Just 1.5km in circumference and lying off the clove-and-cinnamon-scented coast of Zanzibar lies Mnemba Island, a proverbial paradise of coral reefs, powdery beaches, turquoise water and frolicking dolphins. Lying on this fantasy isle is Mnemba Island Lodge, where the dedication is to true ‘barefoot luxury’ for all ages.

Only 10 thatched chalets – known as ‘bandas’ – make up the accommodation and the indigenous suni antelope and adorable Ader’s duiker are known to wander happily past them on their way to fresh grazing. Footsteps away from your banda is the beach – occupied by rare coconut crabs – and beyond that the tempting ocean, with its treasure trove of warm water, good visibility, sheer drops, a coral atoll and about 430 species of fish, including quizzical whale sharks. Mnemba Island Lodge is equipped with a PADI dive school and two dive boats, meaning you will always be able to take to the waters when it suits you. Water babies will also thrive on kayaking, windsurfing, swimming on the permanent beach and late afternoon dhow cruises in this marine conservation area. All non-motorised water sports are included.

Landlubbers are not forgotten: spend the day bird watching (there is a large colony of doves that lives on the island) or relaxing on a daybed set up on the beach with a book from the library. Mnemba Island is also home to a fascinating green turtle population; peak turtle season is from April to August and privileged guests may even be able to witness these incredible creatures being born. Whatever you do, do not bother unpacking your shoes… no shoes and no dress code means a laid-back ambience second to none.

Highlights

• 10 private thatched bandas
• PADI dive school & 2 dive boats
• Child-minding & butler service
• Wi-Fi & library
• Water sports & bird watching
• Nesting turtle population

Activities

• BEACH ACTIVITIES
• DEEP SEA FISHING
• SCUBA DIVING
• SNORKELLING
• YOGA
• KAYAKING
• CHILDREN'S ACTIVITIES

Mnemba was a true paradise for me, remaining barefoot for the entire duration of my stay, exclusive location, fantastic staff and great snorkelling literally from the beach. Anton our chef made sure nothing was too much trouble and he spoilt us with the breakfast spreads!

Rooms

Banda

Mnemba Island Lodge’s tropical beach forest shelters bandas with built-in ‘barazas’ (Swahili for ‘meeting place’) for lazy afternoon siestas. The architecture and decor is ‘shipwreck chic’: high thatch roofs, ornate furniture carved by local artisans and no-fuss interiors.

Past your dressing room, a covered walkway leads to the shuttered bathroom that has a stone shower hung with a glass-beaded shower curtain and a double vanity. The mini bars are stocked with guests’ preferences to provide refreshment on sultry evenings under the soft hum of overhead ceiling fans.

There is a family-sized banda available.

Facilities

At Mnemba Island Lodge, the focus is on appreciating the abundance that nature has to offer, especially the warm waves of the Indian Ocean. A PADI dive school and two dedicated dive boats cater for learners and experienced divers alike while there is also equipment for snorkelling, kayaking and windsurfing. Sail like the mariners of old on a traditional dhow as it catches the fresh sea breezes.

During the season, follow the hatching of the turtles on the island or bird watch all year round. For utter relaxation, go no further than you seaside daybed and rely on your butler to wake you or refresh you with a long, cool drink.

Dining

Dawn brings the scent of freshly baked coconut bread and the gentle coo of island doves. Each day, traditional dhows deliver baskets of fresh fruit, seafood and fish for the chefs to use, blending Zanzibari heritage with global flavours. In the thatched dining area, lunch is served, often on large wooden platters piled high with delectable mezze. Utterly romantic dinners are served on the beach with warm waters lapping at your feet or the softest coral sand between your toes or join a beach barbeque with the flittering stars overhead.