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Perfect Hideaway

Great place to stop off after a safari in Kenya. The casas are very interesting and unique. Don't expect luxury beds - they are functional. Casas right on the water are beautiful, but the crashing waves can be loud at night.
We stayed for three days - perfect amount of time.
Great snorkeling, good food, fabulous atmosphere, wonderful staff.
Try and take the boat on their schedule, otherwise you are subject to big waves and 45 minutes in an old boat.
Highly recommended, a unique and memorable experience.

Found at tripadvisor.com, Chumbe Island Coral Park Resort (Feb 2007)

Fantastic Eco-Tourism Experience

We recently returned from a trip to Zanizbar, and during this vacation had the good fortune to spend 5 days on Chumbe Island Coral Park. As nearly everyone else who has reviewed before us, we cannot use enough superlatives about Chumbe. The staff are friendly, committed, and intelligent people who seem to truly care about the work they are doing and the cause to which they are contributing.
This was a true eco-tourism experience and in the midst of the fantastic scenery, great food, wonderful snorkeling and exclusivity of being among only 14 people on the island we enjoyed knowing we were having "zero impact" on the environment.
Food was wonderful and after 4+ days of eating and drinking we never got bored with the menu - which is a wonderful mix of Swahili and European cuisine. It inspired us so much that we bought the Chumbe Island Cookbook to take home.
The other highlight of the experience was the snorkeling, twice daily. One of us doesn't swim well and we initially thought this would mean he would have to forego the snorkeling. But the resourceful staff think of everything and they have a huge inner tube at the ready for those who are less than confident about swimming. In fact, the diver/guide pulls the tube along while searching for amazing things to show us in the coral and the not-confident swimmer just has to hold on to the inner tube handles and be pulled along. This experience was nothing less than magical and opened our appreciation of life under the sea and what a wonderful eco-system it is.
Other things to do on the island include an island walk and climbing up inside the light house for a panoramic view of the island and Unguja (Zanzibar Island) 10miles to the north. We also met a number of really interesting people among the other guests; everyone was friendly and engaging and yet we all found ways to make the island "our own and private".
The lodging is alot of fun and one really feels like it is "Robinson Crusoe Light"; though in the long term it might prove a challenge. The only drawback is the occasionally pungent long-drop toilet; but this is alleviated with the use of the compost provided.
When we arrived we initially thought we'd get bored over 5 days, but the time flew by and we found ourselves relishing every minute. It makes one appreciate nature in such an intimate and meaningful way.
A few things to remember about Chumbe: first, it is NOT luxury in the Western sense of a beach holiday. It is a true eco-tourism experience and the luxury comes from the priviledge of being on the island in such seclusion, being around people who care about the environment, in being in the amazingly beautiful setting, and knowing that it is not hurting the earth. If this is not luxury, nothing is.

Found at tripadvisor.com, Chumbe Island Coral Park Resort (Jan 2007)

Fantastic

Absolutely amazing. incredibly relaxed, really romantic, very beautiful, lots to do and see (with very little effort) incredible snorkelling (turtles every day), lovely friendly staff who really go out of their way to make your trip special, delicious food and an amazing unique experience. we were there 4 days, which was great, but i wish it had been longer.

Found at tripadvisor.com, Chumbe Island Coral Park Resort (Jan 2007)

Ecotourism doesn't get any better

We stayed at Chumbe for six nights in early November 2006, and I can say without hesitation that Chumbe represents the finest quality ecotourism resort you'll find.
By now you know the lengths Chumbe's management have gone to in order to exact as little impact on the environment as they can, so I'll focus on the service and amenities. The food was all top-notch and hearty, with a quite Indian influence. Most meals are served buffet-style, with a variety of dishes to choose. On our stay, the staff arranged a surprise dinner in the beachside cabana, with table service and wine and champagne. If you can arrange it, this service is a great treat, especially for a honeymoon.
All of the staff are wonderful and pleasant, always with a smile. One of our fondest memories is when one of the maintenance staff sat down with us for a couple of hours before dinner to teach us Bao, a traditional board game. I doubt the staff at a luxury hotel in the city would do the same.
The beach is not very large, but neither is the resort, so we never felt crowded. When the weather turns rainy there's always the hammock in your bungalow to relax. Be sure to climb the lighthouse and take part in as many of the excursions (forest walks, tide walks, and snorkeling are daily occurrences) as you can.
The only drawback I can report is that Bungalows 6-7 (we were in 6) are a little closer to the water and more exposed to the weather. The floor can become a little slippery as the mist comes in during rain or wind.
Above all, come just to relax. Our first day we wondered if we'd be bored, as the pace of life slows way down after city life and airports. We adjusted fine and we'll remember our stay fondly.
Found at tripadvisor.com, Chumbe Island Coral Park Resort (Dec 2006)

