Vamizi Island Lodge, Vamizi Island

First and foremost Vamizi is a conservation project born out of the dream that tourism can work for the planet. Having said this, as soon as you arrive on this paradise island you will want for nothing in terms of luxury and service.

Designed to complement the lush tropical environment, this is a luxurious 'barefoot' retreat with just 10 one and two-bedroom (ideal for families) villas strung loosely along the shoreline, each with its own piece of beach. They are light, airy, and very spacious with over 170-square-metres of timbered floor space. Stylishly appointed using natural materials and an eclectic mix of furnishings, they have separate bedroom/s and sitting areas, marble showers, a vanity area and a spacious outside deck with magnificent views over the ocean.

Food here is always fresh and always delicious, with a distinctively island menu of surf-fresh seafood and other tropical dishes. During the day dining is informal, either in the thatched open dining room on the main beach, at Muntu Nkulu (a new 'castaway' restaurant) on the north side of the island or picnics on a deserted beach. Evenings are a more glamorous, fuelled by grills on the beach or more elaborate dishes.

Days are generally lazy though you might consider the spa, which offers some of the best energy and body treatments available. For those seeking more energetic activities there is plenty on offer. Some of the dive sites here are ranked among the best in the world and the deep sea fishing is better than anywhere else on the East African coast. Alternatively there is snorkelling, castaway picnics, whale watching expeditions, boating, walks on the beach or treks in the bush in search monkeys or birds.