overview
Also known as 'Spice Island', Zanzibar is an exotic paradise with white palm-fringed beaches and turquoise coves, dreamy dhows with billowing white sails, and ancient Islamic ruins. It combines Arabic alleyways and historic monuments with coral reefs and excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities.
The island's varied history has brought with it seafarers, explorers and traders, and during the 19th century the island became the world's leading producer of cloves. Its plantations still produce more than 50 different spices and fruit, and guided spice tours are a Zanzibar speciality.
One of the most beautiful and isolated beaches is at Matemwe on the north-east coast, an ideal spot for those wanting to get away from the bustling town life. The shallow turquoise waters within the fringing reef are warm and safe; and there are lots of fishing villages where life continues at a slow, simple, African pace.
Modestly veiled women make bright splashes of colour along white sandy stretches of beach, dhows drift along the shore and fisherman offload their fresh catches of the day.
Perched on a coral rock, surrounded by the best beaches of Zanzibar and right opposite the Mnemba Atoll for spectacular diving and snorkeling lies the beautiful Matemwe beach lodge. One of the first lodges to be built on the East Coast of Zanzibar, Matemwe is also the most popular beach lodge on Zanzibar.
The lodge strikes a perfect balance between beach-style simplicity and elegance. Backing onto lush tropical gardens looking out to the endless Indian Ocean, the thatched bungalows are secluded and comfortable, without trying too hard. The friendly staff, the relaxed atmosphere, the finest white beach sand one could imagine, intimate swimming pools, massages, and the magnificent cuisine specializing in fresh seafood make Matemwe the ultimate tropical paradise.
The open-sided restaurant is totally laid back with a sociable bar and sitting area, and serves fresh, simple and delicious food. The lodge is a daily stop for the fishermen who sell their fresh crab, lobster and fish to Matemwe for lunches and dinners. Enjoy this sight at early morning, when fresh coffee and delicious cookies are served to you on your private veranda. In the evening, the full rising out of the sea is a wonderful romantic experience you're not likely to forget.
The lodge consists of 12 beautiful suites, built from local materials and surrounded by a lush tropical garden. Each suite has a private veranda set literally right on the waters edge with hammocks and couches overlooking the Indian Ocean. All suites have ensuite bathrooms and inside the room, you’ll find a fantastic bed beautifully made out of coconut palm wood, plenty of space and personal touches. Whilst the turquoise sea calls for you, 2 intimate swimming pools are available to refresh guests during the sunny Zanzibar days. Besides the rooms, the restaurant and the various lounge areas overlook the Indian Ocean and the fresh sea breeze ensures that the climate is pleasant and that the mosquitoes stay away. At the end of the day, a well deserved fresh cocktail can be enjoyed at the poolside bar.
Matemwe is built and operated on the ethos of low impact ecotourism; electricity comes from the sun, air-con from the sea breeze. The lodge contributes to local projects including piped water to the area, a school library and teacher’s office.
There are no telephones or televisions, no crowds, no noise and no stress…. except of course for those BIG decisions you will have to make: whether to swim, dive, snorkel,
take a sandy stroll along the palm-fringed beach, soak up the sun, or curl up with a good book in a hammock on your very private terrace!