About Fumba Beach Lodge
Fumba Beach Lodge first opened its doors in 2005, and offers plenty of style, character and creativity - ...
... with a real feeling of space throughout the lodge. It is the perfect place for those seeking a bit of privacy as there are endless places to sit and relax both around the pool, the surrounding area and dotted along the beach.
Fumba Beach Lodge is a stylish and well run property in a secluded part of Zanzibar. Although the beach here may not be the postcard-perfect style of white sand beach found elsewhere on the island, the lodge is a relaxing retreat and very much worth considering.
Our view
Fumba Beach Lodge is a stylish and well run property in a secluded part of Zanzibar. Although the beach here may not be the postcard-perfect style of white sand beach found elsewhere on the island, the lodge is a relaxing retreat and very much worth considering.
Zanzibar expert
Accommodation
26 rooms
Children
Good for all ages.
Open
All year
Activities
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Scuba-diving
Snorkelling
Watersports
Traveller reviews of Fumba Beach Lodge
39 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
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View galleryFumba Beach Lodge: Our full report
Fumba Beach Lodge first opened its doors in 2005, and offers plenty of style, character and creativity - ...
... with a real feeling of space throughout the lodge. It is the perfect place for those seeking a bit of privacy as there are endless places to sit and relax both around the pool, the surrounding area and dotted along the beach.
Although Fumba has a capacity of 60 guests, there is usually a very quiet, relaxed feel to the place. The main central area has a great sunset bar made from an old African dhow - and is a popular place for people to gather together for a drink while watching the unobstructed view of the sunset before dinner. This can create quite a buzzy atmosphere, increased when bushbabies come to be fed pawpaw at about the same time.
The main bar and lounge area are in a large open sided thatched area with seats for lounging around the bar, and then an adjoining restaurant area with plenty of tables and chairs both inside and spilling out onto the large patio.
The kidney-shaped infinity pool is impressive, and has plenty of loungers and shady areas for relaxing and chilling. Please note that there are not pool depth markings.
There are four different categories of room at Fumba Beach Lodge, most of them grouped in pairs – 8 garden view rooms, 12 seaview rooms, 2 baobab suites (rooms #5 and #6, with huge beds) and 4 luxury suites (with outside double showers and, again, huge beds). It's worth noting that even most of the garden view rooms have a little bit of a seaview, and rooms #7 and #8 interconnect. The feel of each of the rooms is similar, with day beds outside on the veranda and the suites have very impressive bathrooms. The garden view and the seaview rooms have slightly larger porches and the luxury suites have roof terraces.
The massage centre, or Baobab Spa as it is known at Fumba, has an intriguing design built around a baobab tree and is surrounded by wooden rafters. Honeymoon couples may especially appreciate a double massage followed by a candlelit sunset Jacuzzi, or a champagne breakfast Jacuzzi - raised six meters up into the trees.
There is also an excellent on-site PADI dive centre with a Canadian instructor. You head out to the dive sites on a small dhow with an engine, which is a great traditional experience, and the sites they visit tend to be a lot quieter than those found on the east coast. When we last went diving with them we were the only divers at the dive site. There are plenty of good spots for diving and snorkelling. They also do kayak rental here.
However, although we think Fumba Beach is an excellent lodge, it is important to be aware that it does not have the perfect white sand that can be found on the east coast. Fumba is situated on a yellow-sand beach that is dotted with exposed coral rock. That said, it still has beautiful clear turquoise waters and its location on the west side of Zanzibar means it gets a great view of the sunset. Despite not having pristine white sand beaches, Fumba Beach Lodge does rather make up for this in the amount of wildlife around the area. Elephant shrews are regularly seen running through the undergrowth, with suni antelope and monkeys often making an appearance.
Geographics
- Location
- South-west Zanzibar, Zanzibar
- Ideal length of stay
- Spend at least three days here to really relax and enjoy it.
- Directions
- It is about a 35-minute flight to Zanzibar from Dar es Salaam, and then it is a further 30 minutes south to Fumba. Fumba Beach Lodge is on the airport side of town, so it's a good lodge to end at if you're leaving on an early-morning flight from Zanzibar.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Half Board
- Food quality
- Fumba Beach Lodge is very relaxed about their meal timings and they will happily accommodate any dietary requirements. Breakfast is usually a variety of fruits and cereals as well as a full English breakfast.
