Zanzibar Islands
There are many small islands scattered around the main island of Zanzibar, providing variously, escapist hideaway accommodation or memorably sandy days exploring. These range from tiny exclusive island accomodation, such as Mnemba, to temporary sandbanks that are only exposed during low tide; perfect for sailing excursions and picnics.
For true hedonistic escapism, tiny Mnemba Island, isan ultra luxurious private island to the north with the finest and whitest sand and a price to make you shudder. It is well regarded as the finest property in Africa and often voted one of the most romantic destinations in the world. Alternatively, Chumbe Island is more overtly a marine conservation island, a seriously coral rocky, eco-concious island (you can’t dive despite the amazing marine life) which should really only be visited in conjunction with somewhere with an acceptable beach. Chumbe is off the West coast, Mnemba is off the East; they are poles apart in what they offer; united only in that they both have exceptional snorkelling.
Another worthy of mention is Prison Island, also known as Chapwani, which is most notable for its lack of prison; and as far as we know nobody has ever actually been incarcerated there. It does have families of tortoises that are well worth the visit and now is home to a well priced no frills hotel. There is also Bawe Island which has a good, if slightly overpriced, resort on it – the main issue with Bawe is that it overlooks the main shipping lane for all the traffic heading into Stone Town.
Recommended lodges in this area:
Zanzibar Islands
Mnemba is located just off the North East Coast of Zanzibar and is a tiny dream island with the impressive accolade of being one of the most romantic and exclusive coral atoll islands in the world.
Zanzibar Islands
A really lovely eco retreat, similar in style to Ras Kutani on the mainland. The issue here though is the beach as it is so small and therefore affords no real sense of privacy. It is such a shame to what could be such a great little lodge. Eco lovers would still appreciate its syle but those of us looking for stunning beaches would not find it here.
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