
Fundu Lagoon
Pemba Island, Zanzibar, Tanzania
- Diving
- Waterside
- Watersports
- Wellness
- Rural
A boat-only beach lodge on Pemba Island, built from local materials
Fundu Lagoon is reached only by boat, on a remote mangrove-fringed beach on the south-western shore of Pemba Island, Zanzibar's lesser-visited sister island. Twelve tented suites climb the jungled hillside down to the shoreline, built from local materials and local craftsmanship to minimise the lodge's impact on its surroundings. The lodge won a 2018 Safari Award for its ecological responsibility and continues to work on sustainable energy solutions to reduce its footprint further.
Fundu works closely with neighbouring villages, supporting education, healthcare and water supply infrastructure. Diving and snorkelling in Pemba's reefs and drop-offs are the main draws, alongside dhow sailing and spa treatments; the lodge is not suitable for children under 12, keeping the atmosphere quiet and adult-focused. Meals and soft drinks are included given the remote location, with dinner often served at the jetty bar as the sun goes down over the channel.
Sustainability
Climate & conservation
- Built from local materials and craftsmanship to minimise environmental impact
- Won the 2018 Safari Award for Best Ecologically Responsible Property
- Reached only by boat, so no roads or vehicles cut through the shoreline forest
Community & culture
- Supports neighbouring villages with education, healthcare and water supply infrastructure
- Provides boat transport for villagers when medical emergencies arise
- Works with neighbouring villages on water supply and low impact energy solutions
Commercial
- Won Best Marine Safari Experience in Africa at the 2019 Safari Awards
Sustainable Development Goals
- Life Below Water (SDG 14)
- Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6)
In brief
- Price bracket
- £££
- Type of property
- Boutique beach lodge
- No. of rooms
- Small (1-10 rooms)
- Max guests per room
- Up to 2 guests
- Facilities
- Pool, Restaurant, Bar, Spa
- Activities
- Diving, Watersports, Yoga
- Setting
- Beach or coast
Best time to visit
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
June to October and December to March bring the calmest seas and clearest diving visibility.
Kids
Not suitable for children under 12.
Accessibility
Only accessible by boat, with a final transfer by private boat from Mkoani; hillside rooms are set on elevated wooden decks and are not step-free
Pemba Island, Zanzibar, Tanzania
Guide price · £ <£100 · ££ £100–300 · £££ £300–800 · ££££ £800+ pp / night