Citrus Inn by Indigo Beach Zanzibar

A lovely little resort for people or families looking for quiet time, set away from the bustle of Paje and Jambiani. There are two pools. The food selection was basic. Dinner is a set menu that may not suit everyone, especially kids, while the lunch menu is great and breakfast is basic. Staff also didn’t seem too keen to help arrange taxis to Paje or Jambiani. They quoted $20USD for a return trip, though you can hail one in the street for about $4USD each way.

The ocean-view rooms are lovely and very spacious. The one issue is that you have to go downstairs to use the bathroom during the night. There’s a private beach area for sunbathing, though swimming is on the public beach. It’s a safe hotel and works well for families, with a pool.

The staff made this place special. Everyone was incredibly friendly and went out of their way to help. The grounds are beautifully landscaped, the rooms are pleasant, and the cleaners do an exceptional job every day. With only 18 rooms or suites, it stays very quiet. Breakfast is included and was outstanding, with interesting choices that changed daily, plus eggs and bacon made to order. Lunch and dinner were good too, if a little pricey compared with local prices. The beach is very tidal, and at low tide the water retreats about 800 m to the reef. The sea is around 26 degrees and so warm that getting in felt a bit odd; I preferred the pool. I’d suggest hiring a car or arranging taxi day trips, since there’s so much to explore around the island. I’d highly recommend the hotel and would return.

A barefoot paradise with lovely individual cottages enclosed by boundaries and a beautiful beach. The staff are very friendly, especially the kitchen team. The chef took our orders and prepared everything to our preferences. The pool is small but very well maintained, and we were lucky to have it to ourselves. The open bathroom was a different experience. It gets messy quickly because leaves fall from the trees.