Zuri Zanzibar

The tours were a real highlight. Our private Stone Town and Prison Island trips gave us lots of insight into Zanzibar’s history, and the drivers and guides were engaged and full of information. The grounds were beautifully kept, though the free-roaming snails are part of the scene. Masai security helped us feel safe, and staff made sure the beach vendors respected our space and the property. The place has a lovely boutique feel, right on a pristine stretch of ocean. The separate bungalows each have an outdoor shower, deck, and hammock. The pool is big and was mostly empty. At dinner, the main dining area served a changing mix of food from around the world. If you want a memorable, high-end stay in Africa with a team that puts in the effort, I’d come back without hesitation.

I won’t stay here again. I rarely write reviews like this, but the way the hotel handled my cancelled flight was unacceptable. Kenya Airways cancelled it, and I was moved to a flight arriving a day later. I told the hotel four days before check-in, but they wouldn’t refund the first night. After a lot of back and forth and being transferred between departments, I was told I’d be charged the full amount. I travel often and stay at Four Seasons, Ritz Carltons, and JW Marriotts, where I’d expect more flexibility and at least some apology. Here, there was no flexibility or apparent concern. That’s why I’d never return. The beach and food were both exceptional. The property is large, though, so getting from the room to the beach takes a while. At night, finding the restaurants from the room can also be tricky, and there should be more lighting and clearer directions. The AC only goes down to 24C (75F), whereas I’d expect 16C or 17C at a beach resort. For customer service, I give two stars.

We felt safe throughout, and the beach looked picture-perfect. Staff kept it exclusive for guests, and Hamad & Rafael deserve a special mention for their warm hospitality. The resort’s relaxed focus on slowing down came through in the yoga, fire shows, and rainy-day pop-ups. Room 65 was comfortable, private, and well cared for, which matters to us since we can be picky about resort rooms. The food was better than typical resort fare: set dinners felt around Michelin Bib Gourmand level, while the buffets were a good upscale average. Coffee specialties made on a professional espresso machine/Siebträger and still or sparkling water were complimentary. The filtered tap water was safe for brushing teeth, a useful luxury. The property was spotless, with exceptionally tidy grounds and well-trained staff. Keeping up that standard on an island in Tanzania must take serious logistics, and it helps justify the upscale price. A few things are outside the hotel’s control: entertainment from the neighboring RIU hotels can be heard, usually until midnight, boats regularly pass offshore, and mosquitoes are around once you leave the beach.

The food was incredibly tasty and high quality, and the teams across the hotel were friendly. Everything felt luxurious but relaxed, without any pretentiousness. A wonderful place with great facilities. I’d recommend it and plan to return.