Vintage Destination
Chumbe Island Lodge has seven two-storey beach bandas for guests which all adhere to the ecologically friendly premise of the island. Each uses only rainwater stored in huge tanks beneath the floor, and all water waste is channelled into filter systems and recycled. Composting toilets ensure that no sewage is directed into the sea, and electricity and hot water are solar-powered. The bandas are ingeniously designed and have bedrooms upstairs - with great views of the stars. There is a living area downstairs with large hammock and comfy chairs. To the smallest detail, Chumbe Island Lodge is designed to offer privacy, comfort and relaxation whilst fully protecting the fragile nature of this unique island.
The eco-lodge is centred on a dining room and education centre created from a lofty makuti thatch. Here guests enjoy the wonders of traditional Zanzibar cuisine - a delicious mixture of Arabian, Indian and African ingredients specialising in seafood and tropical fruits.
All the guides on Chumbe come from local fishing villages and activities include guided nature walks and snorkelling and diving trips. You can also go bird watching, climb the lighthouse built by the British in 1904 or find the rare giant Coconut Crabs.
Chumbe is only accessible by boat; it is a short transfer from Stone Town on Zanzibar.