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Mnemba Island

THE ORIGINAL GUIDED SAFARIS® LUXURY SAFARI LODGES • ZANZIBAR

Mnemba Island Lodge is situated on an exclusive island just 2.8 miles off the north-eastern tip of Zanzibar in the azure Indian Ocean. Surrounded by an atoll of breathtaking coral reefs, it boasts some of Africa’s most wonderful dive sites. Sheer unpretentious paradise, the architecture of the Lodge offers a rustic exclusivity and privacy unparalleled on the African coastline. Thatched dining and bar lounges have beautiful open views of the beach and spectacular sea beyond.

This exquisite, private island with its white coral-sand beaches and spectacular coral reefs is renowned as one of the most romantic ocean destinations in the world. Nestled within a tropical forest that fringes a white coral sand beach, the island’s 12 rustic palm-frond Bandas offer an intimate retreat, each a secluded slice of paradise. Here, you can unwind on your very own stretch of untouched beachfront. Designed in the swirling form of a nautilus shell, every Banda embodies serenity, reflecting the tranquil beauty of the sea. Soft opalescent tones, kissed with dusty pinks, pay tribute to the delicate coral that thrives in these waters. The fusion of cultural traditions and understated luxury is felt in every detail, from the locally sourced brass and marble to the Omani antiques, creating a vibrant space that is both elegant and deeply connected to nature.

Mnemba Island, Zanzibar LuxurySafariLodges.com
Mnemba Island, Zanzibar LuxurySafariLodges.com

Mnemba Island is home to some of the world’s most beautiful dive sites. The clear blue seas provide unsurpassed visibility for both snorkelling and scuba diving enthusiasts – we will provide you with all scuba and snorkelling equipment needed. Just a short boat trip from the Island, coral reefs drop into the deep open sea. You can enjoy two dives daily led by our experienced dive instructors. If you don’t have a PADI diving certificate, Mnemba offers a professional dive school for beginners. Specialty dives include deep, night, navigation, drift and peak performance.

Snorkeling From your Banda, step into the crystal-clear ocean and explore the vibrant coral reefs that surround the island. With a snorkel, mask, and fins—along with the option of full-face masks—you can dive deep into this colorful underwater world. A truly immersive experience, the reefs teem with life, offering an adventure just steps from your doorstep.

Sea Kayaking Set out on the gentle waves of the Indian Ocean in a tandem glass-bottom kayak, where you can peer into the underwater wonders below. Whether you’re paddling along the shoreline or venturing further into the ocean in search of dolphins or sea turtles, the peaceful rhythm of the water makes for an unforgettable experience. With guidance from Mnemba’s instructors, you can learn the ropes or simply take off on your own, discovering the ocean at your own pace.

Daily Yoga Classes Find your inner calm as you practice yoga on a deck overlooking the pristine ocean. With daily classes tailored to all skill levels, the Wellness Banda offers an oasis for physical, mental, and spiritual rejuvenation. Let the sound of the waves guide your breath as you align your chakras and balance your energy. For a more personalized experience, private yoga sessions can also be arranged, along with other healing practices such as singing bowl meditation, all in the soothing embrace of nature.

Baskets of fresh fruit, fish, lobsters, crabs and prawns are sailed into Mnemba daily on traditional ngalawa outriggers, and prepared as exotic delicacies. Lunch is usually served on large wooden carved Zanzibar platters heaped with delicious mezze (fingerfood). Romantic candle-lit dinners are enjoyed on the beach with the waves gently lapping at your feet.

Mnemba Island, Zanzibar LuxurySafariLodges.com
Mnemba Island, Zanzibar LuxurySafariLodges.com

Known as one of the premier dive locations in the world, the waters around Mnemba Island promise an unforgettable underwater journey. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced diver, the varied topography and rich marine life make each dive a unique adventure. The dive sites, most just a short boat ride away—or accessible directly from the shore—offer an unparalleled glimpse into this vibrant marine ecosystem. For first-time divers, the PADI Discover Scuba Diving course opens the door to a mesmerizing world beneath the waves, while seasoned divers can explore the deeper coral walls and, with some luck, encounter grey reef sharks, giant groupers, or other magnificent creatures of the deep. Mnemba’s dive masters are intimately familiar with the reefs, guiding you to spots where magic awaits beneath the surface.

Hand-woven from traditional Zanzibarian palm-matting, each secluded banda has a spacious veranda and is hidden in the shade of a tropical beach forest, fringed by the pristine beaches that halo the Island. A palm-covered walkway leads to an en suite bathroom with shower and basin. Zanzibar is famous for its intricate, detailed woodcarvings and the scrolled headboards adorning the beds are created by some of the Island’s most skilled artisans. The Family Banda takes this experience further, offering an additional smaller ensuite room perfect for children. Mirroring the nautilus-inspired tranquility of the other Bandas, the Family Banda is the ideal sanctuary for families seeking the perfect balance of shared moments and private retreats, set against a breathtaking island backdrop.

Mnemba Island, Zanzibar LuxurySafariLodges.com

Facts + Features

Mnemba Island

12 villas

Always Tailormade

Every detail defines an experience in your private safari.

Our custom safaris are meticulously planned journeys where nothing is left to chance, so you can enjoy unique moments with your loved ones in total luxury and privacy. Having the ultimate say in your preferences from start to finish allows you to explore our exclusive destinations in absolute freedom, whenever you want. No set dates; no groups, ever.

Talk to our Chief Designers

(415) 814 6676ext. 5

Pacific time • 9am ‑ 4pm • Mo‑Fr

Guided Safaris®

30+ year unparalleled expertise in Private African Journeys

San Francisco, California • The Original Luxury Safari Camps + Lodges collection

Immersive, remote wilderness

At the very heart, the idea for the Guided Safaris® collection of experiences was to be poetic and endlessly inspiring: for you, as an explorer, to interpret your dreams with these visual stories and breathe life into each safari. We invite you to discover our Signature Journeys.

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  • 30 year legacy

    Official Guided Safaris®

  • Always tailormade

    No groups, no set dates

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    Luxury safaris, exclusively