Fundu Lagoon, Zanzibar

rooms

In the woods backing the beach there are 18 luxurious tented rooms and suites, complete with hardwood floors and cooling ceiling fans, which are raised on wooden platforms and connected by sandy jungle-lined paths. Choose between Hillside Rooms with views of the ocean or be on the beach itself; there are eight Ocean View Rooms, four Beachside Rooms, one Jungle Suite, one Beach Suite and four Superior Suites.

All the rooms are large and feature double beds (or twins if you prefer) with the finest linen and mosquito nets draped stylishly around them. The Standard Rooms have an extended terrace with sun chairs and inside there is a small sofa and table, a minibar, simple wardrobe, a safe-box whilst the bathroom features a sun-warmed shower.

The Suites are larger and have a thatched chill-out area and plunge pool. The Superior Suites are right on the beachfront and have even larger decks, plunge pools and open-plan lounges, whilst bathrooms have a double shower and basins. The style is simple but elegant and makes for a superbly private and unique experience.

facilities & activities

With its shabby chic charm and laid back atmosphere, it is very easy to relax and enjoy your peaceful surroundings at Fundu Lagoon. All the main areas are set under thatched canopies and are open- sided to take full advantage of the beautiful surroundings. There are plenty of spots to unwind; a chilled-out pool bar, a stylish lounge area in reception that has free WiFi, a games room with pool table and a snug satellite TV room. Sun-loungers surround the hilltop infinity pool, from which you can admire panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. For complete indulgence take a visit to the Fundu Fusion Spa which offers a range of treatments embracing the ancient healing philosophies of African and Asian culture.

If you’re looking for something active to do, there is snorkelling, canoeing, windsurfing, kayaking and fishing. The pristine coral reefs surrounding the island protect a multitude of marine species and offer some of the best diving in the world. The fully equipped PADI dive centre offers a fleet of boats so you can take advantage of this. The nearby mangroves can be explored by canoe and the dhow sunset cruises are a great way to see the coastline, or you can simply walk along the beach at low tide and enjoy the beauty of your surroundings.

dining

The food at Fundu Lagoon is outstanding; possibly some of the best cuisine you will find in East Africa. Meals are served in the open-sided thatched dining area which has stunning views over the woods and the sea.

Breakfast is a delicious buffet offering a fantastic selection of cakes, croissants, fruit, cereal and yoghurt and cooked breakfasts are available too, including a full English and great pancakes.

The lunch and dinner menu feature fresh fish and tropical fruits, reflecting the cultural heritage of Zanzibar to create a fusion of Arabic, Indian, Swahili and colonial cuisine.

Head to the Pool Bar for a relaxed drink and lunchtime snack, whilst the Jetty Bar is perfect for a sundowner. The main bar is in the heart of the lodge - a great place for a get-together with friends – old and new.

Delicious picnics can be provided for excursions and, if you fancy something a little more intimate, private dining can be arranged with your own personal chef and waiter; eat at a candle-lit table under the stars or on your own terrace. There is also a weekly beach barbecue and on Sunday evening a fun Swahili feast with music on the jetty.

family

 There are no specific childcare facilities at Fundu Lagoon but children aged 12+ are welcome at the resort.

location

Fundu Lagoon is located on the Wambaa Peninsula on the south-west side of Pemba Island, which is in the Zanzibar archipelago.

You can fly to Pemba from Zanzibar where you will be met by the resort staff and driven to Mkoani harbour, which is about 45 minutes away. A private boat will take you over to the resort (approx. 25 minutes).