The inspiration behind Villa Kiva Zanzibar Resort was a desire to escape. You will be away from the cold and chaos of the big city. This was to create a retreat in one of the loveliest and most pristine corners of Zanzibar.
Villa Kiva Zanzibar Resort is located in the Matemwe area on the north-east coast. This is a beautiful natural paradise with white beaches with warm sea. This Zanzibar beach resort offers a relaxing atmosphere with the pleasures of being by the sea.
Accommodation at Villa Kiva Zanzibar Resort
Villa Kiva Zanzibar Resort comprises of a main building with bar, lounge and day area. There are and 24 double en suite bedrooms in private bungalows.
All the bedrooms and main rooms are equipped with ceiling fans and air-conditioning. They all come with mosquito netting over the windows and beds. Satellite TV is available in the lounge of this Zanzibar beach resort.
The whole Villa Kiva Zanzibar Resort is connected to wi-fi. This Zanzibar beach resort offers various types of accommodation to suit everybody’s needs.
The Suite
This is right in the heart of Villa Kiva Zanzibar Resort. It is a generous room measuring 60 square meters. The Suite comes with a wide balcony overlooking the seamless blue of the Indian Ocean.
You can gaze to the distant horizon and watch the magical colors of the sunrise from it. The suite is designed for those who love superior comfort and services.
Facilities in the suite at this Zanzibar beach resort include a King-size double bed. The room is air-conditioned and has a large wardrobe, safe and relaxation area with sofa.
The room has a TV and mini-fridge with cots are available upon request. The suite also has a large bathroom with shower and bidet, power reducers. You will be provided with hairdryer upon request.
The Sea View Room
The Sea view room in Villa Kiva Zanzibar Resort has a circular form. The emphasis in this room is its unique character. It is in a standalone bungalow with a private veranda with table and chairs.
This room is ideal for tourists in search of privacy. The sea view room comes with a King-size double bed with anti-allergy mattress. The room has Air-conditioning, wardrobe, safe, mosquito netting over windows and bed.
Baby cots will be issued upon request and one has the private veranda with table and chairs. The rooms have large bathroom with shower and bidet.
The Garden View Rooms
All the Garden View rooms at Villa Kiva Zanzibar Resort are in standalone bungalows. They come with private veranda overlooking the internal garden. They are both practical and original and designed for those who appreciate nature.
Facilities in these rooms include twin beds or double bed with anti-allergy mattress. The rooms have air-conditioning, wardrobe, safe and large bathroom with shower and bidet.
The Safari Room
This romantic room is located on the first floor of a bungalow. The room has its windows looking out over the IMMENSE Indian Ocean. It is the ideal choice for couples on a romantic getaway to Zanzibar.
If you wish to spend their honeymoon in a quiet and private setting, this is the room. Facilities in the safari room at Villa Kiva Zanzibar Resort include a king-size double bed. The room has a comfortable little couch and armchair. There is air-conditioning, safe, bathroom with shower and bidet in this room.
Africa Room
This takes up the first floor of a bungalow and looks out onto the deep blue ocean. It consists of two different rooms separated by a curtain. There is a bedroom with two single beds or a double bed and a small balcony with sea view.
The room also has a living-room looking onto the garden. This has a sofa-bed which could be used for a third person. A fourth single bed is also available on request.
The room has air-conditioning, safe, bathroom with shower and bidet. The rooms have every amenity with all attention paid to detail. This practical option is perfect for those looking for comfort and convenience.
Family Rooms
The Family Rooms are designed for families or those on Zanzibar holiday with children. They comprise of a Sea View room and a Garden View room with interconnecting door. This allows families with children to share accommodation but sleep in two separate rooms. Each room has its own bathroom and private veranda.
Cancellation / Prepayment
PAYMENT & RESERVATIONS POLICY
Reservation and confirmation of a room at Villa Kiva Zanzibar Resort has requirements. Clients are required to pay 50% down payment for the requested services. The balance will be required at least 14 days prior to your date of arrival.
