Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas

Matemwe -5.88247000, 39.35301400 , Matemwe (Show on Map)
9.3
Excellent


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Summary of reviewsNestled in the picturesque village of Matemwe, Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas is a stunning boutique hotel that offers an unparalleled beachfront experience. Guests are consistently impressed by its exceptional location, boasting direct access to a nearly deserted beach with captivating views of the Indian Ocean. The serene and idyllic setting, complemented by the hotel's intimate atmosphere and boho design, makes it an ideal retreat for those seeking relaxation away from crowded tourist areas.

The breakfasts at Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas are highly praised, providing an all-day à la carte service with ample options to satisfy any appetite. Guests enjoy generous portions of high-quality, delicious dishes and appreciate the flexibility of having their meal in-room or on a private terrace overlooking the beach. Similarly, the dinner offerings are consistently described as delicious and well-prepared with standout seafood dishes and a diverse menu catering to various dietary preferences. The thematic dining experiences and live music events further enhance the dining pleasure, despite some comments about high prices.

The hotel’s accommodations, comprising beautifully designed bungalows and villas, are lauded for their stunning sea views, spaciousness, cleanliness and comfort. Guests appreciate the rustic-chic decor, cozy atmosphere and private amenities such as pools and sun loungers, making their stay both luxurious and serene. The attentive and friendly staff are frequently highlighted for their warm hospitality and efficient service, often considered the best asset of the hotel.

Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas maintains immaculate cleanliness throughout the property, including the spotless rooms and well-maintained outdoor spaces. The beach is equally well-kept, contributing to the relaxing ambiance. While Wi-Fi connectivity could be more reliable, most guests are satisfied with the general modern conveniences offered.

Additional amenities such as the highly-rated spa, two inviting communal pools and regular yoga sessions add to the hotel’s appeal. The private pools in some accommodations provide an extra touch of luxury, although a few guests noted minor noise issues or lack of sun in some private pool areas.

Primarily catering to adults and couples, the hotel fosters a peaceful and private environment perfect for an intimate escape. Despite mixed reviews about the firmness of the beds, the majority of guests find them comfortable and conducive to a good night’s sleep.

Overall, Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas stands out as an extraordinary boutique hotel that seamlessly blends the spirit of Zanzibar with modern comfort, offering a magical getaway that leaves guests eager to return.
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Categories
Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability
Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas is an eco-conscious boutique hotel that emphasizes collaboration with local communities and businesses to preserve the natural environment. They focus on responsible waste management and water usage. The bungalows are built with local and traditional materials, designed to utilize natural ventilation and sea breeze, reducing the need for air conditioning.

Romantic Hotel
Offers a unique and intimate experience with its bandas, providing a secluded and romantic setting. The beachfront location and personalized service enhance the overall experience.

Hotel with Swimming Pool
This hotel offers a tranquil retreat with beachfront dining and a poolside bar. It provides spa treatments, two outdoor pools, and a beachfront location with activities like scuba diving and snorkeling nearby.

  Private Pool    Outdoor Pool  


Hotel for Adults Only
Located in Matemwe, Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas provides a tranquil and intimate setting. Its serene atmosphere and beachfront location offer a relaxing escape for adult guests.

Small Hotel
The peaceful ambiance and breathtaking scenery make Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas a perfect choice for those seeking a quiet and idyllic beach experience. The hotel provides a serene and intimate atmosphere. It is ideal for relaxation and tranquility.

Hotel for Yoga
Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas offers immersive yoga retreats designed to refresh the mind, body, and spirit. They provide daily yoga sessions, guided meditations, and wellness workshops led by experienced instructors. They also offer complimentary amenities like bicycle rentals.
What percentage of your guests practise yoga during their stay? Under 50%
Is there an area in the premises dedicated to practising yoga? Yes. Overlooking the Indian Ocean.
Are group yoga lessons offered? Yes, for free for guests
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Hotel with Outdoor Pool
Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas features two outdoor swimming pools.

Hotel with Private Pool Rooms
This hotel provides luxurious beachfront villas with private counter-flow pools and bungalows with private plunge pools, offering diverse private pool options with ocean views directly on the beach.

Boutique-style Hotel

Luxury Hotel

Hotel with Spa

Business Hotel

Hotel with Parking

Room Types
Bungalow - Beach Front The bungalow has 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower and free toiletries. The bungalow features a private entrance, a wardrobe, a safe deposit box as well as a terrace with sea views. The unit has 1 bed.

