Mnemba Island Lodge

Mnemba Island is a barefoot beach paradise just off the northeast coast of Zanzibar, celebrated for its rustic simplicity.

This exclusive hideaway boasts only ten beachside bandas, set in the shade of the casuarina pine forest, overlooking the Mnemba atoll (a scuba divers’ delight). The bandas are airy and open to the sea breezes, which waft through the high palm-frond roofs and large windows. Soft, natural fabrics and traditional woodcarvings by skilled artisans contribute to the tranquil exotic ambience.  A shady corridor of woven palm leaves leads to a large shuttered bathroom where a massive stone shower is tucked behind a glass beaded curtain. Each banda boasts a built-in in baraza (Swahili word for ‘meeting place’) on an expansive veranda, for whiling away siesta time.

Fresh fruit, fish, lobsters, crabs and prawns are sailed into Mnemba daily on traditional ngalawa outrigger boats, and prepared traditionally. Lunch is usually served on large wooden carved Zanzibar platters heaped with delicious mezze (fingerfood). An open thatched sitting area with deep pillows and low wooden tables provides the perfect place to enjoy spectacular sunsets with cocktail in hand. Romantic candle-lit dinners are enjoyed on the powdery-white beach amidst the melody of lapping waves.

 

 

The warm waters of the Indian Ocean are perfect for swimming and snorkelling. Mnemba boasts some of the world’s most beautiful dive sites, from coral reefs teaming with life to the deep open sea beyond. For those with diving certificates, two dives daily, led by experienced dive instructors, are included in your stay at Mnemba Island.

 

 

 

 

More than 430 species of reef fish have been recorded on the house reef, a mere two minute swim from the beach. Bottlenose dolphins frequent these waters year round and guests have the opportunity to interact with these magnificent creatures either from the boat or in the water. Green turtles lay their eggs on the island year-round with a seasonal peak in February and March.

 

 

 

 

The ocean depths around Mnemba provide spectactular catch and release fishing opportunities. Game fishing species such as barracuda, tuna, mackerel, kingfish, sailfish and marlin are frequently encountered. Fly-fishing enthusiasts can fish directly off the island’s beaches. The island’s birdlife is similarly prolific and memorable.

 

 

More active pursuits include walks around the island, kayaking and windsurfing off Mnemba’s white coral beaches.

Other activities on offer include diving courses, deep-sea fishing, touring the cultural highlights of the ancient “Spice Island,” and enjoying a range of relaxing massages and therapeutic treatments on the beach.

For more information about Mnemba Island Lodge call toll-free: 888.227.8311
or email us for Information

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