Essque Zalu Zanzibar Hotel Nungwi, Nungwi - Reviews, Rooms Options & Prices 2025

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About the Resort

Nungwi Village, Nungwi, Tz, Nungwi, Tanzania

Essque Zalu Zanzibar is a luxury resort situated on the northernmost tip of Zanzibar, promising an impeccable blend of modern design and natural beauty. The resort features the highest makuti thatched roof on the island, with stunning views of the Indian Ocean and lush tropical gardens. Its unique offerings include tailored culinary experiences through the Maisha Cookery Studio, which enhances the island's vibrant culinary traditions. Guests can enjoy a personalized retreat amidst the serene environment, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and memorable events.

Location

Located in Nungwi, Essque Zalu Zanzibar sits on a rocky natural cove that overlooks a tranquil beach, providing direct access to activities such as snorkeling and diving. The resort is conveniently situated 65 km from Kisauni, making it easily accessible for travelers. Surrounded by lush gardens and featuring stunning views of the turquoise ocean, the resort invites guests to enjoy both the beauty and culture of Zanzibar.

Rooms

Essque Zalu Zanzibar offers a variety of accommodations including 40 suites and 8 residences, each boasting captivating views of either the Indian Ocean or the tropical gardens. Suites are designed with modern comforts and Swahili touches, featuring amenities such as soundproof walls and private terraces or balconies. The residences range from three to four bedrooms, ideal for families or groups seeking spacious living options.

Eat & Drink

The resort's main restaurant, Market Kitchen, presents a diverse à la carte menu featuring fluffy waffles and indulgent chocolate crepes at breakfast, alongside fragrant curries and fresh seafood for dinner. Guests can also savor Italian-style desserts, ensuring a culinary journey that highlights local and global flavors. Additionally, casual dining options are available at the Jetty and the Baobab Bar, where snacks and refreshments are served.

Leisure & Business

Guests can unwind in the large, inviting infinity pool at the center of the resort, which serves as a focal point for relaxation. The onsite spa offers a range of treatments including traditional African pamper rituals and beauty therapies. The property features a fitness center and provides access to water sports and activities, ensuring guests have numerous options for both relaxation and adventure.

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Select your room type

The hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Beachfront Suite

Max:

2 persons

80 m²

Bed options:

1 King Size Bed

Sea view

Shower

Balcony

room details

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Suite

Max:

2 persons

85 m²

Bed options:

1 King Size Bed

Garden view

Shower

Bathtub

room details

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Suite

Max:

2 persons

80 m²

Bed options:

1 King Size Bed

Sea view

Shower

Balcony

room details

Check Prices

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Getting around

Explore available ways to reach your dream destination

City Center

Nungwi4000 ft

Airports

Kisauni (ZNZ) 39.0 mi

Facilities

The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Culinary Delights

“The dining experience at Essque Zalu Zanzibar was truly really good. Each meal was nothing short of fantastic, especially at the Jetty restaurant where the seafood was fresh and savory. I highly recommend trying the fresh catch of the day, along with their delicious breadsticks and dips. Breakfast at the Market Kitchen was equally impressive, featuring a variety of options from traditional Tanzanian cuisine to Western favorites, making it a perfect start to my day.” view full review

Stunning Accommodations

“I was completely blown away by the beauty and comfort of my room. The mini suite I stayed in had stunning ocean views and was decorated with local flowers, making it feel like a tropical paradise. The spacious layout and high-quality amenities such as plush bedding and a well-stocked minibar contributed to a truly luxurious stay. It was a perfect retreat where I felt relaxed and pampered.” view full review

Tranquil Oasis

“The leisure facilities at Essque Zalu were a highlight of my visit. The infinity pool was clean and well-maintained, offering beautiful views of the ocean. I also enjoyed the tranquility of the surrounding tropical gardens, where I could unwind completely. Whether lounging by the pool or taking a refreshing dip, it was always a relaxing experience.” view full review

Family-Friendly Fun

“As a family-oriented resort, Essque Zalu made sure that everyone had a great time. My kids particularly loved the pools, using them almost every day during our stay. The staff went above and beyond in providing a kid-friendly environment, which made our vacation not just enjoyable but also stress-free.” view full review

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
VIP check-in/ -out
Express check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Wheelchair access
24-hour security
Baggage storage
Locker room
Currency exchange
Barber shop
Coffee shop
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key card access
Key access

