Zanzibar City-6.21031300,
39.20144000,
Mbweni, Zanzibar, Tanzania Mbweni, Zanzibar, Tanzania(Show on Map)
7.4
Good
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Summary of reviewsMbweni Ruins & Gardens, previously known as Jungle Paradise, offers guests an enchanting stay characterized by its stunning location, exceptional service, and a tranquil environment. Conveniently situated between the airport and historic Stone Town, the hotel provides breathtaking views and proximity to a beautiful private beach, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking relaxation and exploration. The serene gardens and picturesque surroundings offer an idyllic backdrop for both leisure and discovery, amplified by the attentive management and staff who enhance guests' experiences.
The breakfast at Mbweni Ruins & Gardens is well-regarded for its quality and diverse offerings, particularly highlighted by fresh dishes and ocean views from the breakfast deck. Although service speed can be a minor issue, the culinary experience is generally satisfying. Dinner also receives praise, especially for its fresh seafood and the enchanting terrace dining under sunset views, though the menu could benefit from more variety. Despite some service delays, the overall dining experience is a pleasant one.
Guests find the rooms spacious, comfortable, and clean, with many enjoying the large balconies offering ocean views. While there are occasional remarks about dated decor and musty smells, the accommodations provide a comfortable escape for travelers. The hotel’s cleanliness is generally appreciated, although consistency in housekeeping could be improved.
The staff at Mbweni Ruins & Gardens consistently stand out for their friendliness and dedication, contributing to a welcoming and hospitable atmosphere. Their attentiveness in ensuring guest satisfaction is repeatedly noted, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
Though Wi-Fi connectivity in rooms can be inconsistent, the pool area, with its serene ambiance and cleanliness, offers a delightful retreat. The beach, renowned for its beauty and tranquility, provides a relaxing and picturesque coastal experience, complemented by the surrounding mangroves and lush gardens.
Mbweni Ruins & Gardens is particularly family-friendly, with amenities that cater to both relaxation and exploration, making it a convenient base for nearby attractions. The comfortable beds further ensure a restful stay. Offering a four-star boutique experience with a blend of luxury and warmth, Mbweni Ruins & Gardens successfully provides a memorable getaway enriched by its natural beauty and superior service. Show more
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Categories
Hotel near The Beach
Mbweni Ruins & Gardens, located in Mbweni, offers a serene environment close to the beach. The hotel provides a tranquil retreat with access to both the beach and nearby attractions.
Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability
Described as a regeneration hub embracing sustainable tourism and ecological awareness. Guest reviews highlight its eco-friendliness.
Hotel for Honeymoon
Located in Mbweni, this hotel offers a unique setting with ruins and gardens. Its tranquil environment and historical ambiance can provide a memorable and romantic experience for adventurous couples.
Hotel with Spa
Gardens and natural settings often complement spa services. Guests can enjoy a tranquil environment with potential wellness offerings.
Family Friendly Hotel
Located in Mbweni, this hotel offers ruins and gardens. While specific family amenities are not detailed, the historical and natural surroundings can provide an educational and engaging experience for families.
Romantic Hotel
Located in Mbweni, this hotel offers a unique experience with its historical ruins and lush gardens. The tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty make it a romantic escape.
Hotel with Parking
Mbweni Ruins & Gardens offers parking. The parking availability makes it an attractive option for guests who prefer to drive.
Small Hotel
Mbweni Ruins & Gardens offers a unique blend of historical ruins and garden settings. The hotel's serene environment and personalized service provide a charming and cozy atmosphere.
4-Star Hotel
Located in Mbweni, this hotel offers a unique experience with its historical ruins and gardens. It is ideal for travelers interested in exploring Zanzibar's history and natural beauty.
Hotel with Outdoor Pool
Offers an outdoor pool within a lush garden setting. The hotel provides a tranquil escape with historical ruins and beautiful natural surroundings.
Luxury Hotel
Hotel with Swimming Pool
Outdoor Pool
Business Hotel
Room Types
Executive SuiteFeaturing a private entrance, this air-conditioned suite comprises 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom with a bath and a shower. The suite provides a tea and coffee maker, a seating area, a wardrobe as well as a terrace with sea views. The unit offers 1 bed.
