Bahati Zanzibar Villa

The food at Villa Bahati was all made from scratch, and you could taste the care in every fresh, homemade meal. We tried a few other restaurants, but kept deciding Bahati’s was easily the best. Jerry’s smoothies were another highlight, fresh, flavorful, and perfectly made every time. We joked about hiding him in our suitcase so he could make them for us at home. His easygoing, friendly manner added so much to the place. The staff were warm, genuinely caring, and helpful, while the atmosphere felt peaceful and private, like a little oasis. It was easy to relax and enjoy the quiet. We’re already talking about going back. Villa Bahati is a place that stays with you.

I arrived exhausted, but the kind staff and great food made the trip feel worth it right away. It’s a beautiful hotel in a relaxed area, with yoga mats and lots of amenities.

The people are what made Villa Bahati so special for us. Although we never met the two non-Zanzibari co-owners, Timothy and his team made the villa feel like an oasis. The bar staff deserve special praise. Jerry makes legendary cocktails, the best we had in Zanzibar, and his smile and warm energy made us look forward to seeing him and having a quick chat. I hope they keep him forever. Mrs. Happy, or Happiness, was always cheerful and helped arrange excursions and scooter rental. When she asked in the morning how we’d slept, she meant it. Whoever hired them should keep them and pay them well. Timothy was open and warm, and made things happen, from taxis and tours to snorkeling boat trips and restaurant suggestions. He checked in with us over breakfast each morning. In the evenings, Moalel, the Maasai who watched over the place at night, would sit with us. He was a lovely soul, warm despite the language barrier. Leyla and Charly, the dog and cat, became our companions and eventually stayed by our side. I’ve travelled widely, but this kind of warmth and hospitality is rare. I’ll miss the people most of all. If I return to Zanzibar, I’ll come back to you. The villa itself is carefully furnished and cleaned thoroughly each morning, including raking the sand smooth. Beds are cozy, the AC works perfectly, Wi-Fi is good, and we felt safe enough to leave our room doors open. Breakfast was great, with everything we needed and a different fresh, delicious juice each day. The food was excellent, especially the Mchicha, spinach in coconut sauce. The beach is clean and quiet, with vendors rarely bothering you. Jambiani is peaceful and good for unwinding, with restaurants ranging from down-to-earth Swahili food to pricier European-style meals. Paje, Makunduchi, and Jozani Forest are easy to reach by tuk-tuk or scooter. I can’t think of anything we missed. I hope it came across how much we liked it here. Thank you for everything, Villa Bahati!

A great stay, and I’d gladly return. Just two small issues: some plumbing trouble and hard mattresses. Otherwise, everything was perfect.