Surrounded by protected coral reefs with staggering diversity, Chumbe Island is at the heart of a beautiful, but fragile ecosystem. Here, environmental sustainability is key, with just seven eco-bungalows providing low-key accommodation on the island.
90% of the island remains covered by endemic trees – forming one of the last surviving tropical dry forests on Zanzibar. This protected reserve provides a habitat for numerous bird species and reptiles, as well as the endangered Ader’s duiker antelope.
Forget infinity pools and private butlers; Chumbe is the antithesis of chic and opulent. But it offers a remarkable desert island experience that is unspoilt by the trappings of modern life – an eco-retreat in its truest form.
Chumbe Island is uniquely focussed on conserving the natural environment, with protected reserves covering both the island’s forests and the surrounding coral reefs. The latter was the first gazetted marine park in Tanzania, showing the island’s longstanding commitment to conservation.
Since it became a protected area, Chumbe has hosted a wealth of research projects and monitoring opportunities for national and international researchers. Long-standing projects include seagrass monitoring, sea surface temperature logging, coral reef monitoring and a study of Ader’s duikers.
Chumbe Island’s seven eco-bungalows are cool and comfortable, with steep-sided palm roofs. African artwork and handmade furniture decorate the interior, which is split into two levels. The bedroom sits above a relaxed living area, complete with hammock. The attached bathroom features a composting toilet and solar-powered shower, whilst all water is collected from rainwater.
Relax on the white coralline beaches or step into the sea and snorkel off the reef that encircles the island – home to 90% of the coral diversity found in the region. On the island, explore marked trails that wind their way through the forest reserve and along the beaches. Visit the historical buildings that dot Chumbe, including a lighthouse and mosque.
Chumbe Island is positioned off Zanzibar’s southwestern tip, around 10 kilometres south of Stone Town and opposite the village of Chukwani.
Some of the wonderful places to stay that we frequently recommended.
Breezes Beach Club & Spa is set in tropical landscaped gardens on a peaceful beach on the east coast of the island, approximately one hour from the airport. All 70 en-suite rooms and suites here are spacious, fully air-conditioned and decorated in a true Zanzibari style – and all have terraces or balconies with beautiful views over the landscaped gardens and the ocean.
Xanadu is on the South East side of Zanzibar which is a great stretch of beautiful white sand, and they offer snorkelling, paddle boarding, sunset dhow cruises and a spa. Other activities such as diving or kite surfing are outsourced and can be arranged easily from Xanadu. Six unique and beautifully designed villas surround a central pool and dining area engulfed by an oasis of tropical gardens and palm trees, just metres from the beach. The personal touch, intimate private villa atmosphere and level of service are where Xanadu excels and coupled with a beautiful design and affordable rate, it is hard to beat.
The Palms & Spa is a luxury resort on the east coast of Zanzibar Island. On a pristine white beach, this is the ultimate private retreat. Its six beautifully designed private villas are each over 140 square metres – including a bedroom, living room, bathroom, an extra room with its own en suite bathroom and a large furnished terrace with a view of the Indian Ocean. Nestled between tropical gardens and a white, sandy beach, The Palms provides a range of superb, 5-star facilities.
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