Zanzibar

Xanadu Villas & Retreat

Overview

Unguja luxury

Xanadu and its beautiful collection of eight boutique villas are hidden among the palms on a powder-soft sand beach in the quiet southeast of Zanzibar.

Taking inspiration from the island’s Arab history, its white domes pierce through the canopy, with ornate metal work, African art and chunky timberwork giving the breezy rooms a Swahili character. Each of the villas are unique, with one or two bedrooms, but all come with expansive living spaces, plunge pools, balconies, dining area and a private butler.

A large swimming pool, bar and restaurant sit at the heart of the resort, with a chef creating Zanzibari inspired gourmet cuisine which can be savoured pretty much anywhere you fancy – in your villa or the beach.

Facts

At a glance

  • Eight villas

  • Swimming pool

  • Restaurant and bar

  • Private butler

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Experiences

  • Xanadu Scuba

    Diving and snorkelling

    Zanzibar’s South East Coast is bordered by a reef that has great diving spots for those watersport enthusiasts looking to experience Zanzibar from below. Scuba diving can be enjoyed directly in front of Xanadu, up north around the beautiful Mnemba Island or the southern region of the island in Kizimkazi. There are also some excellent snorkelling spots.

  • Xanadu kayaking

    Kayaking

    Kayak and experience the Indian Ocean from the surface, off Xanadu’s beach at high tide.

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    Dhow cruise

    Take an exclusive sunset sail cruise across Chwaka Bay on a sailing dhow with a chef preparing culinary delights and drinks.

Footprint

Xanadu expanded their vegetable and herb garden in 2020 and also added livestock to the farming operations, endeavoring to grow as much of their own organic produce as possible. For everything else, such as fish, there is an aim to source locally, especially when produced organically and in a sustainable manner.

Building materials were local and environmentally friendly. Tanga Stone from the mainland and recycled Dhow boat wood for the majority of our carpentry are some examples very visible in the design. Supporting local and using traditional manual building techniques reduces carbon footprint and also assists with job creating and skills development.

What makes us different

Why Niarra

Niarra Travel is a forward-thinking travel company headquartered in London born out of a passion to do things differently.

In Swahili, a Bantu language spoken by millions in Eastern, Central and Southern Africa, the name Niara means "with utmost purpose" and our team are united by a passion for exploration and a belief that the right kind of travel can make the world a better place.

Our Travel Researchers are here to create incredible trips with a positive impact for you.

  • Unforgettable experiences

    Creating your trip is entirely collaborative and our Travel Researchers are here for every step.

  • Positive impact

    Curated sustainable experiences and accommodation that maximize the benefits to local people and place.

  • Fairness and transparency

    An open, competitive pricing structure that ensures more money goes to where it's needed in the destination.

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