NB: Matemwe Lodge is currently closed for refurbishments…
Opening in May 2025
Matemwe Lodge (formerly known as Matemwe Bungalows), occupies a fantastic location on a low coral cliff beside a sweeping sandy beach. The Mnemba Atoll lies just offshore, making this a popular destination for divers and snorkelers wishing to explore some of Zanzibar’s best dive sites.
Matemwe Lodge offers friendly staff, a relaxed atmosphere, lush tropical gardens, fine white sand, intimate swimming pools, massages and magnificent fresh seafood.
Matemwe Lodge is a real Zanzibari Beach Lodge in every sense. Being part of a company (Asilia) that specializes in safari camps and lodges, it offers a great balance of authentic rustic style, luxury and romance.
With just 12 bungalows, the Lodge feels spacious and private.
Each bungalow has great sea views, as they are set on top of a cliff, and the rooms are very spacious. The hammock on the porch is perfect for spending lazy days gazing out to sea.
There are 2 beautiful pools to choose from (the top pool has wonderful views over the ocean to Mnemba Island).
The restaurant has fantastic views and serves delicious fresh seafood.
The Lodge has a romantic feel to it, and the staff make an incredible effort to set the scene for stunning romantic poolside dining, with candles and all…
The Lodge is close to Matemwe Village… so you if you wish, you can get a taste of Zanzibari Village life during your stay.
The cove at Matemwe Lodge sometimes has rough waves, which can make swimming in the sea a bit difficult… but Matemwe’s picture-perfect, long white beach is a short walk away.
Only kids over 5 are welcome
Matemwe Lodge consists of 12 beautiful bungalows, built from local materials and surrounded by beautiful garden. Each suite has a private veranda with hammocks and couches overlooking the Indian Ocean.
Inside the room, you’ll find a grand, king-size bed and plenty of space with personal touches.
The bathrooms are large and have deep bathtubs and walk-in showers. Although mosquitoes are rare in Matemwe, all rooms are equipped with a large mosquito net.
Matemwe Lodge has a multi-level swimming pool surrounded with sun loungers overlooking the ocean. Freshly mixed cocktails are served at the poolside bar.
Ngalawas and dhows – traditional wooden sailing boats – continually sail past Matemwe Lodge (which is a dream for any photographer) and the lodge is a daily stop for the fishermen who sell fresh crab, lobster and fish to Matemwe Lodge for lunches and dinners. Enjoy this sight at early morning, when fresh coffee and delicious cookies are served at your veranda. In the evening, the full moon rising out of the sea is a wonderfully romantic experience.
The open-air restaurant at Matemwe Lodge overlooks the ocean and has a tranquil area to lounge in as well.
Seafood is the specialty of the house, with all produce bought daily from the local markets.
Lunch is a buffet, offering a delicious mix of African and European flavors.
Dinner offers a choice of main courses with fish, meat and vegetarian options.
Matemwe Lodge is a perfect place for relaxation, as well as water activities. When staying here, ocean trips with snorkeling equipment can be easily arranged for you. You can sail or motor out to the local reef and discover the little island of Mnemba Atoll – right opposite Matemwe.
Diving trips can also be organized for you with a professional diving center and you can discover the breathtaking underwater world of the Indian Ocean.
Local snorkeling & dive sites are suitable for all levels – from Open Water to Advanced. Variety is the key word on the reefs around Matemwe: soft and hard corals, sponges and anemones abound, and you will be amazed by the sheer range of fish species in these waters.
You might also find that dolphins come close to your boat to show off, or even spot a whale passing by the reef (best chance for whales are from August – October).
Kayaks are available to explore the crystal clear sea.
Visits to the neighboring village of Matemwe can be arranged for those who want to explore the local Zanzibar culture and village life and for those who wish to learn about the community projects that Matemwe Lodge is involved in.
Day Trips can easily be arranged from Matemwe Lodge to the historic centre of Stone Town, Jozani Forest or Prison Island. We can also organize a Spice Tour for you, which is a very interesting way to learn about the great variety of spices that the island is famous for – and who knows: maybe you will be inspired to cook some Zanzibari dishes yourself when you get home!
Set on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean and Mnemba Atoll, the Sea and Spice Spa offers international standard treatments which take their inspiration from the Spice Island and African continent.
Whether you have been on safari, climbed Kilimanjaro or are just relaxing on the beach, the Sea and Spice spa is the ideal place to rejuvenate.
The Sea and Spice Spa is proud to only use products made in Africa. The spa stocks Healing Earth, a premium organic spa brand inspired by Africa’s ancient energy and healing traditions.
Map & Location
