Kidoti Wild Garden in Nungwi

We stayed five nights at Kidoti Wild Garden … three nights at the ocean front Nature Lodge and two in the Bungalow. We were originally schedule for all five in the Guesthouse, but there was some construction going on nearby and they kindly upgraded us. We enjoyed our stay, but I don’t think it’s a place for everyone. For those seeking a space away from the crowded hotels and beaches, and flexible enough to live with inconsistent electricity and internet, Wild Garden is truly a hidden gem. The place can be a 5-star experience as long as you understand what you are getting and not getting: secluded, oceanfront, friendly staff, okay bar/restaurant, no AC, no hot water (in some units), far from everything and hard to find. What they also didn’t have was a functioning generator, which we learned the hard way when power was out and we had to boil in our room all afternoon without a fan. This one afternoon almost ruined the visit for me - they do have a solar generator, but that only powers a small number of lights. Internet in the restaurant also comes and goes, which for us wasn’t a big deal. But let’s start with the positives, as there are many … The Nature Lodge is likely the best unit at Kidoti Wild Gardens … separate bedroom, three beds, (some) hot water, WiFi and a porch with a beautiful view, especially at sunset. The WiFi works in the room due to its proximity to the restaurant, the only hot spot around. The porch was awesome for watching the sunset and just hanging out. The Bungalow was okay - out of WiFi range and a little smaller. None of the rooms have AC, but all have fans, which are more than enough assuming there is electricity to power them. All beds have mosquito nets. The lack of hot water wasn’t a big deal as we showered mid day when the outside was hot, and it was refreshing. Breakfast is included, and we had most other meals there as well. The restaurant is good - a limited menu, but if you ask for something in advance (such as fresh lobster), they can get it. We did that, and were happy with the meals. As a small place, it is easy for them to run out of some things, which we experienced a few times. It was never a big issue. I cannot explain why, but their French fries were spectacular, as was the presentation of each dish. Khamis (a.k.a. Mwamba) is a great host, and happy to arrange anything you’d like such as snorkeling, fishing, sunset cruises, etc. He also provides kayaks and snorkeling equipment, though it’s not a good place to snorkel. It is obvious he cares about your stay, as do the rest of the staff. The grounds are teeming with plants, lizards, birds, and butterflies. There are also two very friendly dogs, one less friendly cat, and the constant presence of reggae music. In the water, you’ll see plenty of women fishing or collecting crabs. Importantly, there is no one there trying to sell you anything. It is definitely a place you can relax without being bothered by anything or anyone. Final

Such a gem! The owner and staff welcomed us like family, the food was beautifully prepared and served with pride. There are lovely touches everywhere you turn-the gardens are so pretty and seeing the Canadian flag overhead was perfect🫶🏻

Me and my friend stayed here for a couple days and had a great experience. As soon as we arrived Mwamba offered us a nicer room than the one we had initially booked, no extra charge.
The accommodation is very secluded and quiet so it’s perfect for a few days away from the noise.
Mwamba took us out to swim with dolphins and it was one of the best experiences, we left very early and were there before all the tours, just us and the dolphins.
Lizzie, one of the accommodations employees was the perfect person to talk to about the island and just in general great company and great service.
Also very very good food.
Would definitely recommend!!

A lovely spot - quiet and set away from the hustle and bustle of a lot of Zanzibar. It is basic accommodation - so cold showers and a very simple set up - but that's exactly what we love about it. There has clearly been a lot of love going into building the place, Mwembe gave us a tour of the garden with all the plants and veggies he's growing. If busy bars and banging music and luxury accommodation is your thing this isn't the place for you but if you want to get out of bed and straight into the sea, and feel like you're the only people around then this place is just what you need - the perfect antidote to the craziness of Stonetown!

Such a beautiful place. A lovely contrast to the bustle and hassle of stone town. We like spots off the beaten track and this place is gloriously that, but with cold beers, a warm welcome and swimming from your doorstep (at high tide). The kids also loved the cats and the numerous hermit crabs. Our three kids (12,10,7yrs) discovered the joys of snorkeling here which was aided by the fact we lucked out with the tides - we had a high tide in the morning and evening. You have a four hour window around high tide when you can swim otherwise it’s walking around the reef. We could swim in the morning go off for the day and come back swim in the evening which was great. We stayed for three nights which I think was about perfect. There’s a few different options for accommodation (ours being three bed waterfront - two of our kids shared one of the two double beds) including a camper-van originally from the Uk driven and left now just for sleeping in (although Mwembe the owner still drives a little). Food is fantastic. All round a lovely spot. Mwembe’s brother Ali was our driver while we stayed which was great to he has a nice taxi and took the hassle out of getting around / organizing tours etc.

