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About
#6 of 27 hotels in Kiwengwa
Location
4.5
Cleanliness
4.4
Service
4.4
Value
4.2
Travelers' Choice
Sultan Sands Island Resort is situated on the wide, sparkling beaches of Kiwengwa on the East Coast of Zanzibar Island. Sultan Sands is a resort with a unique character: an inspired blend of Swahili and Arab architecture and decor creates a relaxed ambience, while first-class amenities and facilities ensure complete comfort. The spacious rooms at Sultan Sands are built in the style of traditional African rondavels, each tastefully decorated with hand-carved Zanzibari furniture. All rooms are ocean-facing with some situated just metres from the beach. The resort's wining and dining venues are equally impressive, offering delicious local specialities as well as Far-Eastern and European favourites. Sultan Sands shares a 500m stretch of beach with its sister property - Bluebay Beach Resort & Spa. Guests of the two resorts also share many facilities and amenities, including the famous Oasis Spa and the One Ocean Dive Centre.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free internet
Pool
Fitness Center with Gym / Workout Room
Free breakfast
Beach
Canoeing
Airport transportation
Parking
Wifi
Pool / beach towels
Outdoor pool
Bar / lounge
Restaurant
Breakfast buffet
Breakfast in the room
Snack bar
Swimup bar
Poolside bar
Diving
Game room
Snorkeling
Windsurfing
Billiards
Entertainment staff
Evening entertainment
Fishing
Table tennis
Shuttle bus service
Car hire
Business Center with Internet Access
Meeting rooms
Spa
Facial treatments
Massage
Salon
Baggage storage
Concierge
Currency exchange
Gift shop
Mosquito net
Shops
Sun loungers / beach chairs
Sun umbrellas
24-hour front desk
Dry cleaning
Laundry service
Ironing service
Shoeshine
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Room features
Air conditioning
Private balcony
Room service
Safe
Flatscreen TV
Room types
Ocean view
Non-smoking rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
HOTEL STYLE
Quiet
Family Resort
Location
1023Reviews159Q+A68Room tips
Reviews
Traveler rating
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Fantastic beach hotel, incredible facilities and rooms, succulent food & cocktails, all on a wonderful immaculate white sand beach. The staff were super friendly and managed to make my teenage daughter laugh and be happy! An amazing holiday!
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Date of stay: January 2023
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
I can describe this as a typical high volume beach resort. The room was comfortable, the food (buffet) was good and the staff were very pleasant. The manager was helpful. No complaints. For people wanting this type of vacation package, this place would work just fine. Although, the beach was somewhat limited due to severe drop offs near the water's edge. The atmosphere is beach during the day, lots of kids running around, relaxing by the pool, resort entertainment by night.
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Date of stay: October 2022
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Room Tip: Ask for a room far from the nightly entertainment if you want it quieter
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from Marnix Sultan Sands, General Manager at Sultan Sands Island Resort
Responded 3 weeks ago
Dear BambiLaFawn, Asante sana for your kind review! The Indian Ocean creates a spectacular difference in high and low tide, during low tide the 1.4 km stretch to the reef can be explored by walking. The ocean always comes back right up to the hotel. If there is low tide, we have 3 pools for our guests that can be utilized. It was a pleasure hosting you at Sultan Sands Zanzibar and we all hope to welcome you back again in Zanzibar. Great that you enjoyed your stay and our services that we offer. Kwaheri! Kind regards, Marnix
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Murad H wrote a review Jan 2023
If you are looking for a place to relax and unwind, look no further - this place is simply outstanding. As a traveler with a child, my family and I loved our stay here. The service has been outstanding, great food and the staff are friendly and helpful. The access to the beach amazing with white sandy beach at your disposal. After a 5-day stay at the hotel, I enjoyed every minute of it and look forward to visiting again
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Date of stay: January 2023
Value
Location
Service
Room Tip: For any excursions - Amraan is the go to guy. He is reliable and the hotel receptionist can get...
