Zuri Zanzibar

Nestled on a west-facing slope, and carefully positioned so as to maximise privacy, the stunning 55 bungalows, suites and villas are a true testament to the island’s heritage and craftsmanship. They are also proudly fitted with ‘Evening Breeze’ air-conditioning which uses a quarter of the electricity of traditional air-conditioning. The bungalows and suites enjoy garden or ocean views (some have partial ocean views) whilst the two and three bedroom villas boast an exclusive ocean front setting. Outdoor showers and generous private terraces enhance Zuri’s concept of indoor/outdoor living. The furnishings are a mix of contemporary style with locally made artefacts and special touches include unlimited Wi-Fi access, organic bathroom amenities, an in-room laptop size safe and Zuri home-made drinking water.

The three restaurants each offer an exceptional culinary experience. Local ingredients are grown in Zuri’s Spice Garden and the menus blend a fusion of European, African, Arabic and Indian cuisine with a ‘fresh-from-the-ocean’ twist. A laid-back Zanzibari charm with an upbeat African vibe runs through all four bars where sugar cane cocktails, fruit daiquiris and smoothies are the order of the day! There is also a dhow bar on a private stretch of beach, for exclusive use of guests in the suites and villas. Nearby, you can indulge in a slice of island life at local bars and restaurants in Kendwa and Nungwi.

Zuri’s philosophy wholly embraces wellness and the restoration of mind, body and soul. This is a place to reconnect with yourself through Zuri’s offering of yoga, outdoor ‘wild fitness’ gym area, a wonderful spa, private pods in the Spice Garden for relaxation and meditation and a breathtaking 32 metre infinity pool which overlooks the ocean. There is also a watersports and dive centre.

There’s little wonder why Zuri was so-named. It means ‘beautiful’ in Swahili and as a guest here, you will be encouraged to stop ‘doing’ and start ‘being’. Yet, ironically, Zuri is also the only hotel in Zanzibar to have built its own dedicated fast internet line to the mainland! A quirky Spice Island disconnect dichotomy!