The Manta Resort

The Manta Resort

Located on the northern tip of Pemba Island, this laidback beach retreat boasts a range of accommodation that includes a unique underwater room.

Centred around a large pool and tropical gardens and with sweeping views of the Pemba Channel, Manta is ideal for those seeking an escape from the pressures of the modern day world.

This remote island hideaway comprises of 20 bedrooms, largely divided into three categories. Seafront Villas are a a perfect blend of traditional Pemban decor with contemporary comfort and boast a spacious, private open-plan design, with an extended balcony and plunge pool. The Superior Garden Rooms are also spacious in design, with a four-posted king size bed and large en-suite bathroom, plus a private garden with outside shower.  The Standard Garden Rooms represent are more compact with a four-posted king size bed, open en-suite bathroom and private garden with outside shower.

But perhaps the Manta's stand out feature has to be the Underwater Room. Anchored 250 metres off shore, the floating Underwater Room is a private, three-storey timber structure featuring a sea level landing deck with lounge and bathroom below a stargazing, sun tanning bed. However it's true appeal lies beneath, a double bed surrounded by panes of glass beyond which endless shoals of reef fish swim by, with underwater night time spotlights attracting even more unusual species. This is arguably one of the most unique places to stay in Africa.

The main areas of the resort include an elevated terrace, where most meals are served, with views of the Indian Ocean and a lounge providing comfortable seating where guests can relax with a book or make use of the lodge's wifi. The Beach Bar is the perfect place to watch the sunset with a sundowner, ably concocted by the bar tender using the freshest handpicked island mango, lime, lemon, pineapple, and coconuts, not forgetting that all important touch of rum.