Bungalow - Beach Front The bungalow features 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower and free toiletries. The bungalow has a private entrance, a wardrobe, a safe deposit box as well as a terrace with sea views. The unit offers 1 bed.

Bungalow - Beach Front Private Pool This bungalow features a pool with a view. The bungalow has 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower and free toiletries. The bungalow features a private entrance, a wardrobe, a safe deposit box as well as a terrace with sea views. The unit has 1 bed.

Bungalow Sea View Private Pool The pool with a view is the standout feature of this bungalow. The bungalow has 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower and free toiletries. The bungalow features a private entrance, a wardrobe, a safe deposit box as well as a terrace with sea views. The unit has 2 beds.

Villa - Beach Front This villa features a balcony, tea/coffee maker and kitchenette. Individual villa in 90 m from the hotel.

Guest Reviews
9.3
Excellent
Location
Nestled in the picturesque village of Matemwe, Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas boasts an incredible location that leaves guests in awe. The hotel offers direct access to a captivating stretch of nearly deserted beach with bungalows and lodges situated right by the sea, providing stunning, unobstructed views of the Indian Ocean. The setting is both serene and idyllic, perfect for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing retreat.

Guests praise the intimate and cozy atmosphere of the beachfront bungalows, complemented by the welcoming and friendly staff who ensure a comfortable stay. The hotel's boho design and well-kept decor add to its charming appeal, making it a true haven of tranquility. The beachfront is described as enchanting, featuring fine white sand surrounded by palm trees and lush vegetation and stretches for kilometers in both directions, offering plenty of space for peaceful strolls.

The quiet, secluded ambiance of the resort maximizes relaxation, making it an ideal escape from crowded tourist spots. Visitors appreciate the magnificent views from their rooms and the little private sunbeds on the beach, creating a perfect blend of comfort and natural beauty.

With its exceptional and strategic positioning, Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas is indeed a little piece of paradise, inviting guests to unwind and enjoy their stay amid stunning surroundings and unparalleled beachfront access.

Breakfast
Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas offers a breakfast experience that consistently receives high praise from guests. The hotel provides an all-day breakfast service, allowing guests the flexibility to enjoy their meal at any time, even as late as 6 PM, which many visitors find incredibly convenient. The breakfast is à la carte with a wide selection of options, ensuring that there is something for everyone. Guests appreciate the generous, hearty portions and the ability to eat as much as they desire.

Many reviews highlight the exceptional, top-notch quality of the breakfast, describing it as incredible, delicious, divine and perfect. The extensive menu, rich with varied and high-quality dishes, contributes to an excellent dining experience. Guests also have the luxury of enjoying breakfast in their rooms or even on their private terraces overlooking the beach, enhancing the overall enjoyment of their stay.

While most reviews are overwhelmingly positive, noting the breakfast as sumptuous and delightful, a few mention that the food could be a bit too Western or that it missed expectations slightly. Nevertheless, the vast majority finds the breakfast experience at Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas to be a standout aspect of their visit, complemented by the serene location and the attentive service.

Dinner
Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas boasts a restaurant that consistently impresses its guests with top-quality cuisine and a diverse menu. Diners frequently praise the food as delicious with many considering it some of the best in Eastern Africa. Notable highlights include the impeccable seafood dishes and superb preparation that rivals top restaurants. The value for money is generally appreciated with beautifully presented meals and generous portions.

In addition to the culinary delights, the restaurant offers a varied menu that caters to various dietary preferences, including vegetarians. Guests also enjoyed thematic dining experiences, such as special menus on concert nights and live music events, adding to the overall dining experience.

However, while most reviews are overwhelmingly positive about the food quality, a few note the high prices, suggesting that the price-to-quality ratio could be improved for some dishes. Despite this, the combination of fresh local ingredients, expertly prepared dishes and a well-stocked bar consistently leaves patrons satisfied and eager to return.

Overall, dining at Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas is a delightful experience that combines fantastic food with attentive service, making it a standout choice for travelers seeking high-quality meals on their Zanzibar journey.

Rooms
Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas offers an idyllic retreat with its beautifully designed bungalows and villas, each providing stunning sea views and direct beach access. The accommodations are praised for their spaciousness, cleanliness and comfort, featuring amenities like private pools, sun loungers and parasols. The bungalows stand out for their rustic-chic, African-inspired decor and natural, tranquil ambience. Each unit is well-equipped and thoughtfully furnished, ensuring a comfortable stay.

