Fumba Beach Lodge

I had visited Zanzibar before, but only explored the northern beaches. This was my first time in the South, and it’s just as breathtaking! What truly made my stay unforgettable, however, was the exceptional hospitality at Fumba Beach Lodge. From the moment I booked to the day I left, the staff were warm, attentive, and consistently helpful - they went above and beyond at every step. The lodge itself is both stunning and tranquil, nestled in a setting that invites rest and reflection. I was fortunate to be there for work, and it turned out to be the perfect place to write and recharge. Without a doubt, I’ll be staying at Fumba Beach Lodge again the next time I visit Zanzibar.

It's a picturesque and idyllic retreat, perfect for nature lovers. The setting is stunning, with a private beach and incredible sunsets! The staff at Fumba Lodge are warm and welcoming.

There are no actual windows in the bungalows, so the animal noises at night can be quite loud and might keep you up (as in our case), overpowering the sound of the ocean waves in the distance. Additionally, dinner is a 3 course set menu, which was underwhelming at best, relative to our dining experiences at other establishments in Zanzibar, which charge a lower rate. The lodge certainly uses the lack of alternatives in the area to its advantage in that regard. The lunch à la carte options were great, and I hoped that it would be available for dinner as well - not the case. Other than that, a good 3 nights stay all things considered. P.S. WIFI is only available in common shared spaces.

Absolutely stunning hotel area with big trees and nature close by. Atmosphere is serene and relaxed and the staff is super friendly.

Amazing serene location, shade from the jungle, pool / bar / dining location all in close proximity for our family

I’d say the food could be slightly more generous but it was still lovely

As is often the case in Tanzania, all staff were very professional and friendly. The design of the site is spectacular, especially for the incorporation of natural features such as a magnificent baobab tree. The pool and surrounding area is beautiful. Zanzibari decorative elements are very creative. A small but appreciated detail, the space between the bed an mosquito netting. (You don’t wake up with your face against the net.) The forested area is small, but very worth a walk. We appreciate that this space was left as it is.

WATER. Fumba is a bit stingy with it. Housekeeping can leave only one bottle per day, and if you are paying for meals, that means paying for water. If convenient, I’d suggest bringing your own. MOSQUITO SPRAY. Two lovely women arrived each each evening to ask if we wanted our room fumigated. No thanks. Who knows what chemicals that concoction contains? Our final night, we were not in the room. As was obvious from the smell, they had nonetheless entered and sprayed away. You might want to inform reception when you arrive if you don’t want this. REEF SNORKELLING. Some aspects were great, especially the very professional crew from the diving center. We enjoyed the overall trip, great barbecue, and returning by lateen sail to see how the boat is rigged and managed. The blue lagoon site was beautiful, and a good opportunity to view fish (though not so many) up close. But the reef, center exhibit, is decimated, dead, and thoroughly depressing, especially if you have ever seen a vibrant reef. (Chumbe Island is the best option in this area of the Indian Ocean.) I’d cut this part out completely. Fumba should not pretend that they have anything to offer here. FINAL SMALL GRIPE. In an effort to look upscale, hibiscus flowers are left on pillows and even toilet paper. I’d rather see them living in the gardens.

-The 800 year old Baobab tree( at least 4 m wide) is the show piece. Has built in lookout with view of sea -The lush and shady gardens full of trees. -The spaciousness between bungalows, . No bungalow is in front of another, so even Villas in the second line have sea view through trees. -The monkeys who make the surrounding forest their home. Quite delightful if not a little mischievous when they come through the resort. -The staff are all lovely from reception to security. Asant sana to all. Thanks to Jeanette for her morning Jambo greetings and for providing extra shower gel before we even knew we needed it. -The manager who check ups on every guest at dinner time with a quick chat. -The absolutely stunning dressing gowns, in different African designs, available for sale. -The many lounging spots dotted around the resort.

My husband wished for larger portion sizes at dinner. They were fine for me but I am a light eater. The bathrooms could do with a little updating.

Fumba Beach Lodge is the closest place to paradise that I have ever experienced. For all those who cherish nature, calm and serenity, this is the place to go. Party people, stay away. By keeping wi-fi areas to a minimum, it really helps being in the moment and enjoying the beautiful surroundings. The 4 course menu proposed in the evening is also very good. If possible, try to have a room in the first line in front of the sea, it is really worth it.

I didn't mind and found it quite nice that the place has regular visits from monkeys, but in case this is a problem for you, be warned that it can happen. They are not aggressive but you might want to keep the door closed when they are around (it took one monkey 10 seconds to steal sugar in my room).