Incredibly special place

I can't really add much to the other reviews here, except to echo what they say. We were lucky enough to spend 5 nights on Chumbe and can also say that it is one of, if not THE, most special place we've ever stayed. Don't go if you're expcting five-star luxury and lots of facilities - you will be disappointed. However, if you want to stay somewhere where you can just wallow in the breathtaking surroundings and nature, this place is a must-see.
The staff are totally dedicated to the eco issues they are promoting and were never short of a huge smile or a fascinating piece of information. After five nights we were on first name terms with almost everyone and felt like part of the furniture by the time we left.
The level of service and friendliness of the staff, together with the standard of food and drink that's provided it outstanding. They would be well justified in charging silly prices for alcohol as this is not included in the full board rate, but even this is ridiculously low priced.
The only downside to our trip was the allergic reaction my partner had to the tiny jelly fish bites that were abundant on the snorkelling trips. We were surprised though at how little of a problem the mosquitoes were in general and came away with very few bites at all.
If you can spare a night or two to spend on Chumbe - you won't regret it.

Found at tripadvisor.com, Chumbe Island Coral Park Resort (Nov 2006)

Magical place

We went to Chumbe for our honeymoon last January 06 and was totally enamored by the place. The island is beautiful and well taken cared of by the non-profit org that manages it. The staff was really great and hospitable, they remembered that my husband was allerigic to shellfish so we always had two sets of meals which got us so excited because the food was really simple but so fantastic, from breakfast, lunch to dinner.
The eco-bungalow was impressive also, in that it was very bare bones but intelligently functional but still romantic in a way. an open plan, with a great view of the sea. very idyllic.
The best part was our last night, they surprised us with a candlelit dinner in a gazebo near the water. the path was candlelit all the way to the beach front, the stars were out, and the moon was full. wow!

Found at tripadvisor.com, Chumbe Island Coral Park Resort (Oct 2006)

Like camping in a wooden tent

I spent three nights on Chumbe and it was really great. It felt more like camping than being in a lodge. As mentioned by other reviewers it is very "eco" and that is part of the charm. The food was very good and had a much more local flavour than on the other islands I stayed on. All the staff were very friendly and helpful and remembered my name and my food preferences. Soft drinks are included, as is water, though I found it tasted rather like the clay used for filtration. There is a good selection of cocktails and the drinks are reasonably priced.
There is a short boat ride for the snorkelling, which can be done twice a day (depending on the tides) and the variety of coral is greater than I've ever seen in such a small area. Walks around the island can be taken with a guide or on your own.
It is not a place to go if you don't like birds (many of which have rather a limited range of songs and tend to act as an alarm clock as soon as it gets light) or for the nightlife (there isn't any, except looking for coconut crabs and duikers) but as a place to relax it is very good.
There are only two boats a day to and from the island and the presence of day trippers can make the place feel a bit less exclusive. I was told that there are also sometimes parties of local schoolchildren (as part of the education programme). The limited transportation means that on the last day you have to leave relatively early in the morning, which is a shame.

