The Nur Beach Hotel aligns ten bungalows facing the Indian Ocean, near the fishing village of Jambiani, on the south-east coast of Zanzibar. The property relies on understated architecture, local sourcing and direct beach access, in an area renowned for its turquoise lagoons and kitesurfing.

Why choose Nur Beach Hotel

• A human-scale property with just ten independent bungalows
• Modern design combined with traditional techniques, built from local and sustainable materials
• A private beach and swimming pool set among the bungalows and palm trees
• A partnership with Zanzibar Prokite for kitesurfing lessons and practice
• A kitchen sourced from local producers and fishermen from Jambiani

Atmosphere

The spirit of the place rests on the simplicity of its architectural concept: clean lines, wooden furnishings, makuti thatched roofs, stone showers. The rhythm of your stay follows that of the neighbouring village, where outrigger canoes set out at dawn and return mid-morning. The top-floor terrace, opening onto the sea, becomes the focal point in the evening.

The bungalows

The ten bungalows are independent and each features a private outdoor sitting area. Inside, the bed is protected by a mosquito net and a ceiling fan enhances natural ventilation. The bathroom includes a stone shower. WiFi is available in the rooms.

Dining and services

The restaurant is open from breakfast through dinner. The menu combines local, Indian and international cuisine, with vegetarian and vegan options on request. Seafood comes directly from fishermen in Jambiani and neighbouring villages; other ingredients are sourced from island producers.

The bar serves artisanal cocktails, beers, wines and soft drinks. The top-floor terrace offers an open view of the sea. On request, the team can arrange a private dinner on the beach.

For relaxation, the swimming pool is surrounded by palm trees and sun loungers. The private beach provides direct access to the lagoon. Transfers from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport are arranged by the hotel on request, as are trips for excursions.

Location

Jambiani sits on the south-east coast of Unguja Island. The village maintains traditional fishing activities and a pace considerably quieter than the northern tourist hubs. Allow roughly an hour and a half's drive from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport at Stone Town.

When to visit

The dry season, from June to October, offers the most stable conditions, with regular sunshine and temperatures moderated by the trade winds. The months of December to February are hot and dry, ideal for swimming. For kitesurfing, the winds of the kaskazi (December-February) and kusi (June-September) monsoons are most favourable. The long rains from March to May are best avoided.

Nearby

Jambiani is part of a string of coastal villages along the south-east coast, between Paje to the north and Makunduchi to the south. Jozani Forest, home to endemic red colobus monkeys, lies about thirty kilometres away. Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, merits a day's excursion.

Other properties on the island can complement your Zanzibar itinerary, such as Karafuu Beach Resort or Breezes Beach Club & Spa. To extend towards the mainland parks in the north, Karatu Simba Lodge makes an excellent base near Ngorongoro.

Planning your stay

Nur Beach Hotel integrates seamlessly into an itinerary combining safari and beach. To build your bespoke trip, explore our Tanzania travel suggestions.