hotel
Upendo beach

Upendo Beach

An intimate barefoot‑chic retreat where barefoot luxury meets oceanfront serenity
ZanzibarAfrica· 8 Rooms · £££

Located on Michamvi Peninsula along Zanzibar’s scenic east coast

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.

Ottilie
Ready to unwind in one of Zanzibar’s most stylish seaside escapes?
Ottilie

Let’s start planning your stay at Upendo

When to go to Zanzibar

Find out the best time to visit Zanzibar with our month by month guide.

  • Best
  • Good
  • Mixed
  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec

January

January is dry season in Zanzibar, it is the best time to swim with whale sharks and exploring the isles corals reefs and exotic fish, with water clarity of 25 meters.

February

February is dry season in Zanzibar, it is the best time to swim with whale sharks and exploring the isles corals reefs and exotic fish, with water clarity of 25 meters.

March

In March Zanzibar experiences a period of long rains - showers become more frequent and it can be very wet from the middle of March.

April

The long rains make April a mixed month to travel, as beaches along the Indian Coastline become very hot and wet. Activities like scuba diving take a turn, with water clarity decreasing due to the weather. We would recommend not travelling during this time.

May

Temperatures during May are high, with strong winds and continual rainfall. If you travel during this time you won't witness the best of Zanzibar.

June

June, the wet season is finally over, temperatures are cooler making it a beautiful time to lounge on the beach or explore the culturally rich Stone Town. Sporadic rainfall may occur across the month.

July

Dry season is in full swing, with consistent weather over this period with little wind and low rainfall. Diving is good during July with clarity levels increasing.

August

Dry season is in full swing, with consistent weather over this period with little wind and low rainfall. Diving is good during August with clarity levels increasing as long as the weather remains temperate.

September

Dry season is in full swing, with consistent weather, the added bonus of September is the possibility of whale watching.

October

October is the ideal month for exploring coral reefs and exotic marine life, with water clarity of 25 meters or more it is perfect for any water lovers. The weather remains temperate, with little wind and rainfall.

November

November brings the arrival of the summer rains and winds, but if you're a keen fisherman, billfish season kicks off. Otherwise, it is the best time to swim with the mighty whale shark and to go coral reef diving.

December

The wet season continues in Zanzibar during December. However, it is the best time to swim with whale sharks. Diving is not at its best but visibility is good for exploring the isles corals reefs and exotic fish.

Speak to a Zanzibar expert today

and start planning your tailor-made holiday

Call 0203 111 1315
or
Our Zanzibar Experts
Ali 1

Alistair

Otti profile pic

Ottilie

Plan with an expert Plan with an expert

Have a look at our original experiences and then contact us with your questions, or call 0203 111 1315

A tailor-made itinerary just for you A tailor-made itinerary just for you

Our experts will send you a detailed holiday itinerary specified to your desires. It's our service promise to you.

Value guarantee Value guarantee

Tailor-made doesn't mean expensive! Ask about our price promise and book with financial security.