Matemwe Bandas

Matemwe Bandas is the type of hotel that gives Zanzibar it's charm. Perched on a sandy white beach above a shallow lagoon and close to some extremely divable reefs, Matamewe is one of those Zanzibari gems where you simply can't spend less that three days. Rooms made with coconut wood and palm blend in with the relaxing surrounds, and one can just as easily chill on the deck of the lodge and soak up the sun, as head out for a kite surf, snorkel or explore the island. The hotel is locally owned and most of the staff come from the villages around the property, giving the lodge a sense of homely charm. The food is sublime, the service is famous, and the view over those long tidal flats... well, just go there now to see it.