Meliá Zanzibar

Miles Willis
Aug 15
4 min read

Meliá Zanzibar – Where Spice Island Luxury Meets Timeless Swahili Elegance

Zanzibar — the very name conjures images of white-sand beaches lapped by the warm, turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, heady aromas of cloves and cinnamon wafting through ancient alleyways, and a history steeped in the romance of trade winds and sultans. Among its many treasures, Meliá Zanzibar stands out as a refined sanctuary for the discerning traveller who seeks both indulgent comfort and an authentic taste of the island’s rich cultural tapestry.

Location: An Exclusive Coastal Haven

Set on the tranquil northeast coast, in the upmarket Kiwengwa region, Meliá Zanzibar occupies a private 40-hectare estate that rolls down from lush tropical gardens to a pristine 300-metre stretch of beach. This side of the island is renowned for its powdery white sands, dramatic tidal changes, and calm, reef-protected waters — perfect for morning swims, paddleboarding, or simply reclining under a palm tree with a good book.

The resort’s elevated position means many suites and villas enjoy sweeping panoramic views over the impossibly blue Indian Ocean, a sight that becomes especially magical during the island’s legendary sunrises.

Architecture & Design: Swahili Chic Meets Moorish Grandeur

Meliá Zanzibar blends traditional Swahili and Moorish architectural motifs with contemporary luxury finishes. Keyhole arches, ornate wooden doors, and cool whitewashed walls nod to the island’s Omani heritage, while wide verandas and shaded colonnades make the most of the tropical climate.

Interiors are elegantly understated — think airy, high-ceilinged spaces, locally crafted Zanzibari furniture, hand-woven rugs, and subtle splashes of colour that echo the island’s spice-laden soul. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto private terraces, inviting the sea breeze to flow through the living spaces.

Accommodation: Suites & Villas That Redefine Comfort

The resort offers a range of accommodation options, from Garden Rooms set among fragrant tropical foliage to the ultra-luxurious Romance Pavilions perched on a cliff with unobstructed ocean views.

For the ultimate indulgence, the One- and Two-Bedroom Villas are the crown jewels. These come with private infinity pools, outdoor rain showers, butler service, and spacious dining and lounge areas — perfect for couples seeking seclusion or families wanting space without compromising on service.

Every room is equipped with modern comforts — plush king-size beds, deep soaking bathtubs, premium linens, and high-end amenities — yet retains a strong sense of place through local design accents.

Culinary Experiences: A Celebration of Spice & Sea

Zanzibar’s culinary identity is a glorious fusion of African, Arabic, Indian, and European influences, and Meliá Zanzibar makes the most of it.

The Spice Market Restaurant is the resort’s vibrant main dining venue, offering themed buffets and live cooking stations. Here, chefs weave island spices — clove, cinnamon, nutmeg — into fresh seafood, grilled meats, and fragrant curries.
Jetty Lounge is perhaps the most romantic spot in the resort. Extending over the ocean, it’s the place to enjoy freshly grilled lobster or tuna tartare while the sun dips below the horizon, painting the water gold.
Gabi Beach Restaurant delivers barefoot-in-the-sand dining by day, with light, Mediterranean-inspired dishes and refreshing cocktails.
For those seeking privacy, in-villa dining can be arranged, complete with a personalised menu prepared by your private chef.

Meliá Zanzibar also places strong emphasis on farm-to-table freshness, sourcing much of its produce locally — from fruits and vegetables grown inland to fish brought in daily by small-scale fishermen.

Wellness & Recreation: Balancing Energy & Serenity

The Anantara Spa is a sanctuary within a sanctuary, offering treatments that blend Asian and African traditions. Signature massages use spice-infused oils, while body wraps and facials incorporate local botanicals like coconut and aloe vera. Treatment rooms open onto private gardens or the ocean, allowing the sound of the waves to deepen relaxation.

Active travellers are equally well catered for. The resort features:

A fully equipped gym with ocean views.
Water sports including kayaking, snorkelling, windsurfing, and paddleboarding.
A tennis court and beach volleyball area.
Guided yoga sessions at sunrise or sunset.

And, of course, the surrounding waters are a diver’s paradise. The resort can arrange excursions to Mnemba Atoll, famous for its vibrant coral reefs and marine life.

Exclusive Experiences: Beyond the Beach

While the resort’s facilities are exceptional, part of Meliá Zanzibar’s appeal lies in the ease with which guests can explore the island’s treasures.

Stone Town — A UNESCO World Heritage Site just 45 minutes away, with labyrinthine streets, carved wooden doors, spice markets, and centuries-old mosques.
Spice Plantations — Guided tours reveal the secrets behind Zanzibar’s moniker “The Spice Island,” with plenty of tasting along the way.
Dhow Cruises — Traditional wooden sailing boats take you along the coast at sunset, champagne in hand.
Prison Island — Home to giant Aldabra tortoises and fascinating colonial history.

The concierge team at Meliá Zanzibar curates bespoke day trips, ensuring every outing matches your personal interests and pace.

Sustainability: Luxury with a Light Footprint

Top-end travellers are increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of their journeys, and Meliá Zanzibar is committed to responsible tourism. Initiatives include:

Solar energy integration in parts of the resort.
Waste reduction and recycling programmes.
Support for local communities through employment and sourcing.
Protection of the fragile reef ecosystem by promoting responsible snorkelling and diving practices.

Who It’s For

Meliá Zanzibar appeals to:

Couples seeking romance and seclusion.
Families wanting a safe, spacious, all-inclusive environment with activities for all ages.
Wellness travellers looking for a retreat that blends indulgence with rejuvenation.
Cultural explorers keen to combine luxury with authentic Zanzibari experiences.

The Verdict

Meliá Zanzibar is more than just a resort — it’s a gateway into the essence of Zanzibar itself. It marries the mystique of the island’s history with the comforts of modern luxury, offering world-class service in an environment that feels both exclusive and warmly welcoming.

For the high-end traveller who wants the spice and soul of Zanzibar without compromising on comfort, privacy, or service, Meliá Zanzibar is an inspired choice.

Travel Tip: The best time to visit is during the dry seasons — June to October and December to February — when the weather is warm, sunny, and perfect for both beach relaxation and island exploration.