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8.3

472 reviews

Essque Zalu Zanzibar

Essque Zalu Zanzibar

Essque Zalu, Zanzibar, 3151, Tanzania

Reservations:

+1-833-728-2041

Choose dates to view prices

Water park

Private pool

Spa/Wellness packages

Kids' club

Restaurant

Beachfront

Private beach area

Outdoor swimming pool

Essque Zalu Zanzibar

Welcome to Essque Zalu Zanzibar, a luxurious 5-star resort located just 0.5mi from the vibrant heart of Nungwi, Tanzania! Step into a tropical paradise where serenity meets adventure, starting at an irresistible price of $260 per night. With 472 glowing reviews, you’ll find that guests can’t get enough of the stunning ocean views, private beach area, and the variety of family-friendly activities available. Whether you seek relaxation or thrills, there's something for everyone.

Dive into a world of fun and leisure with a free water park, de-stress at the tranquil spa, or indulge in gourmet meals at the onsite restaurant. Little ones can make a splash in the kids' pool or enjoy the free kids' club, while parents can take advantage of the fitness center or unwind on the sun deck. Don’t forget the exhilarating beach activities! Try snorkeling, ride the waterslide, or simply bask under the sun with beach umbrellas and loungers close by, making the most of the gorgeous Zanzibar coastline.

Essque Zalu Zanzibar offers a blend of modern comfort and traditional charm in every corner of its soundproof rooms, which include air conditioning and private entrances. Experience live music that adds to the ambiance, or use the tour desk to plan your local adventures. You’ll feel right at home with features like complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and private balconies that overlook the beautiful garden or ocean views. Treat yourself to a unforgettable stay at this ultimate beach retreat where the azure waters and golden sands are just a stroll away!

As the sun dips below the horizon, your evening at Essque Zalu Zanzibar begins. Imagine savoring delightful dishes at the Market Kitchen, where family-friendly ambiances mix with a tantalizing variety of cuisines, from savory African to comforting American fare. Don't miss out on the romantic atmosphere of The Jetty. Here, seafood and Middle Eastern barbecue motifs create an inviting space perfect for sharing laughter and memories with loved ones over a delicious meal while the waves gently lap the shore.

Your days can be as relaxed or action-packed as you desire! After breakfast, why not float around in the vibrant adults-only pool? Take a refreshing dip while sun-kissed laughter fills the air. Interested in something more exhilarating? Grab your snorkeling gear and experience the stunning coral reefs lying just off the coast—there's no end to the beauty and adventure available just steps away from your suite! And after a day filled with adventure, retreat to the spa for pampering treatments that will melt away any lingering stress. Treat yourself to a world where fun knows no bounds and relaxation is a top priority.

Families will absolutely adore the vibrant atmosphere, from the kids’ pool to the free kids' club, where the little ones can bond with new friends while crafting memories of their own. Additionally, with flexible room arrangements accommodating groups of all sizes, planning a family getaway has never been more exciting. Whether you're taking a leisurely stroll on the beach or enjoying live music that sets the mood in the evenings, the stunning backdrop of Essque Zalu Zanzibar invites unforgettable moments for everyone to cherish. It's not just a hotel; it's where your story awaits!

Closest airports

Abeid Amani Karume International Airport

34.8mi

Tanga Airport

46.6mi

Pemba / Karume Airport

47.5mi

Most popular amenities

Water park

Private pool

Spa/Wellness packages

Kids' club

Restaurant

Beachfront

Private beach area

Outdoor swimming pool

Kids' pool

Free Private Parking

Free wifi

Room service

Fitness center

Turkish/Steam Bath

Waterslide

Steam room

Beach

Sauna

Air conditioning

Kid-friendly buffet

Bar

Sun deck

Tour desk

Private entrance

Parking On Site

Terrace

Soundproof rooms

24-hour front desk

Ocean view

Kitchen

Non-smoking rooms

Live music/Performance

Wheelchair accessible

Beach umbrellas

Beach chairs/Loungers

Garden view

Patio

Kitchenware

Kitchenette

Playground

Picnic area

Garden

View

Free toiletries

Bathtub

Extra long beds (> 6.5 ft)

Balcony

Soundproof

Rooms

Ocean View Suite in Essque Zalu Zanzibar

Show 7 photos

Suite, Ocean View

1 Sofa Bed

1 King Size Bed

860 sqft

Private Bathroom

Balcony

Minibar

Flat-screen TV

x8

+

x5

More details

Indulge in our spacious Ocean View Suite, offering 861 sqft of luxury with a balcony to admire the sea, a king-size bed, and extra-long beds for a cozy stay for 2 adults and 2 children.

