Unguja Lodge

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.

Unguja is located about an hours drive from Stone Town on the Southern tip of Zanzibar and only a 20 minute flight from Dar es Salaam.

Inspired by their original stay at Matemwe Bungalows many years ago, Ralph and Elies built this great lodge which is rather similar in style but different in feel and atmosphere. The design of Unguja is dominated by the very high thatch roofs which create an airy and open atmosphere. The curving walls differentiate the lodge from the usual square designs and make for a tropical feel.

There are 10 detached villas in total, the sea view villas as you can imagine have a great sea view and because they are South / South West facing they are a great place to relax with a drink at sun set. The baobab (or 'garden view') villas face east so to make up for the lack of sea breeze the bedrooms have AC and there is decent sized plunge pool in the living area. Finally, there is a family villa with just enough space for five. In summary, when we last stayed at Unguja Resort we were actually taken aback by the size of the rooms - it could be agued that they are actually too big and a little cavernous, but they are undoubtedly good value!

The lodge has a great activities centre with excellent snorkelling and diving. There are sailing trips and dolphin trips available and various other activities can be outsourced. The hotel makes for a fantastic Tanzania family holiday!