Junior Suite with Ocean ViewFeaturing a private entrance, this air-conditioned suite consists of 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom with a shower and a bidet. Among the room amenities are a tea and coffee maker, a wardrobe, a tiled floor as well as a patio and sea views. The unit offers 1 bed.
Two-Bedroom SuiteFeaturing a private entrance, this air-conditioned suite consists of 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom with a shower and a bidet. Among the room amenities are a tea and coffee maker, a wardrobe, a tiled floor as well as a patio and sea views. The unit offers 2 beds.
ApartmentThe unit offers 3 beds.
Guest Reviews
7.4
Good
Location
Nestled between the convenience of the airport and the historic charm of Stone Town, Mbweni Ruins & Gardens offers a stunning location that balances accessibility with scenic beauty. This unique hotel is situated in an idyllic setting, surrounded by lush green grounds, and provides guests with breathtaking views. The proximity to a private beach adds to its allure, making it a superb choice for both relaxation and exploration. The serene atmosphere is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat, yet it's just minutes away from the vibrant activity of Stone Town. The location is particularly advantageous for travelers planning to explore nearby attractions like Prison Island and Chumbe Island, or who have early departures from the airport. Whether it's the quiet ambiance, the picturesque gardens, or the easy access to local sights, this hotel offers a wonderful blend of convenience and natural beauty. The management and staff further enhance the experience, ensuring that the hotel lives up to its great potential and value for money.
Breakfast
Mbweni Ruins & Gardens, previously Jungle Paradise, receives much praise for its breakfast offerings, setting it apart with various standout features. Guests frequently highlight the superb quality and diversity of the breakfast, noting it as excellent and even magnificent by Tanzanian standards. Many appreciate the fresh and tasty dishes, with perfectly poached eggs and fresh juice serving as particular highlights, alongside the availability of cooked-to-order eggs. The experience is elevated by the breathtaking ocean views from the breakfast deck, adding a serene and picturesque backdrop to the meal.
However, the service pace is consistently mentioned as an area for improvement, with several guests pointing out delays in receiving their meals. Although breakfast is advertised to start at 7:30 am, some found it was not ready until after 8:00 am, impacting the overall convenience. Occasional instances of incomplete orders and missing menu items are also noted, indicating a need for more consistent service delivery. Despite these issues, the buffet-style breakfast provides ample selection and a satisfying experience for most visitors.
Dinner
Nestled in the serene setting of Mbweni Ruins & Gardens, the restaurant consistently impresses diners with its very good culinary offerings. Guests frequently highlight the amazing food and exquisite cuisine, with a particular nod to the fresh seafood options. While the menu might not be extensive, it offers a sufficient variety to satisfy guests for several days, including good options for vegetarians, all at reasonable prices.
Dinner at the resort often becomes an enchanting experience, as guests enjoy meals on the terrace while absorbing the sunset and local culture. The attentive and courteous staff contribute positively to the dining experience. However, it's noted that service can be slow, leading to long waiting times on occasion, which might detract from the overall experience.
A few reviews suggest that some may find the prices slightly on the higher side, especially in comparison to other local establishments, and there are mixed opinions about the menu's limitation. Despite these occasional concerns, the kitchen and chef are generally praised for maintaining a good standard of food quality.
Overall, dining at Mbweni Ruins & Gardens mostly lives up to guests' expectations, with many leaving with pleasant memories of savoring delicious meals amid a picturesque and culturally rich backdrop.
Rooms
Nestled within a richly shaded forest, Mbweni Ruins & Gardens offers guests a tranquil retreat with spacious and comfortable rooms. Many guests appreciated the lovely, expansive rooms that feature large balconies offering picturesque ocean views. The rooms are typically clean and well-maintained, boasting massive beds and efficient air conditioning, ensuring comfort and relaxation. Guests particularly enjoyed the outdoor terraces that accompany several rooms, providing a delightful space to unwind amidst the garden and sea views.
