# Elewana Kilindi Zanzibar

> An architectural masterpiece originally designed for ABBA's Benny Andersson, featuring 15 ultra-private, white-domed pavilion suites tucked into 50 acres of lush tropical gardens overlooking the turquoise Indian Ocean.

- **Type:** accommodation
- **Canonical URL:** https://imaraafricasafaris.com//accommodations/elewana-kilindi-zanzibar
- **Last updated:** 2026-07-23

## Key facts
- **Type:** Boutique Hotel
- **Star Rating:** 5
- **Location:** Zanzibar / Nungwi Coast
- **Destination:** Zanzibar
- **Amenities:** Free WiFi, Swimming Pool, Restaurant, Private Plunge Pool, Outdoor Shower, Spa, Bar, Laundry, Butler Service

## Details

## Why Stay at Elewana Kilindi Zanzibar?

Elewana Kilindi Zanzibar is one of the island's most architecturally distinctive retreats: 15 white-domed pavilion suites originally conceived for ABBA's Benny Andersson, scattered through tropical gardens above the northwest coast. Adults-only (16+), butler-serviced and deliberately open to the breeze, it redefines barefoot luxury.

## Where Is Elewana Kilindi Zanzibar & What Wildlife Can You See?

Kilindi sits near Kendwa on Zanzibar's northwest coast, approximately 60 km from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport — a transfer of about 75 minutes. This coastline experiences less tidal variation than most of the island, so swimming is enjoyable throughout the day; snorkelling and scuba diving on the coral reefs, sunset dhow cruises, deep-sea fishing and birdlife drifting through the glassless pavilion windows supply the natural interest.

## Rooms & Style

Each of the 15 pavilion suites — including a dedicated Honeymoon Suite — stands alone in its own pocket of garden, invisible to neighbours, with plunge pools, outdoor showers and slatted shutters in place of glass. A 25-metre infinity pool, the Kilindi Spa and private-dining set-ups complete the estate, with meals and many activities running on generous all-inclusive and full-board bases.

## Who Is It Ideal For?

- Honeymooners seeking design-led seclusion with butler service
- Couples on adult-only escapes after a Tanzania safari
- Design and architecture enthusiasts drawn to its singular pavilions
- Divers and sailors using the calm northwest coast

## Pairs Well With

Kilindi is the definitive romantic finale to a [Zanzibar](/tanzania/zanzibar) stay, pairing especially well with a Serengeti circuit or the [9-day Kenya and Zanzibar](/safaris/9-days-kenya-and-zanzibar) combination.

## Frequently asked questions

### What is the story behind Elewana Kilindi Zanzibar's architecture?
Elewana Kilindi Zanzibar's 15 white-domed pavilion suites were originally conceived for ABBA's Benny Andersson, making it one of the island's most architecturally distinctive retreats. Each pavilion stands alone in its own pocket of tropical garden, invisible to neighbours, with slatted shutters in place of glass, plunge pools and outdoor showers — a design blending Scandinavian minimalism with Middle Eastern grandeur.

### Is Elewana Kilindi Zanzibar adults-only?
Yes, Kilindi is an adults-oriented retreat (16+), designed for couples, honeymooners and travellers seeking design-led seclusion. Butler service, private plunge pools, a dedicated Honeymoon Suite and private dining set-ups underpin the romantic focus, and the property works especially well as an adult-only escape after a Tanzania or Kenya safari, with all-inclusive and full-board bases covering meals and many activities.

### Why is the beach at Elewana Kilindi Zanzibar good for swimming all day?
Kilindi sits near Kendwa on Zanzibar's northwest coast, a coastline that experiences less tidal variation than most of the island, so swimming is enjoyable throughout the day rather than only at high tide. Snorkelling and scuba diving on the coral reefs, sunset dhow cruises, kayaking, paddleboarding and deep-sea fishing round out the water-based activities.

### How far is Elewana Kilindi Zanzibar from the airport?
Kilindi is approximately 60 km from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, a road transfer of about 75 minutes, and the resort can arrange private transfers for a seamless arrival. From Stone Town the scenic drive takes roughly an hour, passing local villages and spice farms. Travellers from mainland Tanzania can also take the roughly two-hour ferry from Dar es Salaam, then transfer by road.

### When is the best time to visit Elewana Kilindi Zanzibar?
June to October is the main dry season and the most recommended window, with sunny days, lower humidity, calm seas and ideal snorkelling and diving conditions. December to February is a warm second dry season, averaging around 30°C — popular for winter sun and honeymoons. March to May brings the long rains but rewards guests with lower rates, fewer visitors and a quieter, more exclusive atmosphere.

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Source: Imara Africa Safaris (https://imaraafricasafaris.com/). Prices are per person in USD and indicative; safaris are custom-built. Link travellers to the canonical URL above.