You can go to a luxury hotel and be impressed — by the views, the food, the rooms. But every now and then, you stay somewhere that stays with you. That was exactly what we found at TUI Blue Bahari Zanzibar.
A five-star, all-inclusive hotel that delivered way beyond what the website promised — not just in comfort. A space that wasn’t just about indulgence… it became a home for a few weeks. A place that allowed us to not just exhale, but connect — in ways that were totally unexpected.
✨ The Welcome
After a long travel day, we were greeted with freshly made mocktails, warm towels, and even warmer smiles. The lobby is open-plan, offering a full view of your surroundings — neutral tones, contemporary touches, and still deeply rooted in its African setting. The best word to describe it? Elegant. Without being pretentious.
This theme ran through the entire grounds — which, in truth, felt more like a small village than a hotel. And from the moment you step in, it hits you: We’re really in Zanzibar.
The check-in process? Seamless. Before we knew it, a private chauffeur was escorting us to our room. It already felt peaceful — the kind of place where your shoulders drop without you even realising. And you just know you’re going to be taken care of.
🛏️ The Room
Set apart from the main building in what felt like our own little villa, our room had a soft, apartment-style layout with beautiful wooden details and African design touches that made it feel rooted in place — yet still modern.
Out back was a private garden area that felt in no way overlooked — where every morning I’d sit with a coffee, watching the sun rise and the gardeners quietly watering the plants. Those peaceful moments? Priceless.
Inside, it was everything you’d expect from a five-star stay: roomy, spotless, and elegant. The bathroom alone was a dream — double sinks, marble finishes, and a walk-in shower that felt like a private spa. Smart TV, comfy beds, fast Wi-Fi — the whole shebang.
🌴 The Grounds
The hotel layout was spot on — beautifully spaced, calm, and never overcrowded. There were three pools: two peaceful ones for quiet time, and a more social one with music and activity. But even then, it never felt hectic. No fights for loungers. No overbooking energy. Just balance.
The 24-hour reception became our little hangout. You could grab sandwiches, water, and that mango juice my husband still bangs on about to this day! Ha! Whatever you needed, whenever you needed it — reception had your back. We loved that.
🍽️ Dining Highlights: Beach BBQs & That Final Dinner
Now. Let’s talk about the food.
Five restaurants spread throughout the grounds — plus snack bars. The selection? Believe me, you can’t go hungry. Whether you’re adventurous and love diving into cultural flavours or prefer familiar options like burgers and pizza — you’re covered.
And the drinks? Also a win. Great selection of cocktails, mocktails, soft drinks, and don’t forget the coconuts — literally cut fresh from the trees in front of you.
My son and daughter always had the bartenders whip up their favourite mocktail — freshly blended fruit at its finest. I wish I could remember the name of it, but every time? It hit the spot.
Every few nights, the hotel hosted beach BBQs that were honestly the stuff of foodie dreams. Picture buffet-style, but elevated — fresh grilled tuna, juicy lamb, chicken, Zanzibar pizza, handmade roti. That blend of Indian and East African flavour that runs through Swahili cuisine? It was everywhere. And it was divine.
And I can’t not mention the beach restaurant. You’re allowed to book it once during your stay, and we saved it for our last night. What a decision. It was just us — no other guests — sat under the night sky, with a cool sea breeze and a view straight out onto the ocean. Me and my son ordered lobster and let me tell you — next level. That meal? We’ll be talking about it for years.
And the magic didn’t stop there. One night, me and my husband were having drinks at the bar after dinner, the entertainment winding down, music gentle in the background… and suddenly, we spotted monkeys jumping through the trees above us. Wild, unexpected beauty. Moments like that really don’t leave you.
🌊 Kiwengwa Beach & the Maasai Presence
The hotel’s private access to Kiwengwa Beach was another highlight. Soft golden sand, turquoise water. Honestly, that beach looked like it had been filtered over and over. But most importantly, it was a space to just… breathe.
It was never crowded. Hammocks dotted around, plenty of loungers — but not so many that it looked like a packed resort. Just long, open coastline with a view that constantly reminded you: you’re in paradise.
I got more than my fair share of that beach over our stay. And my daughter, who’s a budding photographer? She was in her element. Camera in hand, watching the waves pass by like a slow, perfect rhythm.
And then, of course, the Maasai men. You’d see them daily, walking the shore in their red and blue shúkàs. Sometimes they were selling jewellery, sometimes just passing through. But again — connection. They became part of the fabric of the place. Over time, we’d chat, laugh, even share jokes. They became familiar faces. And strangely? You’d miss them when they weren’t there.
❤️ The Heart of It All: The People
This is where I get emotional.
Because everything else — the food, the rooms, the views — could’ve been amazing on its own. But what took this trip to another level was the people.
Every single staff member we encountered — from the bar to the gardeners to the waitresses — was warm, kind, and present. They didn’t just greet you — they remembered your name. They remembered your preferences. They didn’t rush conversations or service. Somehow, even when busy, they gave you time. Real, genuine time.
One young male staff member really bonded with my son — always playing footie with him, checking in with him. On our last day, that guy actually became tearful as we were leaving. That’s the kind of human connection we’re talking about. And yes — it still gets me.
Even the hotel manager was around and visible — calm, friendly, the type to stop and say hello without any airs. You felt it from the top down: this hotel cared about people. Not just service. Not just performance. People.
✨ Would I Recommend It? Without a Doubt.
If you’re considering Zanzibar and want a peaceful, luxurious base that’s full of soul, this is the place. Whether you’re celebrating something special, travelling with family, or just want to relax in beauty — TUI Blue Bahari Zanzibar will deliver.
It’s not just about how it looks. It’s how it feels. And it’s impossible not to connect.
📝 Thinking of Staying Here?
✅ Perfect for: Couples, families, solo travelers looking for peace, culture, and comfort ✅ Vibe: Quiet luxury without being stiff — relaxed but elevated ✅ Tip: Book the beach restaurant for your last night. Trust me. ✅ Don’t miss: Sunrise coffees in the garden, beach BBQs, chats with staff ✅ Bonus: Great base for exploring the island — and don’t forget to check out the other parts of our Zanzibar series for top excursions.
🌍 A Final Word on Our Zanzibar Stay
As this chapter of our Zanzibar story comes to a close, I’m left with more than just photos and memories — I’m left changed. Every moment — from exploring Stone Town’s rich history to those silent sunrise coffees — reminded me of the magic of travel when it meets soul.
If this blog series helps even one person choose Zanzibar and experience what we did, then I’ve done what I came to do.
Thank you for coming with me. One final part to come — about the man who made it all possible: our driver, our guide, our friend.
Leave a Reply