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“Atangaye na jua hujuwa” it is a local proverb which means “He who wanders around by day a lot, learns a lot” in Kiswahili, the official language of Zanzibar. Indeed, there is a lot to wander around and learn on these islands off the coast of East Africa and part of Tanzania. Their natural habitat and history as a flourishing trading hub across centuries, make them a destination as unforgettable as their name. Of course, a unique island deserves a unique earth friendly resort to complete the experience, tlike the one we’re profiling today.
Originally owned by Benny Andersson of Abba as a private retreat, Elewana Kilindi Zanzibar sits on 50 acres of lush, tropical garden next to a white sand beach and the clear turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.
This adult-only resort consists of 15 white-domed “Pavilion” suites dotted along the serene landscape and a t-shaped infinity pool. Each Pavilion is set in its own private tropical gardens and comes with a dedicated Guest Ambassador, who helps the guests to organize their perfect vacation by assisting them in the selection of meals or advise and arrange activities and excursions.
The buildings are a mix of Scandinavian simplicity combined with the local African and Middle Eastern flair. The windows don’t have any glass, just wooden shutters that allow the sea breeze to waft through the rooms. Each Pavilion has a seating area, a shaded sun deck, a rainfall shower, and two plunge pools where you can lazily soak and view the ocean. One of the plunge pools sits at the foot of the bed to naturally cool the main room. These eco-designed dwellings also have domed roofs to collect rainwater for the gardens and to reflect the heat of the sun.
Yes, sustainability is definitely part of the magic of this place! With solar power and a state-of-the-art water treatment plant that recycles their waste water for use in toilets, Kilindi is making a bold statement about responsible resource management. Run by the Elewana Collection of 16 boutique lodges, camps and hotels across Kenya and Tanzania, they’re known for unique accommodations in iconic locations.
Elewana Collection’s CEO, Karim Wissanji, explains to Wayaj that the origin of the name Elewana is the Swahili word meaning “harmony”, a concept that underpins the company’s philosophy and influences the way they deliver unforgettable experiences. “We continually strive to leave as little impact as possible on our surrounding environment, while creating a positive impact on local communities through our Land & Life Foundation.”
The Land & Life Foundation is part of Elewana’s commitment to responsible tourism ensuring future generations can enjoy the wonders of Africa. “Land & Life believes that the sustainability of East Africa’s wildlife and habitats depends on four key actions,” he says. “Securing land for conservation, protecting species and their environment, providing tangible benefits to the people who live alongside wildlife, and educating the next generation of conservationists. Land & Life achieves this through four core programs. their Wildlife Warrior Program, School Support, Medical Support, and Nature Conservation Program.”
The company’s work continues in Zanzibar. The resort collaborates with the community on a regular basis to keep the area’s beaches clean and supports the local school with donations, with a water tank recently donated to the school.
In addition, Elewana Kilindi offers a training program. “We take four applicants every three months to take part in our in house training program,” Kim Juergens, the resort’s General Manager explains, “They get practical experience working for one month in the kitchen department, one month in the maintenance department, and one month in the laundry department.”
The Elewana Kilindi Zanzibar has won a myriad of awards since it opened in 2010, including best Luxury Beach Villa, Best Marine Safari Experience, Best Design, Best Safari Spa/Retreat, and Most Romantic Property. Actually, this romantic resort is a fantastic option for a honeymoon!
We are proud to have such a great destination on Wayaj. Kilindi is proving that the future of tourism, and especially tourism that offers top quality and authentic experiences, is green!
Find and book Elewana Kilindi Zanzibar on Wayaj!
Cover photo by Camilla Frederiksen on Unsplash, All other photos courtesy of Elewana Collection
