Some holidays you plan carefully. Others just feel right from the moment you say yes. Our sisters trip to Zanzibar was a little of both, and when we decided to try RIU Palace Swahili, opened just months before our arrival in February 2026, we genuinely did not know what to expect from a brand-new resort still finding its feet.
What we found was something that surprised us in the best way. From the moment we landed on the island to our last swim-up cocktail at Madafu bar, Zanzibar delivered warmth, colour, and that unhurried “pole pole” pace that makes it so hard to leave. And RIU Palace Swahili? It gave us the perfect base to soak all of it in.
This is our honest, first-hand account of the full experience, from the flight out of Johannesburg to the winding alleys of Stone Town, and everything in between.
There’s something quietly thrilling about a morning departure that promises turquoise waters by lunchtime. Our journey to Zanzibar began aboard Safair, departing from O. R. Tambo International Airport at 09:00. At just 3.5 hours, it’s a short hop into another world. The early departure doesn’t allow for seamless same-day connections if you’re not based in Johannesburg, though that’s set to improve with Airlink introducing a later flight to Zanzibar from 3 June 26 as well as once weekly direct services from Cape Town from 3 October 2026.
The flight itself was pleasant and right on time. Safair keeps things straightforward: friendly cabin crew, a small complimentary snack box, and additional items available for purchase. The aircraft – a Boeing 737-800 – is a single-aisle “workhorse”, comfortable enough for a short regional journey, though with one caveat: the seats do not recline.
And for those who treasure a window view, take note – seat 11A has no window. The fuselage design means the window spacing skips that seat entirely, while the opposite side (11F) does have one. It’s a small detail, but one that can make a difference when you’re hoping for that first glimpse of the Indian Ocean from above.
We landed at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport at 13:35 local time (12:35 South African time). The moment you step off the aircraft, Zanzibar makes itself know – not with noise or chaos, but with a thick, tropical humidity that wraps around you instantly. It’s the kind of heat that slows your pace and signals that you’ve arrived somewhere entirely different.
Before you get too far, one document becomes essential: your mandatory travel insurance certificate. Whether printed or on your phone, it’s required for entry and checked before you proceed.
Inside the arrivals hall, you’ll need to complete an arrival form – these aren’t handed out onboard, so be prepared to fill it in on arrival. A pen becomes your best friend here.
Immigration itself was quite straightforward. No tricky questions, no extra delays – a smooth process and, in our case, a generous 90-day entry stamp. Still, it’s always wise to keep your return ticket and accommodation details within easy reach.
From there, it’s a short walk to baggage claim, where our luggage was already circling. After collecting bags, all luggage passes through an X-ray screening before you exit into the open air “arrivals area”.
Stepping outside, you’re immediately met with a sea of faces—drivers, hotel representatives, and greeters holding up name boards. It’s lively, a little chaotic, and admittedly overwhelming at first glance. But somewhere in that crowd is your name, your ride, and the next leg of your journey.
Since we had booked a shared seat-in-coach transfer, we waited for two additional travellers to arrive. It started drizzling, and having to wait in the open, we took the time to just take it all in & stretch our legs, breathe in the warm air, and letting the reality of “we’re in Zanzibar” sink in.
Once we got into the vehicle, we were handed small bottles of water and began the journey north. Our fellow travellers were headed to RIU Jambo, while we were bound for the newer, adults-only RIU Palace Swahili. The drive – just under two hours – wasn’t just a transfer; it was an introduction.
Zanzibar unfolded in scenes: lush, tropical greenery spilling into the roadside, the deep rust-red of African soil, and glimpses of daily life that felt both familiar and entirely new. Ox-drawn carts moved steadily along the road. Goats and cows wandered freely. Markets buzzed with activity, their stalls brimming with produce and colour. Minibuses – packed well beyond what seemed possible – zipped past, while the occasional pothole reminded us we weren’t on a polished tourist highway.
We were stopped at three roadblocks along the way – apparently common on weekends. To us, it felt a little chaotic, with multiple checks, loud conversations, and language we didn’t understand, making it hard to follow what was happening. It might feel a little intimidating at first, but it’s a “routine” part of travel on the island – and seeing our fellow passengers, who had visited here many times before, completely unfazed helped put us at ease.
