Matemwe Lodge
Matemwe Lodge is situated on the north east coast of Zanzibar opposite the Mnemba Atoll and about an hour by car from Stone Town. Matemwe is one of the most scenic places on the east coast of Zanzibar, where phones and television sets seem to belong to another planet. Children from five years are welcome.
Accommodation & Facilities
The lodge has just 12 detached seaside chalets, all of which back onto bougainvillea-filled gardens and overlook the Indian Ocean. The thatched cottages are comfortably furnished and self contained with some offering plunge pools. The large split level mezzanine rooms are ideal for families of up to four. All chalets feature private verandas with hammocks and large en suite bathrooms with bath and walk-in shower. Meals are served in the dining room/bar area overlooking the sea and beach. Seafood is a speciality and fresh fish is prepared on a daily basis. There are also two swimming pools and a spa for relaxation and two bars to enjoy the sunset from.
Eating & Sleeping
Chefs are very used to catering to children of all ages. Children’s meals are served at any time, designed according to their dietary requirements. There is no formal childcare available but a guard can be stationed outside the children’s room should the parents want to dine alone. It is recommended that this is requested prior to travel so staffing can be arranged accordingly.
Activities
Recreation in this area is leisurely and tranquil. Instead of speed boats or water skiing, you can sail with the local “Ngalawas”, (traditional fishing boats with wooden outriggers), snorkel or dive at the unique and colourful Mnemba reef. For the lucky ones, whales, dolphins or sea turtles might be spotted at close range. Matemwe runs a fully equipped PADI dive school and dive centre on site. Guided reef walks and visits to the local village and fish market are available on request.
Specifically for children …..
• Swimming in the lodge pool.
• Snorkelling on the Mnemba Reef.
• Diving is from 12 years but an introductory course is available to younger children.
• Sand bar trips.
• Village walks.
• Stone Town visits.