Found at tripadvisor.com, Chumbe Island Coral Park Resort (Sept 2006)

A little slice of Paradise

Chumbe Island is without question one of the most special places I have had the fortune of staying at.
A tiny coral island a couple of miles off the coast of Unguja (Zanzibar) island, and only an hour away from the bustle of Stonetown, Chumbe is a secluded tropical slice of paradise.
It is no 5-star resort, and nor does it aim to be - but is something far more special. An award-winning self-sustaining eco resort, it is often held up as one of the world leaders in sustainable tourism, and flicking through the press cuttings at the reception area just demonstrates the worldwide interest that the project has been generating over the past few years.
The accomodation comprises of just seven eco Bandas - beach hut made of local materials using local know how, open to the sea breezes and the sounds of nature. The limited number of bandas ensures that there can only be a maximum of 14 guests on the island at any one time (although this can increase if the guests have kids) - and the result is that the island never feels busy, and you are never more than a couple of minutes walk away from complete seclusion.
The Bandas, whilst basic, still contain creature comforts, including battery-powered lights and hot running water. The toilets are a drop composting affair, and whilst not entirely devoid of smell, are surprisingly effective. In all but one Banda (number 3), the bedroom is situated upstairs, with a palm front wall that can be lowered to watch the waves crashing on the beach steps away from your front door. Whilst the beds are situated underneath mosquito nets, the insect ingress here is actually far lower than is experienced and would be expected in the rest of Zanzibar, and whilst you are open to the elements, you shouldn't receive that many bites.
The island itself, being a nature reserve, is of course the main highlight of any trip to Chumbe. The sheer biodiversity on this small island, on the land and sea alike is overwhelming, and is likely to excite even the most jaded of nature enthusiasts. There are literally hundreds of species to view. From legions of tiny hermit crabs marching across the island day and night, to the giant nocturnal tree-climbing coconut crab, the crestaceous life is remarkable. But the real natural highlight lies beneath the waves. As a guest on the island you get to take part in daily activities free, of which the absolute must is a snorkelling trip. Skirting the eastern edge of the island and running for several miles, is one of East Africa's most diverse and amazing coral reef with thousands of fish, and even the odd turtle, which we were lucky enough to swim with.
What makes any stay on this island even more special however are the friendly staff, who are genuinely helpful and interested in helping you find out more about the island, or attend to your needs. From arranging private snorkelling trips, to taking you up the old lighthouse at sunset, to just sitting with you and talking for hours, they are always happy to help out and learn more about you as you learn about them. In particular I'd like to thank both Leyla and Wadi for making our trip this year extra special.
The island is full-board, and I can't fault the meals that we were cooked three times a day - tasty, hearty and varied - we were never let down and always looked forward to our mealtimes. In between meals, hot and cold drinks were provided free of charge as well.
Overall, Chumbe is a magical experience, and one that will stay with me for many years to come. Paradise doesn't have to mean 5-star facilities, and simple living in nature, listening to the sounds of birds, and watching the milky way at night can leave a far more lasting impression. If you are in Zanzibar, I would highly reccommend the extra expense to spend at least a couple of nights on Chumbe and experience this little slice of tropical paradise on earth.

Found at tripadvisor.com, Chumbe Island Coral Park Resort (Sept 2006)

Very special indeed

I agree with the other reviewers - a very special place with all you would expect from an eco resort - and more. Staff are extremely helpful and friendly - make sure you take binoculars to enjoy the birdlife; snorkelling kit is of good quality and range.

Found at tripadvisor.com, Chumbe Island Coral Park Resort (Oct 2005)

Very Special

We spent three days on Chumbe and it was the most amazing place we have ever stayed. The bandas are a real experience and spending the nights sleeping in such natural surroundings is very special. We shared our banda with geckos, had uninterrupted views of coconut crabs and on one morning I was even greeted by a green tea snake. At night time you can't help but just look out at the stars and listen to the ocean rather than actually sleep. The combination of the bandas, the excellent food and the unique location make this a truly exceptional place to stay. It's incredible value and the staff top everything off. We have never stayed anywhere before where the staff have genuinly wanted to help in anyway and make the stay as enjoyable as possible. We loved our stay and have very special memories. I hope that one day we can return.

