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From266US$ /night
Check-in
22Mar2026Select date
Check-out
23Mar2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Essque Zalu, Nungwi, Tanzania
-
Close to the beach
Great
8.4
8.8
/10
4.7
4.5
/5

Amenities

Essque Zalu Zanzibar boasts a sprawling lagoon-style pool, two roomy restaurants, and three well-stocked bars. The resort is designed with the highest makuti thatched roof on the island, emphasizing its distinctive architecture. Guests can enjoy curated festive events, including a White Countdown Party featuring premium buffets and live entertainment.

Rooms

The hotel offers 40 Suites and 8 Villas, ranging from three to four bedrooms, all with views of the Indian Ocean or lush tropical gardens. Each accommodation is crafted to maximize breathtaking scenery, enhancing the overall guest experience. In-suite flowers and a fruit basket await upon arrival, adding to the welcoming ambiance.

Location

Nestled in a natural cove on the north-east coast of Unguja, Essque Zalu provides tranquil access to the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. The resort is also near local marine turtle sanctuaries, offering guests chances for unique encounters. Additionally, visitors can explore the rich culture of Zanzibar through nearby Stone Town and renowned spice plantations.

Wellness

The Essque Zalu Zanzibar Spa emphasizes well-being with traditional African pamper rituals and results-driven beauty treatments. Signature massages, ultimate facials, and comprehensive wellness packages cater to various guest needs. Unique Maasai rituals further enhance the spa experience, providing cultural depth.

Dining

Two on-site restaurants present diverse culinary offerings, allowing guests to experience authentic Zanzibar cuisine. The Maisha Cookery Studio invites guests to join in immersive cooking classes guided by native chefs, creating an engaging culinary environment. This cooking studio features five live cooking stations for communal learning experiences.

Highlights

Wellness: Traditional African pamper rituals

Dining: Immersive cooking classes

Events: Thoughtfully curated festive experiences

Activities: Access to marine life exploration

Must-do experiences

  • Snorkel with turtles at Mnemba Island for an unforgettable experience.
  • Savor fresh seafood at The Langi Langi Restaurant on Nungwi beach.
  • Visit the Nungwi Aquarium to learn about local marine life and its conservation.
  • Explore the vibrant Nungwi Market for local crafts and spices.
  • Catch the sunset at Nungwi's famous sandbank for stunning views.
View all

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
Garden View Suite King
2 persons
615 sq. feet 
Shower
Air conditioning
Partial Sea View Suite King
2 persons
615 sq. feet 
Shower
Air conditioning
Superior Garden View Suite King
2 persons
615 sq. feet 
Shower
Balcony
Click button to see more rooms
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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
  • Free 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 invites guests to indulge in a diverse culinary tapestry with vibrant dining options that celebrate both local and international flavors. From cozy family-friendly venues to romantic settings, each meal is an opportunity to savor delectable dishes against the backdrop of breathtaking island views.
Essque Zalu Zanzibar Hotel Nungwi Restaurant photo The photo shows a well-lit conference room set up for a meeting. The room has light-colored walls and a light wooden floor. A long, rectangular conference table dominates the center of the room, made of glass with dark wooden legs. 

Around the table
Essque Zalu Zanzibar Hotel Nungwi Restaurant photo The photo shows the interior of a restaurant, bathed in warm, inviting light. The space has a relaxed yet sophisticated ambiance, with a mix of dining arrangements and decor elements. 

In the foreground, several tables are neatly set for diners. The

Market Kitchen

African, Italian, Local, International
Ambiance
Family friendly, Traditional
Key Offerings
Start the day with fluffy waffles and chocolate crepes, followed by fragrant curries and fresh fish in the evening. An array of dietary options, including halal, gluten-free, and dairy-free choices, caters to all preferences.
Reservation
no
Hours vary.

The Jetty

Middle Eastern, Pizza, Seafood, Local, Grill/BBQ
Ambiance
Family friendly, Traditional, Romantic
Key Offerings
Delight in a relaxed brunch or a romantic dinner featuring freshly grilled dishes and delectable seafood. Enjoy a cocktail hour that enhances the sunset experience, making it the perfect spot for couples or families.
Reservation
no
Brunch, Dinner, Cocktail hour.