This is amazing place located just on the beach , west coast. You can watch the sunsets from over there. We were lucky to stay in the house closest to the ocean. The garden is beautiful and peacful you can really disconnect and relax there. The owner - Mwamba is very friendly and helped us to solve some issues and even organized a free transport to the city!! The restaursnt offers very good food and bar offers a drinks and cocktails. Very fair prciing . Staff is very friendly and helpful. Kayak available. On a minus I would note a the location info provided on Airbnb as we struggled to find the place based on Airbnb info and the owner was not answering the phone - we were lost in middle of nowhere and only the other hotel helped us to contact the Wild Garden. The internet connection is not good. Note there is no warm water which is not issue for me at all Overall definetely recommended and very good experience , place is really atmospheric and friendly!

we were exhausted from our fun but long driving safari and wantes to relax in a quiet beautiful atmosphere by the Indian Ocean.
our stay was perfect is so many ways...relaxing..quiet...gorgeous natural environment...good wifi..great people to hang with and delicious food...topped only by welcoming staff and owners. we immediately felt at home and were sorry to leave but glad we came.

It’s my first time in Zanzibar but I feel like I will only ever come back to this place. It is wonderfully rustic and off the beaten path. Right on the shore you can swim and hang around looking at the beautiful view all day. No need to leave. They have a bar and kitchen serving you drinks and food all day. The staff are wonderful people who are kind and helpful. What a lovely time we had. You can take a long nap in a hammock and have a crab coconut dish when you wake up. Its all delicious. Five stars!

The most memorable, relaxing and friendly place on the whole island. We felt like staying at family with all pampering. Fresh delicious food, private tours and discoveries of local hidden gems. The place is unique with its calm and clean private beach. Thank you Mwamba and Polyana for hosting us. See you next time.

This was one of the most peaceful places I have vacationed and may be my favorite vacation spot on earth to date. It is simple, but surrounded by natural and naturally constructed beauty. It is a place for simple living, rest and soul rejuvenation. Although simple, it is beautiful and you will feel pampered for sure.

Are you looking for a big hotel with bustle, noise and routine services? This isn't what you will find here. instead, you will be greeted with love and warmth, cared for and served with the courtesy and grace of a 5 star restaurant, but in a quaint, cozy, magical, but somewhat rustic setting. It's like an upscale camp retreat with simple gourmet food and a killer view of the Indian Ocean facing towards Dar es Salaam (and a couple of little islands) from the western shore of Zanzibar.

The hosts are Mwaba and Laura and they have a team of folks who live in a little village on the property and provide for your every need. The property has lovingly crafted buildings, a magnificent washroom area with both a traditional toilet and shower and a sitting toilet and shower. Each one is magnificently done up in mosaic and with whimsical design that will leave you delighted. One of the cottages has its own washroom facility as well with multiple rooms and beds, which is good for a family or group.

The paths are well tended with shells along the path which is lined with stones. The communal restaurant area is good for meals and hanging out and there is a bar. Breakfast is included, and Lunch and Dinner are available based on available seafood, although vegan meals can be requested and I assume other meats if you don't eat seafood.

The property is right directly on the water. Steps that walk you right down from the restaurant space into the ocean at high tide and onto the rock beach at low tide. There are minimal waves, even when the current is strong, so heed the warnings about when it is safe to swim or kayak (they have a couple of kayaks there for your use). When the tide is low, you can walk out about 1 kilometer to a little sandbar island you can walk to in about 20-30 minutes if you are not distracted by the wildlife and get in an hour of sunbathing or exploring before the tide comes back in.

Be sure to wear sturdy swim shoes for walking and swimming, as this is basically a big tidal "plane". There are opportunities to explore and you could, frankly, catch your own seafood if you know what you are doing, but that means shells, sea urchin spines, rocks and some tricky mud holes await you. Mwamba can read the tides and tells you what to expect and watch out for with the water each day, when the current will be strong, when the tide will go out and come in. They will guide you in enjoying this unique place. Please follow that guidance. They provide swim shoes in a variety of average children's and adult sizes, but I suggest you bring your own if you have large feet like me. And make them enclosed. Sandal style shoes expose the sides of your feet and toes to the ocean floor's delights. when the tide is in, you can float and swim over the same area you walked along previously. Floating peacefully on a calm ocean is ultimate relaxation!

But remember, this is the ocean and it is a wild place. Don't blame Kidoti Wild Garden for the nature you may encounter. Use common sense, follow the guidance and be honest about your abilities. Thank Mwamba for acquiring this slice of heaven and sharing it with the rest of us.