Essque Zalu,
Nungwi,
Tanzania,
Unguja North Region
-
On one of the beaches
Great
8.2
8.6
/10
4.7
4.5
/5
Loved by Essque Zalu Zanzibar Hotel guests
Professional staff
Clean rooms
Comfortable beds
Great service
Delicious food
Infinity pool
"The location is absolutely perfect - a corner of Nungwi away from the crowds - just what we love: peace, comfort, and breathtaking views from our villa right on the cliffs."
Ella from Germany
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"The resort is the perfect size for a relaxing and quiet holiday, not too big so the walks between the accomodations and facilities are short."
Daggy72 from Italy
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"A beautiful wooden molo with a restaurant and bar located at its end is amazing."
Sylwia from Greece
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Amenities
Essque Zalu Zanzibar hosts a lagoon-style pool and beachfront dining with two spacious restaurants and three bars. The property features 40 suites and 8 villas, each offering picturesque views of either the Indian Ocean or lush gardens. The hotel is situated in a natural cove, promoting both relaxation and adventure in its surroundings.
Rooms
Accommodations at Essque Zalu Zanzibar include 40 suites and 8 villas ranging from three to four bedrooms. Each room is thoughtfully designed to capitalize on stunning ocean or tropical garden vistas. Highlights include in-suite flowers and a fruit basket upon arrival for an added touch of hospitality.
Location
Nestled on the north east coast of Unguja, Essque Zalu Zanzibar offers direct access to the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean and green forest surroundings. The hotel is minutes away from local attractions such as Stone Town and spice plantations, making it convenient for exploration. Guests can also engage in marine activities like scuba diving or snorkeling right outside their door.
Wellness
At the Essque Zalu Zanzibar Spa, guests can experience traditional African pamper rituals and various beauty treatments aimed at rejuvenation. The spa offers signatures such as ultimate facials and massages designed to repair sun-damaged skin. Each treatment integrates local techniques to create memorable sensory experiences.
Dining
Culinary experiences at Essque Zalu Zanzibar include sumptuous meals at two on-site restaurants with diverse menu offerings. Guests can engage in cooking classes at the Maisha Cookery Studio, which emphasizes hands-on learning of authentic Zanzibar recipes. Dining options also extend to beachside bars, enhancing the culinary adventure.
Highlights
Location: natural cove on the north east coast
Rooms: 40 Suites and 8 Villas
Dining: Maisha Cookery Studio
Wellness: Essque Zalu Zanzibar Spa
Activities: Zanzibar scuba diving or snorkeling trip
“Nestled in a tranquil Zanzibar cove, this boutique hotel cultivates an intimate, relaxed atmosphere-highest thatched roof on the island. The private beachfront seems ideal for romantic getaways. I think the unique Swahili cooking lessons and tailored event spaces add a distinctive touch.”
Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel
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Select your room type
Essque Zalu Zanzibar Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Sea View Suite King
2 persons
615 sq. feet
Shower
Air conditioning
room details
Garden View Suite King
2 persons
615 sq. feet
Shower
Air conditioning
room details
Partial Sea View Suite King
2 persons
615 sq. feet
Shower
Air conditioning
room details
Sea View Villa 3 Bedroom
2 persons
3230 sq. feet
Shower
Private pool
room details
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Facilities
Essque Zalu Zanzibar Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities:
Great
8.4/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
Express check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Wheelchair access
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Locker room
Currency exchange
Coffee shop
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key card access
Key access
Sports & Fitness
Fitness centre
Wind surfing
Diving
Snorkelling
Horseback riding
Cycling
Billiard tables
Darts
Table tennis
Yoga class
Aerobics
Fishing
Guest Parking
Electric kettle
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils
Services
Paid airport shuttle
Valet parking
Room service
Housekeeping
Laundry
Dry cleaning
Tours/Ticket assistance
Shops/Commercial services
Welcome drink
Happy hour
Dining
In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Snack bar
Bar/ Lounge area
Outdoor dining area
Picnic area/ Tables
Dinner
Packed lunches
Special diet menus
Business
Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying
Children
Cots
Babysitting/Child services
Children's buffet
Board games
Children's pool
Children's play area
Kids club
Game room
Facilities for people with disabilities
Toilet for disabled
Bathroom for disabled
Spa & Leisure
Outdoor swimming pool
Beach access
Beach umbrellas
Sun loungers
Aqua park
Live entertainment
Sun terrace
Garden area
BBQ facilities
Leisure/ TV room
Spa & wellness centre
Sauna
Turkish bath
Pedicure
Manicure
Waxing
Body scrub
Facial
Treatment room
Body wraps
Back massage
Head massage
Full body massage
Foot massage
Room features
Air conditioning
Mini-bar
Soundproofed rooms
Sitting area
Patio
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Dining table
Ironing facilities
Bathroom
Free toiletries
Self-catering
Electric kettle
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils
Media
Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock
Room decor
Parquet floor
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Dining Onsite
Essque Zalu Zanzibar offers an enticing mix of dining experiences that celebrate local flavors and global cuisines. Guests can savor everything from hearty breakfasts to romantic dinners, all while enjoying the stunning surroundings of the resort.
