Zuri Zanzibar is the boutique-scale luxury choice on the Kendwa coast, the north-west corner of the island where the sun sets over the sea. It has 56 rooms in three styles: spacious deluxe rooms, garden bungalows, some of which connect for families, and larger suites. Three restaurants serve breakfast, lunch and dinner, including a beachfront setting, and there are two beach bars and a poolside bar for sunset drinks. The pool has loungers and umbrellas, the Maua Spa offers massages and body treatments, and a 24-hour health club runs yoga and fitness classes. Watersports such as windsurfing, paddleboarding and canoeing, as well as boat tours, are on offer, and there is a library and a garden for quiet moments. Guests of all ages are accepted and kids’ meals are served. It is rated as a five-star property with excellent guest ratings. Kendwa Beach, where the sea stays swimmable at most tides, is around a mile away, and Nungwi is a little farther.
Location and getting around
The resort is on the north-west coast of Zanzibar, in the Kendwa area, about an hour and a half from the airport by road. Kendwa Beach is roughly a mile away and Nungwi Beach just under two miles, so a short taxi or walk takes you to the busiest stretches of sand and to the sunset bars. An airport shuttle is available on request for a fee per vehicle. Many sunset dhow cruises and Mnemba Atoll trips start from this stretch of coast, which keeps pickups short.
Rooms
Deluxe rooms and bungalows are generous in size, and the bungalows face the gardens, with connecting options for families. The suite is larger and suits couples on a honeymoon or anniversary. Rooms have air conditioning, and Wi-Fi and parking are free. Choose bungalows for privacy and a garden setting, or ask for the category closest to the sea for the view.
Who it suits
Couples and small groups who want a smaller resort with a strong sense of place, a good spa and a choice of restaurants, without the scale of the big all-inclusive hotels. It is also a good base for active travellers who plan to sail, paddle or join the quad, dhow and skydive activities in the north. Families are welcome and children’s meals are served, though there is no big kids’ programme, so it is better for those who like a quieter atmosphere.
Good to know
Check-in is from the afternoon and check-out is in the late morning, with fees for early arrival and late departure on request. Pets are not allowed. Because the area is popular with travellers of all budgets, book early for late December to February and July to September.
Why stay here
- ✓Outdoor pool
- ✓Maua Spa
- ✓Three restaurants
- ✓Two beach bars
- ✓24-hour health club
- ✓Windsurfing and paddleboarding
- ✓Garden bungalows
- ✓Library
Good questions
How many rooms does Zuri Zanzibar have?+
It has 56 rooms, in deluxe rooms, garden bungalows and suites.
How far is Zuri Zanzibar from Kendwa Beach?+
Kendwa Beach is about a mile away and Nungwi Beach just under two miles, a short taxi ride or walk.
Is Zuri Zanzibar suitable for families?+
Yes, children of all ages are accepted and kids’ meals are served, though the atmosphere is quieter than the big family resorts.
