Zanzibar is demonstrating its strength as an attractive tourism destination, with a number of international and luxury players putting down roots on the East African archipelago.
After launching in the Serengeti in 2012, Four Seasons has partnered with Albwardy Investment to develop the Four Seasons Resort Zanzibar – a sprawling luxurious 60-villa resort on Pongwe beachfront.
“It’s an honour to partner with Albwardy Investment on this exceptional project in Zanzibar. Together, our shared vision for creating best-in-class experiences will soon introduce a new Four Seasons resort to a destination that luxury travellers already know and love. With this incredible island’s dynamic character and beauty on display, we look forward to welcoming guests as they discover a new side of Tanzania alongside the commitment to genuine care and service of Four Seasons,” says Bart Carnahan, President of Global Business Development, Portfolio Management and Residential for Four Seasons.
The new Four Seasons Resort Zanzibar will provide uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean across the 50-hectare property. Guests can select from five unique eateries, including an all-day Mediterranean dining experience and a poolside bar and grill.
With a complimentary kids’ programme, water sports, and meetings and eventing space, guests can experience a diverse range of activities. The resort will also house a Discovery Centre. A dedicated team will drive responsible tourism across Zanzibar while promoting “wildlife protection, sustainability, environmental preservation and community partnerships to support guests and the surrounding community’s ability to leave an enduring, positive impact on their natural environment.”
Tulia Pamunda Hotel and Resort
The Zanzibar Investment Promotion Authority has facilitated several investments into some of Zanzibar’s uninhabited islets, including Pamunda, on which the Tulia Pamunda Hotel and Resort’s development is under way.
“The government, through the Zanzibar Investment Promotion Authority, has released more than 10 small Islands to foreign investment. It is good that the investors have shown seriousness,” Jamal Kassim Ali, Minister of State for the Office of the President, Diaspora and State House Affairs, told Daily Nation.
On its website, Tulia – the investment fund driving the development – says the Pamunda resort is an exclusive island resort with large overwater and coral villas. Completion has been slated for 2025, when guests can look forward to amenities that include a spa and sauna, a traditional Elias jewellery workshop, helicopter and boat transfers, fine-dining experiences, and an array of activities both on land and sea.