African Safari Tour will hold a reservation for up to seven days at a client's request. This is to allow the client time to send a deposit payment. This is if Villa Kiva Zanzibar Resort booking are over a month prior to the service. This must be received before we can confirm your booking. If confirmation is not received within the seven days all blocked rooms at Villa Kiva Zanzibar Resort will be automatically released for re-sale. The full amount of the service must be made within 14 days of date of arrival at Villa Kiva Zanzibar Resort. As for bookings within a month of service, full payment shall be requested for. This will be required before confirmation of Villa Kiva Zanzibar Resort is undertaken. CANCELLATIONS
All cancellations must be received in writing. This will take effect from the date received by African Safari Tour. The following cancellation charges will apply.
More than 56 days before departure: No cancellation fee
56-49 days before departure: 25%
48-29 days before departure: 35%
28-0 days before departure: 100%
The non-issuing of an invoice or non-payment of deposit will not exempt passengers from these cancellation and administration fees. We regret we can make no exception to the charges and strongly recommend that insurance is taken out to cover cancellation fees. These cancellation charges can vary subject to the trading terms of our suppliers.
Children and extra beds
Children older than 2 years are welcome at Villa Kiva Zanzibar Resort. One child from 2 to 11.9 years is charged 50 % of the room stay per night and person in an extra bed.
The maximum number of extra beds for children in a room is 2.
Any type of extra bed or child's cot/crib is upon request and needs to be confirmed by management.
Supplements are not calculated automatically in the total costs and will have to be paid for separately during your stay.
We are sorry, this accommodation is not available to book at the moment
Facilities
Air Condition
Bar
Catering service
Desk
Free toiletries
Hairdryer
Laundry
Lounge
Minibar
Outdoor pool
Private bathroom
Restaurant
Room service
Seating area
SPA
TV
Wake up service
WiFi
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Zanzibar
Zanzibar Island is locally known as Unguja. This is one of two main islands that make up the semi-autonomous state of Zanzibar. It is a partner state in the United Republic of Tanzania.
Tanzania is the largest country in the east coast of Africa. Zanzibar is located in the Indian Ocean. The distance from the island to the coast of Tanzania mainland is about 35.
Zanzibar lies in a Longitude of 39 degrees East and Latitude 6 degrees south of the Equator. The highest point of the island is 150 meters above sea level.
The Island's capital, also known as Zanzibar, is one of the oldest cities in Africa. It is a World Heritage Site with a collection of some of Africa's most valuable ancient architecture.
Zanzibar was established and for centuries ruled by Omani Sultans who reigned supreme in the east coast of Africa before the Portuguese and later the British came calling.
Zanzibar is also well renowned for its spices. Excellent quality cloves, cinnamon, pepper and nutmeg are available in the city and the primary economy in Zanzibar is based on these spices. These spices are exported to other countries for earning foreign exchange.
Zanzibar is still the pre-eminent spice market in eastern Africa hence the name ‘Spice Island’.
Zanzibar also has beautiful beaches, palm-fringed islands and extraordinarily beautiful coral reefs as tourist attractions. Various water sports are also popular in the city.
The Stone Town is a historical heritage site. The ton has colorful markets, meandering roads and extravagant bazaars. The city has a rich and varied culture. Zanzibar is very rich in both flora and fauna. There are rich diversities of animals and birds found in the various forests of Zanzibar.
People of Zanzibar come from a mixture of ethnic backgrounds with Islam as the main religion of the city. Apart from Islam, Hinduism and Christianity are also followed in Zanzibar. Swahili is the mother tongue of Zanzibar.
Zanzibar Beaches
Zanzibar beaches are the places where one can unwind and surrender oneself to nature carelessly. A wonderful holiday at the beaches in Zanzibar will shed all the anxieties and breathe new life into an individual.