While rooms exude a sense of spaciousness and comfort, some reviewers noted the dated decor and occasional musty smells, highlighting areas where maintenance could be improved. Despite these issues, the hotel succeeds in creating a welcoming and serene atmosphere, with cleanliness being a common theme appreciated by many guests. The consistent daily cleaning further enhances the overall experience. For those seeking a deluxe option, the rooms offer stunning sunset views, adding to the charm of this unique getaway spot.
Overall, Mbweni Ruins & Gardens stands out for its idyllic setting and spacious accommodations, providing a peaceful and comfortable escape for travelers, with room for improvement in certain areas to ensure the perfect stay.
Beds
Nestled within the lush surroundings of Mbweni Ruins & Gardens, the accommodations offer a restful sanctuary for guests seeking comfort and relaxation. The beds generally receive praise for their size and comfort, with several travelers commenting on their massive dimensions and super king sizes that offer ample space for a peaceful night's sleep. Many reviews highlight how the mattresses are of very good quality, adding to the overall sense of comfort experienced in each room.
Despite some feedback mentioning that the beds are quite high off the ground, the consensus remains positive, noting that the rooms are comfortable and well-equipped for a pleasant stay. A few guests suggest improvements in the quality of bed sheets and towels, yet the comfort of the beds continues to be a prominent aspect of the experience. Overall, Mbweni Ruins & Gardens provides an inviting atmosphere for relaxation, where the beds play a key role in ensuring a restorative visit amidst the historic and tranquil setting.
Cleanliness
Mbweni Ruins & Gardens offers a mixed bag when it comes to cleanliness. Guest feedback highlights that while rooms are generally clean, daily housekeeping services ensure fresh towel changes and bed linens, the cleanliness level varies. Most reviews appreciate the clean state of the rooms and the serene setting of the garden and beach areas. However, several reviews also note issues with the cleanliness of the floors and bathrooms, pointing out that some areas could be better maintained. Though the facility is clean overall, it appears slightly dated and in need of more attentive upkeep to bring out its full potential. Occasional cleaning lapses suggest inconsistency in housekeeping standards, which, alongside maintenance concerns, might leave some visitors expecting more for the price. Despite these challenges, the hotel's tranquil environment and supportive staff contribute positively to the guest experience.
Staff
At Mbweni Ruins & Gardens, previously known as Jungle Paradise, the staff consistently stands out for their exceptional service and friendliness. Guests have highlighted the welcoming and smiling nature of the entire team, making the experience truly delightful from start to finish. The staff goes above and beyond, demonstrating attentiveness and a keen ability to accommodate guests' needs, whether during service or in addressing specific requests. Receptionists, in particular, receive praise for their helpfulness and superb service, ensuring a smooth and pleasant stay.
Dining at the on-site restaurant is enhanced by the attentive service of the restaurant staff, often described as super service. The hotel's manager also leaves a positive impression, actively seeking guest feedback and listening to considerations for improvement. The overall atmosphere is one of warmth and hospitality, with the team being described as super, amazing, and incredibly kind.
Although some mention longer wait times, the friendly demeanor of the staff more than compensates for any delays. Additionally, practical services like arranging airport transfers and spraying the room with repellent each evening are seamlessly handled, adding to the convenience of the stay. Mariam and her crew receive special acknowledgment for their role in ensuring a memorable visit. The stunning location combined with such a dedicated team results in a truly enjoyable experience for visitors.
Wi-Fi
When examining the guest reviews for Mbweni Ruins & Gardens, it becomes clear that Wi-Fi can be a significant issue for travelers staying at the property. Although there are positive mentions of good Wi-Fi, especially in public areas like the reception, many guests experienced challenges, particularly regarding connectivity in their rooms. Wi-Fi was described as fine in some parts of the property and even flawless in certain areas. However, in many instances, guests reported unstable or completely non-functional internet connections during their stay.
The dissatisfaction mostly stems from poor or nonexistent Wi-Fi in guest rooms, with some visitors struggling to connect for extended periods. While Wi-Fi might have worked adequately in communal spaces, room connectivity leaves room for improvement. Moreover, the general consensus on the internet on the island further highlights that guests may not find consistently reliable Wi-Fi, affecting users who require stable internet for work or leisure. Overall, while some areas of Mbweni Ruins & Gardens offer satisfactory Wi-Fi, enhancing room coverage would significantly improve the guest experience.