Market Kitchen
African and International dishes with an à la carte format.
Ambiance
Family-friendly and traditional, perfect for casual meals and family gatherings.
Key Offerings
Enjoy fluffy waffles and indulgent chocolate crepes for breakfast, or opt for fragrant curries and fresh fish with Italian-style desserts in the evening.
Reservation
No
Hours vary.
The Jetty
Middle Eastern, seafood, and grill/BBQ specialties.
Ambiance
Family-friendly and romantic, featuring an intimate setting for couples and families alike.
Key Offerings
Brunch and dinner with options like fresh seafood and wood-fired pizzas, complemented by a delightful cocktail hour.
Reservation
No
Brunch, Dinner, Cocktail hour.
Essque Zalu Zanzibar Hotel Location
Essque Zalu,
Nungwi,
Tanzania,
Unguja North Region
Map view
Essque Zalu,
Nungwi,
Tanzania,
Unguja North Region
City landmarks
Aquarium
Mnarani Marine Turtles Conservation Pond
2900 ft
Landmark
Baobop
1.3
mi
Gallery
Dr. Bulugu Gallery
4300 ft
Beach
Nungwi Beach
2900 ft
Aquarium
Baraka Natural Aquarium- Nungwi
2900 ft
Zoo
Zanzibar Kilosas Conservation
2900 ft
Landmark
Spanish Dancer Divers
1.3
mi
Gallery
Dr Bulugu Gallery
1.3
mi
Landmark
Masjid Muwanda
2900 ft
Landmark
mnarani turtles conservation ponds
2900 ft
Landmark
Nungwi Lighthouse
2900 ft
Landmark
Nungwi Marine Turtles Mnarani
2900 ft
Landmark
KMKM Mnarani
2900 ft
Landmark
Ras Nungwi Lighthouse
4300 ft
Landmark
The Panje Project
1.3
mi
Landmark
Kayak Zanzibar Resort
3600 ft
Landmark
Burdani Expeditions
3700 ft
Landmark
Zanzibar Transfers & Tours
3700 ft
Landmark
Mr.Tuk-Tuk Tomatito Zanzibar
3700 ft
Landmark
3 Brothers Land & Sea Excursions
3700 ft
Landmark
Zanzibar Cycling Adventure
3700 ft
Landmark
Zanzibar Hidden Adventures
3700 ft
Landmark
Rama Zanzibar Tours & Safaris
3700 ft
Landmark
East Africa Diving Centre
3700 ft
Landmark
MyBlue beach
1.3
mi
Landmark
Masjid lbrahim
4300 ft
Landmark
Khadija
4300 ft
Landmark
Suley Taxi Driver Zanzibar and Tours
4500 ft
Nearby
Mnarani Natural Aquarium
1700 ft
Zanzibar African tours and Safaris
2000 ft
Restaurants
Ubora Restaurant & Bar
3900 ft
Ras Nungwi Beach Hotel Nungwi
Explore Nungwi
Explore Nungwi's Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Mnarani Marine Turtles Conservation Pond
11 minutes walking
Marine turtle conservation site featuring rescued turtles. Educational tours available, great for families.
Nungwi Beach
11 minutes walking
Stunning beach with soft sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
Nungwi Lighthouse
11 minutes walking
Iconic lighthouse offering scenic views. Historical site ideal for photos and a quick visit.
Baraka Natural Aquarium- Nungwi
11 minutes walking
Natural marine aquarium where guests can interact with local wildlife. Great for animal lovers.
Scuba Diving
25 minutes walking
Thrilling underwater adventures at Diving Poseidon. Equipment rentals available for all skill levels.
Yoga Sessions
25 minutes walking
Relaxing yoga classes at ZanziYoga, perfect for rejuvenation after a day of exploration.
Snorkeling Trips
6 minutes walking
Guided snorkeling tours available at Mnarani Natural Aquarium. Experience vibrant marine life.
