Mnemba Island, Zanzibar, Tanzania

Mnemba Island is a private tropical paradise with just 10 luxurious bandas overlooking the breathtakingly beautiful sandy white beach and deep blue ocean. Remember that number, because this island is kept for the exclusive use of you and a handful of others. In our opinion this is the ultimate destination for “barefoot luxury” and according to Conde Nast, this is one of the top three most romantic beach destinations in the world! If you can fit a beach break into your safari schedule (and budget!), then this truly is the place to be, end of discussion.

Each banda is hand woven from traditional Zanzibari palm fronds, with their own private verandah which is perfect for escaping the midday heat and enjoying an afternoon siesta. The emphasis is on total relaxation in natural surroundings, with the fully stocked bar on the beach and alfresco dining adding to the laid-back atmosphere.

Food at Mnemba is out of this world, with delicious fresh seafood and local Zanzibari and Italian specialties served daily. Days are spent swimming in the crystal clear waters and strolling on the pristine beach that circles the island. For the active, the Mnemba Atol and the surrounding waters offer some of the best scuba diving and fishing to be found in Africa. A spectacular array of activities allows you the best possible opportunity to enjoy the magnificent protected coral reefs that Mnemba Island offers. Giant turtles, ghost crabs and incredible tropical fish are some of the spectacular underwater marvels and delights available for viewing. From snorkelling, swimming and kayaking, to massages on the beach, to doing nothing at all, Mnemba has something for everyone.