An authentic eco-lodge on a private island near Zanzibar, where the corals flourish and the fish thrives

Enhance your beach vacation in Zanzibar with a stay in one of the finest marine parks in the entire Indian Ocean. Stay close to the beach in marvelous open eco bungalows, indulge in snorkeling day and night, and embark on a quest to spot the unique giant crabs.

A stay on Chumbe Island is a remarkable experience for anyone interested in nature. It is a perfect example of how tourism can contribute to preserving and protecting wildlife, coral reefs, and forests. You will experience a magic sustainable "eco-lab", that really works as beacon for how tourism can and should be done. 

A journey through time and experiences

The boat trip from Zanzibar to Chumbe Island takes only 45 minutes but feels like a journey through time. On Chumbe, nature, and wildlife dominate. They dictate the rules. The first sight that greets the eye during the sail through the turquoise sea is the island's old lighthouse, rising above the lush jungle wilderness. However, apart from that, there are few signs of human activity. The seven bungalows, the restaurant, and other communal facilities are constructed from 100% natural materials and blend seamlessly with the treetops.

Upon arrival, one immediately senses that the place does not need to make a great fuss about itself. It effortlessly emanates from the heart, passion, and dedication of everyone involved, from the passionate marine biologists who guide you through the world of aquatic creatures to the talented chef who skillfully juggles the spices of Swahili cuisine.

Corals, sea turtles, and giant crabs

And then, of course,  the most important part of this place - the thriving coral reef, sea turtles, giant crabs, and 400 different species of reef fish. All right at your doorstep - 100% funded by the revenue generated from guests on the island.

Indulge in snorkeling activities on a daily basis, and experience the marine life at night when everything transforms in shape and color, and bioluminescent plankton makes the sea surface magical. 

Skilled instructors assist the youngest members of families in discovering the wonders of a true sea-fari while the mystery of whether fish sleep at night is unraveled.

In the late afternoon, Chumbe's unique Coconut crabs emerge from their hiding places. As big as dachshunds, this crab specie scurry through the forest floor, creating an almost prehistoric atmosphere. Despite their size, they are equally wary of humans, like any other crabs.

Stay in an eco-friendly bungalow 

Shoes are left at the doorstep of the bungalow - it is both customary and helps keep sand outside. Adjacent to the sandals, rainwater is collected in sheltered tanks, filtered and purified, and used for bathing and teeth brushing.

The entire ground floor serves as one spacious open living area. It features a hammock and wooden sun loungers intricately woven with coconut fibers, and at the back, there is a semi-outdoor bathroom.

Enjoy the sea view from the first floor while the refreshing breeze enters and makes the tropical nights pleasant.

The roofs are designed to withstand the harsh hurricane winds of the monsoon season, and they furthermore protect the forest located behind the bungalows from inclement weather. The rest is powered by solar energy.

The ground floor can be converted into an additional bedroom at night, easily accommodating a family with two-three children.

Dinner under the starry sky

Chef John King lives up to his name. He serves small dishes, freshly prepared, to be enjoyed under the starry sky while the aroma of the grill tickles the nostrils and the sound of gentle waves plays in the background. These are the moments that are cherished and remembered when everyday life resumes.