Chapwani Private Island

Away from the hustle and bustle of Stone Town, Chapwani Island offers the serenity and charm of your very own private piece of paradise. This small island of tropical woodland and sandbanks can be accessed by a 15 minute boat ride from the mainland. At just under 1km long, the island houses a surprising array of wildlife, including the rare Giant Crab, which the island owners are careful to protect.

Chapwani Island hosts just 10 rooms and one villa, ensuring your experience is as personal as possible. Each ‘banda’ (bungalow) is stylish but homely and includes a four-poster bed, en-suite bathroom and its own terrace overlooking the beach. In the evenings a banana leaf shutter can be used to close the room from outside light, whilst keeping a gentle sea-breeze flowing through. The Sunset Villa is ideal as a honeymoon suite, or can be transformed into a family room by converting the lounge into a second bedroom. The Villa boasts two bathrooms, a private terrace and section of beach, and a plunge pool. The restaurant provides a range of fresh seafoods and spicy local cuisine all served in a relaxed, communal dining area on the beach.

The sandy bays and crystal clear waters surrounding Chapwani Island are perfect for snorkelling, swimming and sunbathing. For the more experienced diver, a trip to the local diving school, One Ocean, provides the opportunity to discover the ocean life surrounding Zanzibar. Meanwhile, on the island, wildlife to look out for include the dik dik, fruit bats and even a pair of fish eagles. There is a daily boat ride to the mainland where you can explore Stone Town and the other sights Zanzibar Island has to offer. For ultimate relaxation, you can enjoy a sunset massage in the Chapwani Lodge spa overlooking the ocean.