LABA Fanjove Island

A remote and romantic escape of just 18 beach villas in Southern Tanzania, LABA Fanjove offers a relaxing private island experience with white beaches and abundance of wildlife. The smallest yet most beautiful of six islands in the Songo Songo Archipelago, where seabirds and dolphins remind you of the beauty and simplicity of nature. Dive into crystal clear turquoise waters to explore vibrant coral reefs, sail into the sunset on traditional dhow or fish for your own supper. The perfect contrast at the end of an adventurous safari offers time to relax while observing the bountiful bird migrations or indulge in the spa’s rejuvenating thalassotherapy treatments.

ABOUT LABA LABA

Following in the careful footsteps of historic pioneers who made it possible to share the unforgettable experience of an African safari with the creation of national parks and game reserves at the end of the 19th century, LABA LABA offers guests effortless luxury in the modern concept of ‘slow safari’ at the lesser discovered nature reserves of Tanzania and this exclusive remote island retreat. LABA LABA means butterfly in Yoruba, their role to increase biodiversity in the African landscape and fauna, treasured and safeguarded in each tailor-made land and marine safari experience.

ABOUT LABA FANJOVE ISLAND

Just off the coast of Tanzania, this iconic sand and coral island with its many palm trees, white sandy beaches and shimmering water is only 1km long and about 400 metres wide, reached by a short 45-minute flight in light aircraft from Dar es Salaam to Songo Songo Island to connect with a 40-minute sail to Fanjove. Overlooked by one of the last remaining 19th century Lighthouses built by the Germans, there are 18 ocean facing villas with breathtaking views, made with natural materials by local craftsmen and each discreetly located among the palms for utmost privacy. Sandbar picnics, lunch or dinner on the shaded terrace of the lighthouse or dining in the privacy of your villa is all under the guidance of Michelin-trained Chef Edmund with emphasis on tasty, healthy and local cuisine. Keep connected with nature during workouts at the ocean facing gym or enjoy the running trails around the island.

Island experiences

Relish the privacy and melt into pure relaxation on LABA Fanjove Island or take advantage of an array of activities to enhance your discovery of this unadulterated paradise. Sea kayaks and paddle boards are available to discover the surrounding waters, while exceptional diving and snorkelling the 11km of coral reef offers stunning marine landscapes of underwater pinnacles and gardens of cabbage coral. Spinner Dolphins and Bottlenose Dolphins can be spotted on marine safari or simply snorkel around the secluded sand bank while a picnic lunch of grilled fish is prepared. A map of island nature trails helps to find discreet viewing spots of the rich diversity of migratory birds visiting from November to March. Try fishing for supper or enjoy a Tanzanian sunset sailing in the timeless grace of a traditional wooden dhow.

Accommodation

The mood is relaxed, with each of the 18 beach villas facing the ocean and featuring a combination of natural and local materials. Tanzanian plantation teak floors, traditional Makuti roofs, coral stone walls, and doors are carved by craftsmen of Zanzibar. Two sunbeds await under a shaded sala trellis. The bathrooms offer the luxury of both interior and exterior shower. There is one Family Beach Villa with two bedrooms including two single beds and a sofa for a 3rd person in the children's bedroom. Thoughtful touches of organic cotton bed linen and bathrobes, organic bathroom amenities and wall fans bring a luxurious feel of relaxation while details of beach baskets, hats and fouta towels ensure comfortable beach time.