Pongwe Beach

An hour’s drive from Stone Town, Pongwe Beach Hotel is based in a relatively remote setting, ideal for a peaceful getaway. This Zanzibar hotel is modestly sized with a variety of traditional cottages to accommodate small groups, families, couples and individuals. The white sandy beach, clear blue waters and shady palm trees make for an ideal stress-free environment to relax in for those looking for a piece of island paradise.

The simply-styled cottages are positioned along the beach front with two, three or four rooms per lodge. Some rooms are set a little further back into the gardens, but most have direct access to the beach, while four sea-view suites also include a private plunge pool. The restaurant provides a variety of meals, including fresh seafood, and can cater for all dietary requirements. The bar makes fresh juices and cocktails and stocks local and imported drinks.

Pongwe Beach provides an idyllic spot for swimming, snorkelling and sunbathing. For more adventure, Pongwe Beach is a great base from which to take a variety of excursions: visit Stone Town, the cultural heart of Zanzibar, where you can take a sunset dhow cruise; take a tour around the famous spice farms; visit Prison Island, an infamous historic quarantine station and now a sanctuary for the endangered Giant Tortoise. The Jozani Natural Forest Reserve, home to the rare Red Colobus Monkey, is a great place to see some wildlife along with the Butterfly Centre and Turtle Sanctuary nearby. There are numerous sights to see on Zanzibar and the hotel can arrange taxi services and provide recommendations on how to structure your trips out.