Chumbe Island

Chumbe Island Coral Park is a unique privately managed Nature Reserve and Marine Protected Area situated just south of Stone Town. About 90% of the island is covered by one of the last remaining pristine 'coral rag' forests in Zanzibar, a highly specialised plant community that has developed to survive without any groundwater. The rare Coconut Crab, the largest land crab on earth, is common here - while threatened elsewhere in the Indian Ocean - together with the Ader's Duiker, an endangered species accepted to be extinct in its original range on the African mainland coastal forests. Furthermore, the island is surrounded by an extremely rich coral reef ecosystem. Chumbe’s main aim is to preserve the Island's exceptional environment and to build environmental awareness on Zanzibar - organising school visits and teacher training workshops to Chumbe island. It also facilitates scientific research of these fragile and endangered terrestrial and marine habitats. The Chumbe Project is completely funded through tourist revenue.

The 7 eco-bungalows are designed to provide both privacy and a sense of freedom of living in the open. All bungalows overlook the sea and it takes just 30 seconds to stroll from the comfort of your hammock to feeling the warm tropical ocean lapping at your feet. The bungalows have large living rooms and are all self-contained. As there is no ground water on Chumbe, each bungalow collects its own freshwater supply during the rainy season. The ‘grey’ water, from showers and hand basins, is filtered through substrate & plant beds to avoid polluted water from seeping into the sea. Each bungalow is equipped with its own solar-power panels for hot water & lighting, and has composting toilets.

Matemwe Bungalows

A visit to Matemwe Bungalows, situated in the rural northeast of Zanzibar, is a perfect mix of relaxation and excitement. Their 17 eco-bungalows are built from local materials in harmony with the surroundings, each with a personal touch and directly overlooking the Indian Ocean. Each bungalow has its own solar power for hot water and lighting. The suites have large king-size beds especially suited for honeymooners. An extra single bed makes them also suitable for small families

Meals are served in Matemwe’s el-fresco restaurant, overlooking the Indian Ocean. Buffet lunch offers a delicious mix of African and European flavours and for dinner you have a choice of main courses of meat, fish or vegetarian, although seafood is the true speciality of the house. All produce is bought daily from local markets. Our Special Tip for Honeymooners!