Xanadu Villas and Retreat

Located on the south-east coast of Zanzibar, Xanadu has a great location for those looking to relax on a beautiful beach. For those who are hoping to be a little more active, a range of watersports activities and cultural tours in the nearby capital of Stone Town are easily bookable for day trips!

The south‑eastern coastline offers warm, shallow water suited to snorkelling among reef fish, starfish and small coral patches, while boat trips toward offshore reefs provide encounters with green turtles, dolphins, reef sharks and rays. Diving excursions can reach deeper coral slopes where manta rays and, during migration, humpback whales may appear. Kayaking and paddle‑boarding are often possible in calm lagoon conditions, adding gentle adventure to the area’s romantic, secluded feel.

However, a few limitations are worth noting: the strong tidal range restricts swimming for long periods, and the intimate villa‑only format means fewer shared facilities than larger resorts along the coast.

Xanadu’s six villas are focused on luxury and unique design. All six can be booked exclusively for a large family or groups, or they can be booked individually throughout the year.

There is plenty of space in Xanadu – a large dining and lounge area invites guests around the pool, as well as the option of relaxing in their own living areas and villa spaces. Xanadu also has a spa called Kiota, which is nestled down by the beach, offering massages, manicures, pedicures and a range of treatments.

Do see our new Xanadu Villas and Retreat Picture Gallery further down this page.

The six villas accommodate a maximum of 18 guests and each vary in style, size, location and amenities. Each villa is incredibly spacious, containing its own living area, kitchen (the resident chef can cook in your villa), well-appointed bathrooms, private plunge pool and either one or two bedrooms.

With a strong influence from the owner (who has “loaned” the villas some of her private African art collection) there is a very elegant and homely feel to each one of them in their own way. 

Do see Best Safaris & Holidays on this page.

Please call us in the UK on the usual +44 1525 840 149 or email info@theafricaspecialists.com to check availability, best prices and what adventures you have in mind. We can plan and arrange it all for you and have been for over 20 years!