Matemwe Lodge
Relaxed but vibrant Matemwe has perfected the tropical island experience.
Perched on an outcrop overlooking a shallow coral fringed lagoon on the quieter northeast coast of Zanzibar, Matemwe’s peaceful location and famed atmosphere of relaxation, makes it the ideal place to unwind.
Guests quickly ease into the rhythm of relaxed island life, planning their day around the tides and their mood.
The laid-back daily routines of our guests include enjoying fresh seafood, poolside cocktails, massages or simply hanging out in a hammock.
The lodge has plenty on offer for the more active with superb diving and snorkeling off the renowned Mnemba Atoll topping the list for many. We share our beautiful beach with a vibrant fishing community and guests are welcome to go fishing with the locals, join a game of beach football or get a sense of village life on a walking tour of the area.
Accommodation
Built from local materials and surrounded by beautiful lush gardens, Matemwe’s 12 bungalows exude a sense of relaxation and intimacy.
Each spacious suite has a private veranda with a hammock and sofa and expansive views of the Indian Ocean with its constantly changing hues of blue.
Here you can watch the fishermen head out every morning at dawn or listen to the songs of the village women as they harvest seaweed on the low tide for sale on the international market.
The large bathrooms have both a deep bathtub and walk-in shower and all beds are enclosed by mosquito nets.
Restaurants & Bar
The guest house boasts a restaurant and lounge bar (all in one) which look out over the beach.
Food is served in various parts of the resort which adds interest. Twice a week it is served in the ‘boma’ around a bonfire. Literally meaning ‘enclosure’ this is an area surrounded by a fence similar in style to the traditional thorn fences that surround Maasai villages.
Sometimes dinner is served on the beach. Food comes highly recommended both for its quality and variety (though individual menus are not extensive they change regularly). The hotel uses fresh locally sourced produce.
The bar is reasonably priced though wine tends to be more expensive. It is a very relaxed hub with books and games and comfortable cushions; a perfect chill-out spot.
Activities
One of the main attractions of Matemwe is the world class diving at Mnemba Atoll.
This area of ocean offers some of the best snorkeling and diving possible off Zanzibar, with a high chance of seeing turtles and wild dolphins in addition to the diverse and colourful coral reef fish.
Water Sports
:: Snorkeling & diving at the famous reefs of Mnemba Atoll
:: Full range of diving courses available through One Ocean
:: Kite-surfing
:: Scenic kayaking along the reef
:: Guided reef walks to explore the tropical marine life
:: Local/traditional sailing & fishing
:: Deep sea fishing
