Inspired by the island’s blend of eclectic cultures, The Residence Zanzibar mixes modern day comforts with Swahili, Omani, British and Indian traditions. The The Residence Zanzibar lies within a haven of untouched nature and offers close contact with Zanzibar’s wildlife in the tropical flora and the crystal clear water of the Indian Ocean. Take a walk on the white sand or explore more of the island and the water that surrounds it in a variety of activities and excursions, from visiting historic sites to diving with dolphins. Immerse yourself in the island’s unique blend of cultures and cuisines, and the sensational spa treatments as you unwind in the resort after a full day of adventure.
Location
Why is The Residence Zanzibar one of the best hotels to stay during your trip to Zanzibar?
Just off the coast of Tanzania, The Residence Zanzibar is located in the southwest of the main island of Zanzibar: Unguja. Close to the picturesque fishing village of Kizimkazi, nestled between an endless sea of tropical gardens and fringed by an immaculate beach, The Residence Zanzibar hosts you in a secluded lush hideaway. At the luxurious villa resort, guests can retreat to a world of pure relaxation and elegance inspired by the island’s heritage.
Key Facts
- The Residence Zanzibar is surrounded by nothing but 32 hectares of lush greenery
- a 35-minute drive from the Abeid Amani Karume International Airport
- enjoy the hustle and bustle of Zanzibar City in a 55-minute drive from the residence
What is special?
- the villa resort’s remote location in the middle of an endless sea of lush gardens makes it the perfect hideaway for a calm retreat from the fast-paced city life
- the Residence provides the most astounding backdrop for special occasions such as weddings, family gatherings or business events such as important conferences or executive retreats
- visit the small fishing village of Kizimkazi and its friendly inhabitants to learn more about rural island tradition
What do the guests say?
- guests feel very relaxed after their stay because of the peaceful atmosphere and zero noise pollution of the resort
- lovebirds call the resort “Honeymooner’s paradise” and are sad to leave
- vacationers recommend The Jetty to sit down, relax and unwind with a glass of wine while the sun sets
Accommodation
How is my private villa? What view can I expect?
The 66 exquisite private villas offer the ideal setting to take a break from everyday life and enjoy the slow-paced atmosphere of the tranquil resort. The villas feature an exceptional unique interior, a fusion of contemporary style with the elegance of the island’s African, Omani and European heritage. French Doors separate the open lounge deck and a 1.2-meter-deep private swimming pool from the spacious inside of the villa. Enjoy your view of the calm garden and soothing movement of the waves on the ocean.
Key Facts
- The Residence Zanzibar features 66 luxurious villas for a perfect recreative vacation
- choose between 1 or 2 bedroom villas to accompany 2 to 4 adults comfortably
- spacious en-suite bathrooms and additional outdoor showers with ocean view
What is special?
- every villa offers a breathtaking view of the ocean, especially from the bathroom’s freestanding bathtub in which you can soak in absolute relaxation and enjoy the panoramic view of the sea
- with just a few steps from the beach, the tastefully appointed villas invite to a morning swim in the azure water before breakfast or a walk on the palm-framed beach into the sunset
- fancy staying in your villa with your partner or family and just relax? A large TV and an extensive selection of kid-friendly movies invite to a movie night at the villa
What do the guests say?
- taking an outdoor bath during the magical sunset in vibrant shades of reds and oranges is highly recommended by vacationers
- sparkling eyes and statements such as “Excellent vacation!” and “best place ever” are common reactions of recent guests
- the spacious private pools and decks are favorites for hanging out among friends and family
- guest appreciate the generous fridge to store local snacks to munch on during their time at their private pool
Pools & Spa
Where can I rest after a long day of snorkeling and exploring the island?
Guest can refresh in the infinity pool with a breathtaking view or book a pampering session at The Spa, the hotel’s hidden gem, featuring six spacious treatment pavilions, a calm relaxation area with a jacuzzi, sauna and steam room, spread between two hectares of tropical garden. Beauty products with organic natural plant ingredients transform treatments into moments of healing and pleasure for mind, body and soul.
