The lodge has its own vegetable and herb plantation, and use locally sourced produce; the food at Zanzi is nothing short of excellent.
Dining at Zanzi is very flexible, you can eat where you want, when you want. The kitchen is not closed until they know that all their guests have everything they require. During our stay it seemed the majority of guests were eating in their private villas, or in the main restaurant, but tables can be arranged in the gardens, the jetty or on the small beach. Meals are highly personalised and the chef will tailor dishes to your individual preferences and dietary requests.
Breakfast - There is an extensive a la carte menu, and you can expect all the usual breakfast items, alongside some more unusual options including the traditional Swahili breakfast with fish soup, chapati and red beans. We enjoyed pancakes served with coconut and cardamon banana.
Lunch - For lunch you can choose from a number of local or international light dishes and snacks, for example seafood, salads, sandwiches and burgers.
Dinner - The dinner menu changes daily depending on what the chef sources in the local market, but always includes two appetizers, three main courses, and two desserts to choose from. We enjoyed a delicately flavoured vegetable soup, with a parmesan crisp, followed by a beautifully cooked snapper with pea purée, and finished off with a passion fruit fool. It was exquisite. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- Room service commonplace.
- Drinks included
- Drinks are only included if staying on an 'All inclusive' package. Sodas around $3, Beer $5, cocktails from $10 and bottles of wine from $40.
Special interests
- Luxury
- A luxurious hideaway, the Zanzi Resort is tucked away in a quiet area of the island. The 13 villas are spacious and beautifully designed, and each Ocean Villa has their own private pool, ideal for a relaxing and secluded beach break.
- See ideas for Luxury in Zanzibar
Children
- Attitude towards children
- There are no age restrictions but young families are not strongly encouraged.
- Property’s age restrictions
- None
- Special activities & services
- There are a few children's board games, DVDs and pool floats, but otherwise there are no special children's activities. Baby sitting can be arranged with the ladies in house keeping.
- Equipment
- Yes
- Generally recommended for children
- No
- Notes
- Parents should be aware that children are their responsibility for the duration of their stay. Zanzi has an adult atmosphere, and whilst families will be very well treated and warmly welcomed, we do not feel that this is a very child friendly property.
Communications
- Power supply notes
- Back up generator.
24/7 electricity, charging faculties in room. European round pin plug standard in the rooms here, but adapter plugs are also provided. - Communications
- Extremely good WiFi throughout. Patchy cellphone signal. Telephones are provided in every room.
- TV & radio
- Sat TV and DVD player in all rooms. There is also a small TV room in the central area.
- Water supply
- Mains
- Water supply notes
- Fully plumbed.
Health & safety
- Medical care
- The property is fumigated once a week and the staff are confident that the property is malaria fee. However Zanzibar is a malarial area, and Expert Africa would strongly recommend suitable precautions, including prophylaxis are taken. There is a first aid box on site for minor illnesses and injuries. For more serious medical problems a local doctor can be called.
- Dangerous animals
- Low Risk
- Security measures
- Zanzi Resort is gated, and there security guards discreetly patrolling the resort.
- Fire safety
- There are fire extinguishers outside each room and in the central areas.
Activities
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Horse-riding
Scuba-diving
Snorkelling
Watersports
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- 24 hour service. Extra charge of $3-$7 depending on the item.
- Money
- Zanzi can offer a small amount of currency exchange or cash back service. There are electric safes in each room for storing cash and other valuables.
- Accepted payment on location
- All major currencies are accepted including US Dollars, Tanzanian Shillings, Pounds, Euro. there is a 4% surcharge on card payments and Visa, MasterCard and American Express are accepted.
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Zanzi Resort's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Zanzi Resort.
Other lodges in Northern Zanzibar
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
Kilindi
Kilindi is a luxury property on the north-west coast of Zanzibar, fronting a long, secluded beach, with stylish modern pavilions.
Zuri Zanzibar
Zuri Zanzibar is a smart resort hotel on a beautiful beach where you can swim at all stages of the tide.
The Z Hotel
Appealing to younger travellers, the Z hotel is a modern, stylish beach hotel with good facilities located on the vibrant Nungwi peninsula.
Essque Zalu Zanzibar
One of the newest hotels in the north of the island, Essque Zalu has the finish and facilities of a large, international-style hotel.
When to go to Northern Zanzibar
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Zanzi Resort in Northern Zanzibar
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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