KeithFlying in from Kilimanjaro airport, again a night flight, as our original times were altered, I decided that a car would be a good way to see the island, and save a bit on taxi fairs.
The car hire was easy, and very reasonable, we left the airport car park around 23.30, following google maps, we attempted to leave the city, on what can only be described as cattle trails!!!!
Eventually, we navigated on to the main road, heading for our destination Uroa, approximately 90 minutes on normal roads, however once on the b roads you are dodging minefields of pot holes.
Almost at our destination, we slowed down to take a right turn, whereupon out of the pitch black, and in the middle of nowhere, Dick Turpin decided to open our rear door and grab the wife’s ruck sack. It all happened so quickly we didn’t really comprehend what had happened, until a further 100 meters along the road.
Once the incident had sunk in, we were shocked, stunned, and frightened at the thought of what might have been.
Finally, the hotel was in touching distance, and lo and behold a police road block, we were pulled over, and immediately realized it was a shake down for money, the corruption here is rife, but understandable, mainly due to the lack of decent wages, and employment.
It was now 3 hours since we left the airport (02.30 am), traumatized, tired and angry, ploughing through, what seemed to be peoples gardens, and back yards, we eventually arrived at our hotel, once in our room, we made them open the bar, and got absolutely slaughtered. Cheers 🍺🍺🥂🥂
Nautilus boutique hotel
Hakuna Matata a greeting by nearly everyone we met, (Swahili, means “there are no troubles”)
The owners and staff couldn’t do enough for us, they were amazing, even organized a guide, to assist with filing a police report.
Couldn’t wish for a more relaxing place…………….
The coastline at Uroa, is truly a paradise, it runs for miles along the North East of the Island, we debated some trips, but our experience on the first night had shattered our confidence, we stayed local, and enjoyed excursions to Pongwe, the local village, the people that we met were very friendly, and welcoming
Overall its a beautiful area, with stunning beaches, and dense tropical vegetation, however not much to explore in the evenings, no real tourist spots, where we stayed it was very isolated.
We did venture out for a beautiful lunch, on the Islands most famous restaurant
By now we had grown wise to the police road blocks, and only carried minimal cash for the payouts, 2-3 euro, the drive took about an hour, and the roads were again like swiss cheese. We passed through a couple of towns, that looked fabulous, with bars, restaurants, shops and a typical tourist holiday vibe, either Dongwe, Pingwe, or Paje on refection one of these would have been a much better choice.
The car parking at the rock is ample, and a 30-40 meter walk, sees you on to the beach front, with the restaurant right in front of you, we arrived when the tide was out passed the rock, so could walk up the small staircase, and be seated at our table.
if you arrive and the tide is in, there is a small row boat that they use, to ferry people back and forth.
The food and service were excellent, and although the seating is quite compact, there is a lovely, easy going, friendly atmosphere.
We opted for the fish platter for two ($86), well worth the money and delicious, the highlight of our stay in Zanzibar.
The rest of our stay was just a perfect way to relax at the hotel.
