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Jambiani beach Plot 1246, Jambiani Tanzania
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Traveller (202)
Pool & Beach (87)
Room & Suite (43)

About

#6 of 83 lodges in Zanzibar Island
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Value

Driftwood beach lodge, in Jambiani on the South East coast of Zanzibar.

With 11 rooms, that offers comfort after a long day on the beach and in the sun. Our bar personell are champions in making the best coctails to enjoy as the sun sets.

Early morning strolls on the beach begins with the sun rising over the sea.

Our restaurant offers a big variety of meals, their will be something for everyone, with different options, especially when staying longer, you will never get board with the menu. Daily specials and happy hour all day round.

Jambiani is a favourite kite surfing destination, however local boat rides, fishing, diving and bicycle tours are available locally. On site managers provide a casual, comfortable, friendly environment for you to enjoy your Zanzibar holiday.

Driftwood Beach Lodge is children friendly and offers a safe enviroment for them.

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Property amenities
Free parking
Free internet
Pool
Free breakfast
Beach
Snorkelling
Children's television networks
Airport transportation
Parking
Public wifi
Pool / beach towels
Infinity pool
Pool with view
Outdoor pool
Shallow end in pool
Bar / lounge
Restaurant
Breakfast available
Complimentary Instant Coffee
Complimentary tea
Complimentary welcome drink
Kids' meals
Outdoor dining area
Wine / champagne
Bicycle tours
Fishing
Taxi service
Foot massage
Full body massage
Massage
Massage chair
Neck massage
24-hour security
BBQ facilities
Baggage storage
Mosquito net
Outdoor furniture
Shared lounge / TV area
Sun deck
Sun loungers / beach chairs
Sun terrace
Sun umbrellas
First aid kit
24-hour check-in
Private check-in / check-out
Laundry service
Ironing service
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Room features
Housekeeping
Private balcony
Safe
Seating area
Bottled water
Clothes rack
Walk-in shower
Complimentary toiletries
Private bathrooms
Wake-up service / alarm clock
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Room types
Ocean view
Pool view
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
HOTEL STYLE
Family
Languages Spoken
English, Afrikaans, Swahili
94Reviews3Q+A11Room tips
Traveller rating
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Cherie G wrote a review Nov 2023
2 contributions
What a fantastic location and the couple who run it are amazing. This time of year we had some rain but it didn't spoil our time there. Food was delicious, accommodation was very comfortable and the bar staff were incredible.
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Date of stay: November 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Driftwood Beach Lodge, Other at Driftwood Beach Lodge
Responded 2 weeks ago
Hi Cherie, thank you so much, we do miss you guys here, we hope to see you very soon again
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Paula wrote a review Oct 2023
6 contributions1 helpful vote
had an excellent evening meal at Driftwood - beautiful surroundings friendly staff and above all excellent food. I would Highly recommend this little gem on the shores of the Indian Ocean in Jambiani
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Date of stay: October 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Driftwood Beach Lodge, Other at Driftwood Beach Lodge
Responded 19 Oct 2023
Thank you so much for the great review and words, I know for a fact our staff absolutley love you and have so many laughs when you are here
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Bushbaby16 wrote a review Sept 2023
Brighton, United Kingdom8 contributions4 helpful votes
If you are looking for a laid back beach escape with stunning blue seas and wonderful food then you will love Driftwood. Jambiani Beach is relatively quieter than other parts of the island, which suited us as there was no late music from open air bars etc. However you can easily get taxi's to busier spots. The rooms are simply furnished but bright and airy, and ours opened right onto the beach. You can walk for miles along the beautiful sand and there are lots of places for watersports within walking distance, as well as other hotels and restaurants. However we mostly ate the lodge because the menu (and cocktails) were awesome! In terms activities would highly recommend the snorkling experience with seafood BBQ lunch on a sand bar afterwards :) We would highly recommend and can't wait to return!
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Date of stay: May 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Driftwood Beach Lodge, Other at Driftwood Beach Lodge
Responded 19 Sept 2023
Hi, thank you so much for these very kind words, we are really glad that you enjoyed your stay with us, we will really give the words to the staff members as well We really hope to see you soon
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Eline v wrote a review Sept 2023
2 contributions
