Location
Between the mainland of Tanzania and Mafia Island, this beautiful private getaway is in the middle of the warm Indian Ocean, surrounded by coral reefs.
Passion
Meaning ‘love’ in the Zulu language, Thanda’s sense of intimacy and warmth makes every guest fall in love with the destination, the community and the staff who have been working on the island since it opened.
Activities
Depending on the season, guests can swim with Whale Sharks, the gentle giants that breed just south of the island.
Conservation
Thanda is partnering with the Tanzanian Marine Parks and the leading NGO, Sea Sense, on a range of marine conservation and education projects.
The island
Thanda Island is one of the world's most exclusive island getaways, a paradise for you to enjoy in complete privacy with family and friends. This secluded island houses a single luxurious villa and two traditional Bandas (beach chalets) on the Indian Ocean, off the east coast of Tanzania. The emphasis is on understated luxury and wellbeing with a discreet yet attentive service from staff. Situated in your own marine reserve, you can swim with the gentlest giant of the ocean, the whale shark, and watch sea turtles nesting. Here, you can rest, rejuvenate and enjoy adventuresports in a world where shades of turquoise infuse your days and tropical spices your nights.
Experiences
Infuse your being with the warmth of the sunshine, the glitter on the water and the character of the people. Swim with the gentle whale shark; dive in the largest marine protected reserve in the Indian Ocean; ride the trade winds on a traditional Arab dhow; indulge in a Swahili or Arabian feast; have a massage or copper bath on the beach.
Conservation & Community
Thanda Island is more than just an incredible destination - it is also highly active in several conservation and community initiatives. Thanda partners with the Tanzanian Marine Parks and a leading NGO, Sea Sense, on a range of marine conservation and education programmes in the region. Their philosophy is underpinned by a sincere commitment to the Tanzanian people, and the Thanda team participate in a range of social empowerment programmes on nearby Mafia Island.
Location & Access
Thanda Island is located in the Shungimbili Island Marine Reserve, between the mainland of Tanzania and Mafia Island. To get to Thanda Island, international guests fly directly into Dar es Salaam, where the Thanda Island team will meet you and accompany you through customs, ensuring a smooth, quick entry into this beautiful country. From Dar es Salaam, you can either go directly to the Island by helicopter, or fly to Mafia Island by fixed-wing plane, from where you can reach the Island by boat.
Ocean & Water
You have an incredible choice of thrilling water adventures, excursions and activities, including swimming with whale sharks, scuba diving, island tennis and exploring ancient Arabic history. At the same time, Thanda Island immerses you in pure, natural pleasures… strolling along your own private 1100 metre beach, dining on ocean-fresh seafood or exploring the 8-hectare island where the only sign of human habitation is the occasional, traditional fishing dhow in the distance.
Infuse your being with the warmth of the sunshine, the glitter on the water and the character of the people. Swim with the gentle whale shark; dive in the largest marine protected reserve in the Indian Ocean; ride the trade winds on a traditional Arab dhow; indulge in a Swahili or Arabian feast; have a massage or copper bath on the beach.
Dining
Dining on Thanda Island is a taste adventure of the region’s delectable cuisine. Enjoy lunch al fresco on the beach or on a traditional Arab dhow. Indulge in ocean-fresh seafood and experience a Swahili feast dedicated to the flavours, spices and aromas of Tanzania. Join the Chefs in making your own Italian pizza, cooked in their hand-built pizza oven. Travel by boat for an adventure feast on neighbouring Mbarakuni Island, or gather round the Villa’s magnificent dining table for a royal feast.
Wellness
Wellness and happiness is the Thanda Island ethos and they go out of our way to ensure guests experience a profound sense of wellbeing on Thanda Island. From the delicious, healthy dining to relaxing yoga sessions to their spa treatments, you’ll feel refreshed and revived here. Given the absolute privacy you enjoy on the Island, all treatments can be done on the beach, in the privacy of your suite or wherever you choose.
Why we love it
Wildlife
Considered a ‘marine life nursery’, Thanda Island is home to whale sharks, five species of sea turtles, dolphins and seven reefs.
The in-house marine biologist is in charge of the reef’s preservation and recovery, ensuring the environment allows the survival of the endangered species.
Private yacht
The 82-foot MY Sea Leopard and her captain and crew are at your leisure for short island-hopping excursions, sundowner drink cruises, a post whale shark swimming shower, lunch, or just to enjoy an exhilarating fast cruise around the island.
The Sea Leopard has four suites, comprising two master doubles and two twin cabins for overnight options should this be desired.
Helicopter
Thanda Island has added it’s own Eurocopter EC130 to its transport inventory, allowing island guests the opportunity to transfer in just 30 minutes from Dar es Salaam directly to the island’s own heli-pad.
Freshest food
Everything on the island has been created for adventures, relaxation and total privacy.
Thanda Island is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World and one of the world's most exclusive private getaways.
Turtle icon from Flaticon.com
