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Chumbe Island

Beach and Island Escapes
Zanzibar, Tanzania

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.

Why we like Chumbe Island

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.

Sustainability

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.

Facilities

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.

Activities

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.

Where to stay in Tanzania

Our team has handpicked this collection of properties to give you luxury options in styles to suit any journey.

More luxury accommodation

Tanzania

Breezes Beach Club & Spa

Beach and Island Escapes
£££££

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…

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Tanzania

Xanadu Villas

Beach and Island Escapes
£££££

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…

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Tanzania

Matemwe Retreat

Beach and Island Escapes
£££££

Matemwe Retreat is a fantastic addition to Zanzibar, just north of Matemwe Bungalows’ main lodge. The Retreat consists of three enormous, split-level beach cottages, which are the ultimate in private luxury. The ground floor at each…

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Tanzania

The Palms

Beach and Island Escapes
£££££

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…

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Why Choose Steppes?

Our knowledge and expertise set us apart. So too our curiosity. It is this that drives us to create a journey that is really bespoke to you, all the while ensuring we travel and operate sustainably.

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