Zanzibar has a growing number of boutique hotels, however, there’s something extra special about Mvuvi. Meaning fisherman in Swahili, Mvuvi is found in a stunning location on gorgeous Kiwengwa beach. The intimate hotel wonderfully combines traditional Swahili architecture and contemporary rustic-chic design. In addition to its setting and attractiveness, the hotel has a lovely ambiance, created by its unique history and excellent staff. Step inside Mvuvi Boutique Hotel below.
A Beautiful Story Behind a Beautiful Hotel
The founders of Mvuvi have links to Zanzibar dating back to 30 years. The Italian family of entrepreneurs came to the island for what was meant to be a sabbatical and ended up staying for eight years. Returning to Italy so their children could finish their schooling there, their strong love for the island never died, which led to the establishment of the hotel in 2007. The hotel is currently run by their daughter, Carolina, who had spent those precious childhood years on the island.
Idyllic Location on Kiwengwa beach
Mvuvi is located right on Kiwengwa beach, the longest beach on the Zanzibar, found roughly in the middle of the east coast. Its powdery fine sand makes it very pleasant for walking, so it’s perfect for romantic beach walks. The atmosphere is wonderful on this beach, aided in part to the fact that it has only low-lying hotels. The residents of the adjacent village also use the beach as a sort of road, so you’ll catch lovely glimpses of daily life while you’re enjoying the hotel’s fabulous private beach area. The hotel’s buildings are set within dense tropical vegetation which makes it an oasis of calm, which you can savor from your room’s private sitting area or on a lounger next to the pool and spa area.
Stylish Guest Rooms
With only eight rooms, guests have wonderful privacy. Most of these are found in a two-storey building, found behind the main building and encircled by greenery and flowers. Each room has a nice private terrace. There are four categories of rooms, Superior, Deluxe, Comfort and Standard, all with en-suite bathrooms and either king or twin beds (sleeping two to four people). These blend elements of Swahili style with contemporary design items, smooth concrete and stone. The rooms have modern conveniences including ceiling fans, air conditioning, tea and coffee making facilities, a safe, hairdryer, towels and toiletries. The dressing room is also practical, especially for longer stays than a few days.
Panoramic Restaurants and Additional Activities
There are two restaurant areas at Mvuvi. A seaside restaurant and bar with spectacular views, the perfect place for lunch or sunset drinks. On the second floor of the main building is a larger dining room with panoramic views over the sea… and a romantic solo table on a raised area! These are also open to outside guests. The menu features fusion Swahili-Mediterranean cuisine with ingredients sourced for local fishermen and farmers are the sources of the kitchen’s creations. These can be ordered à la carte but are also available in half and full board options.
A range of activities can also be arranged, from boat excursions to sightseeing on the island and from village tours to spa treatments. They are also opening a Kite Surfing Centre down the beach as Kiwengwa is great for this watersport. Activities can be individually selected or combined in packages which the hotel offers. The welcoming and friendly staff can assist you with these or anything else you need during your stay.
Mvuvi is a great match for both couples or small groups of friends traveling together. We had a fabulous stay and hope to be able to return!
Rooms start at 169 euros per night. You can learn more about the hotel and book directly via their website at this link.
I was a guest of Mvuvi, however, all the opinions expressed above are entirely my own.