Sports & Fitness

Fitness center
Wind surfing
Diving
Snorkeling
Horseback riding
Cycling
Pool tables
Darts
Table tennis
Yoga class
Aerobics
Fishing

Guest Parking

Electric kettle
Dryer
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Services

Paid airport shuttle
Valet parking
Room service
Housekeeping
Car rental
Laundry
Dry cleaning
Tours/Ticket assistance
Stores/Commercial services
Welcome drink
Happy hour

Dining

In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Snack bar
Bar/ Lounge area
Outdoor dining area
Picnic area/ Tables
Dinner
Packed lunches
Special diet menus

Business

Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cribs
Babysitting/Child services
Children's buffet
Board games
Children's pool
Water slides
Children's play area
Kids club
Game room

Facilities for people with disabilities

Toilet for disabled
Bathroom for disabled

Spa & Leisure

Outdoor swimming pool
Beach access
Beach umbrellas
Sun loungers
Aqua park
Live entertainment
Sun terrace
Garden area
BBQ facilities
Leisure/ TV room
Spa & wellness center
Sauna
Turkish bath
Steam room
Pedicure
Manicure
Waxing
Body scrub
Facial
Treatment room
Body wraps
Back massage
Head massage
Full body massage
Foot massage
Open-air bath

Room features

Air conditioning
Mini-bar
Soundproofed rooms
Sitting area
Patio
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Dining table
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle
Dryer
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Parquet floor

Location

Nungwi Village, Nungwi, Tz, Nungwi, Tanzania

Map view

Nungwi Village, Nungwi, Tz, Nungwi, Tanzania

City landmarks

Aquarium

Mnarani Marine Turtles Conservation Pond

2900 ft

Tanzania

Baobop

1.3 mi

Gallery

Dr. Bulugu Gallery

4300 ft

Aquarium

Baraka Natural Aquarium- Nungwi

2900 ft

Beach

Nungwi Beach

2900 ft

Zoo

Zanzibar Kilosas Conservation

2900 ft

Gallery

Dr Bulugu Gallery

1.3 mi

Nungwi Lighthouse

2900 ft

KMKM Mnarani

2900 ft

Nungwi

Spanish Dancer Divers

1.3 mi

mnarani turtles conservation ponds

2900 ft

Street Nungwi

Nungwi Marine Turtles Mnarani

2900 ft

Masjid Muwanda

2900 ft

Ras Nungwi Lighthouse

4300 ft

Khadija

4300 ft

Masjid lbrahim

4300 ft

Unnamed Road

The Panje Project

1.3 mi

Tanzania

MyBlue beach

1.3 mi

Diving Poseidon

1.1 mi

Msikiti

1.3 mi

Tanzania

Nungwi public Beach

1.3 mi

Beach

Kendwa Beach

1.3 mi

ZanziYoga

1.3 mi

Vera mosque

1.3 mi

Masjid istiqama

1.3 mi

East Africa Diving & Water Sport Centre

1.3 mi

Sandies mosique

1.3 mi

Kiteboarding Zanzibar

1.3 mi

Masjid Al-Madina Liebin Masoud

1.4 mi

Nearby

Mnarani Natural Aquarium

1700 ft

Restaurants

Ubora Restaurant & Bar

3900 ft

Ras Nungwi Beach Hotel Nungwi

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback from previous guests about their experience

84%

liked the resort and would come back again

8.4/10

Great

Rooms

7.6

Location

8.0

Service

7.4

Dining

7.0

Matthew

United Kingdom, December 2024

5.0/10

My experience at Essque Zalu was disappointing overall. The landscape and infinity pool are beautiful, but the dishonest staff and inadequate response to issues significantly marred my stay. The remote location might be ideal for some, but it felt isolating to me. Wi-Fi was practically non-functional, and the food didn’t meet expectations, especially considering I had half board. I won’t be returning.

Rooms

5.0

The room bathroom had a sewage smell that wasn't addressed, which really affected my comfort during the stay.

Service

5.0

The staff were dismissive and dishonest when I expressed my concerns, which left me feeling frustrated.

Location

5.0

The hotel is quite remote, which can be a plus for seclusion, but I found it inconvenient as there are few nearby amenities.

Dining

5.0

The breakfast options were limited, and most of the food we ordered was served cold.

Facilities

6.0

The infinity pool overlooking the ocean was fantastic, but other amenities like Wi-Fi were lacking.

