Red Monkey Lodge

Red Monkey Lodge suits backpackers, kite surfers and travellers who want a beachfront room without resort prices. Jambiani is a working fishing village on the southeast coast, quieter and less developed than Paje further north, and this lodge sits right on the sand with simple rooms and bandas. It is not the place for spa treatments or room service, it is the place for a hammock, a beach and low daily costs.

Location and access

Jambiani sits on Zanzibar’s southeast coast, roughly 60 to 90 minutes from the main airport depending on the state of the roads and traffic through Stone Town. There is no direct public transport link, so arrange a transfer or agree a taxi price before you leave the airport. The village itself is walkable, with a handful of other guesthouses, small shops and beach bars along the sand.

What to know before you book

• Rooms are simple, expect fans rather than guaranteed air conditioning and basic bathrooms rather than luxury fittings.
• The southeast coast has strong tidal swings, at low tide the sea can retreat a long way out, which suits kite surfers but surprises first-time visitors expecting a swimmable beach at all hours.
• Power cuts happen periodically across Zanzibar, ask what backup the lodge has if this matters to you.
• Jambiani is quieter and more low-key than Paje, good if you want rest rather than nightlife.
• Cash is often preferred for small local purchases outside the lodge, carry Tanzanian shillings for the village shops and food stalls.

How it compares

Red Monkey Lodge and Breezes Beach Club & Spa both sit on Zanzibar’s east coast, but serve very different budgets. Choose Red Monkey for a simple beachfront room, kite surfing access and low daily costs. Choose Breezes for a spa, structured water sports and full resort service at a much higher price. Both share the same stretch of tidal coastline.

FAQs

When can I swim?
The southeast coast has strong tidal swings, so at low tide the sea retreats a long way from the lodge. Swimming windows depend on the tide table for your dates, so check before planning a beach day at the lodge.

Airport transfer logistics?
There is no direct public transport to Jambiani, so arrange a transfer through the lodge or agree a taxi fare before leaving the airport. The drive takes 60 to 90 minutes depending on traffic and road conditions through Stone Town.

Book or enquire

Our team has checked this listing’s basic facts, but always confirm details directly with the lodge before booking.

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