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Laba Fanjove Island
Kilwa Masoko (Songo Songo Archipelago), Lindi Region, Tanzania · Independent · High Luxury
Originally an uninhabited coral island used only by local fishermen, Fanjove was developed as a sustainable luxury retreat in 2012 by Essential Destinations. The property, now managed by Laba Laba, centers around a historic 19th-century German lighthouse and a 30-hectare marine sanctuary dedicated to preserving the local coral reef and turtle nesting sites.
- 21 rooms
- Opened 2012
- Rooms from 1,292 sq ft (120 m²)
- Architect: FBW Urbanists + Architects
About Laba Fanjove Island
- Centers on a 19th-century German lighthouse built in 1894, one of the rare surviving German colonial-era structures in Tanzania.
- The eco-lodge has no televisions, Wi-Fi, or air conditioning, a philosophy the property describes as luxury through subtraction.
- Its six bandas were designed like stranded whales or dhow sails with makuti roofs by FBW Urbanists and Architects between 2011 and 2016.
- Entry-level rooms start at 1,292 sq ft (120 m²).
History
Originally an uninhabited coral island used only by local fishermen, Fanjove was developed as a sustainable luxury retreat in 2012 by Essential Destinations. The property, now managed by Laba Laba, centers around a historic 19th-century German lighthouse and a 30-hectare marine sanctuary dedicated to preserving the local coral reef and turtle nesting sites.
Experiences
- Private sandbank lunch with BBQ, chef and butler — Exclusive private experience with personalised service; not included in rate.
- Private dinner with BBQ, chef and butler — Exclusive private dinner with personalised service in a private location; not included in rate.
- Secret Paradise dining — Retreat above the main beach with signature cocktails, grilled spiny lobster lunch and two sun loungers; additional cost.
- Diving and snorkelling — Warm waters of about 28°C, visibility up to 30m, and an 11km intact coral reef around the island.
- Marine safari (dolphin watching) — Spinner and bottlenose dolphins regularly spotted around Fanjove, with a chance to swim alongside them.
- Whale shark snorkelling — Full-day boat trip to Mafia Island to swim with whale sharks, October to March.
Amenities
- 19th-century German lighthouse restaurant and bar
- Open-air spa with balneotherapy and sea views
- Marine sanctuary activities including diving, snorkeling, and dolphin watching
- Dhow sundowner cruises and sandbank picnics
- Gym overlooking the Indian Ocean
- Eco-friendly villas with solar power and natural ventilation
- Kids club
- Butler service
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