The Palms Zanzibar

Amazing place where we went for our honeymoon after safari. Service is top notch and food is incredible

Wow- the Palms Zanzibar is a beautiful property with an exceptional staff. Our stay came at the end of our trip and was just what we needed. The rooms were beautiful, the staff was attentive and the food was delicious. Siriak answered all of our questions and was always on-site ensuring that guests were enjoying themselves. The property is small and adults only which was very nice, and quiet. However, as two women, when we walked the beach we were approached non-stop. For the most part it was nothing, but there were a few times where it was a bit over the top. Just something to know! We eventually stopped walking the beach because it got to be too much. The hotel offered excursions but this was the one thing we were not pleased with- we opted for snorkeling and the Stone Town tour. For snorkeling, the guys who took us seemed like it was the last thing they wanted to do and led us to the spot but then didn’t do much else. Stone Town was also very disappointing for the price ($90). In retrospect I would either skip both or look for a different company to go through. Funny enough we tried to do the beach walk on our own since the company to do the tours was the same one who offered snorkeling, and instead a local approached us taking us both ways stopping and picking things up, explaining things to us. We had a wonderful experience with him!

Close your eyes and imagine the most luxurious beach accommodations possible and the perfect tonic for an apres safari experience. If dreams come true, you willl open your eyes and find yourself at the six villa, boutique Palms Zanzibar. Exquisite gardens, well apppinted and sizable villas, your own beach cabana and service that anticipates and surpasses your fondest wish. The general manager Siriak and his team think of everything. Think Four Seasons, Ritz Carlton, Peninsula service and personalize it at every level. The waiters and bar staff are incredible - Ngasa, Jackson, Kibalabala and Moulid, we can’t thank you enough. This place is special and will linger in our memory always.

Beautiful location, people and an outstanding quality of accommodation, food and service. The Palms is a wonderful place. It was my husband’s birthday whilst we were there; and the staff made it very special, without me asking for anything! The food is some of the best we’ve ever had. The staff, without exception were engaging, friendly, approachable, funny and professional. The quality of leadership is visible in everything. Thank you for such a wonderful and memorable holiday. We wish you all well.

The perfect sanctuary….sensational food, the team provided beautiful friendly service, the accommodation was lovely….. how privileged we were to enjoy such a beautiful retreat

I haven’t written a review for a long time. Maybe the places we’ve been in the world haven’t really been worthy of one however when, once in a lifetime, somewhere touches you so sincerely that maybe the rest of the world needs to hear about it. Now, to describe this place, it would be advised to close your eyes, sit back, breathe deeply and not to let your surroundings distract you. Relaxed? Imagine, the most beautiful landscaped lush green gardens, palm trees swaying above you , piercing blue skies, soothing warm air brushing against your skin coming from across the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean. Silence, tranquility, pure paradise for the senses. Can you imagine it yet? If so, I’ll begin… A year ago my wife was searching for a holiday. At the time we were in the Maldives. You would think that the Maldives would be the ultimate dream come true, not in a million years did we expect what she found would far, far out way the Maldives. Zanzibar she said, I replied, “where is that”? Little did I know or expect that this small island off the east coast of Tanzania would be our true calling. Now trying to research this island to find a resort to our taste took some work. A lot of research and discussion. A company called The Zanzibar Collection came to our attention and more acutely a resort of just 7 villas and 14 guests. The Palms, situated on the south east coast of the Island on Dongwe beach. I am a true believer that you get what you pay for, this resort is not cheap I will just say that. Worth it? Very much so, let me explain… When we arrived at the resort, tired from hours of travelling from England we were met by a man, reserved, with calming influence, dressed smartly in shirt and trousers. A beautiful smile on his face welcoming us to The Palms, this man was Siriak the hotel operations manager. I can truly say that to Siriak, everyone who walks through his doors are not just guests, they are friends and treated with the upmost courtesy, respect and professionalism. Escorted through the beautiful grounds we were invited to relax on the armchairs and were quickly served a welcome drink whilst he sat with us explaining the resort layout and going through a little bit of paperwork. Our room was not yet ready having arrived early in the morning. Check in is usually at 3pm however Siriak made us comfortable by providing us with a little side villa to change and relax. After a few hours, having breakfast and relaxing in the hotel grounds are room was ready. Now, to say this was a room is an understatement. It’s a private 130sqft villa. Seven in total all named after spices that are found and exported from the island. The islands main source of income. Our villa, Cinnamon, in my humble opinion is the best of them all due to its position on the right side of the resort which seems more private and exclusive. It’s the only villa which no one else can see or access due to its position. A priva

You will have seen the previous positive feedback from others. I can assure you its even better than they say. We are just back from a fabulous 9 day stay (should have been 7 but issues around the gulf meant we stayed a further 2 days). From the start entering reception we had a lovely warm welcome. We were given a tour of the grounds before going to our amazing villa for our stay. From the well kept gardens, superbly clean areas, very personal huge villas, welcoming bar and dining areas, the beautifully warm pool and very personal beach hut overlooking the beach and lagoon to the very welcoming staff this place is perfect. If like us you want a personal, friendly, relaxing holiday this place has it all. The food was delicious every time with good varying selection, not only different every meal but also whether you are meat eater, vegetarian etc the choices are all there. The waiters serve you with one of the best customer service ive seen in a long while. The Palm as sister hotels either side you can use, one has the most incredible spa ( an old sultans bath house), we had a beautifully relaxing massage, the facilities are incredible). The second sister hotel had water sport facilities including a dive centre. The diving was amazing and they even give refreshers in the pool for those like us who hadn't dived in a couple of years. Thanking George for his gracious patience. We were fortunate to meet the owners who talked with pride about their collection. Siriak the manager was always around for help, advice and a friendly chat. His team reflect his attention to detail, friendly and professional service at all times. Even when we hit an issue with cancellation of flights beyond our control they didn't think twice about accommodating us for a further 2 days. We loved this place really sad to leave and (not often we say this) would go back again and again it was everything and more. Recommended in a heart beat. Bernie and Phil

We stayed at The Palms for five days following our wonderful Safari in the Serengeti and Northern Tanzania. We had the most amazing time from the minute we arrived until we left. A beautiful place, the seven individual villas are very spacious and nothing is left to chance. We recieved exceptional service, great food and were made to feel very special. We will definitely return. Well done Team Palms.

This place is amazing in of itself having only 7 rooms making it very intimate, like you're the only people on the island. The rooms are incredible, the property is so well kept. But even better is the staff. The manager is great, extremely helpful and accommodating, Ngasa, Kiba (shortened), Jackson, Mau (shortened) were there for anything. Get to know them. They have cool stories, besides having been there for up to 20 years working there, they love to share, they love to get to know you; it just makes the stay that much better. Even Grace, our housekeeper was so nice, Esther up front to the gentleman keeping up the grounds. They were so awesome, they even cut up some coconuts they groomed from the trees so we could have fresh coconut water. Seriously, these people want and care that you have a great stay. You won't find a better place to make you feel more at home. Thank you to all of you, we hope we see you all again someday. Ryan and Anna.