A list by Kent Berg & Ada Nyman. Updated February 2024.
We have created a list with the best boutique hotels in Zanzibar City, Tanzania. Hope you enjoy it. We think it might be the best of its kind around. Tip: Set your dates to see room prices!
Inn / Guest House.Charming. Historic property. Great interior design. Popular among women. Built in 1860 for Princess Kholle, this central Stone Town hotel is a minutes’ walk from Zanzibar Ferry Terminal. It offers luxurious rooms, an outdoor pool and rooftop terrace with a Swahili-style tea house and Indian Ocean views. Air-conditioning, a ceiling fan and mosquito net are provided in all rooms at Kholle House. Each is individually decorated with exposed wooden beams, bright colours and antique furnishings. Guests can enjoy a daily breakfast, as well as meals and beverages throughout the day at Kholle House. It also has a reading room and a garden with a conservatory. Wi-Fi is free available throughout the property. The hotel organises an important range of indoor services such as massages in our spa room, live band swahili dinners happening in the tea house on the roof top and outdoor activities including visits to Stone town and Spice plantations.Show full description
This might be the most charming and historic boutique hotel in Zanzibar City.
Hip. Lively. Great views. Popular among couples.Opened August 2020. Upendo House Hotel Zanzibar is situated in Stone Town and has a restaurant, a bar and a terrace. Free WiFi is at guests' disposal. All units in the hotel are fitted with a kettle. The private bathroom is equipped with a shower. The units at Upendo House Hotel Zanzibar feature air conditioning and a wardrobe. A à la carte breakfast is available every morning at the accommodation. Staff at the reception can provide advice on what to do in the area.Show full description
In my judgement this could be one of the most LIVELY boutique hotels in Zanzibar City. It also has an amazing hotel bar, a popular rooftop bar and a unique rooftop pool!
Very stylish. Lively. Comfortable beds. Situated in the heart of Stone Town. It is located just 500 metres from the fruit and fish market of Darajan. Shaba Boutique Hotel is located only a 2-minute walk from the House of Wonders museum and 5 minutes’ walk from the Fordahani Gardens. The air-conditioned rooms all include Zanzibari-style furnishings and are equipped with a fan. The en suite bathrooms come with a shower. The entire property and all rooms have free wifi. Zanzibar International Airport is 15 minutes’ drive away.Show full description
I would describe this as the most STYLISH boutique hotel in Zanzibar City. It also has super comfortable beds.
Charming. Historic. Good breakfast. Zanzibar Palace Hotel is located in Stone Town on Zanzibar Island. It offers individually decorated suites with free Wi-Fi. Palace Restaurant offers a breakfast buffet daily, while à-la-carte specialties prepared from fresh ingredients, are served in the evening. A wide variety of wines are available at the bar and restaurant. The beach is within 1 km from the hotel where guests can enjoy water activities. All suites feature Zanzibari, Arabic and English décor and are fitted with tiled floors. Each one includes a seating area with a flat-screen TV and telephone. Some suites offer a balcony and a sun deck with a hot tub. Zanzibar Palace spa offers relaxing massage treatments upon request. The hotel’s tour desk can arrange local excursions and activities, all at an added fee. Memorable souvenirs are available at the gift shop. Forodhani Gardens and Old Fort is a 4-minute walk from Zanzibar Palace. Zanzibar Airport is 10 minutes’ drive away. An airport shuttle is available upon request.Show full description
Resort.Unique. Relaxing atmosphere. Popular among couples. Zanzi Resort is situated on the shore of the Indian Ocean, 15 km from the historic town of Stone Town and a 30-minute drive from the Zanzibar International Airport. Each spacious villa and bungalow offers an intimate environment. Guests can choose to have breakfast, lunch, and dinner in their private villa or bungalow, in the restaurant, or on the beach. Ocean-front villas have a private patio with a pool, a lush tropical garden, and a gazebo draped in mosquito nets. The bungalows are located in the garden area with access to the main swimming pool. A guest relations attaché is available to help plan day trips and excursions. We offer local cuisine prepared for an international palate with fresh seafood accompanied by organic vegetables and spices picked from our own eco-plantation. Massages are offered beside the ocean with water sports facilities available on site. Free bicycles are available and excursions can be arranged at the tour desk.Show full description
This resort is popular among couples travelling to Zanzibar City.
Unique. Charming. Superb breakfast. Popular among women. Located in Zanzibar City, the unique and historical Zanzibar Coffee House offers individually designed rooms and suites. It features a coffee shop and a roof top terrace, overlooking Stone Town. The rooms combine old-world charm and antique details with modern conveniences. Each room is fitted with a ceiling fan and a four-poster bed, draped with a mosquito net. Free WiFi is available. Breakfast is served on the rooftop terrace. The hotel's café is situated downstairs and offers a variety of coffees, prepared by trained baristas. Guests can also indulge in cakes or order meals and snacks. Zanzibar Coffee House has a 24-hour front desk, concierge and laundry services. Zanzibar Airport is 8 km away and airport transfers can be arranged for a surcharge.Show full description
In my judgement this could be one of the most UNIQUE AND AUTHENTIC boutique hotels in Zanzibar City. It also has a highly rated breakfast.