Todd

United States of America, December 2024

9.2/10

My stay at this hotel was simply delightful! The atmosphere was a peaceful sanctuary, perfect for relaxation. The spacious and stylishly decorated rooms contributed to a comfortable experience, though I did notice a minor issue with water ingress that was quickly addressed. The staff's attentiveness and efficiency truly stood out, making me feel well taken care of throughout my stay. The access to a beautiful beach and a lovely pool added to the experience, but it would be nice to have a couple more dining options available on-site.

Rooms

9.0

The room was spacious and beautifully decorated, offering a comfortable stay. However, the bathroom felt a bit cramped compared to the rest of the room.

Service

10.0

The service was exceptional, with staff members being genuinely friendly and very attentive to our needs.

Location

10.0

The hotel is located in a stunning area with direct access to a soft sandy beach and an inviting infinity pool, allowing for breathtaking views of the sea.

Dining

8.0

Dining was enjoyable with a good variety of excellent dishes, but it would be great to have more options available for lunch and dinner.

Facilities

9.0

The hotel boasts lovely facilities including a well-maintained pool and direct beach access, which I really appreciated.

Henry

United States of America, November 2024

9.4/10

My stay at The Z Hotel was nothing short of amazing! The beautiful beach right outside was accompanied by cozy rooms and fantastic dining options. I truly appreciated the attentive staff who made me feel welcome throughout my visit. However, I did find the rooftop bar's lighting a bit bright in the evening, which made it hard to enjoy the sunset cocktails. Overall, it was a memorable holiday that I would highly recommend.

Rooms

8.0

The deluxe sea view room was nicely decorated, comfortable, and offered stunning views, though it wasn't particularly large.

Service

10.0

The service was exceptional; the staff were attentive and genuinely friendly, making my stay even more enjoyable.

Location

10.0

Located on one of the most beautiful beaches in Zanzibar, the hotel's position was ideal for relaxation and stunning views.

Dining

9.0

The dining experience was delightful with a rich variety of tasty options at breakfast and dinner, especially the lobster tempura!

Facilities

9.0

The facilities were excellent, with a lovely infinity pool and several bars from which to enjoy the views.

Roger

United States of America, November 2024

9.0/10

Our stay was truly unforgettable at this charming hotel. The rooms were spacious and beautifully decorated, offering a stunning ocean view that made waking up worth it. The service was exceptional, with the staff going above and beyond to make us feel welcome. However, the hotel’s pool was unfortunately under renovation during our visit, which was a major letdown for us, especially traveling with children. Despite this setback, we still enjoyed our time and made great memories.

Rooms

10.0

The rooms were large, well-appointed, and boasted breathtaking views from the rooftop suite.

Service

10.0

The service was exceptional, with the staff being friendly and very helpful throughout our stay.

Location

9.0

The location offered stunning beach views and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for relaxation.

Dining

9.0

Dining options were impressive with both restaurants serving delectable dishes, especially enjoyed the sunset cocktails.

Facilities

7.0

The facilities were beautiful and well-maintained, though the pool was under renovation during our stay, which was disappointing.

Bruce

United States of America, November 2024

8.8/10

I had a wonderful stay at this hotel! The location is stunning, right on the beach with breathtaking views, and the staff made me feel incredibly welcome from the moment I arrived. The rooms were clean and comfortable, but I did have a slight issue with the Wi-Fi, which was a bit spotty at times. The food was decent, yet I think the breakfast could use a little more variety. Overall, a great experience at a beautiful spot!

Rooms

9.0

The rooms were clean, comfortable, and nicely decorated, with each having a lovely balcony to enjoy the views.

Service

10.0

I experienced exceptional service; all the staff were very attentive and friendly, making my stay really special.

Location

10.0

The hotel is located right on the beach and provides amazing sunset views. It’s a perfect, quiet spot for relaxation.

Dining

7.0

The food was okay and the breakfast was satisfactory, but there wasn't much excitement in the options offered.

Facilities

8.0

The swimming pool area was beautiful and well-maintained, but I found the Wi-Fi a bit lacking in speed and consistency.

Chris

United Kingdom, October 2024

9.8/10

I had an incredible stay at the hotel, from the spacious and beautifully appointed rooms to the exceptional service from the staff. The dining experiences were simply delightful, with a variety of delicious options to choose from. The pool area was relaxing, and the spa treatments offered were a unique highlight. However, I would recommend double-checking your bill when checking out, as there seemed to be some confusion with the pricing for our stay.

Rooms

10.0

The rooms were spacious with charming views of the garden and sea. We enjoyed a large terrace with a stunning sea view, which was perfect for relaxing.

