ASILIA MATEMWE LODGE – NORTH EAST ZANZIBAR

Secluded Matemwe Beach on the north eastern coast of the island is perfectly situated opposite the spectacular diving and snorkelling reefs of the Mnemba Atoll and surrounded by some of the best beaches in Zanzibar.

The beach at the lodge is still one of the quieter and more exclusive locations on the island.  A 30-minute boat ride away is Mnemba Island and the world-renowned coral reef that provides some of the most spectacular diving and snorkelling in the world with a high chance of seeing turtles and wild dolphins and colourful reef fish that dart around the coral.

Matemwe is just 60 minutes’ drive from Stone Town allowing for easy day trips into the winding streets of the historic town and excursions to all areas of Zanzibar.

LOCATION

Perched on an outcrop overlooking a shallow, coral-fringed lagoon on the quiet north eastern coast of Zanzibar Island.

LODGE

Matemwe Lodge is shaded by lush tropical gardens on the edge of a beautiful lagoon that at high tide reaches right to the edge of the lodge. The open-air restaurant sits just above the ocean with magnificent views of the palm-fringed beach and gently rocking dhows. Seafood is a specialty of the house and all produce is bought daily from local fishermen and markets. The multilevel swimming pool surrounded by lounge chairs is perfect for days spent soaking up the sun and the poolside bar serves fresh cocktails and drinks.

Built using local materials and surrounded by beautiful lush gardens, each of the 12 chalets at Matemwe Lodge has a private veranda with hammock and sofa, where you can relax and take in the spectacular views of the sparkling Indian Ocean.

Six triple-bed chalets are available, and there are two that have a private plunge pool. The large bathrooms have a deep bathtub and walk-in shower, and beds are all enclosed by mosquito nets.

All our food is sourced locally (including fruit and vegetables), and seafood is bought from local suppliers who use sustainable techniques. This means, for example, that we do not buy net- or spear-caught fish but only that caught on lines.

Meals are a mix of gourmet-style cooking and traditional Zanzibari cuisine with loads of seafood. The buffet-style breakfast includes fresh fruit, muffins, croissants, cereal and yoghurts as well as a full English breakfast.

Lunch and dinner are three-course meals: choose between two starters, three main dishes (including a meat, fish and vegetarian option) and two desserts.

Tuesdays and Fridays are barbecue night (with a range of seafood and meats) and Sunday is a Swahili buffet, offering a large selection of traditional dishes.

ACTIVITIES

– Snorkelling and diving at the famous reefs of Mnemba Atoll

– Full range of diving courses available through Scubafish, so please take a look at their website to find out more: scubafishzanzibar.com

– Kite-surfing

– Scenic kayaking along the reef

– Guided reef walks to explore the tropical marine life

– Local/traditional sailing & fishing

– Deep sea fishing

As with many sea-based activities, the timing of some of these activities is governed by the tides and water levels.

Excursions

– Escape to Infinity remote sandbank excursion

– Day trips to historic Stone Town

– Spice tours

– Jozani Forest tour

– Guided Matemwe Village walk

– Sundowner dhow trips

Spa Facilities – the lodge offers a great range of treatments

MATEMWE LODGE IS CLOSED FROM 3RD APRIL TO 31ST MAY EVERY YEAR

THE LODGE WELCOMES CHILDREN AGED 5 AND OLDER