MATEMWE BUNGALOWS, NORTHEAST COAST, ZANZIBAR, TANZANIA
Matemwe Bungalows is one of just a handful of small beach lodges on Zanzibar. It is in an
absolutely stunning position on the top of a rocky promontory at the north end of the most beautiful stretch of beach on the East Coast. Backing onto mature gardens and fronting onto the endless Indian Ocean, the thatched bungalows are secluded and comfortable, without trying too hard. Electricity comes from the sun, air-conditioning from the sea breeze. A sandy stroll away is a palm-fringed beach, busy with fishermen on their outriggers. Out to sea lies Mnemba Atoll, which offers the best diving and snorkeling around.
The open-walled restaurant is gloriously positioned with views of the ocean. It's decorated attractively with light wooden tables and dark-blue canvas chairs. Meals combine African and European flavors. The chef buys fish direct from the fishermen each morning. If you manage to catch a fish the chef will be happy to cook it for your dinner.
Matemwe Bungalows has the feeling of a good safari camp out on the beach. Here you become drawn into the stunning marine environment, from the smell of the salt on the sea breeze, to the sight of local fishermen sailing across the cyan lagoon, to the underwater coral gardens of Mnemba Atoll. Matemwe is closed April through mid-June.
LOCATION
Matemwe is in the northeast corner of Zanzibar’s main island, Unguja, 50 miles from Stone Town and requires a 75 minute road transfer from the airport, which may be shortened upon completion of new roads.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Matemwe Bungalows feature just 14 thatched bungalows stretching up the rocky coast, screened from their neighbors by palm and pine trees. Each bungalow has a private path to it, a thatched roof, and a private terrace with hammock and view to the Indian Ocean. Inside the style is simple and pleasing: white walls, dark wooden doors, beamed ceilings, glassless windows and blue, net-draped beds. All rooms have solar-powered lighting. But the size of the rooms varies.
Suites: these are large, uncluttered spaces with a raised king size bed and an additional single bed (or two at a squeeze), perfect for honeymooners or a small family. There is a large, en-suite bathroom with solar-heated shower.
En-suite bungalows: these vary in size and layout, but all have bedroom and bathroom, with plenty of space for two.
AMENITIES
At Matemwe Bungalows, Zanzibar, you can enjoy a wide array of recreational facilities.
Open-air beach bar built around an old dhow under the palm trees on the sand. You can lounge on sofas and sun beds and enjoy cocktails or have a sedate cup of tea.
Also available is sailing, biking, kayaking, and, needless to say, swimming directly from the beach.
For divers this lodge is an extremely convenient and comfortable base from which to visit the Mnemba Atoll which can be seen from the lodge. Unfortunately they do not have a dive centre anymore, but use the facilities of Zanzibar Beach Resort which is located close by.
Matemwe Bungalows is one of just a handful of small beach lodges on Zanzibar. It is in an
The open-walled restaurant is gloriously positioned with views of the ocean. It's decorated attractively with light wooden tables and dark-blue canvas chairs. Meals combine African and European flavors. The chef buys fish direct from the fishermen each morning. If you manage to catch a fish the chef will be happy to cook it for your dinner.
LOCATION
Matemwe is in the northeast corner of Zanzibar’s main island, Unguja, 50 miles from Stone Town and requires a 75 minute road transfer from the airport, which may be shortened upon completion of new roads.
Matemwe Bungalows feature just 14 thatched bungalows stretching up the rocky coast, screened from their neighbors by palm and pine trees. Each bungalow has a private path to it, a thatched roof, and a private terrace with hammock and view to the Indian Ocean. Inside the style is simple and pleasing: white walls, dark wooden doors, beamed ceilings, glassless windows and blue, net-draped beds. All rooms have solar-powered lighting. But the size of the rooms varies.
Suites: these are large, uncluttered spaces with a raised king size bed and an additional single bed (or two at a squeeze), perfect for honeymooners or a small family. There is a large, en-suite bathroom with solar-heated shower.
En-suite bungalows: these vary in size and layout, but all have bedroom and bathroom, with plenty of space for two.
At Matemwe Bungalows, Zanzibar, you can enjoy a wide array of recreational facilities.
Open-air beach bar built around an old dhow under the palm trees on the sand. You can lounge on sofas and sun beds and enjoy cocktails or have a sedate cup of tea.
Also available is sailing, biking, kayaking, and, needless to say, swimming directly from the beach.
For divers this lodge is an extremely convenient and comfortable base from which to visit the Mnemba Atoll which can be seen from the lodge. Unfortunately they do not have a dive centre anymore, but use the facilities of Zanzibar Beach Resort which is located close by.
