Pongwe Bay Resort - Zanzibar

Package price from, per person sharing

4 nights - R15,170
7 nights - R19,530

For travellers who prefer a quieter coastal base rather than a large activity-led resort, this Zanzibar holiday package brings the main arrangements together in one booking. Return flights from South Africa, airport transfers and included meals make it easier to settle into a relaxed beach stay while retaining the option to explore the island.

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Property Overview

Pongwe Bay Resort is a small beachfront property set among tropical gardens on Zanzibar’s east coast. Its current concept follows a barefoot approach, with sandy paths, locally crafted furnishings and buildings designed with natural materials. The resort centres on a freshwater swimming pool and Pongwe Beach, where sun loungers and umbrellas are provided for guests. Accommodation is divided between bungalows and suites, including beachfront and family options. The Club, positioned at the end of the resort’s jetty, adds an overwater setting for seafood, drinks and sunset views. Children aged ten and above are accepted, supporting the property’s generally peaceful atmosphere.

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How far is the nearest beach?

Pongwe Bay Resort stands directly on Pongwe Beach and has its own beach area with sun loungers and umbrellas. Junior Suite Beach Front rooms are positioned on the shore, with access from their private patio or terrace.

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Distance from Airport

Abeid Amani Karume International Airport is approximately 36 kilometres from Pongwe Bay Resort. The road journey usually takes around 50 minutes, depending on traffic, and private airport transfers can be arranged through the property.

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Rooms

Pongwe Bay Resort offers Bungalows, Junior Suites, Family Suites and Master Suites. Junior Suites measure 45 square metres and overlook the garden or swimming pool, while the beachfront version has a patio or terrace and Swahili-style furnishings. Family Suites range from 85 to 90 square metres, with private gardens, lounge areas and either two or three bedrooms. Each has two bathrooms with showers.

The 60-square-metre Master Suite occupies an upper floor and includes a private terrace with panoramic sea views and a bathroom with twin basins. Bungalows provide 45 square metres of indoor space and a 24-square-metre patio overlooking the garden or pool. Room facilities vary by category but include air conditioning, Wi-Fi, a safe, minibar and mosquito net.

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Food & Drink

Bahari Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner close to the swimming pool and tropical gardens. Its menus combine international dishes with local flavours and fresh ingredients, with meals served beneath a traditional makuti roof.

The Cocktail Bar operates from morning until late evening, offering drinks, tropical cocktails and light snacks in a lounge setting. The Club provides an additional à la carte option at the end of the jetty, with seafood and drinks served above the water. Its meals are not included in the resort’s standard board arrangements.

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Activities

Guests can use canoes and stand-up paddleboards in Pongwe Bay or exercise at Jungle Jim, the resort’s beach fitness area. The property also arranges island activities and excursions, which may include spice tours, visits to Stone Town, snorkelling and fishing trips.

The resort’s current programme includes a weekly Maasai-themed dinner and traditional performance. Those wanting a slower day can remain by the freshwater pool or use the beach service, while Maji Spa offers massages and body treatments within the resort.

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