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Zanzibar, Tanzania

Kilindi

Kilindi opened in 2009 and in its first year of operation it established a reputation as the top hideaway in Zanzibar. The resort, fringed by casuarina trees and set on a magnificent beach extending 500 metres, offers luxurious accommodations in 15 arched pavilion-style villas with unique domed roofs, spread across 54 acres of lush tropical gardens. Each stunning villa has two private plunge pools that are linked by water features and a waterfall. Two of the villas each have two bedrooms.

Breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean, traditional wooden dhows and Tumbatu Island can be seen across the sandy beach and from the T-shaped, 24 metre infinity swimming pool.

The main building is open at the front through archways to a terrace overlooking the beach. There is a spacious bar with a waterfall feature and an indoor/outdoor dining area. Dining options include romantic dinners on the beach and room service. The kitchen has an organic garden that provides ingredients for meals and an on-site smokery for local fish delicacies. Rainwater harvesting, solar energy, water treatment and recycling are further evidence of the hotel's commitment to environmental sustainability.

Kilindi's uShawari spa offers authentic pampering: skilled East African therapists use traditional techniques incorporating local herbs, oils and honey. Awarded the title Best for Beachside Beauty in BA's High Life magazine in May 2009, a highlight is the opportunity to sip a post-treatment cocktail in a walled garden.

Elewana Afrika plan to enhance the guest experience at Kilindi with upgrades to services and facilities that will raise the property's profile to even greater international acclaim. These enhancements include air-conditioning, an expanded selection of adventure and relaxation activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, spice tours and Jozani Forest and Stone Town tours. The resort is easily reached from Zanzibar airport, a scenic 50-minute drive.

Kilindi was included in the 2010 Condé Nast magazine Hot List of 134 Top New Hotels. The hotel was featured in the Travel Leisure magazine 30 Romantic Dream Trips in February and was featured as one of Tatler magazine's Best 101 Hotels in the World for 2010.

Includes: Pavillion - All meals, drinks & laundry