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The Manta Resort is a secluded barefoot-luxury retreat located on the northern tip of Pemba Island, part of Tanzania’s Zanzibar Archipelago. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters, coral reefs and powder-white beaches, the resort offers a peaceful and remote island escape, combining laid-back luxury with one of East Africa’s most unique marine experiences.
The Manta Resort is a remote boutique beach lodge located on the northern tip of Pemba Island, part of the Zanzibar Archipelago but far quieter and less developed than Zanzibar itself. Set on a beautiful stretch of white sand and surrounded by lush tropical forest and coral reefs, the resort offers a more off-grid, peaceful island experience. Pemba is known for its rich marine life and excellent diving, and Manta has become particularly famous for its unique underwater room.
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A closer look at the accommodation, atmosphere and setting.
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Accommodation
The resort offers a small collection of villas and garden rooms, all designed with simplicity, privacy and a strong connection to the natural surroundings. Accommodation ranges from garden rooms tucked among tropical greenery to seafront villas with private terraces and direct ocean views. The standout option is the Underwater Room, a three-level floating structure anchored offshore, with a submerged bedroom surrounded by glass walls for a immersive marine experience.
Food & drink
Dining at Manta is relaxed and centred around fresh local ingredients, particularly seafood. Meals are served in the open-air restaurant overlooking the ocean, with menus influenced by Swahili and international cuisine. The atmosphere is informal and barefoot, with the emphasis on fresh produce, simple presentation and spectacular sea views. Private beach dinners and sundowners can also be arranged.
What to do
Manta is particularly strong for diving and snorkelling, thanks to Pemba’s exceptional coral reefs and clear waters, which are considered some of the best in East Africa. Other activities include kayaking, dhow sailing, fishing, spa treatments and guided island walks. The resort is also well suited to travellers who simply want to switch off — with long stretches of beach, little outside distraction and a strong sense of remoteness.
Planning your stay
The islands’ beaches differ markedly by coast and tide. We weigh hotel atmosphere, room privacy, swimming conditions and onward flights, especially after an active safari.
Zanzibar and Pemba offer different kinds of stay. Fanjove is also in this coastal collection as a southern island alternative, outside the archipelago itself.
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Compare a few alternatives, or open the full regional guide to see every property in this part of Tanzania.
Zanzibar Archipelago
Fanjove Private Island is an exclusive barefoot-luxury retreat located in the remote Songo Songo Archipelago off the southern coast of Tanzania. Surrounded by powder-white beaches and the clear waters of the Indian Ocean, the island offers an idyllic escape where nature, simplicity and understated comfort come together to create a truly tranquil and secluded island experience.
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Zanzibar Archipelago
The Residence Zanzibar is an elegant beachfront retreat set within lush tropical gardens on the island’s tranquil southwest coast. Combining Swahili and Omani influences with modern luxury, it offers spacious private pool villas, refined dining, and a peaceful setting along a mile-long stretch of Indian Ocean shoreline.
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Zanzibar Archipelago
Bawe Island is an exclusive private island retreat just off Zanzibar’s coast, offering spacious pool villas, pristine beaches, and complete seclusion within a protected marine reserve. This private sanctuary blends barefoot luxury with an emphasis on privacy, natural beauty, and personalised service, making it a perfect escape for those seeking tranquillity and immersive island experiences.
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We will explain how it compares with the alternatives and whether it fits your preferred dates, route and pace.
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