Upendo Zanzibar is a boutique collection of luxury beachfront villas and a sister property in Stone Town.
Location: Upendo Zanzibar enjoys a strikingly beautiful and secluded spot on Michamvi Peninsula, along the island's peaceful southeast coast. The beachfront villas sit on a quiet stretch of white sand directly opposite The Rock Restaurant, one of Zanzibar's most iconic landmarks. Surrounded by swaying palms and the warm turquoise of the Indian Ocean, this is a place that feels far removed from the busier beach hubs - ideal for slowing down and switching off. While serene and private, you are still within easy reach of local villages, kitesurfing beaches, and the mangrove-lined Chwaka Bay for low-key adventures.
Rooms: Upendo Beach is made up of just a handful, design-led villas that blue the lines between indoors and out. Each villa is completely private, with a generous layout that includes a sea-facing bedroom, lounge area, indoor-outdoor bathrooms, and a shaded deck with its own plunge pool. Expect a look that's earthy and eclectic - think polished concrete, natural wood, handwoven textiles, and bold Swahili-meets-boho styling. Whether you are travelling as a couple, a family, or a small group of friends, the space, service, and sense of seclusion are hard to beat.
Amenities: Though wonderfully private, guests also have access to a relaxed shared area with a beachside infinity pool, boutique restaurant, and lounge bar serving creative cocktails and excellent fusion-style food. The menu blends island flavours with global inspiration, and the setting - right on the sand - is barefoot dining at its best. The atmosphere here is effortlessly cool but never pretentious, with regular live DJ sets, private dining options, and friendly, attentive service that still feels relaxed. There is also a small boutique, in-villa spa treatments on request, and personalised touches throughout - from fresh coconuts to curated playlists.
Activities: Life here is deliberately slow-paced, but there is still plenty to do if you want it. Spend your days snorkelling in the calm lagoon, stand-up paddleboarding, or kayaking through the mangroves. Join a yoga session, hop on a traditional dhow for a sunset sail, or head over to Paje or Jambiani for kite surfing. Inland, there is Jozani Forest for red colobus monkey spotting, or spice tours and guided walks through Michamvi village. And of course, a visit to the neighbouring Rock Restaurant is a must - even if just for a cocktail with a view.
Sustainability: Upendo champions conscious travel in an authentic, grounded way. The team works closely with the local community - employing locally, sourcing produce from nearby farmers and fishers, and supporting initiatives that promote marine conservation and women's empowerment. Villas are built with natural ventilation in mind to reduce energy usage, and water-saving and recycling practices are in place throughout. What stands out most, though, is the hotel's thoughtful approach to people and place - upholding cultural respect, ecological sensitivity, and a slower, more meaningful way to experience Zanzibar.
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Alistair
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