A Day at Matlai: From Indian Ocean Sunrise to Dinner on the Beach

Welcome to Boutique Hotel Matlai in Michamvi Pingwe, Zanzibar—a place where time slows down and the Indian Ocean dictates the rhythm of the day. A stay here is more than just a holiday; it's an immersion into pure, luxurious relaxation.

Join us on a journey through a typical, dreamy day at Matlai, from the first light of dawn to the starry, intimate nights.

Morning: The Awakening of Paradise

🌅 6:00 AM – The Magical Sunrise

The day begins early, but it's a wake-up call you won't want to miss. Zanzibar's East Coast is famous for its spectacular sunrises. From your private balcony or terrace, you can watch as the sun rises, casting a fiery glow over the Indian Ocean and turning the turquoise water into liquid gold.

☕ 8:00 AM – Breakfast with a View (or in the Pool!)

There are no rigid schedules, only your personal preference. Our personalised service means you can enjoy your morning meal in several unique ways:

• Veranda Gourmet: Have your breakfast served directly on your private veranda—a quiet, classic start to the day.

• Floating Indulgence: For the ultimate holiday photo and a truly unique treat, opt for a floating breakfast delivered right to you inside the pool.

Wherever you choose to dine, you'll enjoy fresh seasonal fruits, eggs prepared to your liking, local delicacies, and aromatic coffee, all while the gentle breeze rustles the palm leaves.

Noon: The Ocean's Rhythm and Coastal Adventures

🌊 10:00 AM – The Flexible Tide Adventure

The tides are the heartbeat of Zanzibar and determine how the day at the beach unfolds. At Matlai, we live in harmony with this rhythm, as the low tide (ebb) shifts daily.

When the tide is perfect for walking: Seize the opportunity! Especially during spring tide (around the full and new moon), the sea retreats significantly, revealing a powdery white sandbank directly in front of the hotel. Equipped with reef shoes, this is the perfect time for a leisurely, unique stroll or a light snorkelling excursion to explore the coral gardens beyond the bank.

When the tide isn't optimal (high or mid-tide): No problem! We offer equally appealing alternatives that don't depend on a receding ocean:

Alternative Activity	Description
Blue Lagoon Snorkel Trip 🐠	A short boat trip to the nearby Blue Lagoon, an ideal spot for snorkelling and swimming with starfish in clear, shallow waters.
Kayak Tour 🛶	Book a kayak (for free) and paddle along the coast during high tide to enjoy the view from the sea.
Visit Pingwe Village 👣	Immerse yourself in the local culture. Your private Butler can accompany you on a walk to the nearby village of Pingwe. This is a wonderful opportunity to see authentic daily life, meet local fishermen, and support small community businesses.
Visit to "The Rock" 🍹	At high tide, the famous "The Rock Restaurant" sitting in the middle of the water is only reachable by boat—a picturesque location for a drink and spectacular photos.

🍽️ 1:30 PM – A Light Lunch

For lunch, we invite you to our restaurant or a shaded spot in the lush garden. Enjoy fresh salads, a delicious burger, or catch-of-the-day fish. Perhaps paired with a signature mocktail or a refreshing "Flying Matlai" cocktail?

Afternoon & Evening: Time for the Soul

🧘 3:00 PM – Relaxation and Pampering

The afternoon is dedicated to leisure. Whether you're reading a book in one of our comfortable daybeds by the pool, taking a nap on a beach lounger, or indulging yourself at the Bustani Spa—only your well-being matters here. A Couples Massage in the middle of our beautiful garden is the perfect way to unwind.

⛵ 4:00 PM – Sunset Cruise to Michamvi Kae

As the afternoon light softens, prepare for one of the most magical experiences on the island. While Matlai faces east, the Michamvi Peninsula curves to the west, offering the East Coast's only real sunset view!

Your butler will arrange a private trip to the tranquil Michamvi Kae side of the bay. You have a choice of vessels for this unforgettable journey:

• Authentic Charm: Sail silently aboard a traditional Ngalawa (a local outrigger sailing boat), gliding right into the mangroves as the sun dips below the horizon.

• Modern Comfort: Alternatively, choose a modern Cyber Boat for a smooth, swift ride.

Witnessing the famous African sunset paint the sky in fiery colours from the water is a breathtaking prelude to dinner.

✨ 7:30 PM – Dinner Under the Stars

The pinnacle of every day at Matlai is dinner. We pride ourselves on offering a unique and intimate culinary event every evening.

Choose from our à la carte menu or enjoy the daily three-course fixed menu. Culinary highlights include:

• Ultimate Freshness: Select your live lobster directly from our tank, ensuring the freshest possible meal.

• Wine Pairing: Complement your meal with an exquisite bottle from our hand-selected wine list, featuring choices from around the globe.

The absolute highlight? A private table set up directly on the beach, illuminated only by candles and the moonlight.

🌙 9:30 PM – Good Night in Paradise

End your evening with a digestif or one of the island’s fine rums at the bar. Afterwards, the luxurious ambiance of your suite awaits to lull you into a deep sleep.

A day at Matlai is an experience for all the senses. It is the combination of personalised service, unspoiled nature, and the profound tranquility of the Indian Ocean that makes this spot a true paradise. We look forward to crafting your perfect day soon!

Are you ready to experience the unique rhythm of Zanzibar?