How does Tulia compare to other options in Zanzibar?
Tulia sits at the top end of Zanzibar's luxury scene. With just 16 villas, it's much more intimate than the larger beach resorts, and the true all-inclusive approach means you're not constantly reaching for your wallet.
Tulia Zanzibar is one of our absolute favorites if you want a real romantic, exclusive, luxury beach villa experience.
Tulia recently won the World Luxury Hotel Award for Best Luxury Romantic Beach Resort in Africa 2024.
If you're looking for the most exclusive experience on the island, this is it. The private pool villas and beachfront location put it in a league of its own.
Stay at Tulia Zanzibar on these trips
The tours below showcase just some of what is possible. Use these itineraries as starting points, or to draw inspiration. Then get in touch, and let our expert team help craft the perfect itinerary for you.
Tulia Zanzibar FAQs
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What types of accommodation are available at Tulia Zanzibar?
You'll find five different room categories to choose from, each with its own character. The Deluxe Garden Bungalows offer either garden views or partial sea views and come with all the standard amenities. If you want more space and privacy, the Royal Garden Villa includes your own private pool.
For the ultimate beachfront experience, there are two Seafront Luxury Villa options - one without a private pool and one with. These put you right on the ocean with direct beach access. All rooms can accommodate different group sizes with extra bed options, so whether you're a couple on honeymoon or traveling with family, there's something that'll work perfectly.
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What amenities come standard in all the rooms?
Every room is well-equipped with everything you'll need for a comfortable stay. You'll get air conditioning (essential in Zanzibar!), complimentary WiFi, and an LED TV with Netflix for those lazy afternoon moments. There's a Nespresso coffee machine for your morning fix and a stocked minibar.
For beach days, you'll find sun hats, beach towels, and mosquito nets for peaceful nights. The bathrooms come with all the toiletries you need - shampoo, conditioner, shower gel - plus bathrobes, slippers, and a hairdryer. You'll also have a safe box for valuables, blackout curtains for sleeping in, and outdoor furniture to enjoy your private space.
The higher-category villas add special touches like private pools, outdoor Jacuzzis, and bathtubs depending on which room you choose.
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Is airport transfer included when you book with us?
Absolutely - we take care of all your airport transfers as part of your package. You'll be picked up at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (it's about a 35-minute drive to the resort) and dropped back off when you leave. No need to worry about arranging taxis or figuring out transportation when you land.
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What exactly does the "true all-inclusive" rate cover?
This is where Tulia really shines - their all-inclusive package is genuinely comprehensive. All your meals are covered with a la carte fine dining at the main restaurant (no buffet lines or surcharges for premium dishes). Your drinks are included too, and we're talking premium spirits and wines, not just house brands.
You'll also get a wide range of activities thrown in - yoga sessions, kayaking, paddleboarding, windsurfing, e-scooter rides around the property, and even your first massage. WiFi and airport transfers are part of the deal too.
The main things that aren't included are off-site excursions (like spice tours or Stone Town visits), additional spa treatments beyond your first massage, and laundry services. But honestly, with everything that is included, you might find you barely need to spend extra.
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Are children welcome, and what are the extra charges?
Yes, kids are absolutely welcome at Tulia - it's a great family-friendly property. If you need a third or fourth person in your room (regardless of age), there's an extra person supplement. You're looking at about $250 per night for children aged 0-16 and $300 per night for anyone 17 and older.
This covers their meals, drinks, and access to all the included activities, so while it's an additional cost, they get the full all-inclusive experience too.
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When's the best time to visit and how much do prices vary?
Zanzibar has pretty great weather year-round, but the sweet spots are June to October (the main dry season) and January to February (the short dry season). These periods give you the most sunshine and least rain.
Price-wise, there's quite a range depending on when you go. Peak season (August and Christmas/New Year) commands the highest rates - sometimes more than double what you'd pay in low season. April and parts of November are typically the most affordable times, while late May through July falls in the middle.
The shoulder and low seasons often come with special deals too, like "stay 5, pay 4" promotions that can make a real difference to your budget.
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What dining options are available at the resort?
The main restaurant handles all your meals with a la carte fine dining for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. No buffet situations here - you're getting proper plated meals with full menu choices at every meal. There's also "Cafe G" which serves lighter fare like sandwiches, snacks, and fresh juices throughout the day.
