Overlooking the white sandy beaches of northwest Zanzibar
Relax, unwind and recharge in your own piece of tranquil paradise
Location: Set on a low cliff above Kiwengwa Beach, Shooting Star Lodge enjoys far-reaching views over the Indian Ocean. The northeast coast location is quieter than the busier resort hubs, yet still within easy reach of local attractions. It’s a scenic and peaceful base for exploring Zanzibar or simply soaking up the surroundings.
Rooms: The lodge has a relaxed, intimate feel with just two private villas, 11 sea-view cottages and three garden rooms. Interiors blend traditional Zanzibari style with lime-washed walls and timber detailing. The villas span three floors with two en-suite bedrooms, a rooftop terrace and private plunge pool – ideal for families or small groups. The cottages are spacious and open, with some spread over two levels and all featuring private verandas.
Amenities: There’s a lovely infinity pool looking out across the beach, plus a small spa and laid-back beach bar. The open-air restaurant serves a fresh and varied menu of seafood, grills and local favourites, all in a cosy, friendly setting.
Activities: Guests can arrange excursions through the lodge, including spice farm visits, Stone Town tours, dhow sailing trips and wildlife walks in Jozani Forest. Snorkelling, scuba diving and water sports like parasailing or kite surfing can also be organised nearby through Mnemba dive centres.
Sustainability: Shooting Star Lodge supports the local economy by employing staff from surrounding communities and sourcing fresh ingredients locally. Its small-scale, low-impact approach helps preserve the natural beauty of the area.
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Best places to stay in Zanzibar Beaches
Zanzibar Trip Inspiration
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.
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Alistair
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