The Tanzanian coast S A F A R I D R I V E 0 1 4 8 8 7 1 1 4 0 46

Heading to the coast After a Tanzanian Safari Drive journey, we often organise for people to go to the coast for a few days of luxury and relaxation before coming home. We have found some really fabulous places and here are three examples: Mnemba Island, Zanzibar This private island just off Zanzibar is the ultimate in ‘bare foot luxury’. It is next to some of the world’s most fabulous dive sites with the edge of the reef 15 minutes away by boat. Other possibilities include windsurfing, snorkelling, fly fishing and deep sea fishing. For those simply wishing to unwind, there are blissful beaches and your own private, secluded verandah. Mafia Island With over 400 species of fish, Mafia Island Marine Park is a unique marine eco-system with assorted wildlife and a rich variety of vegetation. Lagoons and inland bays provide a safe environment for diving and snorkelling. There are palms, baobabs and fruit trees fringing the water and traditional boats out at sea. Within the park is the Pole Pole Resort, which combines unpretentious luxury with fantastic food and great service. From here, you can go out to the coral reef, to local villages to see the old Arab architecture or head to the north of the island. Ras Kutani Ras Kutani is a secluded hideaway set on an arc of white sand in a wonderful setting around 20 miles south of Dar es Salaam. It has its own private freshwater lagoon, where hippos sometimes play. Nearby, there are riding stables offering wonderful horse rides along the beach and through the waves of the Indian Ocean. S A F A R I D R I V E 0 1 4 8 8 7 1 1 4 0 47