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Where to stay in Zanzibar Part 3: SeVi Boutique Hotel
Zanzibar, a mesmerizing archipelago off the coast of Tanzania, captivates with its pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history. Stepping into this paradise, you immediately hear the soothing sounds of the ocean and feel the warm embrace of its tropical climate.
On the third leg of our Zanzibar adventure, we explored Matemwe, a serene village on the northeastern coast, where we discovered the hidden gem, SeVi Boutique Hotel.
Getting there from Zanzibar Airport
We traveled from Le Mersenne Beach Resort in Michamvi to SeVi Boutique Hotel, and the drive took about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Travel times may vary depending on the route taken. During our visit, a new road had just opened, which significantly shortened our drive time.
However, for those arriving directly from the airport, here are several options to reach SeVi Boutique Hotel from Zanzibar Airport (Abeid Amani Karume International Airport):
- Private Driver or Tour Company: Booking a private driver or arranging a transfer through a tour company can be a more comfortable and reliable option, though more expensive than a standard taxi. We pre-arranged all transfers with Tibu Tours, an officially registered and reliable tour company. They arranged for our airport pickup and provided safe, secure transportation throughout our trip. We highly recommend Tibu Tours for their excellent service and trustworthy drivers.
- Transfer Services: It appears that many hotels in Zanzibar offer airport transfer services, Sevi Boutique Hotel included. At the time of writing this article, SeVi Boutique Hotel has a special offer that includes free return transfers when booking a 7-night stay.
- Taxi: Taxis are readily available at the airport. The journey to Matemwe Kigomani takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. It’s advisable to agree on the fare beforehand, as most taxis do not use meters.
- Car Rental: If you prefer driving yourself, car rental services are available at the airport. Ensure you have the necessary documents, including an international driver’s license, and are comfortable with local driving conditions.
- Public Transportation: Using local buses, known as “Dala Dala,” is the least expensive option but can be challenging, especially with luggage or if you’re unfamiliar with the language and routes.
Accommodation at SeVi Boutique Hotel in Zanzibar
SeVi Boutique Hotel’s bungalows are designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding nature, offering a rustic yet luxurious experience.
Our garden-view bungalow featured a spacious lounge, a comfortable bed, and a private splash pool, perfect for afternoon relaxation. The best part is that every bungalow comes with a private splash pool – incredible right?!
The outside area, with its hanging bed and lush garden, provided a serene retreat where we could unwind and soak in the sounds of nature.
Each bungalow includes amenities such as a well-stocked minibar, replenished daily, charged to your final bill.
The bathrooms feature a rustic charm and come equipped with basic toiletries. The overall atmosphere of the bungalows is one of unpretentious luxury, offering a perfect balance of comfort and authenticity.
Embracing Nature at SeVi Boutique Hotel
As much as we loved SeVi Boutique Hotel, it’s important to note that for those who are uncomfortable with nature’s creatures—lizards, geckos, spiders, and the like—there may be moments of unease. Picture yourself relaxing on the hanging chair, looking up to see a few critters dancing on the ceiling.
The beautiful garden that surrounds your room is also home to various natural elements that might not be to everyone’s liking. But remember, this is Zanzibar, an island brimming with lush greenery and beautiful beaches. Natural creatures are part of the charm and adventure of this stunning destination.
Don’t let that deter you from experiencing one of the best accommodations in Zanzibar, in our view.
Embrace the island spirit and enjoy all that SeVi Boutique Hotel has to offer.
Cost of our stay
These rates reflect what we paid during our stay and are provided here to give you a general idea of the costs. For the most current pricing on your preferred bungalow and dates, always visit the hotel’s official website.
What we paid for 2 People Sharing: R9,800 for a 3-night stay in a Garden View Bungalow, including taxes and daily breakfast.
Time of year: February/March
Accommodation rates vary depending on room, season and number of guests. Always check the hotel’s official website!
Culinary experiences
Breakfast at Sevi Boutique Hotel is a delightful à la carte experience. Offering a range of favorites such as freshly made omelets, avocado on toast, and an array of sweet treats and fresh pastries. Complementing these are fresh fruits and a selection of fruit juices. The food’s freshness and flavor, coupled with the friendly service, made every meal memorable. The restaurant’s relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere, paired with picture-perfect ocean vistas, added to the charm.
The personal touch at Sevi is evident! From the attentive service staff to the managers who take the time to get to know the guests, creating an inviting and unique experience.
On Wednesday nights, the air fills with the rich aromas of a traditional Swahili buffet, taking you on a culinary safari through local spices and dishes. Saturdays feature a lively poolside barbecue night, while the rest of the week presents a variety of delectable options from the menu.
For a touch of exclusivity, private dinners can be arranged upon request and at an additional cost. We enjoyed a bespoke beachside dining experience under the stars—each moment a romantic serenade by the sea, creating memories that will last far beyond the trip itself.
Sevi Boutique Hotel also offers all-inclusive packages for a hassle-free island vacation.
Adventures |Activities |Attractions Nearby
SeVi Boutique Hotel offers a range of activities and attractions to enhance your stay. On-site, guests can enjoy the resort’s numerous pools, including a spa pool and an infinity pool overlooking the ocean.
