This small, casual guesthouse is situated near Bwejuu on one of the best stretches of beach on the south-east coast. Think palm trees, powder-soft sand and blue ocean. Sunrise Guest House is owned and managed by a charming Belgian called Georges, who we found to be the perfect host.
The place has a personal feel and is renowned for serving some of the best food on the island. Recently they built a lovely little swimming pool which is a welcome relief when the tide is out. This is an unusual luxury for a guesthouse (as opposed to a beach resort) in Zanzibar.
Sunrise is situated on the edge of a string of other bungalows and lodges, but all are pretty low-key in these parts. It's a very simple guesthouse set in tropical gardens with quiet spots to chill out and read a book. The architecture lacks a bit of character and style when compared to other guesthouses but is very reasonably priced.
If you want some privacy, a quiet beach and a more personal touch to your holiday, Sunrise Guesthouse is a good option. Snorkelling spots are in walking distance.
The rooms are all simple, but clean and comfortable. They are decorated with dark-wood furniture and bright-red or orange bedspreads. Some have Zanzibari style beds, other simple canopies. All the rooms have mosquito nets and en-suite tiled bathrooms with a shower.
There are 12 rooms, with a choice of bungalows or standard rooms. We recommend the thatched bungalows which have wooden railings in front. They face the ocean and even though they are arranged two bedrooms per bungalow they still offer some sense of privacy. If they’re available, number 13 and 14 are the top options as they are nearest the ocean. If you think you’ll spend a lot of time at the pool, 7 and 8 are the closest.
The standard rooms face onto the back garden wall and are a less attractive option, unless you’re really trying to save money.
| Dining |
back to top
|
|
There’s a quirky bar area and fantastic restaurant which serves mainly European cuisine. There’s not too much in the way of traditional Swahili dishes. Besides sandwiches for lunch and seafood delicacies, the menu includes some unusual choices for these parts such as Andalusian gazpacho and choc mousse (Belgian chocolate, of course). There is a good selection of wines to enjoy with your meal. Vegetarians and other diets are catered for. Restaurant prices are reasonable.
Breakfast offers the usual selection of fresh fruits, cakes and eggs.
|
| Fast Facts |
back to top
|
Location: Sunrise is situated on the southeast coast near the tiny village of Bwejuu, 3km north of Paje. It’s an hour’s drive from Stone Town and the airport.
General facilities:
• Restaurant
• Bar
• Swimming pool
Rooms:
• Mosquito nets
• Ceiling fans
• En-suite tiled bathrooms
Activities:
• Hire a bike and explore the village and beach.
• There are good snorkelling spots in walking distance.
• If you want to dive or try out some watersport, Breezes Beach Club is the closest option.
• Jozani Forest excursions and trips to Kizimkazi can be arranged.
Services:
• Laundry service
• Transfers to airport
• Fax and Internet available
Open: All year round
|