Three-Bedroom Villa with Garden View in Essque Zalu Zanzibar

Show 10 photos

Villa, 3 Bedroom, Garden View

2 Twin Beds

2 King Size Beds

2075 sqft

Private pool

Garden view

Kitchen

Private Bathroom

x6

+

x7

More details

Experience luxury and comfort in our spacious Three-Bedroom Villa with Garden View, featuring a private pool, air conditioning, and a kitchenette. With two king size beds and two twin beds, it accommodates 6 adults and 7 children in over 2000 sqft of space.

Four-Bedroom Villa with Ocean View  in Essque Zalu Zanzibar

Show 13 photos

Villa, 4 Bedroom, Ocean View

2 Twin Beds

3 King Size Beds

3765 sqft

Private pool

Ocean view

Kitchen

Private Bathroom

x8

+

x4

More details

Indulge in a spacious 3767 sqft villa with ocean view, private pool, and luxurious king size beds, perfect for 8 adults and 4 children. Enjoy a serene escape with free toiletries, air conditioning, and a private terrace for a memorable stay.

Ocean Front  Suite in Essque Zalu Zanzibar

Show 10 photos

Suite, Oceanfront

1 Sofa Bed

1 King Size Bed

860 sqft

Private Bathroom

Balcony

Minibar

Flat-screen TV

x8

+

x5

More details

Garden View Suite in Essque Zalu Zanzibar

Show 6 photos

Suite, Garden View

1 King Size Bed

1 Sofa Bed

860 sqft

Garden view

Private Bathroom

Balcony

Minibar

x3

+

More details

Superior Garden View Suite                                          in Essque Zalu Zanzibar

Show 6 photos

Superior Suite, Garden View

1 Sofa Bed

1 King Size Bed

915 sqft

Garden view

Private Bathroom

Balcony

Terrace

+

More details

Show 5 photos

Suite, Seafront

1 King Size Bed

1 Sofa Bed

Balcony

Minibar

Flat-screen TV

Dryer

x8

+

x5

More details

4 Bedroom, King, Seafront

1 King Size Bed

3765 sqft

x20

+

x13

More details

Four Bedroom Seafront with Pool is 3767 square feet and includes either 2 single beds 80-130 width or a king-size bed 150-183 width.

4 Bedroom, King, Garden/Pool View

1 King Size Bed

3765 sqft

x20

+

x13

More details

FOUR BEDROOMS GARDEN WITH POOL is 3767 square feet and includes either 2 single beds 80-130 width or a king-size bed 150-183 width.

3 Bedroom, King, Ocean View

1 King Size Bed

2075 sqft

x20

+

x13

More details

THREE BEDROOMS OCEAN VIEW is 2077 square feet and includes either a king-size bed 150-183 width or 2 single beds 80-130 width.

3 Bedroom, King, Garden/Pool View

1 King Size Bed

2075 sqft

x20

+

x13

More details

Three Bedroom Garden with Pool is 2077 square feet and includes either a king-size bed 150-183 width or 2 single beds 80-130 width.

