andBeyond Mnemba Island Lodge
Zanzibar’s Mnemba Island is an intimate tropical paradise nestled off the northeastern tip of the island. Embraced by reef and forest, andBeyond Mnemba Island feels like an arrival and more like a return. With just 12-open – air Bandas tucked beneath whispering casuarina trees. No door. No windows. And nothing between you and the ocean but a stretch of untouched sand.
Here, time drifts with the tides. Dive into coral reefs just a few steps from your Banda. Drift by traditional dhow at sunset. Or do nothing at all, sometimes just what you need. Meals served here are fresh, light, and made when your heart desires. There is yoga in the shade, reef walks at low tide, and warm smiles that appear when you need them. andBeyond Mnemba Island Lodge is a place for bare feet and unfiltered nature, where every stay supports the reef and the life it holds. And where the quiet follows you home
andBeyond Mnemba Island Lodge is an exclusive barefoot luxury retreat featuring just 12 rustic palm – frond bandas tucked into a pine forest along pristine white coral sand beaches. Mnemba Island, spanning only 1.5 km, is a sanctuary of tranquility where conservation meets luxury, offering world – class snorkeling and diving right off the beach.
The romantic, open – style design seamlessly integrates with the natural surroundings, while personalized service ensures every moment is tailored to your desires.
andBeyond Mnemba Lodge is accessible only by boat, sitting on a privately owned island, and activity here is generally centred exclusively on the lodge, meaning your stay is a supper private and exclusive affair.
The Property
A stone, wood and thatched construct, the lodge consists of a dining room, seating area, bar, multiple verandas and 12 luxury Bandas. Relaxed, laid-back, well set out, the main lodge has open sides, peaked roofs and an interior design – local artefacts, Zanzibar art work, comfortable seating that is both easy on the eye and welcoming.
Food and Service
Inspired by a largely Mediterranean and North African palate, the food is delicious, and can be served inside or out.
Accommodation
Accommodation at andBeyond Mnemba Island is in form of bandas, set among the trees, at the water’s edge, thatched and possessing its own private veranda, each is characterized by a large bed, rush matting, a wonderful bathroom, Swahili loungers and Zanzibari designed headboards. Much is made by guests of the little touches, the doves, the antelopes, the art, and of the floor and walls, which in keeping with local practices – are covered in rush matting. Wi-Fi is accessible in each individual banda.
Activities to Do at andBeyond Mnemba Island Lodge
Diving off the island is world class, and the quality of instruction and dive kit is top drawer at Mnemba Island Lodge. Other activities include
- Snorkeling
- Private dhow trips
- Beach picnics
- Kayaking
- Fishing
- Swimming with dolphins
- Windsurfing trips
The best time to visit andBeyond Mnemba Island Lodge and Zanzibar Island at large is July through to March, with premium months October through to March (Kaskazi Moonsoon).
Impact
Conservation
Every stay at andBeyond Mnemba Lodge supports the conservation of ecosystem including the shores and the marine life in the surrounding waters.
The lodge is concerned with the impact of its carbon footprint, it de-salinates seawater, sponsors local fishermen to protect the reefs, consistently highlights the plight of the green turtle and provides environmental – type support in two main island villages.
Marine conservation lessons are hosted off an average of 60 school children every year and all ingredients used by the lodge are sourced locally including fish, honey, fruits, vegetables and eggs.
