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Following a comprehensive refurbishment, &Beyond Mnemba Island, located off the northeastern coast of Zanzibar, Tanzania, has reopened with a refreshed approach to its signature barefoot luxury. Known for its secluded setting and eco-conscious ethos, the private island emphasises relaxation and sustainability.
Enhanced Island Living in Tanzania
The refurbishment introduced significant updates, particularly to the beachfront bandas, which now include redesigned private beach lounges steps from the ocean. Drawing inspiration from the organic shape of a nautilus shell, the bandas’ design features natural tones accented by splashes of coral-inspired hues. Floor-to-ceiling louvred blinds allow sea breezes to cool the interiors, maintaining an open, breezy atmosphere that fits the island’s laid-back character.
The island’s new Wellness Banda extends the retreat’s focus on relaxation, offering two open-air treatment rooms facing the forest and an outdoor yoga deck. Wellness activities include sunrise yoga sessions, sound therapy, and guided meditation—a thoughtful addition catering to travellers seeking relaxation and reconnection with nature.
&Beyond Mnemba Island Returns in Renewed Luxury
Exploring Beyond the Shoreline in Zanzibar
A notable feature of the update is the introduction of the Discovery Centre, a space dedicated to showcasing the island’s marine conservation and community initiatives through Oceans Without Borders. Visitors can learn about artificial reef structures, coral nurseries, and marine sustainability projects. Those eager to engage directly in conservation can even assist the team in collecting and transplanting coral fragments—an immersive experience connecting guests with the island’s environmental efforts.
Water-based activities remain central to the island’s appeal. The Dive Centre offers a variety of experiences, from snorkelling and kayaking to catamaran sailing and paddleboarding. Traditional dhow cruises and tours of local villages also provide a cultural perspective on the surrounding region, reflecting Zanzibar’s rich maritime heritage.
&Beyond Mnembas – an inside look at their banda
&Beyond Mnembas – a good example of barefoot luxury
Part of &Beyond’s global portfolio of 29 lodges and camps, Mnemba Island’s reimagined offerings underscore a continued commitment to sustainability while catering to high-end travellers. The updates focus on enhancing the guest experience while preserving the island’s ecological integrity—a challenging balance many luxury retreats strive for.
Read More: Adventure Beckons: Explore South Africa’s Garden Route
As noted by World Travel Magazine, the refurbishment underscores a broader trend in luxury travel: combining exclusivity with purpose-driven experiences. Whether it’s lounging by the ocean, participating in marine conservation, or exploring the cultural tapestry of Zanzibar, &Beyond Mnemba Island offers a refined yet grounded retreat where nature and luxury coexist. ◼
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© This article was first published online in Dec 2024 – World Travel Magazine.