Pool
At Mbweni Ruins & Gardens, the pool consistently impresses guests with its cleanliness and inviting atmosphere. Nestled in a picturesque setting, the pool area offers a serene retreat, perfectly complementing the beautiful beachside location. Loungers are comfortably placed around the pristine pool, providing a lovely spot for relaxation. While some visitors find the pool a bit small, its stunning sea view and proximity to the on-site restaurant enhance the overall experience. The attentive staff ensure the area is well-maintained, making it a refreshing escape on warm days. Despite a few minor drawbacks, the pool remains a highlight, contributing significantly to the tranquil ambiance of the hotel.
Beach
Nestled within an enchanting coastal setting, Mbweni Ruins & Gardens offers guests a captivating beach experience that combines both relaxation and adventure. The beach, renowned for its beauty, especially at sunset, is a standout feature of this charming hotel. Visitors consistently appreciate the fine sandy shore that provides a unique and tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for unwinding in peace. The beach's proximity to the hotel and its private nature contribute to a restful stay, while the surrounding mangroves add an element of natural beauty, creating a dreamlike jungle atmosphere.
Although the tides impact the sea's swimmability, guests find the beach itself to be lovely and well-maintained, with a picturesque pool and restaurant overlooking the shore. Some mention the presence of non-residents on the sun loungers, but this does not detract from the overall appeal. The combination of lush gardens, historical ruins, and direct access to the coastal environment creates a charming backdrop for a getaway. Whether one yearns for a quiet escape or a picturesque coastal retreat, the beach at Mbweni Ruins & Gardens adeptly caters to those desires.
Family
Nestled in a prime location close to the airport, Mbweni Ruins & Gardens stands out as an ideal retreat for families looking to unwind and rejuvenate. The hotel boasts a peaceful and family-friendly environment that's both quiet and accommodating, making it perfect for relaxation. Known for its cleanliness, the hotel has gained admiration for its friendly and attentive staff, who go the extra mile to ensure guests have a comfortable stay, such as preparing a delicious breakfast to go for early departures. This makes the hotel a convenient base not only for exploring nearby attractions like Chumbe Island but also for embarking on a safari adventure on the mainland. The family room is well-suited for groups of four, further enhancing its appeal for those traveling with children. Ultimately, Mbweni Ruins & Gardens strikes a harmonious balance between accessibility, comfort, and family-oriented service.
4 Star
Mbweni Ruins & Gardens, previously known as Jungle Paradise, offers a compelling four-star experience with its blend of a boutique ambiance and exceptional service. Guests consistently appreciate the hotel's advantageous location, which enhances the overall four-star vibe. The pricing seems to align with what one might expect from a hotel in this category, reinforcing the satisfaction with the service and offerings. Despite some reservations about disparities between advertising and reality, the consensus maintains a recommendation for its service quality and distinctive atmosphere.
Luxury
Nestled amidst lush greenery, Mbweni Ruins & Gardens, formerly known as Jungle Paradise, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and comfort. Guests are enchanted by the magnificent views, with particular admiration for the stunning vistas visible directly from the rooms. The hotel's exceptional location, complemented by its beautifully maintained facilities, creates an atmosphere that many describe as a true paradise on Earth. While not overly luxurious, the property provides a very comfortable stay, making it a remarkable retreat for those who appreciate the serene and enchanting environment of this real Jungle Paradise.
Romantic
Nestled in a serene setting, Mbweni Ruins & Gardens provides a tranquil retreat ideal for those seeking a romantic escape. Couples can enjoy intimate candlelight dinners at the restaurant, adding a touch of romance to their stay. The property is noted for fantastic sunset moments, offering great sunset views that enhance the romantic ambience. With its cozy and intimate atmosphere, it becomes a perfect haven for honeymooners or couples on a romantic getaway. Many highlight its suitability for couples, with several expressing intentions to return to this romantic haven when visiting Zanzibar again.
Yes, Mbweni Ruins & Gardens Previously Jungle Paradise has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Outdoor Pool.
Yes, a spa is available at Mbweni Ruins & Gardens Previously Jungle Paradise.