Mia Boutique Hotel ★★★★

Karafuu Beach Resort & Spa ★★★★★

"This was a very disappointing experience for a supposed 5 star hotel. On arrival, yes we were greeted but after a long journey we wanted to have something to eat and settle into our rooms. Instead we got an obviously rehearsed (yes we all know it has been done a hundred times before but at least pretend it hasn’t) speech on all the things we could not do. We then had a procession of people trying to sell us things before we were allowed to escape. Edward at the beachfront restaurant was a welcome reprieve and the food there was good and true to label. The views were also spectacular and is the most redeeming feature of the hotel. Finally to the room where there is not much evidence of 5 star. Towels were threadbare, only one pillow each and only a sheet for bedclothes. That was better than dinner where with our orange wristbands (yes you have to wear wristbands) we were abused by one of the waiters for taking a table he had reserved. I am not sure how we were supposed to know as we were told to find ourselves a table and help ourselves. The buffet food was average but edible but most plates were empty. All in all the rooms, pools and staff are looking a little tired. The view is stunning and some staff were great but don’t go there expecting 5 star - it is not!"

Shanuo Beach Bungalows ★★

"We chose this hotel for a two-day stay because the reviews were very good. The hotel is simple but in a nice location, and the staff was very friendly. However, we were housed on the second floor. The roof is made of wicker or straw and had holes in it where animals could get in from the street. When we went up to our room in the afternoon, there was a rat the size of my hand. We asked to change rooms to the ground floor because the roof was covered and it's safer to keep rodents out. When we returned from dinner, they had given us another room upstairs, which also had holes in it. The bed was full of black bugs, and the mosquito net had holes in it. It was impossible to sleep, fearing a rat would get in and ruin your vacation. You spend a lot of money to get to this country, and all you want is to enjoy yourself and be calm. They had ground-floor rooms available, but they didn't want them. We then went to other hotels and saw that the holes were covered with fences or grates. I think if you have a business you should try to offer a minimum. The breakfast was very poor, so after breakfast we left. Disappointed after such a nice hotel and wasted money. We had to pay for another night somewhere else. No one contacted us to ask what had happened or apologize. Terrible."

Pingwe Beach Apartments

Boutique Hotel Matlai ★★★★

"This hotel is about a 90 minute drive from the airport. I couldn’t find much feedback on it in my research but decided to take a chance on it anyway. WOW, it’s so beautiful. The setup is more of a bed and breakfast type accommodation. The property is a lot bigger than I anticipated and it’s very quiet. Very few people walking the beach/sellers bothering you. There are 2 buildings to choose from. I wanted Villa Kidosho as it’s a little more private (only 2 rooms) but it was booked so we stayed in Asili House (4 rooms) and not at all disappointed. The bedroom is air conditioned with a fan and has an oceanfront private balcony. The bathroom is open air so it’s a bit warm and humid but not unbearable. The staff, wow they are so friendly. Our butlers, Tito and Hisham were awesome! Tito was there to welcome us very late at night and we instantly formed a connection with him. We loved him! This accommodation also has activities included like an open air cinema, foosball, volleyball, kayaking, snorkeling, darts, outdoor gym and spa services (which are extra). They have the cutest little turtle farm that made my animal loving heart happy. They accommodated my dairy allergy very well! The food has been the best we’ve had in Africa. We never ordered anything we didn’t like. Tried authentic Vietnamese food and loved it so much I got something every night. The only “negatives” for us was there’s very little shade by the pool chairs and the shower is a rain head only. I hate rain heads and really wish they had a wand option LOL. Big bonus, check out is at 10:30a but our flight was at 10pm. They had a space for us to still spend the day in with a bed, table and chairs and separate area with a sink and shower. Talk about thoughtful! We thoroughly enjoyed our time at this hotel and hope to make the trip back here in the next few years. After 3 visits you get to plant a tree and after 4, you get to leave your hand prints. Such a thoughtful way to keep their guests part of the property."

Hekaya Zanzibar ★★★★

"We stayed in one of the cozy 5 rooms of the Lodge. The place is beautiful and you can see the operations team on the ground have a solid experience. Amiable staff and management. Nothing was too much to ask for. We had the pleasure of engaging with the below team members: 1. Godfrey Albert (General Manager) 3. Moses (Chef) 4. James (Cook) 5. Irene (Housekeeper) 6. Rose (Housekeeper) 7. Jane (Housekeeper) 9. Mohammed (Bar & Restaurant waiter) 10. Diswa (Bar & Restaurant waiter) 11. John Tariq (Bar & Restaurant waiter) 12. Hafidhi (Pool Attentat) 13. John Tito (Gardener) A 5* plus rating !!!! "

Upendo Beach Boutique Hotel Zanzibar ★★★★

"Upendo was the perfect way to end our safari trip: five nights of real luxury and relaxation on the east coast. Francesca and her team welcomed us warmly from the start and made sure we were well taken care of throughout our stay. The food was a highlight. Francesca mentioned to Chef Keith that I'm a foodie, and he went out of his way for us. He cooked a custom Swahili dinner and sent out complimentary off-menu dishes he thought we'd enjoy. When we left, he gave us a recipe and some freshly crushed garam masala so we could make the dishes at home. That kind of thoughtfulness is rare. We booked a villa with a rooftop plunge pool as a treat, and it was worth it. My favorite spot was the shaded swing daybed looking out over the ocean. Jeff and Theo were attentive and friendly every day, and Jeff even stayed up until 1 AM to make sure our airport transfer went smoothly. Tip: Bring water shoes. The beach has a lot of coral and sea urchins, especially at low tide. Upendo will provide water shoes on request, but we brought our own. If Upendo were closer to home, we'd be back in a heartbeat. Asante sana for all the personalized care!"