Jafferji Beach Retreat

On Zanzibar’s north-east coast, on Matemwe Beach and 50 minutes from Stone Town, Jafferji Beach Retreat looks across to Mnemba Island. Behind the name is Javed Jafferji, a photographer, author and publisher from Zanzibar. The 14 suites are spread along the palm-fringed beach and furnished with Swahili beds, Moroccan lamps and antiques. The pool measures twelve by seven metres and sits just above the white sand, which is handy, because at low tide the sea likes to take a break (the pool doesn’t). By day you can head out by boat to Mnemba for snorkelling and diving, sail into the sunset by dhow or ride along the beach on horseback, and in the evening dinner can be served on the beach by candlelight. A good place for the days after your safari, when you can have a programme but don’t have to.