Fanjove Island, Tanzania | A Honeymooners paradise.

There are many private islands off the coast of Tanzania, but few have garnered the reputation and visibility of Janjove Island, lying just off the coast in Southern Tanzania. 

This tiny, previously unknown island has become a sought-after destination for couples to spend their honeymoon. It promises an East African experience, without feeling as though you’re just another in an endless queue of tourists. It’s private, authentic and romantic, increasing its popularity among Western tourists. 

Let’s talk a little bit more about where the island is, what there is to do there, and how to explore it yourself!

More about Fanjove Island.

The island itself is a tiny (1km long, 0.4km wide) private coral island within the Songosongo Archipelago, which lays just off the coast of the Kilwa district and Lindi, a historical port town. The Archipelago is composed of 4 islands and 22 reefs, largely untouched by tourism until the 2000s. Before this point, the land was uninhabited, but it was likely to have served as important navigational waypoints for the trade that had passed through Lindi for thousands of years – more recent evidence of this is the 19th-century German lighthouse, which is a prominent feature of the island. 

The island is owned by Xavier Marie and Julie Brisson and the Laba Laba Group, who operate several accommodations around Tanzania’s Northern and Southern tourist circuits. The owners are opening a luxury 5 star hotel inside the lighthouse itself, and establishing smaller luxury settings close to the pristine indian ocean surf.

How to get to Fanjove Island

The island is not difficult to visit, but certainly not a route many tourists go. The island is accessible from Dar Es Salaam – an hour flight from the old airport to Songa Songa, and a boat trip (hour by dhow/20 minutes by speed boat) will set you on the shores of Fanjove. 

To book, it is possible to contact local airlines, like Coastal TZ – however, you can book through a tour operator as part of a package. 

What is there to do? 

The island is tiny, but a hive of activity. There is plenty to do, but much of this is suited to those who enjoy the slower pace of life that a secluded beach resort provides. Choose from swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking, sailing, fishing, sea excursions, sunbathing, relaxing and private beach dinners. 

The best thing to do? Just sit back, relax and go for a dip in waters as warm as a bath!