Essque Zalu Zanzibar Hotel Location

Essque Zalu, Nungwi, Tanzania
Map view
Essque Zalu, Nungwi, Tanzania
Nearby
Mnarani Natural Aquarium
1700 ft
Restaurants
Ubora Restaurant & Bar
3900 ft
Ras Nungwi Beach Hotel Nungwi
Explore Nungwi
Explore Nungwi
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Nungwi Beach
Nungwi Beach
11 minutes' walk
Vibrant beach known for its powdery white sand and turquoise waters. Ideal for sunbathing and beach sports.
Mnarani Natural Aquarium
6 minutes' walk
A conservation site for marine turtles. Offers guided tours educating visitors about local wildlife.
Nungwi Lighthouse
11 minutes' walk
Historic lighthouse with stunning views. Popular photo spot and a reminder of Zanzibar's maritime heritage.
Baraka Natural Aquarium-Nungwi
11 minutes' walk
Marine sanctuary focused on the care of sea turtles. Visitors can feed and learn about local sea life.
Diving with Spanish Dancer Divers
25 minutes' walk
Thrilling diving excursions available for various skill levels. Seasonal marine life makes it a must-try.
Yoga at ZanziYoga
25 minutes' walk
Relaxing yoga sessions on the beach. Classes welcome all levels, with stunning sunset views enhancing relaxation.
Kiteboarding at East Africa Diving & Water Sport Centre
25 minutes' walk
Kiteboarding lessons for adventure seekers. Rentals and guidance available for beginners and experienced riders.
Ubora Restaurant & Bar
Ubora Restaurant & Bar
15 minutes' walk
Casual dining spot offering fresh seafood and local dishes. Welcoming atmosphere with live music on weekends.
Kendwa Rocks Beach Hotel Restaurant
10 minutes' drive
Offering a mix of local and international cuisine, famous for its beachfront dining experience and sunset views.
Cholo's Bar
11 minutes' walk
Local pub with a relaxed vibe. Known for its cocktails, live music, and friendly atmosphere for all ages.
The Panje Project
25 minutes' walk
Community-focused venue hosting live performances and cultural events. Family-friendly atmosphere with local flavor.
Getting around
City Centre
Nungwi11 min  ·  3000 ft
Airports
Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ)95 min  ·  39.0 mi
Pemba Island (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 score
Based on 819 verified reviews
9.1/10
Perfect
90%
Recommend
Breakfast
8.7/10
Cleanliness
8.9/10
Comfort
8.8/10
Facilities
8.4/10
Free Wi-Fi
6.8/10
Location
8.4/10
Paid Wi-Fi
7.5/10
Staff
8.9/10
Value for money
7.9/10
Pros
Ocean Suite
Helpful staff
Giant pool
Good breakfast
Cons
Slow service
Limited food selection
No hot water
Dismissive manager
Guest reviews
based on 391 reviews
8.4/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
Open reviews
FAQs
About Essque Zalu Zanzibar
What is the check-in and check-out policy at Essque Zalu Zanzibar?
Check-in is at 14:00 and check-out is by 12:00.
How far is Essque Zalu Zanzibar from Zanzibar International Airport?
The hotel is 63 km from Zanzibar International Airport.
What dining options are available at Essque Zalu Zanzibar?
The hotel features three restaurants: The Market Kitchen, The Jetty, and A La Carte, serving a variety of cuisines.
Does Essque Zalu Zanzibar have recreational facilities?
Yes, guests can enjoy a large outdoor infinity pool, a fitness centre, and a kids club.
Are spa services available at Essque Zalu Zanzibar?
The on-site spa offers a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and a sauna.
What types of room amenities can guests expect at Essque Zalu Zanzibar?
Rooms are equipped with air conditioning, a minibar, a flat-screen TV, and spacious bathrooms with a bidet and shower.
Is parking available at Essque Zalu Zanzibar?
Private parking is available on-site free of charge.
What activities can guests enjoy at Essque Zalu Zanzibar?
Guests can participate in activities such as windsurfing, diving, snorkeling, and cooking classes.
What languages are spoken by the staff at Essque Zalu Zanzibar?
The staff at the hotel speaks multiple languages to accommodate international guests.
Is there an airport transfer service available at Essque Zalu Zanzibar?
Airport transfers can be arranged for a surcharge.
Are there any children's facilities at Essque Zalu Zanzibar?
Yes, the hotel features a kids club, children's pool, and babysitting/child services.
What nearby attractions can guests visit while staying at Essque Zalu Zanzibar?
Nearby attractions include Nungwi Beach and Stone Town, both of which are within 58 km.
What is the price for breakfast at Essque Zalu Zanzibar?
Breakfast is available for an additional charge of 20 USD.

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Check-in
22Mar2026Select date
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23Mar2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room