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from Marnix Sultan Sands, General Manager at Sultan Sands Island Resort
Responded 3 weeks ago
Dear 893muradh, Asante sana for your kind review! It was a pleasure hosting you at Sultan Sands Zanzibar and we all hope to welcome you back again in Zanzibar. Great that you enjoyed your stay and our services that we offer. Kwaheri! Kind regards, Marnix
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Perfect area, hotel location, amenities, perfect food. Beautiful beach and its surroundings. Incredibly friendly staff. The hotel manager immediately solved our problem with the room. Our best vacation so far.
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Date of stay: December 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from Marnix Sultan Sands, General Manager at Sultan Sands Island Resort
Responded 4 weeks ago
Dear 571kate_inaf, Asante sana for your kind review! It was a pleasure hosting you at Sultan Sands Zanzibar and we all hope to welcome you back again in Zanzibar. Great that you enjoyed your stay and our services that we offer. It is great to read that this was your best vacation so far! Kwaheri! Kind regards, Marnix
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
The service and the accommodations were world class. We did a couples massage at spa and I believe it was the best massage we have ever had. Visit Happy at the bar - she’s amazing! Adam, Elia, Ochiang, Sophia, Farrah (at the front desk), the spa manager (can’t remember her name!) & the manager Martinx all made our trip fabulous. The service was truly wonderful. We were in a Bahari room, room 301, and it was heaven! Directly on the beach, right next to the spa and gym. (Which is technically next store at Bluebay resort, but the two resorts are connected and you have access to amenities at both. We celebrated New Year’s Eve here and WOW what an awesome celebration! Complete with fireworks in the water! The food was great. All inclusive has buffets that change and there’s a different theme every night. But you can also do a la cart restaurants for a little more luxury and eating on the beach. :) Highly recommend for a chill, high service Zanzibar holiday!…
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Date of stay: January 2023Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from Marnix Sultan Sands, General Manager at Sultan Sands Island Resort
Responded 5 weeks ago
Dear mattdV9943NT, Asanate sana for your kind review! It was a pleasure hosting you at Sultan Sands Zanzibar and I am happy to read that you enjoyed your stay. I will pass on your compliments to the staff and it will be great to welcome you again for our New Years Eve party. Kwaheri! Kind regards, Marnix
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We stayed at the Sultan Sands in November to celebrate my husband's 80th birthday, everything was perfect. The chef made a cake and the lovely smiling staff danced around the pool with the cake and flowers to our table - a fantastic touch Thankyou to Marnix and his wonderful staff for making our holiday sooo good!
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Date of stay: November 2022
Value
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip: ask for one of the bungalows beside the beach with the plunge pool
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from Marnix Sultan Sands, General Manager at Sultan Sands Island Resort
Responded Dec 31, 2022
Dear 207carolr, Asante sana for your kind review! It was a pleasure hosting you here at Sultan Sands Zanzibar! We are happy we could celebrate your husband's 80 birthday with you. I will pass on the compliments to the staff! Kwaheri! Kind regards, Marnix Resort Manager Sultan Sands Zanzibar
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
My stay with Sultan Sands was fabulous the service was excellent, the food was top range and the staff friendly and helpfull, smilling all the way. The rooms was cleaned daily and fresh towels provided. The views was amazing. Having breakfast, lunch and dinner with the ocean view was only one of my relaxing moments. Thank you Marnix and staff for everything. Asante Sana!!!!