Found at tripadvisor.com, Chumbe Island Coral Park Resort (Sept 2005)

Absolutely amazing. Eco-tourism at its best

We spent three days on Chumbe Island in February 2005 and had a fabulous time. We were truly sorry to leave the island and would recommend that anyone visiting Zanzibar spends at least two nights on the island.
The island only has seven "bungalows" and so there are a maximum of 14 guests at any one time. Day visitors are not allowed if this takes the number of guests above 14, though school trips are allowed (but these are no bother). Add in a very professional and discrete team of staff and you could feel like you have the island to yourself.
The rooms have to be seen to be believed. Totally eco-friendly and open to the elements, they do not even pretend to compete with western hotels for conventional luxury. However, what they do provide you with is a feeling of being at one with nature that is priceless. The bedroom upstairs even has a whole wall that can be lowered to i) provide a cooling sea breeze and ii) allow you to have the most amazing view over the Indian Ocean. Priceless.
Don't think that you are roughing it by staying here. The food is spectacular, the service impeccable, there is hot water in the tap, and the place is spotlessly clean. The snorkelling on the reef is spectacular, and we found ourselves swimming with sea turtles every time we went out.
There is also a special vibe about the place that brought out the best in everyone. I felt truly priviledged to be able to share this special place and can only hope that one way I will be able to go back.
But whatever you've heard about the toilets is all true.........
Found at tripadvisor.com, Chumbe Island Coral Park Resort (March 2005)

Perfection

Probably the best eco-resort I have ever stayed at - Chumbe is a miraculous achievement. The bungalows are beatifully designed and constructed - each one collects its own reservoir of rainwater during the rainy season for use throughout the year, there is no other source of water on the island. Solar heating gives you with a warm shower and bio-degradable toiletries are provided. You even get a solar powered torch for navigating back to your bed at night. It's not just a token gesture either - the island provides vital education in conservation to local fishermen and school children. I will not soon forget the sight of a dozen mulsim schoolgirls, in full length gowns and veils, preparing to go snorkelling on the reef.
The food in the restaurant was the best I have eaten in Africa and on clear nights they take the tables outside for an unforgettably romantic dinner under the stars. After dinner you are likely to be introduced to the giant, nocturnal coconut crabs which inhabit the island.
The snorkelling is top-class and I reccommend a walk around the island at low tide when you can discover a veritable encylopaedia of shells and starfish. Wait for high tide to go for a swim unless you want a long wade out into deep water.
The guides and waiters are all wonderful and justifiably proud of their resort. We visited in October 2004, four days was not enough and I'm ready to go back.

Found at tripadvisor.com, Chumbe Island Coral Park Resort (March 2005)

Heaven on Earth

This is a place you won’t want to leave!! It is pricy but well worth it since only 14 guests our allowed on this protected coral reef island. The staff and rangers are fabulous and they offer guided snorkeling and walks around the island. There are 7 eco-style huts with shower water from collected rain, solar heated water and composting toilets. Ask for hut # 7 since it is the furthest away and lies directly on the water (often given to honeymooners). This is a place where we would love to go back to.

Found at tripadvisor.com, Chumbe Island Coral Park Resort (Jan 2005)

The people here, The Chumbe team, stand out as the best. We enjoyed every aspect of our stay. Thank You!

Lanore Johnson, Montana, USA (2005)

We spent 5 magnificent days here at Chumbe. Everything has been fantastic, beyond our expectations. We loved the bungalows, and the way you have created a unique sustainable holiday destination. We loved the staff – so smiling, knowledge and helpful, the food was delicious and wholesome, the snorkelling spectacular. Never seen such coral and so many varieties of fish. We would love to come back. Chumbe is special, keep up the good work!

Thank you! Collette, Barry, Christy and Rosy Stoff. Cape Town, S.A. (26 Sept 2005)

Only here for a day visit, too short! Wish the rest of the world had same environmental care! Salama, peace, paradise. Thanks so much to amazing staff.

Yolanda, NZ. (28 Sept 2005)

Thanks for a fab one night stay on the Island! This place is amazing, it’s great to see something that is so worthwhile, working so successfully. The accommodation, food & staff were wonderful. Very helpful & informative, nothing was too much trouble! We hope to come back again one day, Thanks again.

Charly, David, Francesca. Cornwall, England. (13 Oct 2005)

Super duper in every way. Only hope Chumbe Island can inspire more projects of its kind!

Christine Ashurst, New Zealand. (16 Oct 2005)

Chumbe your wonderful reputation precedes you. You are beautiful and everyone who works here is knowledgeable, enthusiastic and devoted to your cause. The warmth and hospitality we received will always remain with us. You honour Mother Earth!! Asante sana.