Trendy. Stylish. Cosy rooms. Popular among couples. Jafferji House is a boutique hotel situated in the heart of the historical Stone Town. Old Fort and the House of Wonders can both be reached within 200 metres of the property. Each air-conditioned room comes equipped with a flat-screen satellite TV and tea-and-coffee-making facilities. The private bathrooms include free toiletries. Free Wi-Fi is available. Zanzibar Airport is 7.1 km away and the town of Zanzibar is an 8-minute drive away.Show full description
I rate this as the most WELL DESIGNED boutique hotel in Zanzibar City. It also has very cosy rooms!
Historic. Cosy rooms. Rooftop restaurant. Popular among couples. Offering a restaurant, the historical Kisiwa House is located in the heart of historical Stone Town in Zanzibar. Free Wi-Fi access is available. As one of the oldest buildings in Stown Town, Kisiwa House combines historical elements with fresh and modern design. Panoramic views of Stone Town and the Indian Ocean can be enjoyed from the roof-top restaurant, which offers local and international cuisine. Decorated in Swahili style, the spacious rooms offer plush interiors and are fitted with a flat-screen TV, air conditioning and a minibar. Featuring a spa bath, private bathrooms also offer hairdryers, bathrobes and free toiletries. Guests at Kisiwa House can relax in the garden or unwind in the courtyard lounge by the fountain. The property is within walking distance to museums, antique shops and famous landmarks. Zanzibar International Airport is a 10 minute drive from Kisiwa House. Airport Shuttles can be arranged at an additional surcharge.Show full description
Beautiful. Cool. Great location. Mizingani Seafront Hotel is situated just a 2-minute walk from the Zanzibar Ferry Terminal. The hotel offers a restaurant, outdoor pool and 24-hour front desk. The private bathroom come with a uniquely designed bathtub or shower. At Mizingani Seafront Hotel the restaurant has an à la carte and buffet menu offering a variety of dishes. Free private parking is available on site. The bright, air-conditioned rooms feature Zanzibari décor and feature a private entrance. They come fitted with a seating area, mosquito net draped over the bed, a flat-screen satellite TV and a safe. Guests can relax on the terrace or unwind in the hamman. Nearby attractions include the House of Wonders and Forodhani Gardens which are 350 metres away. Free WiFi is available in public areas and an airport shuttle can be arranged at a surcharge. The Zanzibar International Airport is 8.5 km away.Show full description
Relaxing atmosphere. Romantic. Great value. Mangrove Lodge offers eco-friendly accommodation in Zanzibar City.The lodge features a restaurant, bar and lounge with hammocks. Free WiFi access is available, and guests can enjoy the lush garden and BBQ facilities. The guest rooms at Mangrove Lodge offer a veranda. Each bed is covered with a mosquito net and there is a fan and air-conditioning in each room. The private bathrooms are fitted with a shower and you can enjoy garden view from the room. Excursions include visit of Spice farms and nearby local village community. Zanzibar Kisauni International Airport is a 30-minute drive from the lodge, while Zanzibar Stone Town is 14 km away.Show full description
Based on my research this is the most RELAXING boutique hotel in Zanzibar City.
Historic. Great value. Great location. Centrally located in Zanzibar’s Stone Town, Dhow Palace Hotel is set in a historical building from 1559. It features a swimming pool, restaurant and roof-top terrace with panoramic views. The restaurant serves a variety of local Zanzibari and international cuisine. Each spacious room comes with air conditioning and Zanzibari-style furniture and décor. The rooms also include satellite TV and an electric kettle. The en suite bathrooms are equipped with a hairdryer. Guests can relax by the swimming pool or on the roof-top terrace. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel. Dhow Palace Hotel is located just 300 metres from Stone Town Beach and 500 metres from the House of Wonders. The Ferry Port is 1 km away and Zanzibar Airport is 5 km from the hotel.Show full description
Rooftop restaurant. Comfortable beds. Featuring barbecue facilities, The Seyyida Hotel and Spa is situated in Zanzibar City, 300 metres from The Zanzibar Curio shop. Boasting a 24-hour front desk, this property also provides guests with a restaurant. The property is close to popular attractions like Peace Memorial Museum, Old Dispensary and Sultan's Palace, Zanzibar. The units at the hotel are equipped with a seating area. Rooms have a private bathroom with a bath. At The Seyyida Hotel and Spa each room is fitted with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. A continental breakfast can be enjoyed at the property. The accommodation offers an outdoor pool. Sultan's Palace, Zanzibar is a 4-minute walk from The Seyyida Hotel and Spa. An airport shuttle can be arranged upon request and Zanzibar Airport is 8 km away.Show full description
This boutique hotel has a cool rooftop restaurant.