Visitors admire the simple yet sophisticated interiors, often highlighting the bungalow's cozy atmosphere and the charm of grass mat flooring. The beachfront locations provide breathtaking views and easy access to the pristine, sandy beaches, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing getaway. Rooms are frequently described as spotlessly clean and very spacious with added touches that create a private and serene setting.

Guests particularly appreciate the wonderful staff, who contribute to the pleasant and relaxing atmosphere of the resort. While the rooms maintain a minimalist and traditional aesthetic, they do not compromise on comfort, featuring very comfortable beds and ample space. Some bungalows even come with private pools, adding an extra layer of luxury to the stay.

Overall, Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas impresses with its combination of beautiful, well-maintained bungalows right on the beach and a tranquil, private setting, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a serene beachfront escape.

Beds
At Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas, guests can expect a mix of experiences when it comes to the beds. Many visitors praise the beds for being very comfortable with comments highlighting top-notch bedding and a cozy atmosphere adorned with large mosquito nets. Guests have enjoyed spacious suites and lovely furnishings, contributing to a generally positive ambiance in the rooms. However, some guests noted that the beds can be quite hard or firm, which didn't suit everyone's taste. Despite this, the positive remarks about the bedding and comfort generally outweigh the negatives, making it a desirable choice for many travelers seeking comfort and a beautiful beachfront experience.

Cleanliness
Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas consistently impresses guests with its exceptional cleanliness and well-maintained facilities. The rooms are described as clean, spacious and comfortable with many guests noting that they are made up twice a day and equipped with fresh towels and bed linens regularly. The entire property, including the outdoor spaces and pool area, is beautifully designed and immaculately maintained. Guests frequently highlight the spotless conditions of the rooms and common areas with terms like top-notch, impeccable and perfect cleanliness frequently used. Though some visitors mention the lack of air conditioning making nights hot, the overall experience remains highly positive. The beach is also noted for being regularly cleaned, contributing to the serene and relaxing atmosphere of the hotel. Overall, Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas offers a modern, clean and beautifully maintained environment, ensuring a comfortable stay for its guests.

Staff
Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas delights guests with its exceptional staff. Reviews highlight the team's outstanding hospitality and service, marked by consistent friendliness and attentiveness. The staff's warm demeanor and professionalism create a welcoming atmosphere, making guests feel at home. Guests appreciate the helpfulness and politeness of the employees, who manage to be both discreet and efficient. The management receives praise for their customer-focused approach, contributing to the overall charm and well-maintained state of the complex.

Special commendations go to Eva and Sylvia, noted for their wonderful hosting. The restaurant's excellent cuisine also stands out, complemented by the attentive service. The staff's ability to assist in organizing trips and activities adds to the exceptional experience. Overall, the consistently friendly, kind and helpful staff of Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas leave a lasting impression, often considered the best asset of the hotel.

Wi-Fi
The Wi-Fi at Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas presents a mixed bag for guests. While some reported strong and consistent internet in certain areas, others found the connection to be patchy and weak, particularly inside the rooms and bungalows. For those needing to get work done, the inconsistent signal and low speeds might pose a challenge. Overall, while the Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, it often falls short of high-performance standards, thus one may not find it reliable for demanding online tasks.

Spa
The spa at Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas is highly praised by guests for its excellent service. Judith and Aisha, in particular, are renowned for their fantastic massages, making a visit to the spa a must during your stay. The treatments are described as amazing and very well done, prompting guests to recommend booking one of the massages promoted by the hotel. It is worth noting that the spa is closed on Sundays, so planning spa visits during the week is advisable to ensure a relaxing experience.

Pool
Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas boasts two inviting pools that guests frequently mention in their reviews. These pools are appreciated for their scenic surroundings with one pool bordered by trees, providing a serene and relaxing atmosphere. Visitors highlight that the pool areas are not only visually appealing but also well-equipped with sun loungers and hammocks, making them perfect spots for relaxation. The communal pools are spacious and clean, allowing for enjoyable swims even when the tide is low. Guests also find a small jacuzzi pleasant for a refreshing dip. Additionally, the bungalows with private pools offer an added touch of luxury, although some guests noted that the private pools could be noisy at night and not always in sunny spots. Despite occasional comments about the pool being less clean, the majority of reviews reflect positively on the pools' cleanliness and overall experience. The combination of beautiful pool settings and excellent complementary activities ensures that the pools at Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas leave a lasting impression on its visitors.

