In Xanadu did Kubla Khan a stately pleasure-dome decree.” It is easy to imagine Samuel Taylor Coleridge himself feeling perfectly at home in this serene beachfront sanctuary. Set along the warm, turquoise shores of the Indian Ocean, Xanadu is an exceptional boutique retreat featuring just a handful of exquisite villas. Each villa is uniquely designed, its graceful curves inspired by the billowing sails of traditional Zanzibari dhows that glide across these shimmering waters.
Opened in 2017, this hidden island gem quickly became one of our most treasured discoveries. Discreet villas are nestled within lush tropical gardens, only steps from sun-kissed sands and the tranquil sea. Xanadu is designed for pure relaxation and indulgence, an idyllic retreat to unwind after an unforgettable safari adventure. Guests can enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and a variety of ocean activities, all thoughtfully arranged by the dedicated activities team.
The warm and welcoming owners, Eileen and Marcus, passionate collectors of African art, have created a refined yet relaxed atmosphere of understated luxury. Carefully curated artwork and distinctive design pieces complement contemporary furnishings that are both elegant and exceptionally comfortable.
And then there is the cuisine. Simply put, it is among the finest you will experience anywhere in Africa. Led by a talented chef from South Africa, the kitchen celebrates fresh, locally sourced ingredients, from warm, freshly baked breads and vibrant garden salads to perfectly prepared seafood caught straight from the surrounding ocean. Every dish is beautifully presented and thoughtfully crafted.
A tranquil spa offers restorative treatments designed for relaxation and renewal, while a dedicated private butler attends to every detail of your stay with discreet and attentive service.
Dongwe, Zanzibar
18
9 Villars
En-suite bathrooms
Not allowed
Non-Smocking Rooms
Set within an enchanting island sanctuary of rare privacy and beauty, Xanadu’s nine ultra-exclusive villas offer an extraordinary sense of intimacy and indulgence. Each villa is uniquely designed, blending elegant architecture with the relaxed charm of tropical island living.
Guests retreat to oversized king beds within one or two expansive bedrooms, complemented by spacious living areas, luxurious bathrooms, and private plunge pools. In the magnificent Presidential Mbingu Villa, a dramatic rooftop plunge pool provides breathtaking views and the ultimate sense of seclusion. Outdoor rain showers one of the true pleasures of refined beach living invite guests to refresh beneath the open sky.
Every villa is attended by a dedicated private butler, delivering attentive, discreet service that anticipates every need while preserving complete privacy. Dining at Xanadu is entirely yours to design. Enjoy an intimate dinner served in the comfort of your villa, dine beneath the stars in the elegant main restaurant beside the pool, or indulge in a lavish picnic-style feast on the private beach with the Indian Ocean as your backdrop.
Our hosts’ deep love for Zanzibar and its natural, paradise-like beauty ensures that guests enjoy an exceptional blend of cultural discovery and ocean adventures. A dedicated Activities Director is always on hand to curate and personally accompany each experience, ensuring comfort, safety, and effortless enjoyment.
Spend your days gliding across the turquoise waters on stand-up paddleboards or sea kayaks, exploring vibrant reefs with premium snorkeling gear, or simply unwinding on the powder-white sands while gazing into the endless blue horizon. For those seeking adventure, Xanadu’s private fishing boat—an exhilarating vessel powered by twin 70-horsepower engines—offers thrilling excursions and the opportunity to reel in the catch of the day.
Scuba diving expeditions can be effortlessly arranged, while guided cultural tours reveal the charm of local Zanzibari villages and the intoxicating aromas of the island’s famed spice markets. As the day draws to a close, guests may set sail aboard Xanadu’s traditional Zanzibari dhow for an unforgettable sunset cruise along the Indian Ocean.
Back on shore, indulgence awaits with soothing treatments from a highly skilled massage therapist offering rejuvenating massages, manicures, and pedicures. A charming boutique showcases a curated collection of exquisite jewelry and art personally selected by the owners.
And, of course, the pristine white beach awaits just steps away. A leisurely stroll along its tranquil shoreline—slow, peaceful, and unhurried—is among the simplest yet most sublime pleasures Zanzibar offers. For those concluding a safari adventure, Xanadu provides the perfect sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation on the magical shores of Zanzibar.
One of the finest boutique hotels in Stone Town, this beautifully restored former merchant’s house features eleven uniquely styled rooms arranged around a light-filled central courtyard.
The hotel offers two dining options: the Secret Garden Restaurant, set within atmospheric garden ruins, and the rooftop Emerson Spice Tea House, known for its elegant setting and views over the town. Each room is individually designed, combining character and history to provide an authentic Zanzibar experience.
In the heart of Zanzibar’s Stone Town, you’ll discover a charming maze of bazaars, bicycles, bas-reliefs, and benches. Stone benches, or bazara, line the narrow streets, perfect for people-watching. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a captivating experience of the idyllic East African island, rich in culture, coffee, spices, and luxurious accommodations like the Park Hyatt, majestically perched on Shangani Beach.
From the hotel, you can easily explore the town’s attractions on foot: the lush Forodhani Gardens with its vibrant street food scene, the Old Fort which has served various purposes since 1699, the Old Dispensary, the Peace Memorial, and the Palace Museums. The bustling spice markets are filled with fragrant, colorful wares, including some of the finest coffee in the world. You might also find beautiful Tanzanian jewelry and visit the birthplace of Farrokh Bulsara, also known as Freddie Mercury of Queen.
No visit is complete without admiring the famous Zanzibari doors, ornately carved wooden masterpieces from the 19th century that are a true sensory delight in Stone Town.
The Meliá Zanzibar is a luxurious all-inclusive resort situated on the northeastern coast of Zanzibar, about 45 kilometers from Stone Town. The hotel is built on a large 40-acre estate with a 300-meter long private beach of white sand, and it’s surrounded by a natural coral reef.
The resort offers a variety of accommodations, from standard rooms with garden or partial ocean views to spacious private villas with their own pools and tropical gardens. The Meliá Zanzibar is known for its “The Level” service, an exclusive package that includes private check-in and check-out, access to a private lounge and adults-only infinity pool, and preferential restaurant reservations.
Amenities at the resort include three outdoor pools, a full-service spa with a sauna and fitness center, and a wide array of activities such as tennis, beach volleyball, kayaking, and snorkeling. The hotel features seven restaurants and five bars, providing a diverse selection of international and local cuisines. A notable dining option is the Jetty Bar & Restaurant, located at the end of a long jetty over the Indian Ocean.
