About The Residence Zanzibar
The Residence Zanzibar, built in 2011 on a beautiful stretch of beach on Zanzibar’s south-west coast, has ...
... created widespread buzz across the island. With 66 large separate villas set over 32 hectares of land, it’s a vast self-contained complex, so much so that if you are not being driven around in a golf buggy, you will be given a bicycle to get around. The Residence has a great range of facilities, from tennis courts, a gym and a watersports centre, to a weekly entertainment programme and fully equipped spa, meaning you could quite happily never leave the grounds.
Our feelings about the Residence are a little mixed. It is certainly built to a high standard, and a lot of care and attention to detail has gone into the design, but we found it a little sterile at times. Together with the lack of privacy, and high prices, both for accommodation and extras, it left us feeling that there are other options offering better value for money. However, it would suit those looking for a smart, international style resort, with lots of on-site facilities.
Our view
Our feelings about the Residence are a little mixed. It is certainly built to a high standard, and a lot of care and attention to detail has gone into the design, but we found it a little sterile at times. Together with the lack of privacy, and high prices, both for accommodation and extras, it left us feeling that there are other options offering better value for money. However, it would suit those looking for a smart, international style resort, with lots of on-site facilities.
Zanzibar expert
Accommodation
66 villas
Children
Fine for all ages.
Open
All year
Activities
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Scuba-diving
Snorkelling
Watersports
Traveller reviews of The Residence Zanzibar
3 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
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View galleryThe Residence Zanzibar: Our full report
The Residence Zanzibar, built in 2011 on a beautiful stretch of beach on Zanzibar’s south-west coast, has ...
... created widespread buzz across the island. With 66 large separate villas set over 32 hectares of land, it’s a vast self-contained complex, so much so that if you are not being driven around in a golf buggy, you will be given a bicycle to get around. The Residence has a great range of facilities, from tennis courts, a gym and a watersports centre, to a weekly entertainment programme and fully equipped spa, meaning you could quite happily never leave the grounds.
The Residence Zanzibar is part of the Cenizaro chain of resort hotels, with sister properties in the Maldives, Mauritius and Tunisia. Although there are slight African influences if you look hard enough, the resort as a whole takes on a fairly neutral style, with manicured lawns and extensive concrete pathways for the golf carts and bicycles, and American-style condos extending along the sea-front and in several rows behind.
From the moment you enter the Residence through huge gates, and the long bumpy dirt road suddenly changes to smooth tarmac, you notice that everything is of a very high standard here. You’ll be greeted by the friendly staff at the main reception area, all immaculately presented in matching uniforms, before being whisked off by golf-cart to check in at your private villa.
There are 66 villas in total, split between 6 different categories:
- 34 Luxury Garden Pool Villas with one bedroom
- 13 Luxury Ocean Front Pool Villas with one bedroom
- 11 Prestige Ocean Front Pool Villas with one bedroom
- 5 Frangipani Garden Pool Villas with two bedrooms
- 2 Frangipani Ocean Front Pool Villas with two bedrooms
- 1 Presidential Villa with two bedrooms
The lounge areas are very spacious, and with the shutters pulled back and windows open they do feel quite bright and airy. The flat-screen TV, wicker furniture with cream cushions and polished floor has quite a contemporary feel which doesn’t fill them with character, but they’re spotlessly clean. There’s a small mini-bar (although do beware of the astronomical prices), and tea- and coffee-making facilities here.
Inside, with the curtains drawn, flat-screen TV on and air-con turned up, you could quite easily forget you were in Zanzibar were it not for a large black and white picture on one of the walls depicting a traditional Zanzibari scene such as dhows sailing across the ocean.
The large bedroom is just off the sitting room - the focal point of which is a big four poster bed, behind which you’ll find some space for hanging clothes. The en-suite bathroom is just as impressively spacious. You’re spoilt for choice of where to wash - the stand-alone bath (complete with special “bath menu" where you can order a fragrant bath to be drawn for you), the indoor hot shower, or the outdoor cold shower.
Out the front of each villa is the piece de resistance - a private 8-metre by 3-metre lap pool, complete with loungers. These are certainly some of the largest private pools we’ve seen anywhere and a good deal larger than plunge pools.
What we found most perplexing about these villas, however, was the lack of privacy. Even from the Ocean Front Villas, which are among the priciest, from our pool we could clearly see people in theirs on either side of us, and as we relaxed in our lounge and bedroom we could see people walking past on the beach in front, and they could obviously see us.
