Legal
How to cancel or change a booking with us, and how refunds work.
Last updated 28 October 2026
Our cancellation and prepayment terms depend on the villa, the dates and the rate you choose. The terms that apply to your booking are the ones shown on your booking confirmation, and those take priority over this page.
Contact us in writing as early as you can, at [email protected] or on +255 651 535231. A cancellation takes effect when we receive it, so ask us to confirm it in writing.
If you booked through a travel agent, a tour operator or a booking site, cancel through them. They hold your payment and their terms apply to your booking.
The charge that applies is the one set out on your booking confirmation. If your rate includes free cancellation, it applies up to the deadline shown there. After that deadline the charge shown on your confirmation applies.
Non-refundable rates are charged in full at the time of booking and are not refunded if you cancel or do not arrive.
If you do not arrive and have not cancelled, the no-show charge on your booking confirmation applies.
We will move your dates where the villa is free and your rate allows it. Any difference in price is payable, and a non-refundable rate may not be changed.
Refunds go back to the same card or account the payment came from. We cannot pay a refund to someone else.
Agreed refunds are processed promptly. Your bank or card issuer may take several more days to show the money, and any exchange rate difference is outside our control.
Some rates need a deposit, or payment in full, to confirm the booking. Where that applies it is shown on your booking confirmation and taken when you book.
If we have to cancel your booking we will tell you as soon as we can and offer you another villa or other dates, or refund what you paid us.
If something outside your control stops you travelling, such as illness or a government travel restriction, tell us as soon as you can and send us any evidence. We will look at your booking individually, but we cannot promise a refund where your rate does not allow one.
Travel insurance is required for visitors to Zanzibar, and it is the most reliable protection if you have to cancel. Our Getting Here page explains this.
Swahili Coast Villas, Kiwengwa, Zanzibar, Tanzania. Email [email protected] or call +255 651 535231. Keep our written confirmation of any cancellation or refund we agree.