The beaches of Zanzibar are clean and tranquil and help to reach a blissful state. Strolling on the quiet beaches while sipping exotic cocktails, takes one to paradise.
The turquoise waters of the sea welcome one to explore the depths of the sea. There are also awesome coral reefs that make the beaches more beautiful. Watching sunrise or sunset from a Zanzibar beach can become a memorable experience for lifetime, which can be cherished long and forever.
The sun-kissed beaches in Zanzibar are places for relaxation. Many people are seen sun-tanning themselves on the beaches, while children enjoy beach football and beach-volley.
There are around 25 exotic white sand beaches in Zanzibar, which have small fishing villages in close proximity to the beaches. Some of the well known beaches in Zanzibar include Nungwi, Mangapwani, Pwani Mchangani, Uroa and Jambiani.
Most of the beaches have extravagant beach resorts, which offer world-class facilities to the tourists. Various water sports activities are common in the Zanzibar beaches. There are options for diving, scuba diving and snorkeling along with deep water fishing options.
Swimming in the warm waters of the sea is also a pleasant experience. The peace and solitude with the un-spoilt beaches will keep calling tourists for more.
Sports & nature
Prison Island
Prison Island is only a 20 -30 minute boat trip from Zanzibar. This island is steeped in history; it was once used as a place where slaves were detained and after this period, it was turned into a camp where people with deadly diseases were sent. Nowadays, however, this stunning little island is a nature reserve for giant tortoises and a place to see the ruins that once functioned as the prison. Prison Island makes for a fun and cheap day trip from Zanzibar.
Beaches
Zanzibar’s eastern beaches are amongst the world’s best. These quiet, beautiful and pristine beaches will not disappoint! The top 5 beaches to visit are as follows:
1. Nungwi
Nungwi is a village located at Zanzibar’s North West tip. It is a popular stop for backpackers though it has no-where near the same floods of tourists as many other backpacker spots, namely South East Asia and therefore enjoys Zanzibar’s trademark tranquility. Nungwi beach is a beautiful spot and is an excellent choice for swimming due to the tide which doesn’t venture out too far.
2. Kendwa
This village is located next to Nungwi and is within walking distance. Kendwa has pristine white beaches and azure waters with an excellent selection of bars and restaurants on the waterfront.
3. Pongwe
A picture perfect beach located south of Kendwa and Nungwi; this is a quiet beach exempt from the backpacking crowd of Nungwi and Kendwa.
4. Paje
This beach is located on the South East of Zanzibar and also draws the attention of travelers. Paje is a popular beach for water sports.
5. Matemwe
A stunningly quiet beach which offers a small selection of cafes and guest houses. Palm trees sway in the Zanzibari breeze and local villagers go about their daily lives in this sleepy beachside sanctuary.
Stone Town
With stunning white washed buildings and culture galore, Stone Town is the heart of Zanzibar and is thought to be the only functioning ancient town left in East Africa. With its multitude of historic sites, markets and tours, Stone Town will see that every day you spend there is packed with activities! When in Stone Town check out Mercury’s restaurant; this restaurant pays tribute to Freddy Mercury who was born in Zanzibar in 1946. There are interesting relics from the Queen Band member scattered throughout the bar.
Slave Market
The slave market is located in Stone Town. This ancient site is a sad, poignant yet interesting place to visit to learn about Zanzibar’s history of the slave trade.
Darajani Market
The Darajani located in Stone Town is famous for its vibrancy, colorfulness and range of vendors. This exciting market is well worth a visit and will give you a great taster into local life.
Snorkeling and diving
Zanzibar is excellent for its diving and snorkeling. There are many different locations on the island where you can take a trip; a recommended snorkel trip is to Pemba Island from Nungwi. You will sail to Pemba on a typical Zanzibari dhow boat which is an experience in itself. The beautiful little island of Pemba makes quite the picture is you sail close to it. You will snorkel close to the shores of the island; most trips will include lunch and light refreshments.
