South-west Zanzibar: in detail
South-west Zanzibar beach holidays: the full story
South of Stone Town airport is the Fumba Peninsula. It's probably the most relaxed and friendly corner of the island, but until recently it has really only been used as venue for short few day-trips, to see dolphins from Kizimkazi or the red colobus monkeys in Jozani Forest.
Several years ago, in 2005, a lodge opened up here: Fumba Beach Lodge. Complete with 40 acres of private land, including three lovely sandy coves. Its just 30 minutes' drive south of Stone Town's airport and one of the few lodges in the Menai Bay Conservation Area.
Another favourite is Unguja (the Swahili word for Zanzibar). Run by the very friendly Ralph and Elies, it's a lovely peaceful lodge where you can snorkel from the beach by day, and enjoy the sunsets by night.
Meanwhile a few kilometres offshore, Chumbe Island is a tiny coral island about six miles southwest of Zanzibar Town. It is surrounded by the protection of a marine park, and under the water's surface you'll find some of the best coral gardens anywhere in the world.
Chumbe Island Lodge is at the heart of the tiny island – a remarkable, trail-blazing, award-winning example of a place to stay that is genuinely ecologically sensitive, and has a real message of education and community development.
Where to stay in South-west Zanzibar
Our suggestions for beach lodges in South-west Zanzibar
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.
Fumba Beach Lodge
Fumba Beach Lodge is stylishly put together, with spacious, luxurious rooms, comfortable communal areas and a fantastic infinity pool.
The Residence
The Residence is a very large resort hotel in south-west Zanzibar. Each villa has its own 8-metre lap pool.
