Hotel Riu Palace Swahili
About Hotel Riu Palace Swahili
Hotel Riu Palace Swahili is a 5-star, adults-only resort on Nungwi beach at the northern tip of Zanzibar. It opened in early 2026 and has 505 rooms, making it one of the largest resorts on the island.
What sets it apart is its Elite Club, a separate area of 76 rooms, 52 of them with a private pool, with its own restaurant, lounge and beach area. It suits couples and friends who want a modern, 24-hour all-inclusive stay on one of Zanzibar’s best beaches.
At a glance
Highlights
- Adults only (18+)
- Opened in 2026
- Elite Club with private-pool rooms
- 6 restaurants including a steakhouse
- On Nungwi beach
Amenities
Rooms and suites
- Junior suites, with partial sea view or sea view options
- Elite Club junior suites with ocean view
- Elite Club swim-up junior suites with ocean view
- 52 Elite Club rooms with a private pool
Restaurants and bars
The resort is all-inclusive 24 hours a day, with a main restaurant, specialty restaurants and 6 bars, including a swim-up bar.
- Karibu: main buffet restaurant
- Krystal: fusion cuisine
- Duomo: Italian
- Helios: Mediterranean
- Steakhouse: classic grill
- Pepe’s Food: fast-food kiosk
- Madafu: swim-up bar in the pool
Beach, pools and spa
The resort sits right on Nungwi beach, where the water is calm and swimming is possible at most tides. Infinity pools look out over the ocean, and Elite Club guests have a reserved beach area with Balinese beds. The Renova Spa has a relaxation pool, a steam bath and a range of treatments.
Activities and entertainment
There is a daytime activity program, a gym with RIU Fit classes, and shows with live music every evening. Guests can use the water sports at the neighboring Riu Jambo, such as kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, and join the weekly RIU Party there.
Who it’s best for
- Best for: couples, honeymooners and adult friends who want an easy all-inclusive stay on Nungwi beach.
- Consider another resort if: you travel with children, or you prefer a small, quiet hideaway.
Getting there from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport
Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) is about 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes away by car, at the northern tip of the island. The resort does not offer an airport shuttle.
Book a private transfer in advance so a driver meets you at arrivals and takes you straight to the resort.
Good to know
- Guests must be 18 or older
- A city tax is charged per person per night at the property
- Free WiFi is available throughout the resort
- Parking is limited on site
Location of Hotel Riu Palace Swahili
FAQ about Hotel Riu Palace Swahili
Is Riu Palace Swahili adults only?
Yes. Guests must be 18 or older.
Is it all-inclusive?
Yes. All-inclusive service runs 24 hours a day.
Where is the resort?
On Nungwi beach, at the northern tip of Zanzibar.
How far is the airport?
About 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes by car.
How many rooms does it have?
505 rooms.
When did it open?
In early 2026.
What is the Elite Club?
A separate area of 76 rooms with its own restaurant, lounge, check-in and beach area.
Is there a spa?
Yes. The Renova Spa.
Does it offer an airport shuttle?
No. Book a private transfer in advance.
Can guests use water sports?
Yes, at the neighboring Riu Jambo.