John & Gill Rosmarin, Lesheba Wilderness. S.Africa. (18 Oct 2005)

The Chumbe experience was excellent. This is our second time and we are happy to see that the high standards are being maintained. How about turning the whole island’s coast into a protected area! Many thanks to staff and management. 

Mark Froneman and Delana louw. (22 Oct 2005)

Chumbe is like the best lager in the world it reaches and refreshes the parts that other holidays can’t! Carlsberg don’t do island, but if they did…! 

GM aka Miff & Lurf. (27 Oct 2005)

We loved our stay in the Island very much! We think this is an amazing project and we hope it will inspire people to be more involved in environmental protection around the world. Good luck! Next time we will be back to see turtles.

Annemaie, USA & Hendrine, Holland. (5 Nov 2005)

It has been such a pleasure to experience this unique little gem of an Island. The first time we have ever snorkelled and it was amazing, a garden in full bloom and another world. We also saw a large buzzard (Fish eagle) soaring gracefully over the tip of the island at sunset. This morning we have seen dolphins around the fishing boats and a beautiful pair of pied kingfishers diving into the sea with amazing accuracy & skill, what a treat! Our guide Jaku went out of his way to look after us snorkelling as beginners and all the other staff especially the kitchen staff were excellent, polite & welcoming. Thank you so much! 

Helen & Dendre, England. (12 Nov 2005)

Truly awesome. We make wildlife films and spend lots of time in wild, unspoilt places – to find a wild paradise that is cared for and so well run really lifts the spirit and brings renewed hope for our fragile planet. You have achieved something special and your staffs are fantastic. It makes a big difference – You really feel that everyone here is proud of the island and happy to be here.

You can all be proud of what you have achieved! Good luck and well done!!!

We will be back…..and sure to tell everyone that its one place you have to go to before you leave the planet. Best wishes, 

Mike Holding & Tania Jenkins. Botswana. (6. Dec 2005)  

On a personal (and very professional) level - Chumbe stood out completely as the ONLY place we visited to be in my opinion perfectly set and managed for eco-tourism, with staff adding priceless value to the guest experience and conservation of the crabs, coral rag forest and the island itself!

Willie Steenkamp, South Africa. (Sept 2005)

Tunashukuru sana!! We had a perfect honeymoon. And you (all staff) helped realizing it. We enjoyed every bit: the snorkelling, the walk, the scenery, the bungalow, the ocean view from the bed, the many traces of thousands crabs in the morning in the sand, the excellent cuisine and, and, and! Our stay will be unforgettable to us!

Andrea and Jan Fichtmüller, Finland. (Mar 2005)

Beautiful, peaceful, relaxing.

Kevin Rose, Arusha, Tanzania. (Mar 2005)

Thanks so much to the Chumbe team. We really enjoyed the food, the cocktails, the snorkelling, the tidal hike. We'll spread the word!

Nancy and Michael Genron, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. (Mar 2005)

An amazing experience never to be forgotten. Thank you very much for everything! We will spread the word on Chumbe! Good luck for all the ventures in the future!

Stoff and Susan von Gram, South Africa. (Mar 2005)

Chumbe exceeded our expectations! We knew it was going to be wonderful, but it was perfect!!! Thank you for your kindness and lovely food! We're already planning to come and visit again! We had a wonderful honeymoon!

Love, 

Theuns&Anna, South Africa. (Mar 2005)

Asante sana to everyone who helped make my wonderful visit on Chumbe a little bit of heaven on Earth!!! Hope you see you again soon.

Susan, Kampala, Uganda (2005)

I've never seen something like this. Good job. Thanks a lot for the team. Don't change anything! (as possible)

Emma, Belgique. Mar (2005) 

…….. we want to say a big Thank You to the Chumbe team.  You were so helpful and enthusiastic when we booked and we just LOVED all the staff on the island.  They looked after us so well and the meals were DELICIOUS. They were professional, friendly and very helpful. The snorkeling was just great and likewise the interesting forest walk. We wished we could have stayed longer! Nothing could have prepared us for the beautifully built and attractive simply decorated bandas, which held everything one needed. As you know we are very keen on conservation and to see eco tourism in Africa in action and in situ., was an eye opener. If only you could replicate it in more
places!!  Congratulations to everyone involved.