Everything's included in your all-inclusive rate, and there are no surcharges for premium menu items, which is refreshing. The kitchen sources a lot of ingredients from their own organic farm, so you're getting really fresh, local flavors.
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Is WiFi included and reliable?
Yes, WiFi is complimentary throughout the property and included in your all-inclusive package. You'll be able to stay connected in your room and around the resort without any additional charges.
Tulia Lodge Photos
Room Types
Tulia Zanzibar features 16 villas ranging from garden rooms to exclusive royal villas, with options for seafront locations and private pool access.
Every villa includes air conditioning, free WiFi, private terraces with sun loungers, and Nespresso coffee machines. The deluxe and royal categories feature Jacuzzis, while some villas come with their own private pools.
What sets this property apart is the comprehensive all-inclusive experience that includes complimentary airport transfers, spa treatments, yoga sessions, and water sports equipment access.
Deluxe Garden Bungalow (Garden Area)
Located in the lush tropical gardens, this tranquil bungalow offers peaceful garden views and accommodates up to 3 guests with a double bed and extra bed option.
The room is fitted with an en-suite bathroom featuring both a shower and bathtub.
Guests can enjoy the private outdoor space with a hammock and outdoor furniture, creating the perfect quiet retreat surrounded by greenery.
Deluxe Garden Bungalow with Partial Sea View (Garden Area)
Located in the garden area, this spacious 120m² bungalow (including garden and terrace) offers partial ocean views and accommodates up to 2 adults and 1 child.
The room features a double bed with extra bed option and is fitted with an en-suite bathroom including both shower and Jacuzzi bathtub.
The outdoor terrace provides the perfect setting to enjoy both the garden ambiance and sea vistas.
Garden Rooms (Garden Area)
Located in the garden area, these ten rooms feature traditional Tanga stone walls and dark floors with raised bed design.
Each room offers garden views and is fitted with a modest en-suite bathroom with shower.
The authentic construction materials and elevated bed placement create a unique accommodation experience within the tropical garden setting.
Royal Garden Villa with Private Pool (Garden Area)
Located in the garden area, this villa is considerably larger than seafront accommodations and accommodates up to 4 adults or 2 adults with 2 children.
The villa is comprised of a separate double bedroom and spacious living room, with coconut wood walls throughout.
The highlight is the private outdoor swimming pool and Jacuzzi-style spa pool, offering enhanced privacy and luxury within the tropical garden setting.
Seafront Luxury Villa (Beachfront)
Located directly on the oceanfront, this very large villa offers unobstructed ocean views and accommodates up to 4 adults or 2 adults with 2 children.
The villa features traditional Tanga stone walls and a distinctive bathtub prominently positioned in the front room.
The spacious interior layout and prime beachfront location provide an exceptional luxury experience with direct access to ocean vistas.
Seafront Luxury Villa with Private Pool (Beachfront)
Located on the premium beachfront, this exclusive villa accommodates up to 3 adults or 2 adults with 1 child and offers direct ocean views.
The villa is comprised of separate living areas with traditional Tanga stone walls and features a private swimming pool on a large terrace.
The en-suite bathroom includes a freestanding bathtub, combining the ultimate in privacy and luxury with unparalleled oceanfront access.
Room Rates
Prices at Tulia Zanzibar start from $456 per night for 2 adults sharing, with extra beds for children (0-16 years) at $250 per night and adults (17+ years) at $300 per night.
Deluxe Garden Bungalow
- From $456 per night for 2 adults sharing
- Extra bed for child: $250 per nigh
- Extra bed for adult: $300 per night
Deluxe Garden Bungalow with Partial Sea View
- Rate varies seasonally from the base garden bungalow rate
- Includes Jacuzzi and partial ocean views
Royal Garden Villa with Private Pool
- Premium rate above standard bungalows
- Features private pool and spacious living areas
Seafront Luxury Villa
- Premium beachfront positioning with direct ocean views
- Higher seasonal rates apply
Seafront Luxury Villa with Private Pool
- Top-tier accommodation with private pool and beachfront location
- Peak season rates significantly higher than low season
Rates vary significantly by season, with peak periods (August, Christmas/New Year) commanding more than double the low season rates. Prices are variable and subject to change. Please contact us for the latest rates.
Activities
The resort offers snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, windsurfing, diving, and kite surfing to explore the pristine ocean waters.
They also provide yoga sessions, massage treatments using exclusive Zanzibari Inaya products, and aqua gymnastics in the pool.
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