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 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.
Our View
Usangu is a beautiful, tented, conservation minded camp run by Asilia deep in the isolated wilderness of Ruaha. Combining a strong conservation ethos with sustainability and renewability, Usangu Camp is a true marvel. Available on a shared basis or for exclusive use, the camp provides guests with a platform to experience a variety of activities, including boating, open vehicle day and night game drives, conservation research and walking safaris led by highly experienced guides.
Our View
Our View
As with all Wayo Camps, location is key. Wayo Walking Camp is a back-to-basics camp that allows guests to enjoy an exclusive safari experience that is a product of a by-gone era. The camp moves with its guests, usually every two days, as they explore regions of the Serengeti that are inaccessible and unused by other travellers. Expect one of the most immersive safari experiences in the heart of the Serengeti.
White Sands is absolute paradise on earth. An amazing beach, enormous and incredibly luxuriously appointed rooms, and lots of different areas in which to recline - hammocks, day beds, sun recliners etc…- J Levy
Brilliant lodge, really nice friendly staff and again the food was fantastic. Our butler Amani, couldn't do enough for us. Stunning setting and the activities manager helpful with arranging canoeing/SUP'ing and an evening sunset sail. We were lucky in that only 1/2 other rooms where occupied when were there. While we were all inclusive, it would have been nice to know what was included and what wasn't drinks wise. It was all a little vague what drinks were included and what we would have to pay for. Although, on check out they only charged us for 2 cocktails and I think we had had about 12! - B. Mason
Our View
For a large island hotel this place is not bad at all. It is big and commercial but excellent value for money, a great location and offers everything that all its competitor’s offer. Only Blue Bay and Ocean Paradise really pull off this category of hotel quite well. However, if you want something slightly smaller in comparison but still quite big, then look at Breezes Beach Club. A bit more money but well worth the extra cost.
Palace Hotel -- 5. This hotel is a little funky, without the luxury of a larger chain hotel, but it is perfect for Stone Town. The location is away from the tourist area, and away from the road, but in the most interesting parts of Stone Town. - P. Hejinian
One of the small luxury hotels of the world, the Serena Inn is not so in keeping with Stone Town’s character but quite frankly, that is a good thing! It offers a great escape from what can be quite a hectic little town. The pool is the nicest in Stone Town, with great views out to sea and a great place for sunset cocktails.