Explore below ↓Our take
Sharazād Boutique Hotel is a peaceful, eco-conscious retreat located on the southeast coast of Zanzibar in Jambiani. Nestled on 200 metres of pristine beachfront and surrounded by lush tropical gardens, it offers a laid-back, barefoot-luxury atmosphere that is ideal for a relaxed island escape.
Owned by a longstanding Zanzibar-resident family, Sharazād was designed to reflect the soulful tales of the legendary Scheherazade of 1001 Nights. It is built using local materials and traditional techniques, emphasizing environmental sustainability. The lodge operates with solar panels, LED lighting, large windows for cross‑ventilation (rather than constant air conditioning), and recycling systems. The philosophy centres on simplicity, freedom, and reconnection with nature—making it a thoughtfully crafted hideaway deeply rooted in its surroundings.
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A closer look at the accommodation, atmosphere and setting.
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Accommodation
The hotel has around 22 rooms, including sea-view and garden-view bungalows and villa rooms. The design is rustic yet elegant: whitewashed walls, thatched roofs, natural materials, king-size beds, mosquito nets, and stone or wooden floors. Verandas or patios allow you to enjoy the tropical surroundings, and in keeping with its eco ethos, ceiling fans are used rather than air-conditioning.
Food & drink
Dining at Sharazād is relaxed and focused on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The beachfront restaurant serves a fusion of Italian, Asian, and African cuisine, with seafood, tropical fruits, and vegetarian options on offer. The pool bar and sea-view restaurant are great spots for cocktails, juices or casual meals. For romantic evenings, private candlelit dinners can be arranged on the beach.
What to do
Sharazād offers a wide range of experiences to complement its peaceful setting. Water‑sports include snorkeling, diving, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking. Traditional dhow sailing tours and sunset excursions are available, while cultural activities include village walks, forest or spice‑farm tours, and island excursions to nearby reefs or sandbanks. Wellness‑minded guests can make use of the yoga shala, and the hotel arranges kite‑surfing, windsurfing, and eco‑tours on request.
Planning your stay
Sharazad suits a beach extension with time to enjoy Jambiani as well as the hotel. Choose the exact accommodation and plan activities around the tidal shoreline rather than a fixed all-day sea-swimming expectation.
The right fit
Travellers who prefer a boutique beach atmosphere and a village setting to a large resort estate.
Room layouts, views and pool arrangements differ. Wind and tides affect water activities, and village life brings a different atmosphere from a secluded private-island stay.
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Useful to know
It is in Jambiani on Zanzibar’s south-east coast, reached by road from the airport or Stone Town.
Yes. The sea retreats and returns through the day, changing swimming depth and the beach landscape.
No single pool description should be applied to every category. We confirm the exact room, view and pool facilities in your proposal.
Water sports and excursions can be discussed, with availability depending on local providers, tides, wind and your experience.
Tailor-made Tanzania
We will explain how it compares with the alternatives and whether it fits your preferred dates, route and pace.
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