A Private Island Escape in the Indian Ocean
Zanzibar, Tanzania
andBeyond Mnemba Island is the definition of barefoot luxury. Set just off the coast of Zanzibar, this exclusive private island offers a peaceful escape surrounded by turquoise waters, coral reefs and powder-white sand beaches.
Accommodation is limited to just 12 intimate bandas, each tucked into the shade of the forest and opening directly onto the beach. The design is simple, elegant and deeply connected to the island’s natural beauty. Expect hand-carved Zanzibari details, a comfortable four-poster bed, a private sitting area and an ensuite bathroom linked by a covered walkway. Each banda also includes a private beach sala and sun loungers, allowing guests to enjoy complete seclusion.
The island sits beside the protected Mnemba Atoll, one of East Africa’s finest snorkelling and diving destinations. Guests can step straight from the beach into crystal-clear waters filled with colourful reef fish, turtles and vibrant coral gardens. When not exploring the ocean, unwind with yoga or wellness treatments enjoyed in the privacy of your banda or beach sala.
The main guest areas are relaxed and welcoming, with thatched dining and lounge spaces overlooking the sea. Days flow easily here, guided by tides, light and the gentle rhythm of island life.
Highlights and Activities at Mnemba Island
ROOMS: 12 beach bandas
BEST FOR: Honeymooners • Couples • Families
ACTIVITIES:
- Snorkelling on the Mnemba Atoll
- PADI dive centre
- Dhow cruises
- Sand flat picnics
- Sea kayaking
- Sailing (Hobie 14 catamaran)
- Paddle boarding
- Yoga Classes and Wellness programmes
- Ocean Conservation Experiences
WHY WE LOVE andBeyond Mnemba Island
Mnemba Island proves that small-scale tourism can have a powerful impact. Conservation and community initiatives are central to the experience, including andBeyond’s Oceans Without Borders programme, which helps protect over 1,800 miles of Africa’s Indian Ocean coastline.
Between May and September, guests may also witness sea turtles nesting and hatching on the island’s beaches, a quietly magical experience that reflects the island’s conservation success.
Insider’s Tip: Wake early, brew yourself a coffee and walk barefoot around the island. It takes less than an hour and offers one of the most peaceful and memorable moments of the stay.
Explore These East Africa Safaris
Experience sun filled safari days in Tanzania, starlit evenings in the Serengeti, and time to unwind on the white sand beaches of Zanzibar. Explore a few of our suggested itineraries below, or let us tailor something entirely your own.
SERENGETI CALVING SEASON MIGRATION
Experience the magic of the Serengeti’s calving season on this 15-day Tanzania safari, where thousands of wildebeest are born daily amid thrilling predator encounters—an awe-inspiring spectacle of renewal and survival, unlike the dramatic Mara River crossings.
From $18,300
per person
14-Day Tanzania & Zanzibar Honeymoon
If you can’t decide between safari and the sea, Tanzania is the perfect destination. Here, you don’t have to choose. Start with an unforgettable Serengeti safari, followed by a stay at the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater. Then head east to exotic Zanzibar, where marine wildlife adventures await in warm Indian Ocean waters.
From $15,400
per person
BIG FIVE SAFARI & THE GREAT MIGRATION
Experience East Africa’s iconic wilderness on a 12-day Great Migration and Big Five safari. Explore the remote Lewa Wilderness with camel and horseback adventures, then witness the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Masai Mara and Serengeti. End your journey relaxing in the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, the largest intact caldera on Earth.
From $13,250
per person