Key Facts
- guest can experience luxurious spa therapies and beauty treatments tailored to their needs, featuring the benefits of luxury British organic spa brand ila
- the spa pavilions are woven into nature, which turns any spa treatment into a sacred experience
- guest don’t have to pause their workout routine as the resort offers a fitness center fully equipped with high-quality machines
What is special?
- the Etan Signature Face Therapy is the ideal treatment to benefit from ancient rejuvenating African beauty secrets and the healing powers of frankincense, a sacred ingredient throughout the continent
- swim laps in the beachfront fresh-water infinity pool, the stunning centerpiece of The Residence Zanzibar and recline on the pool deck in shaded daybeds with an undisturbed view of the Indian Ocean
- replenish your body, awaken your senses and nurture your spirit with extraordinary treatments in the Spa, like The Elite Zanzibar Spice Journey
What do the guests say?
- guests name the infinity pool the “The Jewel of Zanzibar”
- the jaw-dropping pool and spa area is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience for travelers and highly recommended by guests
- the spa therapist impress guests with their intensive knowledge and quality of treatments
Culinary
How is the cuisine of Zanzibar? Do I have more than one restaurant option?
Go on a flavourful gastronomic journey to taste the different aromas and spices of the cuisine of Zanzibar as you dine at The Dining Room, the heart of the hotel, with spectacular views over the shore. Or indulge in a meal with Indian, Arabic and Mediterranean influences at The Pavilion. The hotel’s bar is the perfect place to end the day sipping on delicious cocktails as you gaze across the ocean and witness the breathtaking sunset with a refreshing light breeze.
Key Facts
- the Residence offers two high-class restaurants where guests can have a unique dining experience tasting the famous spices of Zanzibar
- guest can choose between à la carte menus and buffet dining
- the Dining Room offers lunches and dinners, combining fresh foods and meats with Omani and African flavors
- lunch can be delivered in a rattan basket to your sun lounger
What is special?
- with culinary theme nights, guests can discover numerous delights from different regions
- feel the sand under your toes as you walk to one of the frequent beach dinners, where the resort serves a buffet on the beach with fresh local food and an exceptionally well-made seafood barbecue
- share an undisturbed romantic meal with your significant other in the soft glow of tiki torches on the terrace of your own villa
- situated within lush greenery close to the hotel, The Pavilion merges contemporary décor with Middle Eastern culture and traditional music, offering a unique dining experience for all senses
What do the guests say?
- guest say it’s the best food they had on the entire island
- vacationers are especially blown away by the friendly staff and outstanding service
- guests are amazed by the freshness and variety of food, despite the resort’s remote location
Activities
How can I spend my day on Zanzibar Island? What kind of animals can I observe?
Take advantage of The Residence Zanzibar‘s huge variety of activities in and outside of the resort to discover the wildlife and underwater world. Whether you want to dive deep into the ocean or be active on its surface, the resort offers a wide selection of water-based activities. Go beyond the villa resort and explore nearby villages or other islands. Do not miss out on the Zanzibar spice trail, giant tortoises or the indigenous Red Colobus monkeys.
Key Facts
- watersports provided by the boathouse include kayaking, pedal boating & kitesurfing
- the hotel also offers deep sea fishing trips for more adventures guest
- a Kids Club offers endless entertainment options for the little ones
- floodlit tennis and volleyball courts allow team matches until late at night
What is special?
- visit the petting zoo and bird sanctuary nestled within the resort, meet indigenous monkeys and enjoy the diverse wildlife of Zanzibar
- observe life within the ocean scuba diving in one of the 5 secured dive sites close to the resort or go on a dolphin safari
- sail to a sandbank in the middle of the ocean on the “Safari Blue” excursion trip to snorkel and indulge in a fresh barbeque buffet on the bank after your water activities
What do the guests say?
- guests highly recommend the Safari Blue as it truly is a once in a lifetime experience
- special evening entertainment with energetic local live music bands is a vacationer highlight
- guests love to unwind at a beach bonfire after the unique beach dinners
- vacationers appreciate learning more about the local African culture on a cruise on a dhow (the traditional boat of the Islanders)
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