Show 6 photos

Apartment, 3 Bedroom, Sea View

Kitchen

Free wifi

Minibar

Flat-screen TV

+

More details

Guest reviews

8.3

472 reviews

Categories of assessments

Cleanliness

Comfort

Location

Facilities

Staff

Value for money

WiFi quality

Breakfast

Featured reviews:

🇬🇧

Ola

10

March 2024

Beautiful hotel combining traditional design architecture with five-star accommodation. The Ocean Suite was superb, private, and with a sea view. We came for our honeymoon and left on cloud nine, feeing we'd had an extremely personal experience made possible by the staff, each of whom are, professional, willing to help, smiley, and with a great deal of heart! Situated slightly east at the northern tip of the Island, it's not possible to see the sunset directly, however it more than makes up with peace and tranquillity, especially compared to hotels on the nearby busy beachfronts where the sunset can be seen, and which are accessible from the hotel. It has a great infinity pool, much larger than usual resort pools, and sunbathing beds overlooking the blissful turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean uninterrupted by anchored boats. The food is EXCELLENT!! Well worth going half board. We stayed 11 nights, with so much choice avoiding any feeling of repetitiveness. We definitely left much healthier than we arrived! Al carte meals are also available on the romantic pier which were included in our package. We really appreciated getting to know the most senior staff as well who were very open about how they strive to make the experience even better for everyone. For a chilled out, beautiful experience, in a gorgeous hotel, Essque Zalu is very highly recommended!

🇿🇦

Nishi

9.1

January 2022

The hotel is clean and comfortable. The waiters.chefand cleaning staff are very pleasant and go out of their to address your needs. The manager Rahul that was on duty interacts regularly with guests to ensure they are comfortable

Service at reception is slow. Some of the staff at the front desk need training to be more efficient. One lady at reception called Mary in particular has no people skills Different individuals in our group of 7 had issues with her.She quotes exorbitant prices for taxis and we suspect she gets kickbacks from the drivers. We had 2 medical issues that needed attention but she showed no empathy and spoke dollars first. So Dollar Mary as we called her is not good for Esseque Zalu image

🇩🇪

Summeroutside

9.1

January 2022

Considering we stayed between Christmas and New Year's Eve when prices were nearly double other times of year, I was worried that the value may not quite match with expectations, but I'm happy to report that I was wrong. We stayed in an oceanfront suite (which was actually a private villa) and it was huge, clean, comfortable, and had the best front patio for hanging out and enjoying the view. We were in suite #11 and I believe it to be the best location on the property: just a few meters from the pool and jetty, but set back enough to enjoy quiet and privacy. We'd fully expected to spend most of our time at Essque Zalu hanging out by the pool, but found our villa's location so ideal that we never did fuss with reserving poolside sunbeds. Though we were skeptical on our first night when we turned up for dinner and found a buffet rather than a menu, this turned out to be a pleasant experience as well. Each night offered a different theme, dishes were widely varied, and there was always a grill or fry station for a freshly prepared and customized dish. Breakfast each morning was quite nice with several fresh juices (the Zalu Dawa, or lemongrass ginger, was our favorite!), an omelette station, fruits, and several other warm offerings on the buffet. Drinks at the various bars around the property are no bargain ($6 USD for beer, $8-10 for speciality cocktails, $4 for most liquors and the shots are small), but this is to be expected with a captive audience. A la carte lunch is a bit pricey ($18/plate for the fish dishes we ordered), but food quality and attention to detail is very good. (If you feel inclined to leave the property, a 15-minute walk toward Nungwi Beach will get you to Fish Market Local Restaurant, which is absolutely delicious and we paid the equivalent of $17 USD for three dishes — I highly recommend doing this at least once!) Overall, Essque Zalu provides gorgeous views, an awesome saltwater pool, good food, and a friendly staff.

As others have noted, yes, some of the sunbed and chair cushions have seen better days, but this is hardly a dealbreaker. Clean towels are readily available at the pool bar. I'm not sure this is true five-star property and if you're used to a Four Seasons (or comparable) standard of service and setting you'll probably find it a bit lacking, but Essque Zalu is among the finest accommodations on Zanzibar island. Some perspective is necessary when comparing to luxury hotels in other parts of the world, so perhaps just take a walk around the local area before feeling slighted at a 30-minute wait for your poolside lunch order to arrive.

