Kwale Island

Place is clean but really basic and over priced. For 500$ a night you would expect absolute luxury but was really disappointed. The staff are really nice and friendly which was the only positive from the huge price paid.

Overall it's a beautiful property. The rooms, pools, beach and other amenities are all very nice. The main concern we had was that it is essentially a "compound". You can't talk to a nearby town or enjoy local culture because the resorts are all very separated from the rest of the island. We also thought the food was not up to the standard of other RIU Palace hotels. This was our fourth stay at a RIU Palace and the food at the others was definitely better. That being said, the hotel is beautiful, the staff lovely and we enjoyed our stay.

We visited The Island at Pongwe as the final stop on our honeymoon to Tanzania and Zanzibar and it was the perfect way to conclude an incredible trip. Set on a coral island just off of Zanzibar, the Island Pongwe is run by the amzaing Michela and her team. The island feels like pure rustic luxury and prides itself on being as sustainable as possible - they source food and materials locally. The service was amazing and we were greeted by the team who showed us to the Villa - a room with an incredible vista of the Indian Ocean. We were also kept company, by the islands dog, Ara, who was so sweet. The team were very helpful in organising a Dhow sailing experience with the local fishermen/sailors. At low tide you are able to walk out towards the reef - just watch out for sea urchins! The food was incredible and tasted so fresh. We were also lucky enough to be treated to a performance by local Masai on our final night. 10/10 - would definitely recommend even at least 1 nights stay here - it's so worth it for this little slice of paradise.