MNEMBA LODGE, MNEMBA ISLAND, ZANZIBAR, TANZANIA
Mnemba offers the ultimate exclusive and private island hide-away. The island is surrounded by turquoise waters and ten miles of spectacular coral reef. "Barefoot luxury" aptly describes life on Mnemba. This tiny private atoll off the north coast of Zanzibar has a totally laid back atmosphere. Mnemba is perfect for a honeymoon or special holiday.
Fresh, delicate sea breezes waft through Mnemba Lodge, lending a castaway air to the entire island. Zanzibar and its islands are bathed in the heady scents and romanticism of a bygone era. You wake to bubbling dove song and the smell of coconut bread baking in a wood stove, as traditional dhows (coastal Arab sailing vessel) drift across the horizon. Mnemba is closed April/May.
LOCATION
Mnemba, an Arabic word meaning octopus head, lies two kilometers northeast of the island of Zanzibar, a 20-minute cruise in a traditional, 16 foot flat-bottomed boat follows a 60 minute road transfer.
ACCOMODATIONS
Mnemba Island features just ten en suite banda cottages, bordered on three sides by tropical beach forest and overlooking the beach and coral reef. Each exquisite banda has been hand-woven and thatched from tree branches and traditional Zanzibari palm-matting. The materials were chosen to allow the cooling sea breezes to move through the bungalow and, assisted by overhead fans, the cottages remain cool all day. From each room, a palm-covered walkway leads to an en suite turquoise bathroom. The shower water comes from the island's well or boiled rainwater. Each banda also has a spacious outdoor veranda.
AMENITIES
At Mnemba Island, Zanzibar, you can enjoy a wide array of recreational facilities .
Deep-sea Fishing: (optional extra) Mnemba Island lies in its own lagoon, very close to the famous Pemba Channel, known for excellent big game fishing. Big game fishing enthusiasts are catered for on the 25-foot Boston Whaler. (The best time for big game fishing is mid January to mid March.)
Included in the rate, are windsurfing, kayaking, and, needless to say, swimming directly from the beach. On land, choose between bird-watching, walking or simply suntanning.
SCUBA DIVING
Mnemba boasts some of the world's most beautiful diving sites. Just a short boat trip from the island, coral reefs drop into the deep open sea. You can enjoy two dives daily. Please note that a valid diving certificate is needed.
No need to worry if you have no diving experience - Mnemba offers a professional dive school designed specially for you, at extra cost. Our scuba diving course of three to four days is available. Most diving sites are close by, some right next to the island and others a 15-30 minute boat ride away. Specialty dives include deep, night, navigation, drift and peak performance