In terms of value for money, there are few better on Zanzibar than Pongwe.
It’s extremely economical and is home to one of the best beaches on the island! The food is great and the accommodation is very comfortable.
The negative aspects are that due to its popularity, the lodge needs to be booked well in advance, and it’s also not in a very good position for diving or snorkelling.
Pongwe Beach Hotel
The great thing about Pongwe is that it’s simple yet very, very effective.
Pongwe is found on Zanzibar’s north east coast and is probably one of Zanzibar’s most remote and beautiful beaches.
A great option if you’re looking to reduce the cost of your Tanzania holiday.
On arrival, you are struck by the easy simplicity of the lodge and its friendly and relaxing atmosphere.
The main guest area is large, open and very comfortable. The sea breeze makes it a cool place to go and relax in the midday sun.
The restaurant is also based there and serves up some truly fantastic dishes, including fresh seafood and easy European cuisine.
The rooms are spread out along Pongwe’s idyllic beach, in and amongst the green, tropical shrubbery that the sand edges up to.
The rooms are very simple and easy in style. They are comfortable but relatively scarce in terms of mod cons, the breeze makes up for a lack of air conditioning and the shower water is slightly saline.
The beach has a lovely little cove which is completely protected from the high tide.
The swimming pool also offers a very refreshing dip and looks out over the beach, making it a lovely place to relax with a drink and enjoy the scenery.
The problem with Pongwe is that the majority of the good diving/ snorkelling sites are at least an hour away.
It is the perfect place to go if you enjoy just sitting and relaxing on a beautiful beach but not so good if you have activities in mind.
We think Pongwe is a fantastic value-for-money honeymoon option – especially the sea-view suites which come with their plunge pool, please see our blog for more recommendations of the most romantic boutique hotels in Zanzibar.
A typical Tanzania itinerary, be it a Northern or Southern itinerary would finish with some time spent resting and relaxing on Zanzibar after an exciting and enthralling safari.
The city of Stone Town makes for a great stop-over for a night to experience some of the island’s culture, from the bustling markets, the rooftop bars and the fresh seafood with The Park Hyatt being the pick of the hotels.
It is worth bearing in mind that there are always some great deals to be had with Zanzibar hotels, whether you are travelling with a group on honeymoon or just travelling during the low season.
Make sure you contact one of our Tanzania experts to find out about the best deals you could take advantage of!
We don’t just know Tanzania
For more information on Tanzania, the best thing to do is to give us a ring for an impartial chat.
Although we love Tanzania, we also love the rest of Africa too and have experts in all the main safari countries. including Kenya, Uganda, Botswana and South Africa.
If you are undecided as to where to visit, please just drop us an email or give us a call!
Price start from $ 188 per person