andBeyond Mnemba Island Lodge

Mnemba is a small private island off the northern tip of Zanzibar, ringed by a white coral-sand beach and the reefs of Mnemba Atoll. The island holds twelve bandas — eleven standard and one family banda with an adjoining room — built from palm frond under casuarina trees, each with a private beach sala, outdoor shower, and direct access to the shore. At any one time the island takes a maximum of twenty-six guests.

The water is the main reason to come. Dive sites range from ten to twenty minutes by boat, and PADI-certified dive masters run trips for every level, from first-timers through the Bubblemaker course to qualified divers. Several sites can be entered from shore. Snorkelling gear, glass-bottomed tandem kayaks, Hobie sailing craft, and stand-up paddle boards are all included. The island also runs a coral frame project, in which guests help construct and seed reef frames underwater.

On land, guided conservation tours show the marine ranger programme and the island's ecosystem work. Green turtle nesting excursions run seasonally: guests watch hatchlings emerge from their sandy nests and reach the water. Daily yoga classes are held on a dedicated deck in the wellness banda, and massage treatments are available there or in-room.

The family banda accommodates children eight years and older; the island limits under-twelves to two at any one time. A complimentary airport shuttle connects Zanzibar's airport to the island transfer point.