Vintage Destination
Set on a coral cliff overlooking a fine powder beach and distant coral reef, Matemwe Bungalows is a small and luxurious beach lodge tucked away on the north-east coast of Zanzibar.
There are 14 beach front bungalows at Matemwe which are roughly split half and half into suites and standard rooms; they all have private verandas and hammocks to enjoy the ocean view. They are elegantly furnished using lots of palm matting, colourful Swahili fabrics and interesting driftwood ornaments. Hot water and lighting are both powered by the sun while the kerosene lamps at night create a cosy atmosphere.
Lovingly maintained flowerbeds at Matemwe line the paths from the rooms to an open air restaurant which serves fresh Zanzibari and western cuisine all day. The menu is mainly seafood, and the kitchen has been praised for its high quality and diversity in mixing the local cuisine with the European. A great new beach bar has been built in the remnants of an old fishing dhow - under the palm trees overlooking the sea. There is also a beautifully appointed lounge area.
Matemwe Bungalows are very serious about their scuba diving and they operate one of Zanzibar's leading diving operations. The Mnemba atoll is nearby and offers some of the best diving around Zanzibar. There is also snorkelling along the reefs, game fishing, and sailing in a traditional dhow sailing boat. Day trips to the historic centre of Stone Town can be arranged as well as spice tours and trips to Prison Island and the Jozani Forest.
The welcoming atmosphere is ideal for children and the wide beach means plenty of space to run around.
Matemwe is a fifty minute car transfer from Stone Town, Zanzibar’s capital.