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!
This hotel has let us down in the past and for that reason we do not like to recommend it. Some rooms are very good but the reality is that the service standards are not anywhere near the quality of its competitors. More importantly however, it is a dry hotel which for those of us who like that sundowner is nothing short of a nightmare!
What a treat to discover beautiful Thanda Island. They gave us a family holiday of such extraordinary perfection, we can’t imagine ever bettering it. We were treated to wonderful whale watching, desert island picnics in superb style and comfort, and the children were whisked off to sail, snorkel and kayak. The staff were amazing; their enthusiasm, attention to detail and tireless efforts to look after us made the stay even more special. Gather your family, make the trip. It’s honestly worth it! - R Klien
The stunning Ngorongoro Highlands surround The Manor and leave the guests in a permanent state of awe and tranquillity. It is a fantastic opportunity to have a break from intense game viewing and put your feet up in utter luxury.
The Manta Resort is a good value remote lodge on the North of the island of Pemba, people come here for the diving and the remoteness if you feel you want to escape the commercial Zanzibar. The Lodge has been here for a long time but has changed hands over the years, there have been a few improvements which have brought up the standard. Still a relatively simple lodge with a quiet beach and great dive spots.
The palms is very luxurious in a different way to Ras Kutani. We were looked after incredibly well, with very attentive staff. We didn't have to lift a finger, and every hour were given something new to eat or drink. The food was delicious, and they made a big effort to make each meal different, with live music or cooking tuition. It was a great end to a trip of a lifetime.- V Ward
Tides is a great little property which goes very well with certain itineraries. It offers exceptional value for money and is great for all types of traveller, including honeymooners and families. Located on the mainland coast it is relatively remote unlike the ever growing Zanzibar Island. It is cheaper Ras Kutani lodge which is our much preferred mainland coast destination, but the drop in quality suggests it should be. For a little extra money Ras Kutani does buy you an infinitely better time, but Tides does have good diving whereas Ras Kutani has none at all.
Our trip began in North Serengeti at Ubuntu, which was absolutely magnificent, both the area and the camp itself. There were only 3 guests in total at the camp for our stay, so the service was outstanding. Our guide, Venant, was excellent – even finding a Rhino mother and calf for us. The North Serengeti is very quiet and so different from the crowded central area we have visited before. - S. Rudgyard
Our View
Unguja lodge has a lovely remote location, friendly staff and spacious rooms. The major downside, sadly, is its total lack of beach. The beach here is rocky but the compromise is walk-in snorkelling which hardly anywhere else has. It’s a real shame about the beach, but if you aren’t fussed about sand and want a good value Zanzibar resort, then consider here.
