Thanda Island is a private island, nestled within Tanzania’s Shungimbili Island Marine Reserve just off Mafia Island – south of its famous neighbour Zanzibar. Just one kilometre in circumference and 350 metres wide, this haven is exclusively for your own private use.
Thanda is perfect if you're travelling as a family or a large group of friends as it is the only property on the island and will be exclusively for you - with the exception of the accommodation staff of course.
Providing complete escapism from the world, the luxurious facilities and idyllic location have earned Thanda Island the accolade of World's Leading Exclusive Private Island at the 2016 World Travel Awards and it also features on the Condé Nast Traveler Hot List 2017.
There are numerous activities to keep you entertained, including snorkelling, scuba diving, sailing, deep sea fishing, jet skiing, kayaking, paddle boarding, wakeboarding, water skiing, floodlit tennis court and beach volleyball. Depending on the season, you can even swim with whale sharks. As well as these activities you can of course just relax and soak up the sun by lazing on the beach, on a sun lounger or in the glass-rimmed pool. You will have access to spa treatments, a yoga sala and an air conditioned gym. If you wish to leave the island then there are excursions that can be arranged from a cruise around Thanda and the neighbouring island, visits to Chole Island, Mafia Island and Zanzibar.
The 20-acre private island consists of 1 villa with 5 suites, all with en suite, for up to 10 adults and up to nine children. Each suite includes indoor showers and outdoor baths, air conditioning, and private patio space. There are another two banda-style beach huts for a further eight guests each. If you wish to have more than 10 adults in the villa then this can be arranged. The open plan living area is huge and boasts a wonderful lounge and dining room. The outdoor decking offers a breakfast boma, pizza oven, BBQ, bonfire area, cocktail bar and here you will find the pool. There is even an aquarium near the staircase and grand piano. The island is accessed via a 45-minute helicopter ride from Dar es Salaam or a 45-minute boat journey from Mafia Island.
Staying on Thanda Island is an experience our words cannot do justice, you have to experience it to appreciate it fully.
- A privately owned island with a villa for private use
Hotel Highlights
- A private island for exclusive use
- Voted the World's Leading Exclusive Private Island
- The surrounding seas are home to whale shark, turtles, dolphins and dugongs
- Numerous activities and facilities included
Hotel Features
General Info
- 6 rooms
- Transfer duration: 45 minutes by helicopter from Dar es Salaam or 45 minutes by boat from Mafia Island
Main Facilities
- Diving
- Fitness facilities
- Outdoor pool
- Spa facilities
- Watersports
- Weddings
- Wifi
Accommodation Type
- Barefoot style
- Boutique
- Eco-friendly
- H&J Recommended
- Hidden gem
- Luxury Collection
- Off the beaten track
- Private homes
- Private island
Board Basis Options
- All Inclusive
- Self Catering
Hotel Gallery
Lets Talk
Want to find out more about Thanda Island? Speak to our Africa experts.
Facilities
Watersports
Relaxation
Excursions
Room Types
There are two sleeping areas, either in the villa or in the bandas.
The Villa
There are 5 suites each with their own bathroom. The villas can take 10 adults and up to 9 children, though if you would like more adults in the villa this can be arranged.
- Air Conditioning
- Balcony or Terrace
- Bath
- Internet
- Safe
- Sea View
The Bandas
The Banda style beach huts for another 8 guests. There is an extra charge if you wish to use these.
- Air Conditioning
- Bath
- Safe
- Sea View
- Separate Shower
Food & Drink
The food at Thanda is freshly prepared by the property's chef and designed to your requirements.
Own personal chef
Family Friendly Facilities
Let's Chat
We have answers to all your questions.
Start planning your dream trip by talking to our Destination Specialists
Sign up for our newsletter
Receive the latest travel inspiration and destination news.
Three Easy Steps to a Tailor-made Holiday
The Hayes & Jarvis Way
Since 1952, our travel experts have been traversing the world to connect you with the very best our 60+ destinations have to offer. Tell us what your dream trip entails and we will craft it for you with precision and passion.