&Beyond has reopened its Mnemba Island private lodge off the north-eastern coast of Zanzibar after a comprehensive refurbishment by long-time collaborators Fox Browne Creative and Nicholas Plewman Architects.
The lodge’s 10 beachfront bandas have been completely rebuilt and enlarged with all interiors replaced. Every banda now features a redesigned private beach lounge with two private entrances from the beach and interior forest. One of the bandas has been converted into a two-bedroom family unit.The lodge’s main guest area has also been completely rebuilt to maximise the sea views. The bar is the focal point with new relaxation areas, an inner courtyard and dining areas that can be adapted for either indoor or outdoor dining.
Further additions include a freshly built Beach Shop and Discovery Centre — a dedicated space for guests to explore the Oceans Without Borders conservation and community initiatives.
A new wellness banda offers two treatment rooms that open out onto the island forest as well as an outdoor yoga platform for sunrise or sunset yoga, sound treatments and mindful meditation sessions.
The lodge’s Dive Centre has been renovated and expanded to serve as the base for even more island activities. Stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking remain available to guests with new additions including clear-bottomed kayaks, catamarans and pedal boards for guests to enjoy water sports.
Guests can also choose a full-day private excursion on the lodge’s dhow as well as an island conservation tour highlighting efforts to preserve the delicate ecosystem.
A half-day tour of nearby villages is hosted by Wild Impact, &Beyond’s conservation and community development partner, showcasing the education and healthcare projects supported by the island. Guests seeking hands-on experiences can explore the artificial reef and coral nursery maintained by Oceans Without Borders or spend a day with the team collecting and transplanting coral fragments for the underwater nursery.