Adult Only
Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas offers a serene and relaxing environment ideal for those seeking a quiet getaway. The hotel caters primarily to adults and couples, making it the perfect choice for guests who prefer to avoid the hustle and bustle of mass tourism. Its intimate setting with very few rooms ensures a peaceful atmosphere, providing a beautiful escape from the crowds and overly touristy locations.

Private Pool
Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas offers a unique experience with its various accommodations featuring private pools, perfect for those seeking intimacy and luxury. The hotel provides both houses and bungalows equipped with private plunge pools, enhancing the stay with added exclusivity. Some rooms come with a small private pool, while others boast heated pools for additional comfort. Guests have praised the beach bungalows and beachfront villas specifically for their amazing views of the sea and direct access to the beach. For a truly exceptional experience, some rooms include amenities like a private terrace with a jacuzzi and hammock, offering both relaxation and direct beach access. The accommodations with private pools consistently receive high marks for their beautiful settings and thoughtful amenities.

Yoga
Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas provides a variety of yoga offerings, enhancing the overall guest experience with their well-regarded wellness services. Guests can enjoy daily free yoga sessions, including both group and private classes led by skilled instructors like Farah and Sylvia. The hotel manager also contributes to the classes, earning praise for their teaching. Visitors particularly appreciated beginning their day with a morning yoga lesson, finding it a great way to relax and rejuvenate. The availability of complimentary yoga sessions, along with other activities such as biking and kayaking, distinguishes this hotel as a unique and inclusive destination for wellness-focused travelers.

Boutique-Style
Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas is a stunning boutique hotel that beautifully combines the spirit of Zanzibar with modern amenities. This small, intimate hotel offers an atmosphere that is both amazing and welcoming. Situated in a landscape where the property fits seamlessly, guests are treated to rustic yet comfortable beach huts and wonderful bungalows. The beachfront location adds to the charm, making it an idyllic spot for travelers looking to escape the more tourist-heavy areas. The food is very, very delicious, though it comes at a slightly higher price. Overall, it’s a great little boutique hotel that appears even more beautiful than its photos and offers a rare and enchanting experience.

Luxury
Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas offers an exceptional experience that epitomizes luxury and comfort. Guests frequently highlight the excellent breakfast and the restaurant's charming setting with meals that are on par with the best restaurants and a cuisine of remarkably high quality. This dining experience is complemented by top-notch staff, enhancing the ambiance of a luxury resort.

The bungalows are luxurious, calm and stunning, offering cozy, spacious and meticulously clean accommodations. Visitors appreciate the splendid hotel design that harmonizes with the surrounding landscape. The resort is described as gorgeous, boasting an unbeatable view and the relaxed atmosphere of a 5-star quality establishment with the added delight of having feet in the sand.

Despite the comparatively high prices for dinner, the overall quality of the meals—from varied breakfast to dinner—makes it worth every penny. The quality of service and attentiveness of the staff leave a lasting impression on guests, ensuring they find their stay both luxurious and calming.

Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas stands out as a perfect place to stay, honoring the natural beauty of Zanzibar with its boutique approach, intimate scale and the use of natural materials like wood and straw. It is truly a luxury hotel in paradise.

Romantic
Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas offers an incredibly romantic and relaxing ambiance, making it an ideal destination for newlyweds or couples looking to reignite their love. Characterized by its intimate boutique feel and cozy atmosphere, this hotel provides a perfect setting to unwind. Guests rave about the breathtaking ocean views from the rooms and the ability to fall asleep to the soothing sound of the waves.

The location is described as a true haven of peace with a gorgeous beach right in front of the bungalows and beautifully maintained, flowery grounds. Its blend of romance, adventure and sustainability make it a standout choice for honeymooners and romantic getaways.

The people, food and wellness facilities exceed expectations, further enhancing the romantic allure of the place. Whether waking up to the charming early morning call from the nearby mosque or enjoying the dreamy views of the Indian Ocean at sunrise and sunset, guests find it hard to leave this paradise. The romantic setting is completed with large mosquito nets that add a touch of charm and intimacy to the rooms.

Overall, Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas leaves guests feeling like their stay was nothing short of a dream come true, deeply appreciating the romantic and peaceful environment this hidden gem provides.


Yes, Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Private Pool, Outdoor Pool.

Yes, a spa is available at Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas.

No, Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas doesn't allow dogs.

Yes, parking facilities are available at Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas.

No, Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas doesn't have a gym.

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