🇬🇧

Rikke

9.1

July 2023

There was very little to fault about this place. We had villa/room 16 which had an amazing view of the ocean - at night you could see fire flies on the rocks! The room was lovely and spacious, very clean, huge bed. We got replenished with water, tea/coffee and towels etc every morning and and evening and everything was super clean. We went half board which I recommend because the food is outstanding and there are not too many restaurants around. All the staff were friendly and really tried hard to make our stay special.

They charge Western prices for drinks....and the pool although large and clean could probably do with a bit of an upgrade.

🇦🇪

Ahmed

10

August 2023

I had an amazing hotel stay with friendly staff and clean, spacious rooms. The customer service was exceptional, and the comfortable amenities contributed to a pleasant experience. The hotel's convenient location and efficient check-in/out process were also noteworthy. Nonetheless, my stay was highly enjoyable, thanks to the attentive staff and the comfortable, well-maintained accommodations.

I am not sure if the hotel could be responsible for that but the road that led us to the hotel was miserable, this could improve the tourist experience if the hotel could fix this issue.

🇴🇲

Abdullah

8.2

October 2022

the hotel entertainment at night is great. the staff were nice and helpful. the place is nice and safe. it was a really enjoyable part of our trip to Zanzibar.

the hotel location is not optimal as the beach is rocky so you have to travel to arrive to a better beach. this hotel is Nugwi which is remote from the rest of Zanzibar but that shouldn’t be an issue if you combine it with a few days stay in stone town.

🇮🇱

Erez

8.2

July 2022

Truly great facilities, incredible views, and amazing large rooms. For most of the days, the food was great. The staff is very kind. The hotel provides free shuttles to the city center at various hours.

Expensive. Although we paid more than most hotels would charge on the island, this resort was charging money on about everything - 1$ for a billiard game, and 5$ for a coconut which is ridiculous. Also, the location is pretty far from the center.

🇺🇸

Vanessa

10

March 2024

My stay at Esque Zalu Zanzibar was an embodiment of sophistication and luxury, seamlessly integrated with the African design ethos and breathtaking landscapes. The resort offered an unparalleled sense of privacy within its lush, tranquil grounds, making every moment feel exclusive and serene. From the moment of arrival, the warm welcome with fresh juice set the tone for a stay focused on relaxation and indulgence. The highlight was undoubtedly the poolside massage, a blissful experience with the soothing sound of ocean waves complementing the skilled masseuse's efforts to alleviate all forms of stress and anxiety. The resort's architecture and design celebrated local heritage while offering modern comforts, ensuring every need was catered to within this peaceful haven. Positioned perfectly, Esque Zalu offers both a secluded retreat for relaxation and easy access to explore Zanzibar's rich cultural and natural attractions. This harmonious balance of seclusion and exploration opportunities made my stay truly unforgettable, encapsulating the very essence of a luxurious getaway with a soulful touch.

NA.

🇮🇳

Ankita

8.2

January 2024

We liked that the property is close to Nungwi but away from the madness. The jetty bar really stands out... perfect spot for a sundowner. The staff were amazing! There was a good variety with the buffets and food was generally good. Rooms are spacious and very comfortable.

The fridge in the room just didn't work despite us asking several times. The breakfast could do with some variety for guests who stay for a longer period

🇦🇪

Sherif

9.1

September 2023

Exceptional beautiful place very wide very spacious rooms are perfect .. the best resort in Zanzibar by far Staff are great … jimmy safiya seif juma khier Issa Lucy ze elkefly the food is amazing you must eat swaihili food there The nature and the location of the hotel is absolutely marvelous Our stay was great and unforgettable

Just the pumpy road outside the hotel but that’s common Zanzibar issue

Points of Interest Around Essque Zalu Zanzibar

Attractions

Nungwi Mnarani Aquarium and Marine Turtle Conservation Lagoon

0.6mi

House of Wonders (Beit-al-Ajaib)

31.2mi

Stone Town

31.2mi

Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe)

31.2mi

Darajani Market (Marikiti Kuu)

31.2mi

Restaurants

Market Kitchen

Cuisines

  • African
  • American
  • Chinese
  • British
  • Italian
  • Local
  • International

