Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas

Sunrise at Bandas is a serene beachfront retreat that offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every type of traveler. With 14 cozy bungalows, 2 private pool villas, and 2 beachfront bungalows with plunge pools, guests can choose the ideal space for their stay. The property offers flexible dining options, including half-board and full-board, alongside live music nights on Tuesdays and Fridays. Guests can also explore traditional Maasai-led tours, yoga classes, kayaking, and more activities like cycling and beach walks. With its relaxed ambiance, generous meals, and attentive management, Sunrise at Bandas is a fantastic choice for those seeking an authentic Zanzibar experience. Michael, the young manager, is dedicated and personable, ensuring that every guest feels taken care of. His commitment to cleanliness and attention to detail make this an unforgettable destination.

We have just spent a week there and it was a great and relaxing experience!! The resort is really nice, clean and cared, and the staff is extremely friendly. They offered yoga classes during the weekdays and we got one of the best massages in our lives in their spa. The food was great and the nights of live music (Tuesdays and Fridays) were top so we really enjoyed a lot our stay there. With regards to the area (not sure if this is the same in all Zanzibar), important to know that you cannot swim in the sea during low tides as the floor is full of stones and sea urchins but it is Ok in high tides. In the beach you have a lot of people trying to sell you things. They are quite Ok when you tell them “no, thanks” but the recurrence of these interactions can be a bit annoying. Last but not least, the sound of the sea during the nights in high tides is very very loud. We got used to it but it took for us a couple of nights.

I absolutely loved the stunning Zanzibar sunset at Bandas! This place is a hidden gem, offering an amazing level of privacy. The rooms are incredibly spacious and beautifully designed. The food was out of this world, and Fara, the host, was an absolute delight—so warm and welcoming. I highly recommend Bandas for anyone seeking a unique, tranquil getaway. I can’t wait to return for another unforgettable experience! It’s definitely one of those places you’ll want to visit again and again. xx

A small paradise that guarantees a wonderful rest and unforgettable moments. Beautifully arranged space, cozy and tastefully furnished bungalows. Delicious food, beautifully presented. Great live music twice a week, great musicians. The wonderful atmosphere of this place is due to the staff. They are extremely helpful and friendly people. All this makes you leave this place thinking about returning as soon as possible.

Going back to a place with fond memories can always be tricky, but Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas did not disappoint. We came back this year and the place is exactly the same gem it was two years ago - unspoken (natural) beauty, super relaxed and chill vibe and most of all the amazing staff, always doing their best to provide a really unique experience. From restaurant/bar staff to security and gardening, everyone was super friendly and put a smile on our faces. Special mention here to Fundi, who wished us a great beach day every morning - it was an absolute pleasure meeting him. The hotel also offers complimentary water which guests can get at the refill station - no need for extra plastic bottles, which we extremely appreciated! They also organize free guided tours through Matemwe town (absolute recommendation for getting local insights) and activities such as reef walks (those starfish!). Other than that and really cool African music on Tuesday and Fridays this is an absolute relax zone. The beach heaven and very relaxed, swimming is possible during high tide. Matemwe is still such a gem in otherwise (over)crowded Zanzibar. We are big fans and highly recommend Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas and their great team if you are looking for peace & quiet off the beaten track, amazing scenery, authenticity, friendliness and style everywhere you look.

A perfect paradise to escape, relax and a fantastic place to see the beauty of zanzibar Island. Hotel is beautifully well kept, food was great, reef walk tour was very insightful and the Friday live music was also great entertainment. My only negativity to the music was that after the amazing live band they had a DJ playing heavy beats till late in the night with a speaker right next to our bedroom, which did not match the relaxing ambience supposedly set. Would certainly visit again.