Forodhani Gardens
Located in Stone Town, the Forodhani Gardens are situated right on the coast and make for a perfect evening stroll; here, locals prepare tasty local dishes and there is a great atmosphere as locals and backpacker’s alike come to taste the delights of the local cuisine.
Palace Museum & House of Wonders
The palace museum is also known as Sultan’s Palace, and is referred to as Beit-el-Sahel and it is one of the most prominent historic buildings in Stone Town and well worth a visit. The Palace Museum is situated in the waterfront; it was built in the 19th century to house the Sultan’s family. After the 1964 revolution the site was used as a Government building and re-named to “The People’s Palace.” Nowadays it serves as a museum and showcases relics of the past Sultan family. The House of wonders is also a very prominent building in Stone Town and functions as one of the main landmarks. It is a fascinating exhibition of Zanzibari and Swahili culture.
Spice Tour
Zanzibar is famous for its spice industry, and therefore spice tours are readily available. Don’t miss out on a spice tour when in Zanzibar – it’s a great way of learning more about one of the Island’s major industries.
The Old Fort
The Old Fort is Stone Town’s oldest building. This historic building is located on the seafront opposite the Forodhani Gardens. The Old Fort was built in the 17th century and its purpose was to defend the island from attacks from the Portuguese. Today, The Old Fort is a place to see the remains of the former fort, and the courtyard in the center sells local merchandise and there is also an amphitheater where events are held most evenings.
Nightlife info
Zanzibar is strongly influenced by Muslim culture and therefore has a fairly subdued nightlife. There are however a couple of places, especially in Stone Town, where visitors can go to enjoy a holiday sundowner, and even a bit of dancing! Blues, at the Forodhani waterfront, and Pichy's Pizzeria and Bar are good for drinks with an ocean view, while the roof-top bar at Africa House and the Serena Inn's Msasani Bar are also quite popular. Serena Inn puts on a great 'Swahili Night', with Taarab music and an African buffet, and the Old Fort is also good for local music performances. Trendy late-night venues include the Starehe and Garage clubs on Shangani Street, and the Bwawani Hotel's Komba Disco.
Restaurants in Zanzibar are a true culinary adventure. In Stone Town Restaurants offer many opportunities to enjoy a nice day or evening while having great sea food and sundowner cocktails. Around the island major hotels and local restaurants offer food and beverage services.
Stone Town
Africa House hotel
Each evening Africa House Hotel in Stone Town fills up with people overlooking the ocean as it is certainly nowhere better for the requisite sundowner to watch the magnificent sunset.
Forodhani Gardens
Every night, as the sun goes down; the food stalls in the Forodhani Gardens opposite the old fort starting to prepare all kinds of local food in the open air.
Mercurys
Located a five minutes’ walk from the Old Fort, named after Zanzibar’s most famous son Freddie Mercury, this place has a fine setting on the seafront, overlooking a small beach, the bay, and part of the new port. Sometimes there is live traditional music or other entertainment.
Monsoon Restaurant
Near the Fort and the seafront it offers selection of Mediterranean and Zanzibari food, accompanied by live taraab music some days.
Mtoni Marine / Zanzibar Sports Café
Five minutes from the hustle of Zanzibar’s historical Stone Town is the Mtoni Marine hotel. With its several Restaurants and Bars it offers a range from fine-dining experience of classic continental cuisine by candle-light under the stars right on the beach, with traditional live music to Beach- and Sport bar with TV and entertainment.
Some Italian restaurants can be found as well, Archipelago, Amore Mio or La Taverna.
Bars and some hotel discos can be found in Stone Town and in hotels and restaurants around Zanzibar Island. For the nightlife in Stone Town the only popular disco can be found on weekends at the former Bwawani Hotel, in a dark and equally seedy room under the swimming pool the party starts normally not before 2 am. During the evening it is possible to start the party on the open roof top.
