A dream escape in the world’s only exclusive-use private island reserve
Travel restrictions have been in place for over a year now, and many travellers are eager to see the world again. According to ABTA, Brits are planning to indulge their pent-up wanderlust with a bucket list trip next year, with a focus on seclusion, safety and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. An eight-hectare emerald and ivory jewel set within a protected marine reserve, Thanda Island is the ultimate once-in-a-lifetime destination. Just 16 miles off mainland Tanzania, (or 30-minutes away via the new private helicopter transfer), the private island retreat promises the bucket list trip of a lifetime.
Set in a private marine reserve, on Thanda Island fishing is illegal – making the area home a treasure trove of more than 280 species of tropical fish. Guests are assigned their own personal marine biologist who will guide ethical whale shark excursions and conservation underwater activities – where even the diving gear is eco-friendly, (rash vests are made from recycled plastic). Epicures will savour the island’s unforgettable dining experiences, such as a Swahili feast, a decadent affair that includes curries with hand-squeezed coconut milk, fresh lobster and oysters. All is prepared in traditional fashion with locally sourced ingredients by the island’s chef. The warm community of staff will cater to any guests’ desire and arrange bespoke itineraries accordingly.
Intrepid guests are invited to start their day with a delicious breakfast of herbs and fruit from the island’s organic garden, before heading to the boathouse and get geared up for water sports: jet skiing, kayaking, wakeboarding, paddle boarding, snorkelling and more. Those wishing to drift off and relax can attend yoga classes in the oceanfront pavilion, indulge in a traditional copper bath at sunset and enjoy unlimited wellness rituals during their stay. At lunch and dinner, guests gather in the villa’s patio or directly on the beach and experience themed food parties; drinks are sipped around the clock and tastings of the finest wines and liquors can be organised on request. Those wishing to explore the culture-rich region, including nearby Zanzibar, can do so on the 82-foot M/Y Sea Leopard yacht or board the private helicopter while treasure hunts, volleyball matches, and tennis tournaments are held on the island daily.
Nestled within the Shungimbili Marine Reserve, the tiny isle floats carelessly in the Indian Ocean, and the marine fauna thrives. The solar-powered main villa is built in a breezy throwback plantation style and offers five suites, an extensive dining area, an outdoor patio, infinity pool and air-conditioned gym. Eight more can reside in the two bandas, a glamorous take on the traditional Tanzania beach homes. Guests can dine as often as they’d like, enjoy spa treatments, access the extensive boathouse, the yoga pavilion, tennis and volleyball courts, as well as use the super yacht and the helicopter for overnight excursions at no extra cost.
A buy-out of Thanda Island costs $45,000 / £33,000 per night. Minimum stay is 5 nights. The rate includes domestic transfers, use of the 82-foot M/Y Sea Leopard, all meals and drinks, unlimited spa treatments, all water activities, Yoga, volleyball, tennis, laundry, local VAT, conservation Levy and Marine Park Levy.
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