It’s by far one of the best, and most popular, guest lodges in Zanzibar, offering wonderful personal service.
Overview
Matemwe Bungalows is an intimate lodge with only 12 luxury suite rooms perched on coral rock.
Matemwe Bungalows are located in the North East, surrounded by some of the best beaches of Zanzibar and opposite the well known Mnemba Atoll – a hot spot for scuba diving and snorkelling.
Matemwe’s exclusive location away from the big hotels gives the beaches a very private feeling. Beautiful fleets of fishermen in traditional dhow boats pass on their way to and from their fishing grounds each day.
Accommodation
All 12 en-suite bungalows are designed to be as eco friendly as possible, and are built of local stone with traditionally thatched Mikuti roof. Each bungalow has a large veranda where you can laze in your own hammock overlooking the Indian Ocean.
Most of the fixtures and fittings are made from local materials, mainly coconut wood, whilst the soft furnishings are locally produced materials made by local women’s groups, and the matting made by the blind association in Stone Town.
Inside the room, you’ll find a grand, king-size bed, an extra single bed, plenty of space and personal touches. The bathrooms are large and have deep bathtubs and walk-in showers. Although mosquitoes are rare in Matemwe, all rooms are equipped with a large mosquito net.
Facilities
Matemwe’s friendly staff, relaxed atmosphere and excellent cuisine are renowned. This, and 2 intimate swimming pools, lush tropical gardens, massages and cocktails, make Matemwe Bungalows the ultimate tropical paradise.
Enjoy fantastic diving & snorkelling, sipping a cool drink on the beach, or enjoy unforgettable views of the Indian Ocean from the poolside or from the comfortable couches and hammocks of your private veranda.
The restaurant at Matemwe has been praised for its high quality food and diversity in combining local cuisine with that of other nations. The chefs are happy to fulfill your special wishes on your request. In addition to the restaurant, there is an open air bar under the palm trees on the sand offering a peaceful retreat.
Recreation in this area is one of leisure and tranquility. The lodge offers sailing with the local “Ngalawa” (traditional fishing boats with wooden outriggers) as well as diving and snorkeling at the unique and colourful Mnemba reef. For the lucky ones, whales, dolphins and sea turtles can be spotted at close range.
There is a fully equipped PADI recognized dive centre on the beach where Kayaks can also be hired. Other activities include guided reef and village walks, the traditional “bao” game, and cycling.
Our Suggestion:
Matemwe Bungalows is by far one of the best, and most popular guest lodges in Zanzibar, offering wonderful personal service. The lodge is completely ecologically friendly and dedicated to helping the local village life. Electricity at the lodge is powered by the sun and as such air conditioning is not available. However all rooms are adequately cooled with the sea breeze.
Being a small secluded property, this is perfect for those seeking quiet and peaceful relaxation in Paradise.
