Thanda IslandTanzania

This superb private island offers almost 20 acres of magnificent tropical landscape within Tanzania's Shungimbili Island Marine Reserve. The island includes a single luxurious villa and two traditional Bandas (beach chalets) in the Indian Ocean, off the east coast of Tanzania. Located 16 nautical miles off the mainland in the middle of a migratory route used by whale sharks and dugongs, it is a secluded, solar-powered retreat quite unlike any other. The island is encircled by coral reef, meaning snorkelers and divers are able to explore a rare marine world in a unique and well-preserved setting. The natural habitat here remains as unspoiled as possible. Thanda Island is accessible by helicopter from Dar es Salaam to Mafia Island, which is a 45-minute boat ride away.

The main house comprises five sumptuous king-size suites and leads directly onto silky white sands fringed by palm trees. Every detail has been thought of, with a fabulous indoor aquarium, library and cigar humidor taking centre stage in the house’s recreational space. Two Tanzanian Bandas provide another four bedrooms. They are decorated using locally handmade furniture and fabrics, providing a luxurious, traditionally-inspired space for your visitors. Outside, you’ll delight in a yoga sala, cocktail bar and wood-fired pizza oven. Making your experience an exceptional one is a dedicated team of chefs, housekeepers, barmen and activity instructors.

Spend your days marvelling at Thanda Island's abundance of natural riches. Spot the green and hawksbill turtles that nest on the island, or head into the Indian Ocean to swim alongside the harmless gentle giants that are whale sharks. Grab a snorkel and explore the rainbow wonderland of the reef, with over 400 species of fish including barracuda, stingray and napoleon wrasse. Food-loving guests can try a pizza-making class, or indulge in a feast served on the sprawling veranda. Order a glass of Champagne and wallow in a plush copper bath overlooking the sea. Whatever you do, relish in this extraordinary chance to inhabit your very own marine reserve.

Conservation and Sustainability:

Situated in a private marine reserve inhabited by the gentlest giant of the ocean, the whale shark, and sea turtles nesting. Thanda Island has active partnerships with the Tanzanian Marine Parks and Sea Sense on a range of marine conservation projects on the region's sea turtles, dugongs and whale sharks as well as the preservation and rehabilitation of the Shungimbili coral reef. The island also supports the local community through education and wellbeing programmes in the region, including sustainable fishing, marine conservation and healthy sports activities. Members from the community are employed on the Island to offer high-end hospitality skills development and employment advancement. The philosophy is underpinned by a sincere commitment to the Tanzanian people and their environment.