Location + Area

Perched on an outcrop overlooking a shallow coral fringed lagoon on the quieter north-east coast of Zanzibar, Matemwe’s peaceful location and famed relaxed atmosphere, makes it the ideal place to unwind. 

Here the tides govern the rhythm of the day. At high tide the fisherman stream across the lagoon in their billowing dhows, delivering a dream opportunity for any photographer - and the lodge is a daily stop for the fishermen who sell fresh crab, lobster and fish to Matemwe for lunches and dinners. At low tide the sea goes right out revealing a fascinating reef which you can explore for hours.

Matemwe Lodge is adjacent to one of the best stretches of beach on the east coast. This beach has not been noticeably altered by tourism and remains an important thoroughfare for locals. Activities such as fishing and seaweed harvesting are still key to the local economy. The lodge has a close relationship with the local fishing village situated on the far side of the beach, it is home to many of the Matemwe team and we actively support the local school.

Matemwe is just 60 minutes drive from Stone Town, allowing for easy day trips and excursions to all corners of this fascinating island.

Accommodation + Facilities

Built from local materials and surrounded by beautiful lush gardens, each of the 12 spacious suites has a private veranda with a hammock and sofa and expansive views of the Indian Ocean with its constantly changing hues of blue. Here you can watch the fishermen head out every morning at dawn or listen to the songs of the village women as they harvest seaweed.

The large bathrooms have both a deep bathtub and walk-in shower and all beds are enclosed by mosquito nets.

The open-air restaurant sits just above the sea and has a tranquil lounge area with beautiful views of the palm fringed beach and gently rocking dhows. Seafood is the specialty of the house, with all produce bought daily from the local markets. Lunch is a buffet offering a delicious mix of African and European flavours. Dinner offers a choice of main courses with fish, meat and vegetarian options. Matemwe has a multi-level swimming pool surrounded with lounge chairs overlooking the ocean. Freshly mixed cocktails are served at the poolside bar.

LODGE AMENITIES

• Number of chalets: 12 
• Children: above 6 years  
• Triples: 6  
• Not suitable for disabled guests  
• Distance between chalets: 10-20 meters
• No private plunge pool
• No air conditioning
• No personal bar
• Massage & treatments
• In-room lockable box
• Hair dryer
• Laundry service
• Power: 240V mains
• Internet

ACTIVITIES

• Reef walk
• Village visit
• Diving: at extra charge
• Snorkelling: at extra charge
• Dhow trip: at extra charge
• Stone Town visit: at extra charge
• Spice tour: at extra charge

CLOSEST AIRSTRIP

• Zanzibar Airport: approximately 1 hour

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