Our ranking is subjective (it is the office consensus, after much arguing), and tries to reflect value for money as well as overall quality. Therefore we may award just three stars to a 'five star' Zanzibar Hotel in the hotel tick-box sense, or five stars to a superb, unashamed 'three star' Tanzania Lodge that consistently provides superb quality experiences for the price. We care a great deal about location, whether in the bush or on the beach, and in many cases this has influenced our choice. It is unorthodox, it may seem at odds with the world view, but we can explain... and we urge you to call us to discuss!
We don't just know Tanzania!
For more information on Tanzania, the best thing to do is to give us a ring for an impartial chat. Although we love Tanzania, we also love the rest of Africa too and have experts in all the main safari countries. If you are undecided as to where to visit, please do just drop us an email or give us a call!
Our View
The Park Hyatt Hotel is a large hotel, well situated on the beach front in Stone Town, a UNESCO world heritage site. As expected at larger, well known hotel chains there is an excellent attention to details and an attentive, professional service.
Plantation Lodge had very nice rooms and contained exceptional service with well prepared and fresh food. The grounds were very well kept and offered good views as well. The atmosphere at dinner was very romantic with dimmed lights perfect for a honeymoon. The lodge contained a vast wine collection and a very nice common area for people to enjoy drinks or coffee after dinner. The afternoon tea or coffee was also a nice touch. Would definitely visit again and recommended to friends and family. - F Cina
WHAT A GORGEOUS spot! This place felt uber-luxurious and private. I LOVED it here. The food was amazing and the staff were next-level service oriented. It actually almost made me feel uncomfortable. - J. Roberts
Pongwe was out of this world. A little bit of paridise with exceptional food and service and ocean views to die for. - S Miffling
Our View
Qambani is luxurious in its simplicity. Set on the east coast of Zanzibar Island, it’s a relaxing Indian Ocean getaway with a heavy dose of charm. Staying in a beach shack chic option here rather than a marbled fancy number with silver service allows guests to spend more on a quality safari beforehand - but without compromising on their perfect beach getaway. This truly is brilliant value for money, with prices starting from $250 per person per night for one of the most authentic stays on the island.
Ras Kutani's setting on the Indian Ocean could not be more beautiful and the staff more helpful. Our suite up the hill had an amazing view and was completely private. The staff immediately made us feel at home and like a part of their family. - A Kerwin USA
Ras Nungwi was AMAZING, it really was paradise and we were well looked after. Again the food, staff and accommodation was fantastic. - C and R Mahoney-Ward
The Residence in Zanzibar was a very luxurious hotel, not our usual kind of place but I have to say the room was exceptional (especially the private pool) and the little details that they created for our honeymoon were very thoughtful. The only small thing I would say is that they sometimes don't give you enough privacy in the room as they come and clean or tidy 4/5 times a day and they enter the room even if you're there but apart from that it has been perfect - M. Rundo
Rivertrees was fantastic and I’d definitely rate it a 5. They allowed us to check-in early. The room was very comfortable and clean. The grounds were lovely to walk around and we saw loads of monkeys playing in the trees.The food was fantastic and had a lovely atmosphere around the fire in the evening. All the staff were friendly and helpful and could’nt do enough for us, from the reception, to the restaurant and the guys carrying our bags and the ladies cleaning the rooms.- V. Ralph