Service

10.0

The service was out of this world! Every staff member made us feel welcome and was eager to assist with anything we needed.

Location

9.0

The location was excellent, providing a tranquil beachside atmosphere while being connected to various nearby restaurants and bars.

Dining

10.0

Dining at the hotel was a highlight, with a fantastic breakfast buffet and dinner options that showcased a variety of delicious cuisines.

Facilities

10.0

The hotel facilities were impressive, particularly the infinity pool overlooking the ocean and the beautifully designed spa that offered affordable treatments.

Emma

United Kingdom, October 2024

6.6/10

I had a mixed experience at this hotel. While the ambiance was beautiful, and the food was tasty, I felt let down by the amenities and the service. The lack of direct beach access and limited toiletries were big downsides. However, the cozy atmosphere and attentive staff made our stay enjoyable overall.

Rooms

7.0

The room was spacious, very clean and had a gorgeous view of the Indian Ocean from the balcony. However, I was disappointed by the lack of compatible electric outlets for my devices.

Service

6.0

Some of the staff were incredibly friendly and attentive, making our stay special, but there were inconsistencies in service quality.

Location

5.0

The hotel is situated nicely, but we had to take a shuttle to get to the beach, which was not ideal since there’s an extra fee involved.

Dining

8.0

The food was excellent, especially for dinner with a great variety on the a la carte menu, which was surprisingly enjoyable for a half-board arrangement.

Facilities

7.0

The pool area was beautiful but I found the saltwater not very suitable for kids; still, it was well-maintained.

Sam

United Kingdom, August 2024

6.0/10

Our stay at Essque Zalu was unfortunately marred by several disappointments despite having initially high expectations. On one hand, some rooms offer beautiful views and plenty of space. However, the service was lacking, especially regarding communication and responsiveness. The dining options provided decent quality food but could benefit from more variety. Moreover, the location is picturesque, being near the beach, but far from many attractions. Overall, it didn’t provide the experience we hoped for, particularly given the hotel’s price point.

Rooms

7.0

The rooms were spacious with beautiful views, including a large terrace overlooking the sea, but the tidying service left much to be desired.

Service

5.0

The service could be improved; we often felt overlooked, especially when trying to get help or information.

Location

8.0

The hotel's location is stunning with turquoise waters and beautiful beaches, but it is a bit far from the city.

Dining

5.0

Dining was decent but lacked variety; we found the menu somewhat limited for longer stays.

Facilities

6.0

Facilities were nice, but the pool's maintenance was ongoing and not ideal during our stay.

Emily

United Kingdom, August 2024

9.4/10

I had a wonderful stay at the hotel on Nungwi beach, which offered breathtaking views and a relaxing atmosphere. The rooms were beautiful and kept impeccably clean. The service was exceptional, with friendly staff attending to our needs. However, while the dining experience was enjoyable, the Wi-Fi could use some improvement. Overall, a fantastic place to unwind after a safari trip.

Rooms

10.0

The rooms were spacious, beautifully decorated, and very clean, which added to the comfort of our stay.

Service

10.0

The service was outstanding. The staff was warm, welcoming, and attentive throughout our stay, making us feel right at home.

Location

10.0

The hotel is perfectly situated with direct access to a stunning beach, and watching the sunset from the rooftop bar is a must.

Dining

8.0

Dining options were decent, and the meals were well-prepared and presented, but there was nothing overly impressive about the menu.

Facilities

9.0

The pool area was fantastic, offering beautiful ocean views and excellent service, but there’s room for improvement regarding the jacuzzi.

Brian

United States of America, July 2024

5.0/10

I had a truly disappointing stay at this hotel. The cleanliness was a major issue, from the smelly bed sheets to the unpleasant bathroom odors. The service was incredibly slow, and the dining experience was lackluster with stale food. On the upside, some staff members were friendly and tried to help despite being overwhelmed. Overall, I wouldn’t recommend this place due to its numerous cleanliness and service flaws.

Rooms

5.0

The rooms were not satisfactory. The bathroom had drainage issues, and the cleanliness left much to be desired.

Service

5.0

The service was slow and inefficient. It took an unreasonable amount of time to get food and drinks.

Location

5.0

The hotel's location was decent, but the issues with cleanliness overshadowed any advantages it may have had.

Dining

5.0

The dining experience was very disappointing, especially the breakfast which was unappetizing and seemed unsanitary.