By the time we reached the northern coast, somewhere between Kendwa and Nungwi, Zanzibar had already made its mark. Not through grand gestures, but through textures, warmth, and moments—the kind that slowly build into a feeling. It’s not just an arrival. It’s an unfolding…
There’s something special about arriving at a hotel that still has that brand-new glow—and that’s exactly the feeling at RIU Palace Swahili. Opened in February 2026, this adults-only 5-star retreat blends contemporary comfort with warm African character, creating a space that feels both polished and inviting from the moment you step in.
A little tip that makes a big difference: download the RIU app before your trip. You can complete most of your check-in details ahead of time, which speeds things up on arrival. Your room number (and digital key access) will only be activated after your physical check-in, but it still cuts down the admin nicely.
Important to remember: A $5 per person, per night tourism tax, payable at check-in – either in cash or by card.
Walking into reception, you’re immediately struck by the space. High ceilings, earthy tones, and African-inspired décor create a warm, relaxed atmosphere. There are plenty of comfortable seating areas, and the whole space feels designed for you to pause, breathe, and ease into island time.
A refreshing welcome drink in hand, the check-in process feels smooth and unhurried. Soon after, a luggage attendant escorts you to your room—offering a helpful overview along the way.
We stayed in a Junior Suite with a partial sea view (Room 6029)—a fantastic location close to the heart of the resort.
At 37m², the room feels spacious and well laid out, with everything still in pristine condition. You can tell the hotel is brand new—crisp linens, spotless finishes, and that unmistakable “first guest” freshness.
In-room highlights include:
The bed? Super comfortable—exactly what you want after a travel day.
There’s also plenty of cupboard and storage space, which makes settling in easy, even for longer stays.
One thing to be aware of: as you enter the room, you walk directly into the bathroom area. There is a wooden partition that offers some separation, but it’s not completely private. For us (two sisters travelling together), it wasn’t an issue—but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re sharing with someone you’re less familiar with.
The RIU app really comes into its own during your stay. If you’d like your minibar or tea/coffee replenished, you simply request it through the app—and we found it worked quickly and efficiently.
Plug points are easy too: the hotel uses UK-style plugs, and there are USB ports available for charging devices—no scrambling for adapters.
Housekeeping was consistent and efficient, with our room cleaned each morning by around 10–11am. A lovely touch: bed decorations every other day, adding a bit of charm to the experience. There’s no evening turndown service unless you’re in an Elite Club room category.
There’s an undeniable ease to staying here. Everything feels fresh, well thought-out, and quietly luxurious without being over the top. It’s the kind of place where you can slip into holiday mode almost instantly—whether that’s lounging on your balcony, enjoying the cool comfort of your room, or heading out to explore the rest of the resort.
If you’re looking for a modern, adults-only escape in Zanzibar with a balance of comfort and style, RIU Palace Swahili makes a very strong first impression—and only gets better from there.
After a couple of days settling into island time, we can confidently say that RIU Palace Swahili strikes a really lovely balance between relaxed luxury and an easy, social holiday vibe.
The hotel sits up in the north of the island, between Kendwa and Nungwi—an area known for its better swimming beaches and less extreme tides. It does feel a little removed from the buzz of Stone Town (about an hour’s drive away), but that’s part of the appeal. Once you arrive, you’re very much in switch-off mode.
Considering a Zanzibar holiday? Browse our Zanzibar packages to find the right fit for you.
The beach itself is undeniably beautiful—soft white sand, warm turquoise water, and those classic Zanzibar views. But if we’re honest, we found ourselves naturally gravitating more towards the pool areas, especially with the presence of Maasai traders and beach hawkers along the shoreline, which can feel a bit persistent at times.
That said, a daily stroll and dip in the ocean, is a definite must, as the water is calm, warm, and swimmable any time of day.
This is where the hotel truly delivers. The infinity pools overlooking the ocean quickly became our favourite spots—perfect for everything from a lazy morning to a golden sunset drink.
A real highlight is the popular swim-up bar, where cocktails seem to taste even better when you’re half-submerged in warm water with an ocean view.
With multiple restaurants and bars, there’s always somewhere to eat or drink, and the all-inclusive setup makes everything feel effortless. No overthinking, no planning—just deciding what you feel like in the moment, 24 hours a day.
