Mikoko Villa - Zanzibar — Hotel in Unguja

We stayed at Mikoko Villa for a week as a couple and I honestly don’t even know where to start – waking up to the ocean just outside, with pools to cool down in throughout the day, it was pure joy from beginning to end.

The location is wonderfully secluded – it feels like it’s just you and the world, a place you don’t often find. At the same time, local villages are nearby and you can see seaweed farms from the window, so the local culture is right there, visible and tangible.

The people at Mikoko Villa made the experience even better – so kind and welcoming. It felt like a true holiday where we didn’t have to worry about anything. Everything was spotlessly clean and well taken care of, which made it very easy to relax and feel at home from the first day.

And then the design… I think I took photos from every possible angle, because everything simply felt “right” – beautifully thought through, yet warm, inviting and homely. There are so many cosy corners to read a book, lie in the sun or just watch the ocean constantly changing. The sunrises and sunsets were absolutely magical.

The food was outstanding! There is a local chef cooking with just the right amount of local flavours – exciting and different, but still so comforting and familiar. The fish samosas and fish curry were incredible, and all the fresh mangos, passion fruit, avocados and papayas...

I genuinely feel like words are not enough to describe this place. We’ve been back home in cold, rainy November for weeks now, but the warmth of Zanzibar and Mikoko Villa is still carrying me through – and I know it will for a long time.

I am truly in love with this place and would return in a...

Incredible stay at Villa Mikoko! People often say it’s the best villa in Zanzibar, and I can see why. It’s just outside Jambiani, a real and authentic village in the south, with amazing views and such a peaceful vibe.

The villa is beautifully laid out, very spacious, and works just as well for spending time together as it does for finding a bit of quiet on your own. The front garden is gorgeous, with a lovely infinity pool that looks straight onto the beach. At low tide the whole place turns poetic, with women gathering seaweed along the horizon. I really enjoyed the roof terrace, and the second pool tucked away in the tropical garden at the back, perfect for a sunset swim or drink.

What I liked most is the overall concept: it feels like you’re at home, only better, because everything is taken care of. Daily cleaning, pool and garden maintenance, delicious breakfasts, and the option of having incredible meals cooked by a private chef for a very fair price. The villa manager, Rajabou, is always available to sort out excursions, transfers, or whatever else you might need, super convenient.

And honestly, the team made the whole experience unforgettable. Ahmed and Iddi are amazing in the kitchen, talented, creative, and really attentive. Rukia, Farida, and Ruby, who look after the house, always had a smile and such kindness that they made each day brighter.

Big thanks to everyone, this was my best holiday in a long time, and I’d recommend Villa Mikoko to anyone heading...

Mikoko Villa is stunning—tastefully designed, super comfortable, and incredibly cozy. The layout is thoughtful, with two pools, air-conditioned rooms, and a view of the ocean that hits you every morning. If you’re looking to unwind, read a couple of books, and fully check out from day-to-day life, this is your spot.

The service is top-notch. Rajabu, the manager, took great care of everything—from organizing boxing training to making sure the place ran smoothly. Ahmed, the chef, cooked fantastic meals—reliable, high-quality food every day (not cheap, but very worth it). The little on-site gym is a nice touch, and trying boxing for the first time was a fun bonus.

A few things to know before you book: • The villa is a bit remote. It’s easy to get to other places by car, but you won’t find shopping streets or cafes around the corner. Then again, that’s probably the point—Zanzibar isn’t about that. • The internet is slow. If you’re hoping to get some work done or stream anything, you’ll get frustrated. Online audio calls work well though. If you want to fully unplug, it’s perfect.

The tides go far out and come back dramatically, which makes the ocean feel alive. The landscaping is beautiful. You wake up and feel like you’re in a peaceful, well-curated world. Great for groups of friends who want space, sun, and good food.

Overall highly...