The Miller family, UK. (July 2004)

Absolutely fantastic - the island is breathtaking, the guides knowledgeable, friendly, helpful and professional, the food absolutely superb and the snorkeling out of this world. I can't speak highly enough of Chumbe island and the people who run it. You can be assured that I will recommend the island to all my friends and hope that one day I get the chance to return. All those who have been either in the past or currently, involved with the island should be extremely proud of their achievements.
Nick Thomas, London, UK

Well, the best comment would be WOW! I'm so glad I decided to end my memorable holiday in Zanzibar here on Chumbe. It's definitely the brightest highlight of my trip. The snorkeling was the best I've done in Zanzibar. The bungalows are an education (as well as being the best in Zanzibar!) Lying in a hammock, watching palm trees moving in the sea breeze and listening to the sea is like a dream! The food is superb! (Also the best I've had in Zanzibar). And the staff excellent!
Louise, from South Africa

A truly marvelous, idyllic, superb, amazing place. It exceeded all our expectations. Food, accommodation and staff were perfect.
Derege Susan, USA

An inspired educational experience grafted into a perfect holiday. The knowledge of the guides and the courtesy of all of the staff combined with the perfect tropical island experience has made my birthday and our holiday uniquely unforgettable. Finally, Chumbe-esque will enter our dictionary defining perfection.
Richard & Gabrielle, Bath, UK

Although we'd read about Chumbe and thought we knew what to expect, this experience was beyond our wildest expectations & dreams. The moment we set foot on the island we felt the good vibrations ….. This is a wonderful project which deserves more attention around the world; more people to enjoy it…. Chumbe Island Coral Park left us with an unforgettable mark!
Robin & Ine, The Netherlands

Fantastic experience is not enough to describe this trip!! I'm sorry but it seems we have loosen speech!! We feel really rich and happy being here. We'll never forget!
Ricardo & Farsio, Rome, Italy

I know now what heaven is like
Leslie, USA

Thanks for keeping this little paradise as paradise on earth
Thomas, Switzerland

A real privilege to stay here and take part in the hidden world of coral reefs, and to have such expert guides telling us about the life on the island - we will thoroughly recommend it to other nature lovers.
Ulrike (Sweden) & Roger (UK)

Nach einem eindrucksvollen Tag sitzen wir hier im warmen Wind und versuchen die Eindrücke des Tages Revue passieren zu lassen: Farben, Formen, Zusammenspiele, die wir vorher nicht kannten - wunderschön!
S. Neuffer, Germany

A fantastic unique island with stunning diversity of wildlife - fauna and flora. The staff with their patient explanations and obvious enjoyment of their jobs make it a very special place.
Francesca & Andrew, SA

We had been told about Chumbe but nothing could have prepared us for the beauty of the island, the breathtaking coral, the amazing bandas (bungalows), delicious food & the wonderful welcome by Yussuf. Thank you to everyone on the island for your hospitality.
Rob & Jenny, UK

An incredible day, a privilege to have visited this project. It must be preserved and protected for all our future. Please keep it the same and education of the children about marine biology a priority.
Catherine Hofe, USA

The outer reef flat and the reef flat/slope is one of the most scenic I have ever seen anywhere. The coral cover is virtually 100% with large colonies closely packed together. The diversity of coral is also very big with almost all of the 200 species of Zanzibar present. The accommodation is excellent. I wish the Marine Park the best -
it deserves it.
J.E.N. Veron, Chief Scientist, Australian Institute of Marine Sciences

Chumbe Island Coral Park Ltd.

P.O.Box 3203, Zanzibar/Tanzania
Tel & Fax +255-(0)24-2231040, Fax (UK) +44-(0)870-1341284
Project Manager: +255-(0)777-413582

General information, enquiries: ask@chumbeisland.com and

bookings: book@chumbeisland.com

last revised: 13.03.2008

© CHICOP Chumbe Island Coral Park 2008