The Dharma Lounge, a popular bar in Stone Town is open until the early hours. It offers a modern club with a dance floor and a good selection of music & drinks.
North coast
Nungwi’s and Kendwa’s nightlife is Zanzibar’s liveliest, with plenty of music bars to choose from. Most hotel restaurants are open for visitors like Langi-Langi Beach Bungalows just to mention one of them.
East coast
Nowadays Paje and the neighboring area offer a variety of bars, evening hangouts, restaurants and nightlife. Still not as much as in the north but there are definitely opportunities to swing your hips or just to relax with some drinks and good music.
Also in this area most hotels are open for visitors like for example the Blue Oyster Hotel Restaurant in Jambiani. Bigger hotels sometimes don’t allow outside guests to enter the premises, especially the Italian resorts.
Local spirit konyagi is Zanzibar’s answer to gin and is best sampled in a dawa cocktail with honey and lime. A range of Tanzanian beer is available; Kilimanjaro is the most popular, alongside Tusker beer from Kenya.
Culture and history info
Zanzibar has lured traders, adventurers, plunderers and explorers to its shores for centuries. The Assyrians, Sumerians, Egyptians, Phoenicians, Indians, Chinese, Persians, Portuguese, Omani Arabs, Dutch and English have all been here at one time or another. Some, particularly the Shirazi Persians and Omani Arabs, stayed to settle and rule. With this influence, Zanzibar has become predominantly Islamic (97%) - the remaining 3% is made up of Christians, Hindus and Sikhs. The earliest visitors to Zanzibar were Arab traders who are said to have arrived in the 8th century. The earliest building that remains on Zanzibar is the mosque at Kazimkazi. This dates from 1107, and is a present-day tourist attraction.
For centuries the Arabs sailed with the Monsoon winds from Oman to trade primarily in ivory, slaves and spices. The two main islands, Unguja (normally known as Zanzibar Island) and Pemba, provided an ideal base for the Omani Arabs. This was because the island was relatively small, and therefore fairly easy to defend. From here it was possible for them to control 1,000 miles of the mainland coast from present day Mozambique to Somalia. Indeed, in 1832, Sultan Seyyid Said, of the Busaid Dynasty that had emerged in Oman, moved his Sultanate from Muscat, which was perhaps more difficult to protect, to Zanzibar where he and his descendants ruled for over 130 years.
Most of the wealth lay in the hands of the Arab community. They were the main landowners, kept themselves to themselves, and generally did not intermarry with the Africans. Unlike the Arab community, the Shirazi Persians who came from the Middle East intermarried with the locals. The story goes that in AD 975, Abi Ben Sultan Hasan of Shiraz in Persia (now Iran) had a terrible nightmare in which a rat devoured the foundations of his house. He took this as an omen that his community was to be devastated. Others in the Shiraz Court ridiculed the notion. However Sultan Hasan, his family and some followers obviously took it very seriously and decided to migrate. They set out in seven dhows into the Indian Ocean but were caught in a huge storm and separated. Thus, landfalls were made at seven different places along the East African coast, one of which was Zanzibar, and settlements began.
Widespread intermarriage between Shirazis and Africans gave rise to a coastal community with distinctive features, and a language derived in part from Arabic, which became known as Swahili. The name Swahili comes from the Arab word sawahil which means 'coast'. The Zanzibar descendants of this group were not greatly involved in the lucrative slave, spice and ivory trades. Instead, they immersed themselves mainly in agriculture and fishing. Those Shirazis that did not intermarry retained their identity as a separate group. Two smaller communities were also established. Indian traders arrived in connection with the spice and ivory trade, and quickly settled as shopkeepers, traders, skilled artisans, and professionals. The British became involved in missionary and trading activities in East Africa, and attempting to suppress the slave trade centered in Zanzibar.