Ambiances

  • Family Friendly
  • Traditional

The Jetty

Cuisines

  • Middle Eastern
  • Pizza
  • Seafood
  • Local
  • GrillBbq

Ambiances

  • Family Friendly
  • Traditional
  • Romantic

Pools

Location

  • Outdoor

Age restrictions

  • Adults only

Availability

  • All season

Amenities of Essque Zalu Zanzibar

Water park

Private pool

Spa/Wellness packages

Kids' club

Restaurant

Beachfront

Private beach area

Outdoor swimming pool

Kids' pool

Free Private Parking

Free wifi

Room service

Fitness center

Turkish/Steam Bath

Waterslide

Steam room

Beach

Sauna

Air conditioning

Kid-friendly buffet

Bar

Sun deck

Tour desk

Private entrance

Parking On Site

Terrace

Soundproof rooms

24-hour front desk

Ocean view

Kitchen

Non-smoking rooms

Live music/Performance

Wheelchair accessible

Beach umbrellas

Beach chairs/Loungers

Garden view

Patio

Kitchenware

Kitchenette

Playground

Picnic area

Garden

View

Free toiletries

Bathtub

Extra long beds (> 6.5 ft)

Balcony

Soundproof

Stay rules - Essque Zalu Zanzibar

  • Check-in / Check-out

  • Pets

  • Internet

  • Age restrictions

  • Curfew

  • Parking

  • Reservations

  • Children and beds

  • Cards accepted at this property

Frequently Asked Questions - Essque Zalu Zanzibar

At what times are check-in and check-out at Essque Zalu Zanzibar?

Guests at Essque Zalu Zanzibar can check in between 02:00 PM and 11:30 PM. Check-out time is set for 12:00 PM.

Is there parking at Essque Zalu Zanzibar?

Yes, there is free and private on-site parking available at the hotel. No reservation is required for parking.

What are the rates at Essque Zalu Zanzibar?

Essque Zalu Zanzibar offers accommodations starting at $260. Keep in mind, room types and dates might affect the final price. For specific rates, input your stay dates.

Which room categories can I book at Essque Zalu Zanzibar?

The hotel offers a variety of rooms including Ocean View, Garden View, and Ocean Front Suites, as well as Three-Bedroom and Four-Bedroom Villas with either garden or ocean views. The rooms can accommodate from 2 adults and 2 children to 8 adults and 4 children, with bed sizes ranging from King size to Sofa Beds. Smoking is not allowed in any of the rooms.

What activities does Essque Zalu Zanzibar offer?

Guests at Essque Zalu Zanzibar can enjoy various leisure amenities during their stay. They can indulge in delectable meals at the Market Kitchen offering African, American, Chinese, British, Italian, and International cuisines, and The Jetty, serving Middle Eastern, Pizza, Seafood, Local, and Grill BBQ. The hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, providing relaxation for adults, and a separate kids' pool. For a truly relaxing experience, guests can visit the spa and wellness facilities, including a Turkish/Steam bath, hot tub/Jacuzzi, sauna, and steam room. The hotel also offers water sports facilities on-site, a water park with a waterslide, and a private beach area. Additionally, there are family-friendly amenities such as a Kids' club, live music/performances, and a Babysitting/Child services. Whether enjoying the beaches, taking part in water activities, or indulging in spa treatments, guests have a wide range of options for leisure at the hotel.

Is there a swimming pool at Essque Zalu Zanzibar?

The hotel has one pool available. It is open all season, located outdoors, and has an age restriction limiting access to adults only.

Does Essque Zalu Zanzibar feature its own restaurants?

Yes, the hotel has two restaurants on site. The Market Kitchen offers a family-friendly ambiance and serves a wide range of cuisines including African, American, Chinese, British, Italian, and International dishes. The Jetty provides a family-friendly, traditional, and romantic ambiance, offering Middle Eastern, pizza, seafood, local, and grill BBQ cuisines.

Can I use my credit card at Essque Zalu Zanzibar?

Yes, you can use your credit card at Essque Zalu Zanzibar. The accepted credit cards are American Express, Mastercard, Visa, and UnionPay. Additionally, you can also pay with cash at the hotel.