The Manta Resort, Pemba Island (Tanzania): Where the Island Meets the Ocean
Tucked away on remote Pemba Island, Manta is a small, intimate retreat shaped by its extraordinary surroundings, from the lush landscapes above the water to the vibrant coral reefs below.
Pemba Island: Three Unique Ecosystems, One Living Landscape
Located in the northern Zanzibar Archipelago, Pemba remains wonderfully unspoilt and far removed from the bustle of more developed destinations. Its forests, mangroves and coral reefs form an interconnected ecosystem, supporting one of East Africa’s richest coastal environments.
The Manta Resort: Intimate, Unhurried and Connected to Nature
Manta is deliberately small, offering just a handful of rooms and a peaceful atmosphere where the reef is never far away. Life here moves slowly, allowing guests to disconnect from everyday distractions, breathe deeply and reconnect with what matters.
The Stay: Simple, Natural and Relaxed
Accommodation is thoughtfully designed around simplicity and comfort, allowing the surrounding landscape to take centre stage. Natural, locally inspired materials, open spaces and abundant light create a calm atmosphere, while pathways wind through indigenous vegetation towards the beautiful white-sand beach.
Accommodation types:
Dining: The Seaview Restaurant
Enjoy relaxed dining overlooking the ocean, with menus inspired by the island and its surrounding waters. Breakfast favourites, fresh tropical fruit and Tanzanian coffee begin the day, while lunch and dinner feature freshly caught seafood alongside meat, poultry and plant-based dishes, many incorporating distinctive Pemba flavours.
When the mood takes you, meals can also be enjoyed beside the pool or directly on the beach.
The Lounge: Slow Down and Stay Awhile
The lounge is a relaxed gathering space for conversation, reading or simply watching the sun sink over the horizon. Guests can enjoy drinks and snacks while connecting with fellow travellers, or learn to play Bao, a traditional East African board game.
The Beach: A Place to Simply Be
Manta’s beautiful white-sand beach invites complete relaxation. Soft sands, warm Indian Ocean waters and the peaceful surroundings create an idyllic setting for swimming, sunbathing or simply enjoying the rhythm of the sea.
At high tide, the shallow sandy seabed becomes a vast natural swimming area.
The Pool: Swim, Relax and Unwind
The two-level swimming pool is surrounded by comfortable loungers and offers attentive bar service throughout the day. With a deep section reaching approximately three metres, it can also provide an ideal setting for guests learning the fundamentals of diving.
Kipepeo Spa: Time to Reconnect With Yourself
At Kipepeo Spa, guests are encouraged to slow down and surrender to the soothing sounds of swaying palms and the ocean. Enjoy a complimentary daily treatment, delivered by experienced therapists, and let the stresses of everyday life melt away.
Experiences
Manta offers a wonderful selection of ways to discover the island and its surrounding waters:
Whether exploring beneath the Indian Ocean, cruising into a Pemba sunset or simply relaxing barefoot on the beach, Manta offers an authentic island escape where nature, simplicity and tranquillity take centre stage.
The contact numbers to make a reservation at The Manta Resort are:
• Cape Town Reservations +27 (0) 21 794 9050
• Durban Reservations: +27 (0) 31 941 5945
• Johannesburg Reservations: +27 (0) 10 446 8045.
Alternatively, you can check availability and book online by clicking here.