Fanjove Island – Tanzania’s Private Paradise

Overview

Fanjove Island is a pristine private island off the southern coast of Tanzania, part of the Songo Songo Archipelago. With just one eco-lodge and unspoiled surroundings, it offers the ultimate barefoot luxury escape. Imagine powder-white beaches, turquoise waters, swaying palms, and complete exclusivity where it feels like you have an entire island to yourself.

This untouched paradise is perfect for those seeking privacy, romance, and tranquility, while still enjoying a range of exciting activities both on land and sea.

Why Fanjove Island?

only a handful of guests at a time, making it feel like your private island.
accommodation built with sustainability in mind, blending comfort with nature.
no crowds, no noise, just the sound of the ocean and bird calls.
an ideal getaway for honeymoons or special celebrations.

Activities on Fanjove Island

Snorkeling & Diving – explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with fish.
Dolphin & Whale Watching (seasonal).
Traditional Dhow Sailing at sunset.
Sandbank Picnics – enjoy private dining on a remote sandbank.
Birdwatching – spot colonies of seabirds like sooty terns and crab plovers.
Turtle Watching – see nesting and hatching (seasonal).
Nature Walks – guided exploration of the island’s flora and fauna.
Stargazing – some of the clearest skies in East Africa.

Accommodation on Fanjove Island

Overview

Accommodation on Fanjove Island is designed to blend seamlessly with the island’s natural beauty while offering guests a sense of privacy, comfort, and barefoot luxury. With only a handful of bandas available, the lodge guarantees exclusivity making it feel as if you are staying on your own private island. The rustic yet elegant design emphasizes sustainability, while still ensuring that every essential comfort is provided.

This intimate setting makes Fanjove Island an ideal retreat for couples, honeymooners, or anyone seeking a tranquil escape surrounded by pristine nature.

Features & Comfort

En-Suite Bathrooms with eco-friendly water systems and stylish rustic finishes.
Private Verandas furnished with daybeds or lounge chairs for uninterrupted ocean views.
Luxury in Simplicity soft bedding, mosquito nets, and locally crafted furniture.
Solar-Powered Energy providing lighting, fans, and essential services without harming the environment.
Natural Cooling bandas designed to capture ocean breezes instead of relying on air-conditioning.
Maximum Privacy ample spacing between bandas ensures seclusion.

Who It’s For

Couples & Honeymooners – private and romantic setting.
Small Groups or Families – the island can be booked exclusively.
Eco-Conscious Travelers – guests who appreciate sustainable, low-impact tourism.

Dining Experience

While not inside the bandas, dining is a key part of the accommodation offering:

Meals are served in a communal dining area or arranged on the beach for a more intimate experience.
Fresh seafood and locally sourced produce are at the heart of every dish.
Guests can enjoy romantic private dinners under the stars or on sandbanks.

Unique Touches

A historic lighthouse on the island adds charm and a sense of place.
Bandas are designed to give guests the feeling of being a modern castaway, but with luxury touches.
The absence of TVs and Wi-Fi in rooms encourages a true digital detox.

All you need to know about Fanjove Island

How to Get There

From Dar es Salaam:
- Fly to Songo Songo Island (approx. 1 hr).
- Short boat transfer (30–40 minutes) to Fanjove Island.
Private Charter: Can be arranged directly to the island for total exclusivity.
Safari Extensions: Often combined with Selous (Nyerere National Park), Ruaha, or Katavi for the ultimate bush & beach adventure.

What to Pack

Lightweight clothing (cotton/linen).
Swimwear, reef shoes, and flip-flops.
Reef-friendly sunscreen & after-sun lotion.
Hat, sunglasses, and light scarf for sun protection.
Snorkeling gear (optional – available at lodge).
Camera, binoculars, and extra batteries.
Mosquito repellent and basic personal medication.
A light sweater/jacket for evenings.

Good to Know

Electricity: 100% solar-powered.
Wi-Fi: Limited or unavailable – ideal for a digital detox.
Health: Malaria prophylaxis recommended.
Stay Duration: Most guests stay 3–5 nights, often as part of a longer Tanzania itinerary.
Family Friendly: Children are welcome, but the island is especially popular with couples.

Good to Know

Electricity: 100% solar-powered.
Wi-Fi: Limited or unavailable – ideal for a digital detox.
Health: Malaria prophylaxis recommended.
Stay Duration: Most guests stay 3–5 nights, often as part of a longer Tanzania itinerary.
Family Friendly: Children are welcome, but the island is especially popular with couples.

Signature Experiences

Fanjove Island is one of the most romantic destinations in East Africa. Couples can enjoy:
- Private beach dinners under the stars, with the sound of waves as your soundtrack.
- Sunset dhow cruises on a traditional wooden sailing boat, complete with champagne and canapés.
- Secluded beachfront bandas for maximum privacy and intimacy.
  These experiences make Fanjove a perfect choice for honeymoons, anniversaries, or anyone looking to celebrate love in an unforgettable setting.
Fanjove Island Lodge is fully committed to protecting the fragile marine and island ecosystem:
- Powered entirely by solar energy to reduce its carbon footprint.
- Bandas are built with natural, locally sourced materials such as palm leaves, wood, and thatch.
- Active efforts are made to protect marine life such as turtles, dolphins, and coral reefs.
- Partnership with local communities ensures that tourism benefits the people of Songo Songo.
  When you stay on Fanjove, you are part of a sustainable model that safeguards the island for future generations.
One of Fanjove’s most distinctive landmarks is its old German-built lighthouse, which still stands tall as a reminder of the island’s history. Guests can:
- Visit the lighthouse for panoramic views of the island and surrounding Indian Ocean.
- Learn about the island’s past as part of the maritime trading routes.
- Enjoy photography opportunities, especially at sunset when the lighthouse glows against the sky.
  This cultural touch adds depth and character to your stay — a link between Fanjove’s untouched beauty and its historical significance.
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging (longer trek but gradual ascent helps acclimatization).