Pongwe Beach Hotel zanzibar Guide to accommodation

Situated on one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world, the Pongwe Beach Hotel is a true paradise retreat, set within a secluded bay on the east coast of Zanzibar; an island in the Indian Ocean just off the coast of Tanzania, Africa. We are a modestly sized hotel, with sixteen traditional beach-side cottages, and an intimate atmosphere.

“Affordable, laid-back luxury on one of the most idyllic palm-fringed beaches imaginable.” — i-escape.com

The Perfect Beach
Pongwe Beach Hotel offers the perfect paradise island experience. The bay's clear blue waters — protected by the reef one kilometre from the shore — are ideal for swimming and snorkeling. If the midday sun becomes too strong you can retreat into the shade of the palm trees that line the white sandy beach, and sip a long, cool drink.

Relax
Pongwe Beach is a tranquil location; the ideal place to relax and enjoy Zanzibar’s distinctive, mellow pace. You can dive into the crystal clear waters of the Indian ocean, or stretch out and soak up the sun on the beach. It is the ideal retreat for those looking for that extra special honeymoon, or a holiday with an air of exclusivity.

Enjoy
We have our own traditional wooden long boat with which our guests may gain access to deep waters before and beyond the reef. This provides the ideal opportunity to go game fishing for tuna, marlin, barracuda and king fish. We also have snorkeling out at Mnemba Atoll where you can will find many coral species and marine life; and at Kizimkazi where sharks, dolphins and turtles can be found. Scuba diving can be arranged whether it be a day dive or a Padi open water course.

Dine in style
Our consultant chef from England — who has spent time in the kitchens of the Dorchester Hotel, London; and the famous Lucas Carton, one of Paris’ finest 3 star Michelin restaurants — has advised and trained our own in-house chefs, so you can be assured that the crab, king prawn, and other fine local food will be prepared and cooked to the highest of international standards.

Traditional Zanzibar Accommodation

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The resort’s beautiful gardens surround sixteen beach front Zanzibarian cottages. You will find various local hand crafted Zanzibarian doors and traditional beds. All cottages have en suite bathrooms, with Moroccan style walk in showers. Each cottage also has its own private terrace where guests may enjoy the sunrise and a leisurely breakfast.

The sea view cottages have traditional lime wash walls, and thatched roofs made from woven palm leaves. The size of our resort allows us to maintain a high standard of service, and even during peak-season the atmosphere at the Pongwe Beach Hotel remains relaxed, intimate and exclusive.

We also have 24 hour around the clock reception, so no matter what time of the day (or night) we will be able to happily attend to you.

If you would like take a trip around the island, or to Stone Town — the historic, bustling, cultural core of Zanzibar — we can arrange a car. Alternately, if you prefer a bit more freedom, you could hire a 4×4 jeep, or a motorbike. Or you may prefer to take to the ocean, and go out for a day cruising on our long boat, and combine it with some big game fishing and snorkeling.

Pongwe Beach Hotel is located in a quiet bay on the north-east coast of Zanzibar.

Locally known as Unguja, Zanzibar is a small island in the Indian Ocean off the east coast of Africa, about 60 kilometres from Tanzania’s principal port of Dar es Salaam. High-speed ferries regularly call at Zanzibar from Dar es Salaam, as well as inexpensive commuter flights from the domestic terminal of the Dar es Salaam airport.