Hotel Internship on a Tropical Island in the Indian Ocean

Through a hotel internship in Zanzibar, you can acquire valuable skills and insights into the hospitality industry, including customer service, teamwork, and problem-solving in a dynamic environment. You'll learn to manage guest interactions professionally, handle reservations, and gain an understanding of front desk operations, housekeeping, and food and beverage services. This experience fosters adaptability, cultural sensitivity, and effective communication as you engage with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. Additionally, you'll develop an appreciation for attention to detail and the significance of excellent service in creating memorable guest experiences on this tropical island.

If you're seeking a change of location or career direction, this internship also offers a great opportunity to establish connections in Zanzibar's rapidly growing tourism industry.

Most hotels provide one of the following benefits: accommodation, meals, or free activities like diving or surfing courses. If accommodation or meals are not provided free of charge, the monthly costs are approximately 250-300 EUR/300-350 USD. Some hotels offer both accommodation and meals at no cost.

During an internship, you can get involved in areas including:

• Front Office (reception, check-in/check-out, reservations)
• Human Resource Planning and Inventory Management
• Food and Beverage (restaurant and service)
• Implementation of Activities and Excursions
• Guest Services
• Event Planning
• Marketing
• Product Development

In smaller establishments with a maximum of 40 rooms (still prevalent in Zanzibar), you’re likely to take on a more generalist role across multiple areas. In larger hotels, work is typically more department-specific. If you have particular interests or internship requirements, let us know, and we can explore whether they can be accommodated.

 
The Booking Process

You can first submit an inquiry through the inquiry form on this page, including your preferred time frame for the hotel internship in Zanzibar. Please email us your CV/resume and a motivational letter in English. There is no obligation in sending your inquiry and CV/resume. We will contact suitable hotels on your behalf. Within a few days, we can usually propose a specific hotel for your internship. Some hotels require students in relevant fields of study, while others do not. In some cases, an online interview with the hotel may be necessary, and we will help you prepare for it.

The specific conditions of your internship vary by hotel, and we will share these details with you once we can propose an internship.

Your commitment only becomes binding once you agree to the hotel internship we have proposed.

Example Hotel Profiles

Beachfront Resort in Matemwe

This beachfront resort on Zanzibar's serene East Coast is a haven for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility. Set on a spacious, natural property, it features suites and villas with private gardens or sea views, many offering private pools and large outdoor spaces. Guests can enjoy a sustainable experience, including meals made from organic, locally sourced ingredients at the on-site restaurant and refreshing drinks at the bar. Activities such as snorkeling, diving, cycling, and cultural excursions are organized for guests. The hotel's dedication to personalized service and its tropical setting make it an appealing choice for families, couples, and solo travelers.

Boutique Hotel on the Southeast Coast

This luxurious boutique hotel in an oriental style has only seven rooms and suites within villas. The accommodations are spacious and elegantly designed, with large outdoor terraces featuring private pools and views of the Indian Ocean. The lush garden is filled with tropical plants and paths with cozy seating, loungers, and hammocks. Guests can order food all day and dine anywhere on the property. Managed by a German woman and her son, the hotel also offers excursions and dinners aboard a traditional dhow sailboat.

Hotel Group with Multiple Properties in Zanzibar

This hotel group operates several properties of varying standards across Zanzibar, most of which are beachfront resorts designed in an eco-chic style with up to 20 rooms.

One resort is designed for relaxation and adventure, offering a tranquil atmosphere with private verandas, a shared pool, and a beachside kite center for watersports enthusiasts. Guests enjoy a diverse menu of local dishes, including fresh seafood.

Another resort blends spacious luxury with family-friendly amenities, featuring elegant villas with private pools, rooftop terraces, and ocean views. Personalized services, including tailored menus, make it an ideal retreat for families or couples seeking privacy and exclusivity.

A third resort offers an intimate, tranquil atmosphere surrounded by lush gardens. It features airy rooms with private balconies, a pool lounge, and a private beach area. The on-site restaurant focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

The group also manages a high-end luxury resort on a coral cliff with ocean views, infinity pools, a wine cellar, a gym, a spa, and a cinema. The all-inclusive culinary experience includes locally inspired and international dishes.

In addition to beachfront properties, the group operates a city hotel in historic Stone Town. Built in 1913, the restored hotel reflects its original design, offering common areas in courtyards and balconies, as well as a rooftop restaurant with ocean views.

Hotel at the northern tip of Zanzibar

This 4-star hotel in Nungwi was one of the first in the area in the early 1990s and has been expanded continuously since. Owned by a local, Nassor, it features 37 rooms in tastefully designed bungalows of various categories, including honeymoon cottages. The property includes a spacious garden near the village and a marine turtle sanctuary. Amenities include a pool, sauna, and library, with activities such as sailing, fishing trips, and snorkeling tours offered. Nassor supports local NGOs and community initiatives. Interns can gain experience across all hotel departments.

Eco-Lodge in Pemba

Located on an uninhabited island in Pemba, this eco-lodge features six bungalows built using local materials. Rainwater is recycled for showers, and composting toilets and solar energy provide sustainable living. The restaurant serves dishes made entirely from local ingredients. Guests can enjoy nature-based activities like bird watching, kayaking through mangroves, snorkeling, and observing sea turtles. Interns should have a strong interest in nature and conservation, with opportunities to lead nature activities and work on sustainable tourism development with local communities.