We stayed at the Driftwood Beach Lodge for 4 nights. We had a cottage overlooking the ocean, so we fell asleep to the sound of the ocean every night. It is well maintained and has a lovely pool. The managers were tremendously helpful and committed people, so we lacked nothing. In addition, the restaurant offers a varied menu with good value for money. Excursions are also organised from the accommodation. Tip: go for the blue safari! It was a fantastic and unique experience!
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Date of stay: September 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Driftwood Beach Lodge, Other at Driftwood Beach Lodge
Responded 13 Sept 2023
Hi, thank you very much for the kind words, we are really glad you had a good time staying with us, we hope to see you soon, and all the best for the future.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Bernhard L. wrote a review Sept 2023
2 contributions
After an exciting, but also strenous safari week on mainland Tanzania, we - a German family of three kids (11 to 18 years) and their dad - spent five days at Driftwood Beach Lodge to relax and enjoy the comfort of this beautiful place. We received a warm welcome by the managers of the lodge, Dricus and Uschi, and all staff personnel, and immediately felt at home. Surrounding the warm freshwater pool and the restaurant/bar area, rooms are layed out as individual bungalow units (approx. 6 to 8 altogether), composed of a sleeping room, bathroom and veranda, all nicely furnished in driftwood style according to lodge's motto. Daily serviced rooms with very comfortable beds, white linen and soft towels await you. Cold and hot water runs from the faucets in more than just droplets, and all appliances worked as they should - what a comforting treat, compared to the "premium hotel" where we had stayed before! Some guests might miss air condition, but since windows are equipped with moskito nets and security grilles, you can let the island's comfortable breeze cool you at night (in fact, we had generally very little issues with moskitos on the island). Even though Jambiani beach appears to be a safe place, the lodge has a 24-hour security service which made us feel in good hands at all times. Small shops by friendly locals are in short walking distance, with one (Eco Tours) offering exclusively handmade local products to take home as souvenirs. Notably, there is also a German bakery nearby that offers good bread and specialties like Kaiserschmarrn. However, we liked the lodge's restaurant and its menu (all at fair prices) so much that we didn't really try others. Last, a few more words about Dricus and Uschi, the South African couple who manages Driftwood Beach Lodge: we have met many nice people in Tanzania, but Dricus and Uschi really stood out among them. Regardless of what you need, and when - they always gave us excellent advise, arranged taxis and helped us with tour bookings. The latter was particularly useful since there are so many small businesses which offer tours, but the risk that they rip you off or don't hold their promise seems high. One everlasting memory was a half-day fishing trip, organized by Dricus, with our "catch of the day" fileted and grilled for us by the lodge's chef - delicous! Five stars for this great place!
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Date of stay: September 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Driftwood Beach Lodge, Other at Driftwood Beach Lodge
Responded 08 Sept 2023
Hi Bernhard, wow thank you so much for these very kind words, it was for us such a privilege to meet you and your 3 lovely kids, we are so happy that your last week on the Island was memorable, especially the ‘catch of the day’ 😊.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
geri wrote a review Sept 2023
London, United Kingdom63 contributions60 helpful votes
Absolutely amazing! The most gorgeous location on Jambiani beach, with delightful rooms and small, compact pool, bathing, bar and dining area. We really did not want to leave. The managers could not be more hands on, helpful and very friendly. The staff were lovely and the chef cooks all the food to order. Even if you don't stay here I would recommend passing by for drinks and food, including breakfast. It is very very reasonably priced compared to many places on the beach, is clean and enjoys great service from the bar and restaurant staff. We loved the proximity to the locals as well, including the children we met on the beach and the recommendations from Uschi on a great taxi and places to visit. Am reluctant to recommend as would like to keep it as a secret!
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Date of stay: August 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Driftwood Beach Lodge, Other at Driftwood Beach Lodge
Responded 07 Sept 2023
Thank you so much for these kind words, we loved having you here and sure miss you already. We will absolutly give the feedback to the staff as well
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Dayna W wrote a review Aug 2023
1 contribution
Wonderful staff, nothing was too much trouble from trips to ginger for your cough! Warm, welcoming, beautiful views and a relaxed friendly vibe. This lodge is a gem and would highly recommend it. Thank you…we will be back ❤️