The quality, quantity, and presentation of the food really stood out. The buffet is generous and beautifully laid out, with a wide variety that is constantly refreshed and thoughtfully presented. The à la carte restaurants take it even further—consistently polished, flavourful, and genuinely impressive in both service and execution.
There’s also a spa (with pool and steam room open to all guests), gym, and daily entertainment, so whether you want to stay active or do absolutely nothing, both options feel equally easy.
What we really liked was the atmosphere. Being adults-only, it definitely feels more polished and relaxed, but it’s not quiet or sleepy.
There’s a gentle buzz around the pools, people chatting over cocktails, music playing softly in the background—it feels social without ever being overwhelming. You can join in or completely do your own thing. And then there’s the rhythm of the island itself. Very quickly, you start slipping into the “pole pole” pace of life—slowly, slowly in Swahili. Staff greet you everywhere with a warm “Jambo,” and everything is wrapped in that easy-going “Hakuna Matata” mindset that makes it surprisingly hard to rush anything at all.
For us, RIU Palace Swahili is less about secluded, barefoot luxury and more about easy, stylish comfort with a lively edge. It’s the kind of place where you naturally fall into a rhythm—pool, drink, eat, repeat—with just enough variety (and genuinely good food) to keep things interesting.
And honestly, sometimes that effortless flow is exactly what a holiday should be.
You can view full package details and pricing for RIU Palace Swahili on our hotel page.
There’s something special about travelling with your sister—equal parts laughter, shared memories, and just the right amount of indulgence. Our stay at the stunning RIU Palace Swahili was exactly that: an easygoing escape with Swahili charm, shifting between blue skies, overcast moments, light drizzles and the occasional short downpour—all in one day—set against beautiful ocean views and a relaxed, unhurried pace. From the moment we arrived, it felt like stepping into a tiered paradise. The resort cascades gently down toward the ocean—each level revealing something new:
One of the highlights of our stay was definitely the food. Karibu, the main restaurant, kept us well-fed from morning to night, while Pepe’s Food Grill was perfect for those post-pool snack cravings.
Dinner is where things get interesting. The resort has several à la carte restaurants—Italian, Mediterranean, a steakhouse, and a fine-dining option—all beautifully styled and well worth trying. The only catch? Reservations are made via the RIU app and can only be booked 48 hours in advance, so some flexibility is needed. One evening we dined at 19:15, the next at 20:45—it all depends on availability.
That said, it was absolutely worth it. With only around 15–20 tables each, the specialty restaurants feel far more intimate than the main buffet, and the food, service, and overall atmosphere were consistently excellent. Think beautifully plated dishes, a relaxed pace, and the kind of dining experience that encourages you to linger just a little longer.
If your holiday priorities include cocktails and water, RIU Palace Swahili delivers.
Between the Cappuccino Bar, the 24-hour Lounge Bar, beach and pool bars, and evening cocktail spots, there was always somewhere to grab a drink.
Our favourite? The swim-up Aquatic Bar, Madafu. Floating on a submerged bar stool with a cocktail in hand and ocean views ahead is hard to beat.
The resort has two main pools, each with its own personality. The lower pool is where you’ll find the activities and energy, while the upper pool is perfect for a quieter afternoon with a book. We also discovered the spa pool—a peaceful retreat with access to the steam room and a welcome escape from both the crowds and the occasional rain shower.
Evenings brought a distinctly African flair—think rhythmic drumming, traditional dance, and sometimes a smooth saxophone set for a more laid-back mood. It never felt over-the-top, just a reminder of where you are.
Once a week, though, things dial up significantly.
Guests have access to the famous RIU Party at Hotel Riu Jambo, and it’s a full-on event—music, lights, energy, and a crowd ready to dance. It’s free to attend and definitely worth experiencing at least once.
As tempting as it is to stay poolside all day, Zanzibar has so much to offer.
The on-site tour desk made it easy to explore—we booked a trip to Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with winding alleys, carved doors, and history at every turn.
We also arranged transport to the island’s east coast for a change of scenery. A special shoutout to Fatima at the desk, who made everything seamless and stress-free.
For ocean lovers, there’s a water sports desk offering:
If you’re even slightly tempted—do it. The water is unreal.
Our sister trip to RIU Palace Swahili was the perfect mix of relaxation, fun, and just enough adventure. It’s the kind of place where you can fill your days—or happily do nothing at all—and still leave feeling like you’ve had a full, memorable escape.
