Xanadu Luxury Villas & Retreat Zanzibar

LikedWe stayed at Xanadu for a week after our safari and it was a wonderfully luxurious, romantic and secluded experience. The decor was beautiful and unique. It truly felt like an idyllic escape worthy of the name Xanadu. We had the Mawingu sea-front villa, which we believed was the best located in the resort. The private pool was a good size and deep enough to properly enjoy. Our butler Muambo was exceptional: attentive and thoughtful. He created many personalised surprises for us and arranged meals in different parts of the resort so we experienced every corner of the property. The food was some of the best we’ve had on holiday (delicious, high-quality, varied and well balanced portions). The massage was amazing. We also booked external activities through guest relations. While they were more expensive than booking separately, their level of care and follow-up to ensure we were having a good experience made it worthwhile for us. The water was incredibly warm and pleasant at high tide. A few vendors walked along the public beach, however they were respectful when we politely declined. Xanadu is an outstanding place to completely switch off, perfect if you want privacy and romance rather than a social atmosphere. It is ideally suited for a special occasion such as a honeymoon or anniversary.

DislikedThe beach is tidal, so swimming depends heavily on the time of day. There was some garbage washed up on the public beach, which was unfortunate but not within the hotel’s control.

LikedThe staff and food was incredible

LikedStaying at Xanadu in Zanzibar was nothing short of perfection. Every single detail, from the stunning villa design to the smallest touches in the room, has been so thoughtfully curated that it feels like stepping into a dream. The entire property is flawless, perfectly maintained, and created to deliver an unforgettable experience. What truly elevated our stay, however, was our butler, Rashid. He was, without a doubt, the best we could have ever hoped for. Always attentive, always one step ahead of us, he made every moment feel effortless and special. Rashid arranged each meal in a different and absolutely extraordinary setting, transforming every dining experience into something magical and unique. His genuine warmth, constant smile, and passion for what he does were unforgettable. And then there is the food itself — every meal at Xanadu reaches the very pinnacle of quality. Each dish is a masterpiece, combining freshness, creativity, and exquisite flavors in a way that makes dining here an experience in its own right. Together, the extraordinary cuisine and Rashid’s flawless service created moments we will never forget. The best thing we can say is thank you. You really made us feel so special. It was the best experience we could have had for such a happy time as this in our lives. Thank you Li and Rashid. 💛

LikedEverything - a real paradise with attention to every detail. Pictures don’t even come close to how incredible the place is.

LikedThis place is MAGICAL - their attention to detail, to your personal preferences, their amazing food and the sheer beauty of the facilities will just leave you in awe. Xandu Villas has a soul - one that allows you to find tranquility while enjoying pure luxury from food, warmth of service and designs so beautiful you will not want to close your eyes. We can only recommend this to anyone out there - the food deserves Michelin stars, the buildings an architecture award and their hospitality all the stars there are. We will come back anytime - thank you for making this our special honeymoon

LikedA Slice of Paradise – Perfection from Start to Finish Our stay at Xanadu Luxury Villas & Retreat Zanzibar was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment we arrived, everything was flawless — the warm welcome, the seamless service, and the breathtaking surroundings made it feel like we had stepped into paradise. Our personal butler Abel was absolutely perfect — attentive, discreet, and always one step ahead of our needs. The chef’s cuisine was truly exceptional, with every dish crafted to perfection. Each meal was a culinary experience that exceeded all expectations. The attention to detail throughout the entire resort is remarkable — from the villa design to the thoughtful touches that made us feel so special every single day. Every moment was pure luxury, comfort, and beauty. If you’re looking for a place that offers privacy, impeccable service, and an unforgettable atmosphere, Xanadu Luxury Villas & Retreat Zanzibar is it. We can’t wait to return.

LikedFrom the very beginning, I was greeted with such genuine warmth and kindness that I immediately felt welcome and at ease. Every detail of my stay was handled with incredible care, creating a memorable experience that far exceeded my expectations. I was assigned a personal butler (Katherine), whose dedication and attentiveness were second to none. She anticipated every need and ensured that I was always comfortable and well looked after. Truly exemplary and kind service! The room was flawless—spacious, elegant, impeccably clean, and beautifully designed with a perfect mix of luxury and regional character. Every aspect, from the soft linens to the carefully chosen lighting, contributed to a serene and luxurious atmosphere. The natural setting was nothing short of spectacular. Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, I found myself in awe of the landscape. At night, the African sky lit up with stars, creating a sense of peace and wonder that made me feel deeply grounded. I will absolutely return. This isn’t just a hotel—it’s a transformative experience I’ll carry with me forever.

LikedThe food in this hotel is absolutely outstanding. The service from arrival at the airport all the way through to leaving was outstanding. Jesca was our designated "butler" and she was brilliant from start to finish.