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Sunshine Marine Lodge, Zanzibar | Timbuktu Travel
Zanzibar

Sunshine Marine Lodge

Travel and Leisure Worlds Best Awards for number 1 tour operator in the world 2024 and number 2 tour operator in the world 2025
We're one of the World's Best Tour Operators!
Named three years running in Travel+Leisure World's Best, including No.1 in 2024

About Sunshine Marine Lodge

A peaceful lodge with views to lose yourself in – on land and underwater
North of Matemwe, on the northwestern coast of Zanzibar's main island, an unpaved road leads to the sea. Don't balk at the bumpy surface. Why? The destination is worth every jolt, because at its end is Sunshine Marine Lodge, a peaceful, laid-back retreat. The tranquil atmosphere extends to private Muyuni Beach, one of the few remaining underdeveloped stretches of coastline on the island. The lodge perches on a coral cliff, with views across the sparkling aquamarine ocean to Mnemba Atoll – a biodiverse diving site – and beyond. It's a great place for honeymooners!
From $90 per person/per night
Beach
23 Rooms
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Property details

The property

The main lounge area is open-sided and thatched in traditional makuti. (There's also seating in the rock garden.) The walls are built of cobble stones and the decor is a bright palette of blues, oranges and yellows. Meals are served in the restaurant, and the bar is a good place to gather. A large pool faces the ocean, and there's an attractive little ocean pier so that you can take a dip in the waters at high tide.

The rooms

Cosy, well appointed and simply decorated with traditional artefacts and colourful prints, the 23 rooms are spread around the gardens and on the slopes overlooking the ocean. All have been designed to maximise the breezes (there's no aircon), with cool painted floors and adequate en-suite bathrooms. The beds are netted and comfortable. Book one of the Panorama Suites – set further up the slope, they offer the most expansive views of the property and ocean beyond.

Activities

Exploring the underwater world of Mnemba Atoll is a must, and Sunshine Marine Lodge has an on-site dive centre to make it happen. Beach lovers can make their way to Muyuni Beach, at low tide, to enjoy its crowd-free stretch of sandy paradise. There are bikes available, some in better condition than others. If not, there is also a shuttle that drives to and from the beach daily.
Plan your stay

How to book Sunshine Marine Lodge

How do I book Sunshine Marine Lodge?

Sunshine Marine Lodge can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made Tanzania trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended Tanzania trips featuring Sunshine Marine Lodge or get advice and suggestions from one of our Tanzania specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.

How much does it cost to stay at Sunshine Marine Lodge?

Stays at Sunshine Marine Lodge start from around $90 per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.

Tanzania

Zanzibar

Flaming sunsets, sandy beaches and luxe hotels are easily accessible on a classic Zanzibar getaway.