All the villas have iPod docks and minibars, and each villa is served by a personal butler, who is always just a call away, should you need anything at any hour of the day.
Activities at The Residence are plentiful. Kayaks, sailing, snorkelling trips, pedal boating, traditional fishing and sailing are all free of charge (with tuition) from the Boat House or Jetty, while kite surfing, deep sea fishing and diving are an extra cost. Guests can also make use of the floodlit tennis court, air-conditioned fitness centre and yoga classes free of charge. There is an onsite PADI Dive Centre catering to divers of all levels.
The Spa is one of the star attractions at The Residence. With six individual pavilions, it offers a long menu of massages, beauty treatments (manicures, pedicures, waxing) as well as hairdressing and make-up.
Dining takes place in either the main dining room, Pavilion Restaurant or in your own villas. Read below for more about the food.
Geographics
- Location
- South-west Zanzibar, Zanzibar
- Ideal length of stay
- You could easily stay here for a week or longer just relaxing on the beach, and taking advantage of the many activities on offer.
- Directions
- The Residence is about a 1-hour drive from the airport.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board
- Food quality
- Breakfast is served in the main restaurant from 7am - 10:30am. There's a wide selection of different options both hot and cold. Fruit, cereals, pastries, cakes, pancakes and cooked breakfasts are all available, washed down with plenty of fresh juice and coffee.
Lunch can be taken in a variety of locations. The dining room is open from 12 noon - 3pm serving a buffet selection of salads, sandwiches, pizzas and fish, followed by fresh fruits and light deserts.
In the evening there are again, several options for dinner. The main dining room serves dinner from 7:30pm - 10:30pm. When we were last there they had a seafood buffet. There were plenty of options, from salads, to sushi, to grilled lobster and fish on the BBQ, to the tempura station. There was certainly enough to go around, and while it was good, it wasn't outstanding. There were several different cakes and pastries for pudding, which again were average.
The more intimate Pavilion Restaurant requires a reservation to secure a table. It's a more stylish restaurant, serving a mixture of Greek, Turkish, Middle-Eastern and Mediterranean food, accompanied by traditional music.
Guests can also choose to dine in their own villas, choosing from the à la carte menu with a credit to put towards the cost. There is however a surcharge of 10 US dollars should you wish to dine in your room. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- Room service is available at extra cost.
- Drinks included
- Drinks are an extra cost, and are fairly expensive. You can expect to pay about $6 for a bottle of water.
Children
- Attitude towards children
- The Residence welcomes children.
- Property’s age restrictions
- There are no age restrictions.
- Special activities & services
- The Residence has special children's meals, as well as a free children's club for children ages 4 - 12 years (between 9am and 5pm). Babysitting can also be arranged on request at an extra charge.
- Equipment
- There are cots and highchairs available on request.
- Generally recommended for children
- The Residence is well equipped for families with children.
- Notes
- Parents should take care and ensure constant supervision of their children whilst in the villas, as the private pools are 1.2m deep.
Communications
- Communications
- There is internet in your rooms if you have a laptop which you can plug in; alternatively WiFi is available throughout the complex. There are phones in each villa.
- TV & radio
- There is a DSTV in each villa with a DVD player. Free DVDs can be loaned from reception.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- There is a fully trained doctor on site and many of the staff are trained in first aid. There is also first aid kits in all of the main areas.
- Dangerous animals
- Low Risk
- Security measures
- There are guards present 24 hours a day and the complex is also gated.
- Fire safety
- There is a fire plan in each room and fire alarms.
Activities
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Scuba-diving
Snorkelling
Watersports
Extras
- Disabled access
- In Place
- Laundry facilities
- Laundry is available at an extra cost.
- Money
- There are safes in each room. The Residence can exchange US$, Euros and UK£.
- Accepted payment on location
- The Residence can accept the above currencies, as well as American Express, Visa and Mastercard; although there is a 5% surcharge for this.
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The Residence Zanzibar's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of The Residence.
Excursions from The Residence
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at The Residence. 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.
Fumba Beach Lodge
Fumba Beach Lodge is stylishly put together, with spacious, luxurious rooms, comfortable communal areas and a fantastic infinity pool.
When to go to South-west Zanzibar
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit The Residence 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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