Kivuli Beach Resort Paje

Well – we’ve been coming to Zanzibar for over 10 years now and have stayed more than 20 times. Most of the time, I don’t write reviews – but occasionally I do. Either because something was truly outstanding, or because there’s a lot of room for improvement. In the case of Kivuli, unfortunately, quite a few things need to be improved. So, what could be done better? I'm referring specifically to the Luxury Family Villas: Cleanliness/Condition: While the staff clearly puts in effort, the villa – despite being relatively new – is already in poor condition. It should have been built better from the start. Insects can get in everywhere, and using chemicals to fight them isn’t a sustainable solution. Privacy: In theory, you have a private villa all to yourself – which sounds great. But in practice, staff members are present in your private space throughout the day, which takes away from the feeling of seclusion. Costs: Yes, the villa comes with a large private pool, which surely drives the price. But we’ve never been charged for water in any hotel in Zanzibar before. Even though breakfast is included, things like coconut water are charged at a steep price. Staff: Extremely friendly – but consistently late for everything. Outdoor Shower: Unfortunately, the only shower option is outdoors. While some people might find that charming, we would have preferred to shower without the company of insects. Would we return? Probably not. We just don’t believe in the Kivuli concept – too much would need to change. And perhaps the real issue is expectations: when you pay over $350 per night, things really should be spot on.

This hotel has the perfect location, it’s right at the end of Paje beach, stretched overlooking the sea. The area from the villas to the beach is shaded. We booked a regular gardenview room, but were upgraded to the oceanview bungalow. Juan, the manager, was very helpful and courteous! All rooms are newly built, and very nice in design. Daily room cleaning was twice a day. The areas are sprayed for bugs, so you don’t have to worry about mosquitos. The resort has a really good chef, highly recommended to try many dishes at the restaurant. Even if you are not staying at the hotel, the ocean front restaurant is amazing for drinks or lunch! The beach bar with swing is very cool to relax by. We were there in October, the resort had another area of addition to be built in the main area and the pool, which should be finished soon. From the resort tour, it would look amazing when done! Also, if you are staying as a larger family, I highly recommend the large villas with private pool! Very private and nice! The resort has a kite surfing school as well, if you are learning or just would like to rent equipment. You can also rent SUP board and other water equipment. I highly recommend this resort if you’d like to stay in a quiet, well-taken care of resort, just relaxing, but still be in the walking distance towards the main tourist area.

Very nice and huge bungalow with terrace. Next to beach. Modern bathroom, fridge, safe, water boiler. Surrounded by trees and garden. Calm and peaceful. All staff are very kind and helping in any situation. Nice beach bar where you can chill and enjoy fresh fruit juices and watching kiters. Its like to be in paradise.

Very average experience. Rooms are nice and new. No main swimming pool as this resort is still under construction. Loud music from a dj on the beach is just aweful for guests paying there to stay. We were happy to leave and other resort much nicer and better