Hekaya Zanzibar

Pros +

• I recently stayed with my girlfriend at Hekaya and we couldnt be happier with our experience. This small-scale hotel is located about an hours drive from the airport, and the round-trip transfer (120 euros) was arranged seamlessly by the hotel. Our friendly driver was waiting for us as soon as we landed, which set the tone for an excellent stay. After a busy seven-day safari, our main goal was to relax on Zanzibarand Hekaya proved absolutely perfect for that. Each morning, we enjoyed a delicious breakfast that included eggs, pancakes, fresh fruit, and fresh juices. The pool and the garden are also truly stunning, providing even more spaces to unwind and take in the island atmosphere. The hotel sits right on a beautiful beach, where you can easily walk 100 to 200 meters into the ocean at low tide and only be knee-deep in water. Nearby, there are several other hotels and restaurants that you can reach by strolling along the shore. One small thing to be aware of is that if you walk along the beach during the day, you might be approached by locals offering boat trips (for snorkeling, starfish viewing, and more). Its understandable, though sometimes you just want a bit of quiet. Throughout our stay, we were helped by (I hope Im spelling their names correctly) Dissua, Mohammed, and Jackline. Our room was cleaned every day, and each evening someone came by to spray it with mosquito spray. The service was truly top-notch, and all of these details combined to make it a fantastic stay. I would highly recommend Hekaya to anyone looking for a laid-back, welcoming place to enjoy the beauty of Zanzibar.
• The location is right on the beach, amazing views and in front of a Sand bank, with incredible rooms, comfortable and clean facilities, games, bar, books, pool and very cozy dining facilities. Few rooms and a very peaceful environment. Activities offered are for different tastes, time and price ranges and I thoroughly enjoyed the facilitation of the staff and the chosen guides for the activities. Staff was incredibly kind, welcoming, available and super responsive and very experienced. Dining was very nice and the menu for food and drinks variety allows for different choices for local and international cuisine at good value for money and generous portions. Overall I extremely recommend this facility as I had an amazing time and managed to rest and relax. Other restaurants and facilities and massages are available at very short beach walks from the hotel.

Cons -

• If theres one minor suggestion for improvementthough it in no way detracts from the overall experienceit would be to include more fresh fish options on the menu. Given the gorgeous beach and crystal-clear sea, offering a freshly grilled fish dish would be a fantastic touch.