Inside Zanzibar’s Luxury Over Water Villas: Elevate Your Stay

Zanzibar is emerging as a breathtaking oasis, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and pristine white sandy beaches. Its stunning beauty and rich cultural allure have transformed it into a sought-after destination for tourists globally. In this detailed review of Zanzibar’s Isaraya Luxury Over Water Villas, I will delve deeply into what guests can expect, offering my candid feedback. If you are someone who adores luxury travel without breaking the bank, this guide is tailor-made for you.

Step into a world of luxury at Zanzibar’s Isaraya Luxury Over Water Villas, where elegance meets serenity above the waters of the Indian Ocean. Each villa with an interior design expressing local influences, showcases a blend of privacy, comfort, and breathtaking views. Renowned for their exquisite architecture and premium amenities, these villas offer a unique escape into paradise, making them a top choice for travelers seeking a blend of romance, relaxation and the best sunset views.

Elevate Your Stay, is it worth it?

Location

The Isaraya Luxury Over Water Villas are ideally positioned in a somewhat secluded inlet on the east side of Zanzibar of the Michamvi Peninsula. This inlet offered seclusion and exclusivity away from the typical tourist hotspots. This location definitely has its pros and cons: while the distance from major attractions means a bit of a trek if you decide to explore the rest of Zanzibar, there also is hardly a reason to leave. The villas provide everything needed for a perfect retreat, without ever leaving. However, that area in Zanzibar is currently building many projects and it may have a lot more around it by the time you book your stay. Additionally, the location in the inlet shields it from the full impact of Zanzibar’s changing tides—a common issue along the east and southern coast. Though the area experiences low and high tides, the water remains deep enough to enjoy activities like jumping off the back of the patio into the ocean.

First Impression

We used the airport shuttle that the hotel provided (one way was included in our stay) upon arrival which made it an easy transition to our retreat. Once we arrived we were greeted with warm welcomes. From the front desk to the villas, the area had a tranquil aroma to it with its fresh flowers and lush greenery. That first initial walk to the bungalows captivated me and reminded me why we were here, for romance and relaxation. Each part of the hotel was beautifully designed with African culture in mind. The best part, we arrived around 10 am and the villa was already ready for us so we were able to go to our rooms right away.

The Villas

Isaraya Luxury Over Water Villas in Zanzibar hosts an exclusive collection of just five overwater villas that are 65 m2 in the interior and 35 m2 of patio. The size is plenty big enough for a couple to spread out and enjoy. Plus, because it is only 5 villas it creates an intimate experience that feels uniquely private and serene. Each villa boasts interiors that represent traditional East African design, yet each has its own distinct touches that set them apart. My favorite feature was the private plunge pool; it was an absolute necessity under the warm African sun. Not to mention, having a floating breakfast there was a delightful indulgence. Additionally, the direct access to the crystal-clear ocean was a feature I used multiple times, enhancing the sense of connection to the stunning natural surroundings. This blend of luxury, privacy, and direct ocean access makes each stay at Isaraya unforgettable.

Dining and Cuisine

With the over water villas you do have the option to book the all-inclusive option which I definitely suggest. This option includes alcohol, drinks, and all your meals into one nightly price per person. This is what we did and it was an absolutely game changer, especially if you enjoy having drinks in the sun! We were having rose all day and truly loving it. If you don’t drink, I do believe the full board options includes your meals but not the drinks, which would be the most beneficial. However, don’t quote me and always double check with the hotel staff itself. Besides everything being included for us, we personally didn’t enjoy the cuisine as much. We didn’t hate the food but we definitely had better, especially for a luxury hotel. While Zanzibar is renowned for many things, you might not specifically travel there for the cuisine alone.

Our Dining Restaurant

Activities and Experiences

Like most hotels, the activities or experiences weren’t included. However, when we booked we were able to book the honeymoon special which did include a candlelit dinner on the beach, a 30-minute couples massage, and a floating breakfast. Not sure if they are still doing it but worth it to ask! Other than that they do have a plethora of activities that you can pay for at the hotel including clear kayaking, a wellness spa, dhow sunset cruises, and more! Like I said, you don’t really ever have to leave the premises if you don’t want to!

Service and Hospitality

The service and hospitality at the Isaraya Luxury Over Water Villas were exceptional, with every staff member exuding warmth and eagerness to assist in any way possible. From the moment we arrived, the welcoming atmosphere made us feel right at home, and the attentive staff was always on hand to ensure our stay was comfortable and enjoyable. While the level of service was indeed high, it’s worth noting that there is an expectation of tipping. Coming from the US, where tipping is ingrained in our culture, we naturally felt compelled to show our appreciation through tips. Although completely understandable, it’s important for future guests to consider this as it can add up to a significant amount over the duration of the stay.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Isaraya Luxury Over Water Villas is often cited as the dry season, from June to October, when the weather is most favorable for enjoying all that Zanzibar has to offer. We visited in October and, despite forecasts predicting daily rainfall, we were pleasantly surprised as it never actually rained during our stay. Well, except for a little the morning of our first day but it quickly cleared up. This allowed us to fully enjoy the outdoor activities and stunning surroundings without interruption, plus the epic sunsets.

Booking Tips and Recs

The Isaraya Luxury Over Water Villas in Zanzibar are ideally suited for couples seeking a romantic and secluded getaway. For those looking to experience the charm of overwater living at a more accessible price point, Isaraya offers an exceptional value compared to the often exorbitant costs associated with similar accommodations in destinations like Bora Bora or the Maldives. Additionally, the best deals are typically available directly through their website, so be sure to inquire about their honeymoon special to potentially enhance your stay further. While the experience comes with its costs, the unparalleled beauty, privacy, and service make it a worthwhile investment for those special romantic retreats.