The Manta Resort, Pemba Island
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
The Manta Resort, Pemba Island, Zanzibar
There are places that remind you how small, yet how connected, you truly are to nature.
And then there’s The Manta Resort, hidden away on Pemba Island, Zanzibar’s untouched northern sister.
Here, in the turquoise stretch of the Indian Ocean, barefoot luxury finds a new definition — calm, conscious, and quietly extraordinary.
The Manta isn’t a place you visit. It’s a place you feel.
Each sunrise seems to pause for you. Each wave carries a secret. And as the ocean breeze moves through your room, you sense that the world has slowed just enough for you to breathe again.
Pemba Island is often called the “green island” of Zanzibar: lush, unspoilt, far less crowded and gloriously intimate. Arriving at The Manta Resort feels like stepping into a private world. The resort is situated on the southeast tip of Pemba – remote yet accessible, tranquil yet rich in life.
After touching down on the island, you’ll be greeted by a warm smiling team, the rustle of palm fronds overhead, and the gentle rhythm of ocean waves. As the resort describes it: “Nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, we invite you to unwind and reconnect in a welcoming sanctuary that feels like home away from home.”
The setting is more than décor: it’s an invitation to slow down. The villa architecture uses natural materials, thatched roofs, wide decks making the ocean feel part of your living room, glimpses of local village life in the distance, children playing at dusk, fishermen returning with the day’s catch. You’re in paradise — but one that’s real, not over-polished.
From the moment you arrive, the air smells of sea salt, ripe passion-fruit and tiaré flower. Your senses tune in. The sea becomes your lullaby. At The Manta, it’s not just ‘destination luxury’ — it’s immersion.
Where the ocean whispers and time stands still
The Soul of Manta – Where Luxury Meets the Wild
Unlike the busier island of Unguja, Pemba feels raw and real — a green jewel surrounded by coral reefs and mangrove forests. The resort itself blends seamlessly with this wilderness: soft white pathways, thatched roofs, palm-shaded terraces, and the endless blue horizon ahead.
At The Manta Resort, luxury isn’t about marble floors or crystal chandeliers — it’s about serenity, connection, and space to just be. Every corner reflects a philosophy of simplicity wrapped in beauty: from handmade furniture crafted by local artisans to gentle Swahili hospitality that feels like an embrace.
You won’t find crowds, loud music, or over-designed interiors. Instead, you’ll find the soothing rhythm of the tide, the scent of sea salt and frangipani, and the feeling of being exactly where you are meant to be.
Accommodations – From garden rooms to underwater wonders
One of The Manta’s most enchanting qualities is its variety of stays — each designed to offer a different rhythm of island life. Whether you want to be surrounded by greenery, sleep above the ocean, or drift beneath it, there’s a space waiting for you.
The Underwater Room
Imagine falling asleep surrounded by the deep blue, as tropical fish glide past your window. The Underwater Room is perhaps one of the world’s most iconic experiences — a private floating island with three levels:
☀️ The top deck – for stargazing, sunbathing, or moonlit meditation.
🌊 The landing deck – your living space, with a lounge and bathroom at sea level.
🐠 The underwater suite – your bedroom, encased in glass, immersed in the ocean.
At night, soft underwater lights attract curious reef fish, creating a mesmerizing, living theatre outside your window. It’s silent, intimate, and dreamlike — a sensory experience that connects you to the ocean like nothing else on earth.
Inside, the design is simple yet elegant: timber finishes, flowing linen, and natural tones that echo the water’s palette. Above, you might hear waves gently brushing the structure; below, you’re surrounded by the serenity of the deep.
It’s perfect for honeymoons, milestone moments, or anyone seeking a story to tell for a lifetime.
Seafront Villas
For those who want to stay close to the ocean but with their feet still on land, the Seafront Villas are a paradise of comfort and privacy. Each villa opens directly toward the turquoise horizon, with spacious wooden decks for sunrise yoga or sunset cocktails.
The interior blends natural textures — stone, wood, and soft fabrics — creating a harmony of simplicity and elegance. Outdoor showers framed by coral stone, locally woven décor, and king-size beds dressed in crisp cotton invite slow mornings and peaceful nights.
Some villas feature private plunge pools overlooking the sea — the perfect spot for that first coffee of the day or an evening dip under a canopy of stars.
From your terrace, you can often spot pods of dolphins dancing offshore, or fishermen returning with their catch as the sun melts into the sea. Every moment feels cinematic — glowing in the same warm copper and sand tones we love at FemmVoyage.
Oceanview Villas
Set slightly higher on the hill, the Oceanview Villas combine sweeping panoramas with a sense of seclusion. They offer the best of both worlds: cooling ocean breezes, a gentle connection to nature, and more space to unwind.
Inside, you’ll find spacious living areas filled with soft coastal light, Swahili-style furnishings, and handcrafted details. The open-plan layout invites the outdoors in — from the sounds of the waves to the fragrance of sea air drifting through your balcony doors.
Each villa includes a shaded veranda and sun loungers, perfect for reading, journaling, or simply letting time slip away.
Garden Rooms
For those drawn to greenery and tranquility, the Garden Rooms are a lush retreat surrounded by tropical vegetation. Here, birdsong replaces alarm clocks, and soft breezes flow through the palms.
The interiors are minimal yet warm, featuring local craftsmanship, natural textures, and private terraces. Each room offers a serene balance — close enough to the main areas for easy access, yet secluded enough for privacy.
These rooms are ideal for solo travelers or couples seeking simplicity with a touch of island charm.