Lunch can be chosen from an à la carte menu. On our last visit, choices ranged from gazpacho soup (one of seven starters) to catch of the day (barracuda), calamari, and more familiar choices such as burgers and club sandwiches.
Afternoon tea is offered at 4pm with cakes and biscuits.
Dinner is a more formal 4-course affair. On one recent visit, the dining took place in several areas around the lodge meaning it was a very private and romantic experience. It included shrimp, avocado, tomato and gouda cheese on zucchini, followed by French onion soup, then grilled pork chops, and finished with a delicious pineapple and cinnamon strudel with passion cream, finished off with a coffee.
The food was beautifully presented and really tasty. Once a week they have a Swahili night with a buffet. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- On request Fumba Beach Lodge will do private dinners, however all room service should be arranged in advance as there are no phones in the rooms.
- Drinks included
- Drinks are not included. A beer costs around $3.00, a glass of wine is $4.50 and soda is around $2.00.
Special interests
- Diving & snorkelling
- Fumba Beach Lodge operates a good PADI dive centre. Though the diving from Fumba is less spectacular than the best of the East Coast; the corals here are beautiful and in better condition. There aren’t as many fish, but it is a blissful experience.
- See ideas for Diving & snorkelling in Zanzibar
- Wellbeing
- At Fumba the Baobab Spa is well-stocked with beauty products. On the roof there are comfy sofas and more treatment tables. The highlight, a Jacuzzi built on a decking in the higher branches of the tree, is a lovely place to relax.
- See ideas for Wellbeing in Zanzibar
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children are welcome at Fumba Beach Lodge.
- Property’s age restrictions
- There are no age restrictions at Fumba Beach Lodge.
- Special activities & services
- Fumba Beach lodge can offer babysitting. (No charge for this, but a tip for the sitter is expected).
- Equipment
- Beautiful Zanzibar cots are available on request.
- Generally recommended for children
- We would recommend Fumba Beach Lodge for children.
- Notes
- On one of our recent visits, there were a few families with children staying at Fumba Beach Lodge. They particularly enjoyed the pool. The lodge's team was very good, organizing lots of activities – from snorkeling to dolphin-watching, to help keep the children entertained.
Communications
- Power supply notes
- There is 24 hour electricity and guests can charge batteries in their rooms.
- Communications
- There is a free Wi-Fi area behind the restaurant. There is also intermittent cell-phone reception in the area.
- TV & radio
- There is no TV or radio at Fumba Beach Lodge.
- Water supply
- Borehole
- Water supply notes
- The tap water should not be drunk - bottled water is supplied.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- There are trained first aiders who live on site at the dive centre. The nearest doctor is in Stone Town, which is about 30 minutes by car.
- Dangerous animals
- Low Risk
- Security measures
- Fumba Beach Lodge has a closed gate and security guards.
- Fire safety
- There are fire extinguishers dotted around the main areas of Fumba Beach Lodge. Each room has fire drill instructions.
Activities
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Scuba-diving
Snorkelling
Watersports
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- The laundry is an extra charge and when we were last there it was around US$3 - 6 per item.
- Money
- Fumba Beach Lodge will happily exchange US dollars, pounds and euros.
- Accepted payment on location
- You can pay for any extras in US dollars, British pounds, Euros, SA Rand and Tanzanian shillings cash, though they prefer to keep payments cashless. Visa, MasterCard and Amex are accepted.
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Fumba Beach Lodge's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Fumba Beach Lodge.
Excursions from Fumba Beach Lodge
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Fumba Beach Lodge. 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 Forest
Zanzibar Dhow Safari
Full day - approx. eight hours
Discover the coast and islands of the Menai Bay from a traditional Zanzibari dhow. Explore this beautiful marine conservation area with a local guide, snorkelling over coral reefs, swimming through mangrove lagoons and keeping an eye out for dolphins. To top it all, you’ll also be treated to a fabulous beach barbecue.
More about Zanzibar Dhow SafariOther lodges in South-west Zanzibar
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
Unguja Lodge
Unguja is a small, rustic lodge in southern Zanzibar standing on a quiet beach, with some of the most spacious rooms we have seen on Zanzibar.
Chumbe Island Lodge
Situated on the tiny Chumbe Island, this lodge is an award-winning example of eco-tourism, with excellent snorkelling.
The Residence
The Residence is a very large resort hotel in south-west Zanzibar. Each villa has its own 8-metre lap pool.
When to go to South-west Zanzibar
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Fumba Beach Lodge in South-west 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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