Ubora Restaurant & Bar
15 minutes walking
Charming spot known for fresh seafood and local dishes. Casual atmosphere, ideal for families.
The Panje Project
25 minutes walking
Farm-to-table eatery focusing on local and sustainable ingredients. Vegetarian options available.
Jambo Beach Bar
25 minutes walking
Vibrant beach bar featuring live music and drinks. Popular for sunset views and cocktails.
Local Dance Performances
15 minutes walking
Cultural shows showcasing traditional Zanzibar dance. Great for all ages and family-friendly.
Getting around
City Centre
Nungwi11 min
·
3000 ft
Airports
Kisauni (ZNZ)95 min
·
39.0
mi
Pemba (PMA)115 min
·
47.5
mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-23:30
Check-out
from 04:00-12:00
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Children & extra beds
Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 1.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Languages
English, German, Italian, Russian, Swahili
Number of rooms:
47
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback about Essque Zalu Zanzibar Hotel from previous guests about their experience.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
Essque Zalu Zanzibar offers amazing sea views and rooms that are clean, spacious and comfortable, set within gardens with juicy plants. The hotel features a beautiful wooden molo with a restaurant and bar at its end. Breakfast receives high praise, particularly the spiced avocado, and dining options include both buffet and a la carte choices with fresh seafood. Some guests have noted persistent vendors on the beach. You can also admire the sea at both high and low tide, making the location special.
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Review score
Based on 1137 verified reviews
9.1/10
Perfect
90%
Recommend
Staff
9.0/10
Cleanliness
8.9/10
Free Wi-Fi
7.8/10
Value for money
7.9/10
Pros
Exceptional staff
Impeccably clean room
High food quality
Poolside massage
Tranquil grounds
Cons
Slow service
Guest reviews
based on 1137 reviews
9.1/10
based on 416 reviews
8.2/10
Martin from Germany
Couple
Garden View Suite King
4 nights in October 2025
|
Reviewed:December 26, 2025
7/10
a decent hotel stay
large pooldelicious foodpoor wifidilapidated staircase
The pool was quite large and clean. Different restaurants offered delicious foods and cocktails. Service was definitely important to the staff (i was well treated here).
There was no cold cuts selection at breakfast. The wifi connection was poor throughout the premises. I found the staircase from the cliff top to the beach dilapidated.
0 Helpful
Questions of the users
About Essque Zalu Zanzibar
Are there shuttle services to nearby beaches for guests staying at Essque Zalu Zanzibar?
10 March 2024
Shuttle services are provided for free to and from the nearest beach, which is approximately 15 minutes away from the resort. Guests can obtain information about the shuttle schedule at the reception.
Is it possible to book a room while avoiding strict cancellation policies due to uncertainties like COVID-19?
20 April 2024
Yes, guests can proceed with the booking and make payments upon arrival, allowing for flexibility regarding cancellation policies.
Are there options for vegan and vegetarian meals at the resort, and is half board mandatory?
15 May 2024
Guests can enjoy both vegan and vegetarian options and can meet with the chef to create dishes using local ingredients. Half board is not mandatory; breakfast only is also an option.
Can guests swim in the ocean during high tide, and is there access from the hotel?
22 June 2024
Swimming in the ocean is possible during high tide for proficient swimmers. Access is available via the jetty stairs or swings, and swimming shoes are recommended.
What are the dining options available, and do any of the restaurants offer a buffet?
8 July 2024
Half board includes bed, breakfast, and dinner, with various dining options such as buffets, a la carte, and destination dining available across the three on-site restaurants.
Does the hotel provide transport to and from the airport? Is there a fee involved?
15 August 2024
Yes, transport can be arranged from the airport to the hotel for $120. Just provide names and flight details for efficient planning.
Are there any activities or facilities for children at the resort?
30 September 2024
Yes, the kids' club is open to guests, with activities offered daily, providing an engaging experience for younger visitors.
Is there a spa available at Essque Zalu Zanzibar, and what treatments are offered?
10 October 2024
The spa offers a variety of treatments, including traditional African rituals and beauty treatments, with an emphasis on wellness and relaxation.
Do any of the bars at the resort serve alcoholic beverages?
5 November 2024
Indeed, all bars on the property serve alcoholic drinks, ensuring guests can enjoy their favorite beverages during their stay.
How can arrangements be made for a COVID-19 PCR test before departing from the resort?
12 December 2024
The resort can assist in scheduling a COVID-19 PCR test and provide transportation to the hospital for the test, ensuring a smooth experience for guests.
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