Matemwe Lodge, Zanzibar

Matemwe Lodge — Cliff-Edge Bungalows on Zanzibar's Quiet Coast

Matemwe Lodge (formerly Matemwe Bungalows) is a 12-bungalow beach lodge perched on a coral outcrop overlooking a shallow turquoise lagoon on Zanzibar's northeast coast. Operated by Asilia Africa, it is the original property in Asilia's Matemwe collection — which also includes the more exclusive Matemwe Retreat (four private villas with plunge pools) and the private Matemwe Beach House next door.

The lodge sits directly opposite Mnemba Island, one of the Indian Ocean's finest diving and snorkelling destinations, reachable by boat in 30 minutes. The northeast coast of Zanzibar is quieter and less developed than the tourist hubs of Nungwi and Kendwa to the north — the atmosphere here is village life, fishing dhows, and tidal rhythms rather than beach bars and jet skis.

Accommodation

Twelve thatched and whitewashed bungalows are connected by flower-covered walkways along the clifftop. Each bungalow has high ceilings, large en-suite bathrooms with bath and walk-in shower, a private veranda with hammock, and ocean views over the lagoon to Mnemba Island. The rooms are spacious and airy, built from local coral stone and coconut wood, with handcarved furniture and Zanzibari fabrics. Ceiling fans and the Indian Ocean breeze provide cooling — there is no air conditioning, which is deliberate and rarely a problem. Split-level family bungalows are available for families with children.

The lodge restaurant overlooks the ocean from a raised position and has earned a reputation as one of the best dining experiences in Zanzibar — fresh seafood, Swahili-spiced cuisine, and a menu that changes daily. A second beach gives families and fishermen a shared foreshore. Two swimming pools (one infinity, one children's) provide salt-free swimming options. The bar is open-air with generous happy hours.

Activities

Diving at Mnemba Atoll is the headline — a PADI dive centre offers courses and guided dives across sites from gentle coral gardens to 50-metre wall drops. Snorkelling trips to Mnemba are included. Guided reef walks at low tide reveal a medley of marine life. Kayaking along the northeast coast, dhow sailing, cultural village walks, and spice farm tours can be arranged. Massage and spa treatments are available. The lodge is also a gateway to Stone Town (approximately one hour by road) for heritage walks.

Who Is Matemwe Lodge Best For?

Matemwe Lodge suits travellers who want a genuine Zanzibar beach experience without resort-scale development. It is excellent as the beach extension of a Northern Circuit safari — Asilia's combined bush-and-beach itineraries move seamlessly from the Serengeti to Matemwe. Families with children aged five and above, couples seeking romance and diving access, and independent travellers who prefer character over chain-hotel predictability will all find Matemwe Lodge a strong choice.