Mnemba Island Lodge offers a true ‘barefoot luxury’ experience, nestled on the idyllic Mnemba Island just 1.5km in circumference off the coast of Zanzibar. This tropical paradise is known for its stunning coral reefs, powder-soft beaches, and crystal-clear turquoise waters teeming with vibrant marine life, including frolicking dolphins. The lodge features just 10 thatched chalets, called ‘bandas,’ where guests can enjoy a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, with indigenous wildlife like the suni antelope and Ader’s duiker often wandering nearby.
The beach, home to rare coconut crabs, is only steps away from your banda, offering a direct connection to the inviting ocean. Here, guests can dive into warm waters with excellent visibility, explore a coral atoll, or encounter around 430 species of fish, including whale sharks. Mnemba Island Lodge is equipped with a PADI dive school and two dive boats, ensuring you can always indulge in diving, snorkelling, and kayaking whenever you wish. All non-motorised water sports are included in your stay.
For those who prefer dry land, there are birdwatching opportunities with a large colony of doves on the island, as well as the chance to relax on a beachside daybed with a book from the lodge’s library. From April to August, guests may even witness the birth of green turtles, one of the island’s fascinating wildlife highlights.
With no dress code and a laid-back atmosphere, Mnemba Island Lodge is the epitome of relaxation in an unforgettable tropical setting.
Rooms at Mnemba Island Lodge
Banda
Mnemba Island Lodge's bandas are designed for complete relaxation and comfort, nestled within a lush tropical beach forest. Each banda features a built-in 'baraza' – a Swahili term for a 'meeting place' – offering a perfect spot for lazy afternoon siestas or simply unwinding amidst nature. The architectural style exudes ‘shipwreck chic,’ with high thatch roofs and locally crafted, ornate furniture, creating an atmosphere of understated elegance.
Inside, the bandas offer spacious, no-fuss interiors with thoughtful details. A covered walkway leads to the bathroom, which is equipped with a stone shower adorned with a unique glass-beaded shower curtain, a double vanity, and an open, airy design. The mini bar is stocked with personalized refreshments, ensuring guests can enjoy chilled drinks in the evenings under the soft hum of ceiling fans, providing comfort even on warm, sultry nights.
General Facilities
At Mnemba Island Lodge, nature takes center stage, offering guests a truly immersive experience. The pristine Indian Ocean invites guests to explore its vibrant underwater world, whether through diving, snorkelling, kayaking, or windsurfing. The PADI dive school and two dedicated dive boats ensure that both beginner and experienced divers can enjoy the waters surrounding the island. For a more leisurely water activity, guests can sail on a traditional dhow, allowing them to feel the wind in the sails and the freedom of the open sea.
During certain seasons, guests can observe the remarkable hatching of green turtles, a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Year-round, bird watching is another delightful activity, with a variety of species found on the island. For those seeking total relaxation, the private seaside daybeds offer the perfect spot to unwind, with your personal butler on hand to provide refreshment or wake you when it’s time to enjoy the next part of your day.
Dining
At Mnemba Island Lodge, every meal is a sensory experience, starting with the aromas of freshly baked coconut bread and the peaceful sounds of the island’s doves at dawn. Each day, traditional dhows deliver baskets filled with the freshest local produce, seafood, and fish, ensuring that every dish combines the rich Zanzibari heritage with global culinary influences.
Lunch is typically served in the lodge’s charming thatched dining area, with large wooden platters of delectable mezze offering a perfect balance of flavors. For a truly romantic experience, dinners are served right on the beach, where warm ocean waters kiss your feet or soft coral sand slips between your toes. Alternatively, a beach barbecue under the starry sky provides a casual yet magical setting for guests to enjoy a meal in the heart of nature.
