Despite its long and tumultuous history, this beach holiday in Africa offers the visitor that increasingly rare commodity - long stretches of pristine deserted beaches, warm blue seas and an opportunity to experience the peace and tranquility long since swamped by overcrowding in more publicized tropical resorts.

None more so than Ras Kutani, set on a crescent of white sandy beach, washed by the gentle surf of the temperate Indian Ocean. The resort is situated only 35 kilometers south of the port of Dar es Salaam but offers the perfect hideaway, far from the madding crowd.

The setting ensures that feeling of being on one's own tropical island. The hotel is flanked by a fresh water lagoon abutting onto a coastal forest, which spills to the edge of the unspoilt and undeveloped beach.

Accommodation is in twelve spacious, charming cottages constructed of natural, local materials that harmonize perfectly with the wonderful surroundings. Ethnic furnishings impart a sense of the Tanzanian coast's rich cultural heritage. Each cottage has its own en suite bathroom and large veranda with views of the azure ocean. Our chefs pride themselves on preparing the fresh “fruit of the ocean” fare from the readily available local fish and crustaceans.

The four spacious and airy Upepo suites are appointed canopy-high on the hill, with sweeping views of the crescent bay and the jade waters of the Indian Ocean.

Upepo is the Kiswahili word for breeze, each suite named after one of the prevailing winds that soothes this deserted stretch of the Swahili Coast, offering an idyllic sanctuary for the safari-weary traveler in search of tropical respite and castaway comfort.

Set apart from the main lodge, perched amidst tropical forest on the hill behind, each suite comes with its own private areas and signature Sultan's bed.
 

Dates: Closed March 24 - March 31, April, May

Rack Rates 2008 (subject to change):

Full Board rate (including meals, tea, coffee)

$ 252 ppn sharing Beach and Lagoon Cottages

$ 307 ppn sharing Beach and Lagoon Cottages (July 1 - October 31, December 12 - January 7 2009)

$ 317 ppn sharing Suites

$ 392 ppn sharing Suites  (July 1 - October 31, December 12 - January 7 2009)

$ 793 per unit per night Family Unit (max 4 people)

$ 948 per unit per night Family Unit  (July 1 - October 31, December 12 - January 7 2009)

Single Surcharges - 50%

Children must be 6 or older - 6 to 11 sharing with adults 50%