The resort also features an on-site spa, offering a variety of treatments and massages to help you unwind. Upon checking in we received a surprise 10% discount voucher to use at the spa. We used the coupon on our last stay to have a couple’s massage and it was exactly what we needed before a flight back home.
The beach at SeVi Boutique Hotel is a serene stretch of sand that offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Although it may not be the best swimming beach in Zanzibar, it certainly provides ample opportunities for a refreshing dip in the ocean, especially during high tide.
We spent a fair amount of time lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun, and taking leisurely swims when the tide was in. The gentle waves and the soft, powdery sand made it a perfect spot for relaxation.
Whether you’re floating in the water, enjoying the warm sun on your skin, or simply sitting back and watching the world go by, the beach at SeVi Boutique Hotel offers a peaceful and rejuvenating experience away from tourist crowds.
For those seeking adventure, the hotel can arrange excursions such as snorkeling at Mnemba Atoll, swimming with dolphins, and visiting the Turtle Sanctuary.
You can also book these tours and excursions through private tour companies. We chose this option as it was more affordable than booking through the hotel itself.
Nearby Attractions in Zanzibar
- Mnemba Atoll: Known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, Mnemba Atoll is a haven for snorkelers and divers. The atoll is home to a diversity of marine life, including colourful fish, turtles, and occasionally dolphins. Snorkeling at Mnemba Atoll offers a breathtaking underwater experience that you won’t want to miss.
- Nungwi Beach: Located about 40 minutes from SeVi Boutique Hotel, Nungwi Beach is one of Zanzibar’s most popular destinations. Famous for its powdery white sand and turquoise waters, Nungwi Beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water sports. The beach is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars and restaurants offering live music and entertainment.
- Kendwa Rocks Beach, just a short drive from Nungwi, offers another stunning location known for its beautiful sunsets and lively atmosphere. This beach is ideal for swimming, beach volleyball, and relaxing with a cocktail in hand.
- Turtle Sanctuary: Located near Nungwi, the Mnarani Marine Turtle Conservation Pond is a sanctuary for injured and endangered sea turtles. Visitors can learn about the conservation efforts and feed and interact with the turtles. This is a great activity for families and anyone interested in marine conservation.
- Kiwengwa Caves: These ancient limestone caves are located a short drive from Matemwe and offer a fascinating glimpse into Zanzibar’s geological history.
- Spice Tours: Zanzibar is famously known as the “Spice Island” due to its rich history of spice cultivation. A spice tour is a must-do activity where you can visit local farms, learn about the various spices grown on the island, and enjoy a sensory experience as you see, smell, and taste the spices.
- Jozani Forest: A visit to Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park offers a chance to see Zanzibar’s endemic Red Colobus Monkeys. The forest is a biodiversity hotspot, home to a variety of flora and fauna. Guided walks through the forest provide opportunities to learn about the unique ecosystem and spot other wildlife.
- Stone Town: Although a bit further away, a day trip to Stone Town is highly recommended. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is rich in history and culture, with its winding streets, historic buildings, and bustling markets. We would highly recommend spending a night in Stone Town to explore all that it has to offer.
Sunsets and Serenity
One of the highlights of our stay was taking sunset walks on the strip of the beach. Watching the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in the most beautiful shades while the local kids play soccer, was a magical experience.
Sevi Boutique Hotel was all about relaxation and rejuvenation. This Hotel is secluded, quiet and private. It’s the kind of place you go to unwind, connect with nature, soak in the sun, swim in the ocean and take in all the serenity of the pools surrounding the resort.
In our view, this accommodation embodied the true “Hakuna Matata” spirit underscored by the nature of the “Pole-Pole” lifestyle. Honestly, one of our accommodations we’ve stayed in!
Final recommendations
During our sunset walks, we discovered a local restaurant called Matemwe Rock Resturant. This is not the iconic Rock Restaurant located in Michamvi Island. In our view, this one is so much better.
If you prefer being out of tourist hubs, then we suggest you visit Matemwe Rock Restaurant instead. It offers incredible views, intimate service, with a pleasant atmosphere. With less crowds and quality of food at a fraction of the price, it’s worth adding to your Zanzibar itinerary.
For more accommodation options in Zanzibar, consider reading our reviews on Golden Tulip Stone Town Boutique Hotel and Le Mersenne Beach Resort.
Until our next post, keep #roamingwiththekolbes!
With love and appreciation,
The Kolbes
Our review and tips are based on our personal experiences during our travels. You may have different experiences and alternative opinions based on your own travels. These are not meant to act as directives, instead they offer insights which may be helpful to someone planning their first trip.
While some of our posts may contain affiliate links, this post does not. Roamingwiththekolbes has no affiliation to the people or entities linked in this post and receives no commission from writing this article. These are our personal recommendations and the links to the official recommendations have been included for your convenience. It’s important to note that our blog posts always provide a genuine and authentic account of our personal experiences. Our travels remain unsponsored, unless specifically indicated otherwise. Your trust in our authenticity is our top priority.
Destination: Matemwe, Zanzibar
Accommodation: SeVi Boutique Hotel
Accommodation type: Boutique Resort
