Fanjove Private Island Lodge

Fanjove Private Island Lodge, Songo Songo Archipelago, Tanzania

Our rating: Medium

Fanjove Island is the jewel in the crown of the Songo Songo Archipelago, and is home to Fanjove Private Island Lodge. There are just six A-frame thatched bandas here, spread along the sandy shore and each with an uninterrupted view of the ocean. Simple and rustic in their design, each banda has a thatched roof, wooden floors, double or twin beds, comfortable armchairs and an ensuite bathroom. Wooden steps lead upstairs to a daybed area, ideal for an afternoon snooze.

The whole lodge has been designed to minimise the impact on the island, so solar power is used throughout the property and buildings make the most of natural materials. There is an open air restaurant and lounge area, set under a large airy thatch roof, where fusion cuisine is served to reflect the multicultural heritage of the islands. Just along the beach from the main lodge is the ruin of a lighthouse. With crumbling white paintwork, it adds an interesting element to explore. Activities from the lodge include snorkelling, diving and sailing in traditional dhows.