The Zanzibari Boutique Hotel

Nungwi, Zanzibar

A tranquil boutique retreat on Zanzibar’s shores

Set on a coral cliff along Zanzibar’s north coast, The Zanzibari Boutique Hotel is an intimate seaside escape designed for peace, privacy and barefoot relaxation. Located just outside the lively village of Nungwi, it offers a quiet sanctuary with direct access to a secluded beach and uninterrupted views over the Indian Ocean. With just 19 rooms spread across lush tropical gardens, the hotel blends authentic Zanzibari character with warm hospitality and a relaxed atmosphere. Hammocks, ocean-facing terraces and shaded beach spots create a sense of space and calm, even when the hotel is full.

Owned by A Tent With a View

Key features

Private beach access below the cliff

Dhow Restaurant & Bar

Swimming pool with ocean views

Pool bar and lounge areas

Spa and wellness treatments

Tropical gardens throughout the property

Excursions and cultural experiences

Wi-Fi in public areas

Standout features

Intimate boutique feel with only 19 rooms

Cliff-top setting with semi-private beach access

Unique Dhow bar built from a traditional sailing vessel

Renowned multi-course dining experience (especially half board stays)

Peaceful location just outside Nungwi village

Strong focus on local culture and guest interaction

Excellent base for diving, snorkelling and island excursions

Number of rooms

19 rooms and suites

Room categories include

- Ocean Front Rooms & Suites

- Garden View Rooms

- Family Suites & Villas

- Signature units such as the “Love Shack”

Price range

Mid-range to High-end

Suitable for couples, honeymooners and travellers seeking a relaxed beach stay with character, privacy and easy access to Zanzibar’s marine and cultural experiences

Signature experiences

Enjoy sunset cocktails at the Dhow Bar, crafted from a traditional boat

Indulge in a multi-course dinner experience, blending local spices and international cuisine

Explore Nungwi village with a guide for an authentic cultural insight

Relax with a spa treatment overlooking the Indian Ocean

Take a sunset dhow cruise along the coast

Discover Zanzibar through spice tours and Stone Town excursions

Dive or snorkel in the rich marine ecosystems surrounding the island

Where

A Tent With a View (ATWAV) operates in the Serengeti, Saadani and Nyerere (formerly Selous) national parks as well as on the shores of Lake Victoria and Zanzibar Island.

What

Using their own small, bespoke safari camps and hotels, ATWAV can operate a plethora of tours throughout Tanzania and arrange all ground handling for groups or tailor-mades. Everything they do is underpinned by clearly articulated sustainable travel goals and their amazing Bush Rover camps need to be seen to be believed.

When

ATWAV started when David and Masa opened their first camp in Saadani. In 1999, they opened a second camp in Selous Game Reserve followed by The Zanzibari - a boutique hotel on Zanzibar Island - in 2009. 2017 saw their biggest innovations to date - the Bush Rover Migration Camp in Serengeti and a new camp on Lake Victoria called ‘Little Okavango’.

Why

David Guthrie’s passion for wildlife brought him to Tanzania in 1990, where he worked as a guide. Known for his work on elephant conservation and anti-poaching, he also leads ATWAV’s SDG Centres, supporting Zanzibar education, Tanzania’s first girls’ sports academy, and Saadani conservation projects.

Who

David Guthrie, a Brit, and Masoud “Masa” Kilanga, a Tanzanian, have been at the very heart of the operation since it all began in 1995. David’s innovative ideas are put into practice by Masa’s amazing engineering skills. Tara joined the team in 2009 and heads up marketing from the UK.

Positive impact statement

Committed to lasting positive change through education, empowerment and conservation, A Tent With a View is an active champion of the UN Sustainability Development Goals (UNSDG's)

Their SDG Centres in Zanzibar provide extra tuition and skills for local children. The company is also the major driving force behind the local Girls’ Sports Academy that builds confidence, health, and opportunity for young women. In Saadani, they have established a research centre protecting endangered turtles and lions, and preserving East Africa’s only coastal wildlife reserve for future generations.