Matemwe Beach Village

Matemwe Beach Village is a supremely cosy guestlodge located on the northeast coast of Zanzibar. It's within excellent proximity to Mnemba Island, which offers some of the best diving off mainland Zanzibar. 

The simple makuti-thatched lodge and bungalows are situated along a glorious strip of palm-fringed beach. The main lodge has comfortable living areas, friendly staff and a very sociable atmosphere generated by the type of clientele they attract. Gail, the lodge's South African manager, has put a lot of effort into upgrading the guesthouse and making it the special place it is today. Her success is evident in all the stylish touches and attention to detail, which give the place a great feel. All rooms are provided with cheery sunhats, beach baskets, khi-kois (local sarongs) and umbrellas - everything needed for a lazy day at the beach.
We especially love the open-walled lounge with its colourful array of floor cushions and low tables, which overlook the ocean. Just the right spot to play games or swap travel stories with fellow guests. There's also a cosy pub in which to chill and enjoy local beers, fresh fruit juices or cocktails.

If you're on honeymoon or just want to spoil your partner, splash out on the romantic new honeymoon suite (created by Gail) with its open living spaces, circular pool, outdoor bathroom, own chef and private beach. It's certainly one of the best suites on the island. Go on, doesn't your partner deserve it?
Matemwe Beach has a five-star PADI-affiliated dive operation called One Ocean. They have excellent diving facilities and well-qualified staff. Of all the dive operators we have used in Zanzibar, we rate One Ocean at Matemwe as one of the finest. 

There's also plenty to keep non-divers occupied. If you ever tire of lazing about on the beach, you can take a cruise in a dhow, snorkel in the lagoon, bicycle along the beach or wander about the local village. There's always someone to play cards with in the pub and lots of socialising in the evenings. This is really a great place to just unwind and relax.
On full-moon nights guests are invited to view the rising of the moon from the beach where they enjoy sparkling wine, compliments of the lodge. These and other little touches really makes for a memorable experience.
If you're looking for excellent value for money, a great stretch of beach and superb diving, or a romantic wedding venue, Matemwe Beach Village is a fantastic choice. We can highly recommend it for just about any traveler to Zanzibar. 

There are 16 rooms and 6 suites, one of which - the Asali suite - is completely self-contained. The 16 thatched rooms are in close proximity of the beachfront. Seven of these are located at the front of the grounds; just far enough from the beach to give protection against the wind, which sometimes buffets the coastline, but close enough to afford a scenic view of the ocean. They have good views of the ocean from their verandas.

The remaining rooms are situated slightly further back towards the tropical vegetation. All rooms are constructed from stone and makuti thatching. Some are detached, while others are in groups of two or three.
All rooms are comfortably furnished to a Zanzibar theme. They have ceiling fans, and two of the rooms have air conditioning, but you pay a little more if you want to stay in one of these. All the beds have mosquito nets for your protection.

A popular addition to Matemwe Beach Village is the ultra-romantic Asali honeymoon suite. It's situated almost on the beachfront, some distance from the rest of the lodge, creating a private getaway for newly weds or romantic couples. 
This enormous house has a double room, main living area with a plunge pool in the centre and a little kitchen. We love the outside shower, where you can enjoy a blissful shower under the stars. There's also an indoor bathroom. Although considerably more expensive than the standard rooms, the Asali suite is definitely worth splashing out on. If you're after even more seclusion, a dedicated chef can be booked to serve your meals in the suite. You can, of course, always find lively company at the main lodge when you need it. 

In response to the Asali Suite’s popularity, 5 Shamba Suites were recently added to the existing accommodation options. While not entirely as self-contained as the Asali Suite, these funky and uniquely decorated suites offer a romantic setting for couples and a comfortable space for families. Their individual design allows for specially arranged romantic dinners – great for honeymooners.