Independent hotels in Unguja, Tanzania

"The staff were extremely friendly and accommodating. We always looked forward to the meals because the food was delicious and great conversation with the staff. They made us feel at home, I wished we had stayed longer! It was my fiance’s birthday and they made it as special as possible, they made him his favourite dish and had a birthday song performance that left him beaming from ear to ear. It was truly a memorable stay at Zanzi. A beautiful hideaway from the world, the villa was spectacular and private. We look forward to coming back again."

"The staff 100% make this place, so friendly, so helpful and generally infectious. We cant thank everyone enough for making our honeymoon so special and taking care of us throughout our stay "

"This resort is the closest I've been to a natural paradise. My stay was incredible in every possible way. The Isaraya overwater bungalows are beautifully decorated and you feel like you're living in your own personal paradise looking out onto the ocean, your private pool, and the fishermen who pass by. The food was amazing with lots of different choices of local dishes including fresh fish and fruits daily. The best part of all was the staff. They were so helpful, especially when you try to speak a few words in swahili, and will do all they can to serve you, even dinner on the beach, on request. Beatrice, the hospitality manager, was absolutely incredible and the kindness of the whole team will make your trip exceptional. It is very quiet there, day and night, which is what I was seeking, but no night life except a couple of evenings where there was music, so if you're wanting fun, I'd go elsewhere or you'll need to book a taxi every day. It is about 90 minutes from Stone Town or the spice farm, so most visits will be a full day trip due to the roads. Some people complain about the Maasai, but they guard the property. They made me feel safe, and they are lovely to chat to. Of course they'll try to sell you something, but just be polite, laugh with them, and negotiate, you'll be so glad you did because it'll add to your memories. I personally had an unforgettable stay and I can't wait to go back."

"Absolutely serene with breathtaking views. Breakfast was excellent, with plenty of local fruits and vegetables to enjoy. The staff are very friendly and accommodating. Rooms are cleaned twice daily; however, this is when money went missing from our bedside during the evening service. Unfortunately, this can happen if valuables are left out. I believe having notice boards reminding guests to be vigilant would be helpful. "

"Bloody amazing place to chill and relax. Beautiful stretch of beach. Amazing and professional MANAGER & ALL OF HIS STAFF. Excellent food and entertainment. "

"Fantastic location, great staff, very friendly and efficient. Led by a brilliant General Manager. Good food and very pleasant thematic evenings with shows."

"Absolutely amazing I’m definitely going back"

"What I liked the most is that the entire hotel was built around 10 living palmtrees. Trees are still growing (there are holes for them in the floor between ground floor and the first floor) and providing shade for guests and living room for birds."

"This is my second time staying at Meliá, and it won’t be my last. It’s not only because the hotel and grounds are beautiful. It’s the staff, they are exceptional, they’re the most friendly, smiley, professional and provide amazing service. Every room is cleaned twice a day and I’ve left valuables lying around and everything has always been safe. My only complaint this time was that there was no working light in the shower but other than that everything was 10/10."