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Date of stay: August 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Driftwood Beach Lodge, Other at Driftwood Beach Lodge
Responded 29 Aug 2023
Good Morning, thank you so much for the kind words, we are very pleased and we will always go out of our way to make sure our guests leave here with a great experience.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Ross F wrote a review Aug 2023
London, United Kingdom19 contributions12 helpful votes
+1
When you walk into a lodge, open your case, realise you have got far too much stuff ! Then you walk outside and WOW 🤩 you just know you have found the perfect place🏖️. Not flash and noisy, but chilled and happy, everyone is just so warm, food is great, staff are amazing and so helpful. My new home in Jambiani 👍
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Date of stay: August 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Driftwood Beach Lodge, Other at Driftwood Beach Lodge
Responded 13 Aug 2023
Thank you so much, we appreciate the warming words, and it sure are a pleasure having you here
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Vacation66791074984 wrote a review Jul 2023
Johannesburg, South Africa1 contribution
+1
What an absolute gem. The lodge is run by the most amazing couple Dricus and his wife Uschi, who cater to your every need. Nothing is too much to ask, and they go out of their way to ensure that you have the best holiday possible. The bar staff (JJ, Rashid, and Teddy) are super friendly, always with a smile on their faces, and make sure that your cocktails and drinks are always cold, and that you never go thirsty. We stumbled on Driftwood when looking for accommodation that is situated on a quieter, but still popular beach, and it has surpassed all of our expectations. Whilst staying there we actually had 3 other couples check in that were staying at other hotels north of us, and could not stand the crowds and music at their hotels. They took one look at Driftwood and came in directly to ask for rooms. The food prepared by the local chef was amazing, and the seafood platter that we ordered on the first night, was most generous. We will definitely be going back to Zanzibar next year, and when we do, we will definitely be staying at Driftwood Beach Lodge again. There is no reason to look any further. We have traveled all over the world, and we can honestly say that staying at Driftwood was one of the best stays we have ever had.
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Date of stay: July 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Driftwood Beach Lodge, Other at Driftwood Beach Lodge
Responded 27 Jul 2023
Thank you so much for all these beautifull words and feedback, we loved having you here and really miss you alot, all the laughs and just sit back and relax, you became friends that will last a long time. Thank you for choosing Driftwood Beach Lodge, we will see you next year
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
gavhcroft wrote a review May 2023
Harare, Zimbabwe12 contributions1 helpful vote
On the beach front, our comfortable beachfront bungalow was 20m from the sea. The beach and sea was stunning. The lodge staff were extremely helpful, and the service efficient. The food was great. We”ll be back
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Date of stay: April 2023
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Driftwood Beach Lodge, Other at Driftwood Beach Lodge
Responded 07 Jun 2023
Thank you so much for the feedback, we hope to see you again very soon
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Previous
PRICE RANGE
US$64 - US$176 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
LOCATION
TanzaniaZanzibar ArchipelagoZanzibar IslandJambiani
NUMBER OF ROOMS
11
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DRIFTWOOD BEACH LODGE - Reviews & Price Comparison (Jambiani, Tanzania) - Tripadvisor

Frequently Asked Questions about Driftwood Beach Lodge
Which popular attractions are close to Driftwood Beach Lodge?
Nearby attractions include Jambiani Beach (0.5 km) and Novtox Tailor & Designer (1.0 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Driftwood Beach Lodge?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free breakfast, a pool, and an on-site restaurant.
Which room amenities are available at Driftwood Beach Lodge?
Top room amenities include a mosquito net, a pool view, and a seating area.
What food & drink options are available at Driftwood Beach Lodge?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge during their stay.
Is parking available at Driftwood Beach Lodge?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Driftwood Beach Lodge?
Conveniently located restaurants include Lost Soles Bar, Gadea Garden Italian Restaurant, and Fadhil Restaurant.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Driftwood Beach Lodge?
Yes, guests have access to a pool during their stay.
Does Driftwood Beach Lodge have airport transportation?
Yes, Driftwood Beach Lodge offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Driftwood Beach Lodge?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English, Afrikaans, and Swahili.
Does Driftwood Beach Lodge have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the ocean view available here.