Reviews of Zanzibar Pearl
Wildlife sightings and reviews
3 independent comments and wildlife information from our travellers who have visited Zanzibar Pearl and kindly agreed to share their thoughts. They do not necessarily represent the views of Expert Africa
"Zanzibar Pearl Boutique Hotel review"
Two of our family have allergies and they weren't taken seriously at all. The rooms (we were in an Oyster Villa) were very tired and dated. The fourth bed was a pretty uncomfortable camp bed.
We had a problem with our shower which they kept saying they had fixed but they hadn't, it was sorted on our last day.
However, the pool was nice and kept the kids occupied. We also did the snorkelling trip with One Ocean which was good (they have a desk in the hotel where you can book).
The beach is nice but you can't really swim - it's very shallow out to the reef." See all these reviews: 7n in Tanzania; 5n in Zanzibar
We were very concerned that these travellers’ food allergies were not taken seriously, having stressed these details to the hotel when we first booked it. The management apologised profusely for the mistake, and assured us they take allergies very seriously. They explained that unfortunately the fault had arisen with a basket of mixed bread, some of which was sprinkled with sesame seeds. They fully accepted this was a bad error, and sesame seeds should never have appeared at their table. We are always at pains to pass on allergy information and stress that travellers should reiterate their allergies and food requests on arrival to double-check the message has been received loud and clear by the chef.
Regarding the extra beds for the children, the lodge confirmed that they provide standard foldaway hotel beds with high-density latex foam mattress, and while we understand that wouldn’t be suitable for heavier adults they confirmed that they added an extra topper to improve comfort for the child upon learning that it was uncomfortable.
Unfortunately, the hotel didn’t comment on the shower issue and stated they felt this guests’ villa was in good shape after recent refurbishment. They sincerely apologise, however, for the general shortcomings of their experience.
In light of the experience this family had, we are reviewing our partnership with the hotel, and very much hope its standards and attention to detail will improve.
"Senior Africa Specialist | East Africa"
"Zanzibar Pearl Boutique Hotel review"
"Zanzibar Pearl Boutique Hotel review"
We had a problem with the shower after a day. - the water pressure had dropped and temperature control temperamental. It was fixed very promptly, but the next day started playing up again. Perhaps a need for more investigation (room 13).
Also there were many mosquitos getting into the room, I think through the open slats in the door !
The food was really good. We had a fish night, and Swahili buffet over the four nights, plus some very good local entertainment. It can get a bit chilly at night on the upper level of the dining room, so bring a wrap.
Breakfast was lovely. Cereal, toast, home-made jams,, fruit platter, pastries, and you can choose from the hot menu.
The staff are lovely, friendly and helpful.
I am not a pool person, so cannot comment on that, but spent time on the beach loungers, and you can walk for miles, a delight. You can swim at high tide, but beware the urchins, hence necessity for reef shoes.
The Masai peddling gifts can be a nuisance, but just keep walking and they soon melt away. (And they do not bother you on on the loungers).
There is a very good diving/snorkelling trip advertised, which I would recommend. (Scubafish Dive Centre), a short way up the beach. Very well organised, they take time to fit you with the right gear, and carefully explain everything. Our guide would dive down and show us different fish.
I would definitely return here." See all these reviews: 6n in Zanzibar; 5n in Tanzania
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