Zanzibar, TanzaniaKiwengwa
Mvuvi Boutique Resort
Thatched beach lodge
Thatched beach lodge
Makuti thatch and sandy pathways define this low-key stay, split across two intimate compounds facing the reef.
What it’s good at
Notable
Traditional makuti thatched roofs and furnishings crafted from salvaged wooden fishing boats.
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
with its thatched-roof construction and its supremely relaxed atmosphere, it feels like a secret oasis tucked into the jungle right along the beach.
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
Kiwengwa Beach sits an hour across the island from Zanzibar City, with wide white sands facing the reef.
The rooms
Whitewashed rooms feature local crafts and custom furniture built from salvaged wooden fishing boats.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
A freshwater pool sits among dense palms in the Makuti courtyard, shaded from the midday sun.
At the table
Open-air tables look out toward the reef, serving lavish seafood platters and homemade green banana gnocchi.
How it began
The name means fisherman in Swahili, chosen by an Italian family whose 1992 island sabbatical inspired them to build the lodge.
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The app
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.