Mbweni Ruins and Gardens (formerly known as Jungle Paradise) is a vibrant and experimental regeneration hub in the heart of Zanzibar, offering exclusive accommodation for no more than 30 guests. The property magically blends the living experience of Zanzibar's historic past with modern-day luxury and comfort. It is located in the upmarket suburb of Mbweni, 5 km south of Zanzibar Town, just 10 minutes from Stone Town and the airport, making it an oasis of peace while maintaining easy access to the city.
History
The historic ruins are the remains of St Mary's School for Girls, built in the 19th century by the Universities Mission to Central Africa (UMCA) missionaries for girls freed from slave ships. The caretaker-guide is a direct descendant of a freed slave who became the UMCA's first African deacon. Nearby is St John's Anglican Church, another reminder of the colonial missionary era. The ruins are now set amid lush botanic gardens and have been transformed into an affordable, cozy beach resort and spa surrounded by greenery and the ocean.
Rooms
Accommodation consists of 13 air-conditioned luxury rooms including spacious standard rooms, family rooms, and suites, all decorated in traditional Swahili style with exotic Zanzibari furnishings, Oriental rugs, four-poster beds, and cultural flavors that have influenced the Swahili Coast. All rooms feature air conditioning, ceiling fans, TV, mini-bar fridge, Wi-Fi, en-suite shower, mosquito nets, and louvred windows opening to balconies. Most rooms have balconies with sea views and breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean and gardens.
Facilities
The property features lush tropical gardens that are home to over 650 plant species, 150 types of palm trees, a vast variety of birds and butterflies, making it a botanist's dream. Nature trails wind through the garden with each type of plant listed along the way. A beautiful crystal clear fresh water pool on the edge of the beach connects the rooms to the restaurant and bar. The gardens gradually lead down to the beach where mangroves sprout out from the sea.
Restaurant
Dining includes the Raintree Restaurant and Sundowner Bar situated on the cliff top, offering refreshing drinks, excellent cuisine with traditional spicy foods as well as seafood delicacies, and impressive views of the garden and Indian Ocean. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a variety of dishes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, all with breathtaking sea views. The Mangrove Bar perches over the ocean, perfect for evening drinks while watching the sunset.
Activities
Activities include bird watching, nature trails through the botanic gardens, swimming, snorkeling, diving, water sports (jet-skiing, kayaking, sailing, rafting, surfing), Zanzibar tours, dhow cruises to small islands, and exploring the ancient Mbweni Ruins.
The property is currently being transformed into an innovation and co-living hub, welcoming solo adventurers, nomadic professionals, and groups for team gatherings, offering co-working space, cultural events, Wi-Fi, and cleaning services
Destination
Tanzania Safaris
Style
Resort
