THE AIYANA

LOCATION

Pemba Island itself is the more rural of Zanzibar’s two main islands and thus affords a view into the more traditional life of this exotic archipelago. The main industry here is still the clove crop with much of the landscape being given over to farming or simply virgin forest.

ACCOMMODATION

The Aiyana’s 30 standalone villas are set apart from one another facing the beautiful beach and Indian Ocean. Some offer spacious indoor/outdoor bathrooms while others have plunge pools and additional living areas. The Royal Suite has a larger pool and its own bit of beach and even the lead-in Prestige Villas have a pretty and secluded little garden in which to relax and sunbathe in private.

FOOD & DRINK

Freshness is key with ingredients being sourced locally as far as possible. Given The Aiyana’s location there is of course an accent on seafood and the Mauritian roots of the hotel’s owner ensure some of the highest standards of cuisine you’ll find in Zanzibar. The shaded but open-air restaurant overlooks the beach and enjoys a cooling sea breeze.

FACILITIES

The extensive spa is one of the main attractions of The Aiyana and an array of pampering treatments is offered throughout the day and evening. There’s also a secluded ‘spa island’ for ultimate privacy and treatments in the open air.

An infinity pool sits next to the bar overlooking the beach and close to this is the ‘hookah’ lounge, where guests can enjoy some post-dinner relaxation, reclining on colourful cushions. The bar serves an array of cocktails and mocktails throughout the day and is a perfect spot from which to watch the sun set. There is also a small boutique selling local handicrafts, jewellery and clothes.

OUT & ABOUT

The pristine coral reefs surrounding Pemba Island mean that it offers some of the best diving in the Zanzibar Archipelago, which is no small compliment.

Just off the beach, the nearby sandbank affords walks on pure white coral sand and superb snorkelling. Guests can spend the morning exploring before a delicious picnic lunch and relaxing to the sound of exotic bird life.

Back on land, explore the local village and forest with a member of staff to learn more about local life and culture.

INSIDER VIEWPOINT

• All the villas have their own unique selling points so speak to our expert team for advice on which to choose.

NOTA BENE

•  Currently the villas are without Wi-Fi but this is coming soon. Public areas are Wi-Fi enabled.