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I first visited Mediterraneo in Dar es Salaam on a day when my mind was fraught with anxious thoughts.
I was going through a trying period in my life and needed some time out to recoup and clear my mind.
Mediterraneo did this wonderfully.
The Lounge at Mediterraneo Hotel Restaurant Tanzania
I remember arriving at Mediterraneo and being mesmerized by the beauty of the lounge area.
The chairs were made of canoes, and there was sand on the ground.
The ocean was only a short distance away and it seemed to be blowing wind in my direction with the intention of blowing all my worries away.
Mediterraneo Hotel & Restaurant in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, is a boutique beachfront property located in the Kawe area, about a 30-minute drive from Julius Nyerere International Airport.
The hotel blends Mediterranean aesthetics with the relaxed vibe of the Tanzanian coast, offering a quiet and serene setting ideal for leisure travelers, couples, and business guests looking to unwind by the Indian Ocean.
The Rooms at Mediterraneo Hotel & Restaurant
The hotel features around 30 to 52 rooms, depending on current configurations, all designed in a charming cottage style with pastel tones, rustic wooden accents, and airy layouts.
Each room includes air conditioning, private verandas, flat-screen TVs, complimentary bottled water, and beautiful en suite bathrooms with essential toiletries.
Many of the rooms offer sea or garden views, and a few have kitchenettes for added convenience.
While the rooms are comfortable and very clean, I have sometimes had issues with the air conditioning not working well (important because Dar es Salaam is generally very hot).
Mediterraneo’s beachfront location is one of its most distinctive features. Guests often describe the atmosphere as peaceful and romantic, with well-maintained gardens, lantern-lit walkways, and open spaces designed to encourage relaxation.
The hotel’s swimming pool, outdoor spa, and shaded lounging areas provide plenty of options for both sun and shade, while a small playground is available for children.
Dining is a major highlight.
The main restaurant is built above the shoreline, offering ocean views and an extensive Mediterranean menu.
Dishes include wood-fired pizzas, homemade pasta, grilled seafood, and light tapas.
Breakfast is served from 7:00 to 10:30 a.m., while lunch and dinner run until late in the evening.
An upstairs restaurant, ZanzyDar, focuses on Swahili and Zanzibari fusion cuisine, offering a slightly different culinary experience.
The Habanero Bar operates from Tuesday to Saturday and provides a more casual spot to enjoy cocktails, wine, or beer with ambient music in the background.
The hotel also provides event and business facilities, including conference rooms, a business center, and banquet areas for weddings and private functions.
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, and free parking is offered on-site. Airport transfers can be arranged upon request, though guests are advised to confirm availability ahead of time.
Guest feedback is generally positive. Most visitors appreciate the tranquil environment, the quality of the food, the attentive service, and the well-kept grounds.
Many describe the hotel as an ideal escape from the city’s busier areas.
That said, a few reviewers have mentioned mosquitoes as a common evening nuisance, so bringing insect repellent is recommended. Some also felt that restaurant prices were higher than expected for Tanzania, though still reasonable given the setting and quality.
The hotel’s overall vibe is quiet and laid-back, catering primarily to travelers looking for a peaceful coastal retreat rather than a bustling resort experience.
It’s particularly popular with couples and solo travelers seeking rest and relaxation.
Weekends occasionally feature live music, which adds a pleasant but not intrusive touch of nightlife.