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Date of stay: November 2022Trip type: Traveled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from Marnix Sultan Sands, General Manager at Sultan Sands Island Resort
Responded Nov 27, 2022
Dear Seaside43241735211, Thank you for your very nice review. It was a pleasure hosting you at Sultan Sands Zanzibar, karibu sana! We hope to greet you soon again, kwaheri. Kind regards, Marnix & the entire smiling staff :)
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
+1
We have been lucky enough to travel many places and we both agree this is at the top of our list. It’s a tropical parodies, the most amazing views across the ocean as the tides change, workers in the water go about their harvesting. Lovely boats and always something different to see. The staff are amazing every single one made sure you were looked after and catered to any request. The restaurant has sea and pool views just perfect. You never lose sight of the beautiful ocean. The gardens are well looked after and rooms spacious and clean. The manager was swift to help with an issue we had and is hands on and will often be seen about checking everything is good. Food was tasty and varied. Outside the hotel is a local village but quite a walk probably not too far in the heat but lovely walk along the beach seeing the locals. Drinks are good and varied Definitely recommend…
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Date of stay: November 2022Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from Marnix Breitbarth, General Manager at Sultan Sands Island Resort
Responded Nov 20, 2022
Dear 216kimt, Thank you for your very kind review of Sultan Sands. It was my pleasure hosting you and I am happy to read that you enjoyed our resort to the fullest! Hoping we can welcome you back sometime here in Zanzibar. On behalf of the entire team. Kind regards, Marnix Resort Manager Sultan Sands Zanzibar
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
+1
After spending a week in dusty (but absolutely fantastic) safari we arrived to paradise called Sultan Sands. At first, our check-in was handled smoothy and fast so that we managed to catch dinner and see the late night show. After this hotel's super friendly manager Marnix welcomed us properly and told that he had upgraded our room because of our honeymoon. How lovely! After first night we spend a great week with one of the hottest suns I have ever experienced, swimming (pools, sea), snorkeling, eating tasty food and enjoying entertainment (shows, live music). At the end I would especially like to thanks Happy at the pool bar who was super friendly and helpful all the time. Btw the bar also had a pretty impressive selection of drinks included to the all inc. price. I would definitely recommend Sultan Sands to everyone who wants to relax.…
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Date of stay: November 2022Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from Marnix Breitbarth, General Manager at Sultan Sands Island Resort
Responded Nov 20, 2022
Dear Kimm01, Thank you for your very kind review! It was my pleasure hosting you during your honeymoon and thank you for choosing Sultan Sands to spend such an important highlight of your life. I will pass on the compliments to Happy, she is indeed a rockstar at the bar! Hoping to welcome you back here at Sultan Sands. On behalf of the entire team, Marnix Resort Manager Sultan Sands Zanzibar
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Where to start with this beautiful, picturesque destination. The service and location go hand in hand with providing the best experience we’ve ever had! The location was beyond words in terms of it’s beauty. The staff were absolutely fabulous in providing a hospitable service and fullfilling our every need and want A special recognition for Simon and Dass who catered for our every need and more. From entering the gates to exiting we felt like we were in a dream. A huge Thankyou to the whole team at sultan sands! This won’t be our last visit thats for sure.
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Date of stay: October 2022Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from Marnix Breitbarth, General Manager at Sultan Sands Island Resort
Responded Nov 10, 2022
Dear Abubakar_Hussain1, Thank you for your wonderful review! It was a pleasure hosting you here at Sultan Sands and we look forward welcoming you back. Kind regards on behalf of the entire team! Marnix
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
PRICE RANGE
$190 - $327 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
sultan sands island hotel kiwengwa
LOCATION
TanzaniaZanzibar ArchipelagoZanzibar IslandKiwengwa
NUMBER OF ROOMS
76
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Claim Your ListingSULTAN SANDS ISLAND RESORT - Updated 2023 Prices & Reviews (Kiwengwa, Tanzania)
Frequently Asked Questions about Sultan Sands Island Resort
Which popular attractions are close to Sultan Sands Island Resort?
Nearby attractions include Kiwengwa Beach (0.6 miles).
What are some of the property amenities at Sultan Sands Island Resort?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include a swimup bar, free breakfast, and a pool.
Which room amenities are available at Sultan Sands Island Resort?
Top room amenities include air conditioning, a flat screen TV, and a mosquito net.
What food & drink options are available at Sultan Sands Island Resort?
Guests can enjoy a swimup bar, free breakfast, and an on-site restaurant during their stay.
Is parking available at Sultan Sands Island Resort?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Sultan Sands Island Resort?
Conveniently located restaurants include La Capannina Zanzibar, Zan View Restaurant, and SI BurgerS.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Sultan Sands Island Resort?
Yes, guests have access to a pool and a fitness center during their stay.
Does Sultan Sands Island Resort have an airport shuttle?
Yes, Sultan Sands Island Resort offers an airport shuttle for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Does Sultan Sands Island Resort have airport transportation?
Yes, Sultan Sands Island Resort offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Are any cleaning services offered at Sultan Sands Island Resort?
Yes, dry cleaning and laundry service are offered to guests.
Does Sultan Sands Island Resort offer any business services?
Yes, guests have access to a business center and meeting rooms during their stay.