A big, heartfelt shoutout to the amazing staff, who truly made it all the more special. From the F&B team to the waiters and housekeeping, every interaction came with a warm “Jambo” and that easy “Hakuna Matata” spirit—nothing ever felt like too much trouble. Even with those quick, heavy downpours keeping them busy mopping and resetting everything again and again, they did it all with genuine smiles and such great energy.
Between the layered design, the Swahili charm, the intimate dining, and those endless ocean views, it’s easy to see why this place leaves such a lasting impression.
Would we go back?
In a heartbeat. 🌴🍹
One of the highlights of our stay at RIU Palace Swahili was stepping out for an afternoon into the history and heartbeat of the island: Stone Town.
We booked the excursion through Sun Tours at the hotel’s travel desk, and everything was seamless. Pick-up was at 13:30, followed by about a 1.5-hour drive across the island. The closer we got, the more the scenery shifted—from calm rural vibes to something much more lived-in and energetic. The final stretch into Stone Town felt busy and a little intense, but in a good way—and it was a relief to be met by our friendly, knowledgeable guide who immediately eased us into the experience.
Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest continuously inhabited Swahili coastal towns in East Africa. Its name comes from the coral stone used in its buildings, which gives the old city its warm, weathered character.
We started at the House of Wonders, once the ceremonial palace of the Sultan of Zanzibar and one of the first buildings in East Africa to have electricity and an elevator. It’s currently under restoration, but still an impressive landmark.
Nearby is the Old Fort, built in the 17th century by the Omanis as a defence against Portuguese attacks. Today it’s a cultural space (but currently closed).
We then made our way to Forodhani Gardens, a lively waterfront park that transforms in the evenings into a street food hub. The area has a constant, easy energy—people walking, chatting, and there are also countless cats around hoping for scraps (and a bit of TLC). Our guide also pointed out the nearby Ocean Basket restaurant.
A quick stop at a small Tanzanite showroom introduced us to Tanzania’s famous gemstone—known for its deep blue-violet colour and found only in a small mining region near Mount Kilimanjaro.
From there, we wandered into Stone Town’s narrow alleys. This is where the city really shines—tight winding streets, carved wooden doors blending Swahili, Indian, and Persian influences, and small shops tucked into every corner. It feels lived-in, layered, and full of small discoveries.
Amother moving stop was the former slave market site and Anglican Cathedral, now a memorial to the East African slave trade. The preserved underground chambers where enslaved people were held are still visible, offering a quiet but powerful reminder of this history.
We also heard how Stone Town grew as a trading hub connecting Africa, Arabia, India, and Europe—trading spices, ivory, and sadly, enslaved people. That blend of cultures is still visible today in the architecture, food, and everyday life.
And of course, there’s a nod to Freddie Mercury, born here in 1946—his childhood home still quietly marking his roots in the town.
We ended our walk at Darajani Market, the main local market in Stone Town.
The fish section was loud, busy, and full of movement—strong smells, buzzing flies, and traders calling out as fresh catch was sorted and sold in a fast, no-frills rhythm that felt completely authentic and alive.
Right next to it, the spice section felt like stepping into another world. Warm, colourful, and fragrant, with neat piles of cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and nutmeg. Mixed in were the softer, comforting aromas of local teas and freshly roasted coffees—some even offered to sample along the way. It all blended into that unmistakable Zanzibar scent: rich, layered, and impossible to forget.
After a few hours of exploring, walking, and soaking up the stories of Stone Town, we met our driver for the journey back. The contrast was immediate and striking—leaving the busy, layered streets behind and returning to the calm ocean views of RIU Palace Swahili felt like moving between two completely different worlds in a single afternoon.
Ready to Plan Your Own Zanzibar Escape? Whether you are dreaming of a sister trip, a couples getaway, or simply some well-earned time away, we would love to help you put it together. At Islandwize Travel, we handle the details so you can focus on enjoying every moment. View RIU Palace Swahili Packages or explore all our Zanzibar options and get in touch when you are ready.
I’m Kerstin, founder of Islandwize Travel. With many years in the travel industry and more than 30 visits to Mauritius, I share first-hand knowledge and expert advice on Indian Ocean getaways. I help South Africans travel with confidence, guided by my motto: “Nothing is ever too much trouble.” Let’s plan your dream island holiday together.
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