Ran Nungwi occupies an enviable location on Zanzibar's northernmost peninsula, on a lovely stretch of wild coastline. This is one of the most beautiful corners of Zanzibar, offering clean, white sand beaches and a quieter atmosphere than is found in the busier resorts closer to Stone Town.
Ras Nungwi is an elegant lodge, comprised of open-air, makuti-thatch public areas and large beach bungalow guest rooms, all set among pretty gardens and connected by a network of sandy footpaths. It has a lovely freshwater pool on a raised deck overlooking the ocean, and an easy going beach bar—everything, in short, that you want from a rustic beach resort.
With 32 rooms, Ras Nungwi isn't a big lodge, but it enjoys the sort of facilities that you would expect from a much larger beach resort, including swimming pool, tennis court, dive centre and a games area. We wouldn't necessarily recommend Ras Nungwi as a honeymooner's destination, or for those looking for the utmost in exclusivity, for while the beach on this corner of Zanzibar is quiet, Ras Nungwi itself has quite a lively atmosphere. But for those looking for a comfortable beach lodge with facilities comparable to those offered by Zanzibar's bigger resorts, yet without the noise and hassle, Ras Nungwi is a great option. It also offers access to some of Zanzibar's best diving reefs.
Accommodation
There are 32 rooms at Ras Nungwi, all tastefully decorated with Swahili hand-carved furnishings and large Zanzibari beds. They are fully air-conditioned, and feature en-suite bathrooms with hot showers.
There are four different category of rooms at Ras Nungwi. The 15 standard rooms are located a short distance from the beach in the lodge gardens, while the twelve superior chalets are located closer to the beach and also enjoy a private verandah and more spacious interiors. Four deluxe chalets are located closer still to the beach and feature a number of extra facilities such as a media centre and iPod dock.
There's also a very impressive Ocean Suite, which enjoys a more secluded location, private pool and sundeck, and private dining area.
Dining
Meals are typically served buffet style, or else a selection of dinner menus is offered, in the main dining area. The menu naturally features lots of seafood and fresh fruit. Dinner is accompanied by a good selection of French and South African wines.
Room service is available on request.
Facilities
- Restaurant
- Bar and lounge
- Games room
- PADI 5-star dive centre
- Tennis court
Activities
- Water sports
- Fishing
- Diving and snorkelling – the surrounding reefs are regarded as being amongst the most impressive in Zanzibar, and also among the easiest to dive in.
Child Policy
Children of all ages are welcome. Younger children stay at significantly reduced rates.