Superior Garden Rooms
The Superior Garden Rooms take the garden concept to a new level, offering more space, elegant design touches, and private outdoor sitting areas framed by vibrant flora. The décor reflects Zanzibar’s coastal essence: handcrafted wood, flowing mosquito nets, and neutral tones accented with hints of coral and aqua.
They’re perfect if you want comfort and connection — to nature, to yourself, and to the slow rhythm of Pemba life.
Dining – The Taste of the Indian Ocean
Dining at The Manta Resort is a journey in itself. The restaurant, perched above the beach, opens to panoramic sea views — where each meal is accompanied by the sound of waves and a sense of peace.
Menus feature freshly caught seafood, organic produce from the island, and spices that recall Zanzibar’s storied past as the “Spice Island.” Expect dishes like grilled lobster with lime butter, coconut curries, and tropical fruits that taste like sunshine.
Guests can dine in barefoot style at the restaurant or opt for private meals on the beach or by candlelight under the stars. Each experience feels intimate, personal, and infused with island soul.
The Kipepeo Spa – Healing by Nature
The Kipepeo Spa at The Manta is all about renewal. Tucked away in the lush gardens, it offers a sanctuary of stillness with treatments inspired by nature and traditional Swahili practices.
Expect massages with coconut and clove oils, aloe vera wraps, and gentle scrubs infused with sea salt and lemongrass. The therapists here practice a kind of healing that feels intuitive — it’s not just about the body, but about your energy, your calm.
Many guests describe the spa as one of the most soulful parts of their stay — a reminder that slowing down is the purest form of luxury.
Into the Heart of Africa
Dive, Discover & Drift
The surrounding waters of Pemba are known for their clarity, vibrant marine life, and coral reefs that remain largely untouched. Whether you’re a diver, a snorkeler, or simply an ocean lover, The Manta Resort opens a door to an underwater paradise.
Diving & Snorkeling
Dive the famous Pemba Channel, where you might spot turtles, manta rays, and a kaleidoscope of coral gardens. The resort’s dive center offers guided excursions, certification courses, and equipment for all levels.
Sandbank Picnics
A signature Manta experience — your private boat takes you to a hidden sandbank that appears only at low tide. Here, you can picnic in total solitude, swim in clear shallows, and feel like you’ve found your own secret island.
Local Culture
Visit nearby villages to learn about Pemba’s traditions, from spice farming to boat building. The resort works closely with the community, so each visit directly supports local families.
Evenings by the Fire
As night falls, guests often gather around the firepit — sharing stories, laughter, or simply the sound of the ocean. It’s a place where connections happen effortlessly.
Sustainability – Conscious Luxury
The Manta Resort is deeply rooted in sustainability. Power comes from solar energy, water is carefully managed, and local communities are part of every process — from gardening to guiding.
The resort’s Kwanini Foundation focuses on marine conservation, education, and empowerment. Staying here means being part of something bigger — a model of how tourism can truly give back.
Do’s & Don’ts
Bring reef-safe sunscreen and respect the fragile coral ecosystem.
Take time to unplug — WiFi is limited, and that’s part of the magic.
Try a night swim under the stars; the bioluminescence is unforgettable.
Book the Underwater Room at least once in your life — even just for one night.
Embrace “island time.” The slower rhythm is a gift.
Don’t:
Expect nightlife or loud entertainment — this is a sanctuary, not a party spot.
Use plastic bottles or leave waste behind; Manta is proudly eco-conscious.
Disturb the marine life for photos — the ocean is their home.
Rush through — everything here is meant to be experienced slowly.
FemmVoyage Insider Tips
Ask for a “Seaweed Walk” — guided by locals, it’s a peaceful, meditative experience through the tidal flats.
Try the Swahili dinner night for authentic island flavors and live music.
Go diving early morning for the best light and marine activity.
Book a massage at sunset — the soft gold light through the palms is pure magic.
Stay at least 3 nights to truly unwind and sync with the rhythm of Pemba
A Place to Remember
The Manta Resort isn’t simply a hotel; it’s a retreat for the soul. It’s where salt, sun, and stillness meet; where you rediscover simplicity and find beauty in balance.
At FemmVoyage, we believe everyone deserves a place where you can breathe, reconnect, and dream — and The Manta Resort is exactly that. Whether you come for romance, renewal, or the thrill of sleeping beneath the sea, you’ll leave with something far more precious: peace.
Because sometimes, paradise isn’t found…It’s felt.
Contact Information
Address: The Manta Resort, Pemba, P.O. Box 32, Wete, Pemba, Tanzania
Check-in: from 3:00 PM | Check-out: until 11:00 AM
Contact: Phone: +255 776 141 429 | Email: direct@themantaresort.com
Follow Us: Instagram: @themantaresort | Facebook: The Manta Resort
Day
Thanks for joining us!
We’re Day & Nicole, an adventurous mother-daughter duo who thrive on exploring the world and creating unforgettable lasting memories. Whether it’s the scent of fresh mountain air, the taste of local cuisine, or the warmth of a cozy hotel, we love experiencing every corner of life together.There’s nothing we love more than being on the move, we’re always ready for the next wild adventure.
Through our travels, we aim to inspire others by sharing our personal stories and honest reviews of the incredible places we stay. From luxurious retreats to charming hideaways, we’re here to help you discover destinations that will spark your own sense of adventure.
With a passion for photography, we capture every moment to share through this blog. From breathtaking hotels to unique experiences, we’re here to bring you along as we see, feel, and explore it all. Let’s turn every trip into a story worth telling!
