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 View
Opened on 1st June 2024, Bawe Island is simply magnificent - but this level of Indian Ocean opulence comes at a hefty price tag. Set on 90 hectares of land off the coast of Zanzibar, Bawe is the ultimate stay in the region, bar only the exclusive Mnemba Island which offers a more barefoot experience. While it won’t give you safari-style intimacy, this hotel gives unparalleled luxury, if that’s your bag.
Probably the most beautiful lodge in Africa. Fabulous food, excellent service, warm friendly hosts. We enjoyed the safari(s) particularly the walking safari. Lots of hippos - J Marias
Blue Bay resort works very well for a more economical option in the large hotel category. It may be big but this hotel has everything you need and rather nice rooms given the low price. Most large cheaper hotels are notoriously bad but the Blue Bay Resort delivers a great product if you are not expecting the world! We do prefer Breezes Beach Club which is slightly more expensive and smaller in comparison but we think it is worth the little extra cost.
Breezes was perfect for our family! The food was good, the staff were attentive and there was lots going on to keep the kids happy! The rooms were really nice actually too - great family hotel. We'd go back if visiting Zanzibar again for sure!- S Mylan
A simple comfortable safari camp which will suit those more interested in the wildlife than the luxury spa circuit.Large comfortable and well furnished tents in a camp offering great plains views and good food and service. Nomad are excellent. - S Smith
Our View
Chem Chem is a luxurious lodge in a beautiful location but it is not for those wanting a pumping safari lodge. It is about taking things slow and seeing another side to safari. Great for the few who have the time and the budget.
Chole Mjini is in a fabulous location - and the whole concept of the tree houses and the lay out of the place is idyllic. We did some great excursions such as breakfasting on the sand bar (it was so fabulous) snorkelling, a trip to the blue lagoon (stunningly beautiful) swimming amongst the mangroves during high tide and candlelit dinners on the dock and by the ruins. - R. Kunanayagam
Our View
Chumbe Island is Zanzibar’s first marine sanctuary and remains a unique destination for very keen snorkellers. It is an education over load of marine life and being home to 90% of East Africa’s coral species really gives it a different angle to your typical beach experience. Getting there can be a bit of a mission, with the boat transfers going at set times so it sometimes doesn’t really favour tight flight connections. But it is a lovely eco lodge for a certain type of person and being 100% run by locals it is a pure African beach experience.
Our View
Constance Hotels have taken over and revamped this new and exciting hotel, which offers a slice of tranquility in the very north of Pemba Island. With modern yet seemless architecture, this hotel blends in with it's surroundings effortlessly resulting in a sleek and luxurious hideaway for Indian Ocean relaxation lovers.