Beautiful. Featuring a seafront location in Zanzibar City, Park Hyatt Zanzibar offers an outdoor pool and a restaurant. This air-conditioned hotel comes with free WiFi access and has a spa and wellness centre. All rooms are equipped with a flat-screen cable TV, a minibar and tea and coffee making facilities. Private bathrooms comprise a bathtub, free toiletries, a hairdryer and a bidet. Views are provided from all rooms. Guest staying at Park Hyatt Zanzibar are also offered a fitness centre, a tour desk and a luggage storage. Activites like snorkeling, diving, golf and various other can be enjoyed on site or in the surrounding area. The Hotel is 43 km away from Jozani Chwaka National Park and 11 km from Masingini Forest. Abeid Amani Karume International Airport is 8Km from Park Hyatt Zanzibar. Zanzibar Ferry Terminal is 1 km away.Show full description
Situated in Zanzibar City, 7.8 km from Peace Memorial Museum, Golden Palm Boutique Zanzibar features accommodation with a garden, free private parking, a shared lounge and a terrace. This 3-star hotel offers babysitting service and a concierge service. Golden Palm Boutique Zanzibar provides some units with city views, and the rooms have a balcony. Guests at Golden Palm Boutique Zanzibar can enjoy a buffet breakfast. The accommodation offers a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, room service and free WiFi. At the hotel the rooms are fitted with air conditioning, a seating area, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a safety deposit box and a private bathroom with a shower, free toiletries and a hairdryer. At the accommodation each room includes bed linen and towels. At the hotel you will find a restaurant serving African, Chinese and British cuisine. Vegetarian, halal and vegan options can also be requested. Hamamni Persian Baths is 8.7 km from Golden Palm Boutique Zanzibar, while St Joseph's Roman Catholic Cathedral is 8.9 km from the property. The nearest airport is Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, 1 km from the accommodation.Show full description
Delightful property. Relaxing atmosphere. Popular among women.Opened January 2021. Featuring a garden, shared lounge, terrace and free WiFi, The Manor House by Sansi is located in Zanzibar City, 5.6 km from Peace Memorial Museum and 6.5 km from Hamamni Persian Baths. The property is set 6.7 km from St Joseph's Roman Catholic Cathedral, 6.7 km from Cinema Afrique and 6.9 km from Old Fort of Zanzibar. At the hotel you will find a restaurant serving African and international cuisine. The hotel features family rooms. At the hotel, each room is fitted with a wardrobe. With a private bathroom equipped with a shower and free toiletries, certain rooms at The Manor House by Sansi also offer a sea view. Guest rooms at the accommodation include air conditioning and a desk. Guests at The Manor House by Sansi can enjoy an à la carte breakfast. Vegetarian, halal and gluten-free options can also be requested. Speaking English and Swahili at the 24-hour front desk, staff are willing to help at any time of the day. House of Wonders is 6.9 km from The Manor House by Sansi, while Old Dispensary is 7 km away. The nearest airport is Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, 2 km from the accommodation.Show full description
I would describe this as one of the most BEAUTIFUL boutique hotels in Zanzibar City.
Resort.Relaxing atmosphere. Romantic. Great value.Opened January 2021. Set in Zanzibar City, 20 km from Peace Memorial Museum, Calamari Beach Resort offers accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden and a restaurant. Offering a bar, the property is located within 21 km of Hamamni Persian Baths. All rooms include a balcony with sea views and free WiFi. The resort will provide guests with air-conditioned rooms with a wardrobe, a kettle, a fridge, an oven, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV, a terrace and a private bathroom with a shower. At Calamari Beach Resort all rooms have bed linen and towels. St Joseph's Roman Catholic Cathedral is 21 km from the accommodation, while Cinema Afrique is 21 km from the property. The nearest airport is Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, 12 km from Calamari Beach Resort.Show full description
Opened September 2022. Situated within 200 metres of Stone Town Beach, Sharazad Wonders Boutique in Zanzibar City has a number of amenities including a garden, a terrace and a bar. Featuring free bikes, the 1-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, each with a private bathroom. At Sharazad Wonders Boutique each room comes with bed linen and towels. At the accommodation you will find a restaurant serving African, Indian and Italian cuisine. The accommodation features room service, a 24-hour front desk and currency exchange for guests. The rooms in the hotel are fitted with a kettle. Rooms include a safety deposit box, while certain rooms have a balcony and others also boast city views. Vegetarian, dairy-free and halal options can also be requested. The area is popular for cycling, and car hire is available at Sharazad Wonders Boutique. Popular points of interest near the hotel include Peace Memorial Museum, Old Fort of Zanzibar and House of Wonders. The nearest airport is Abeid Amani Karume International, 8 km from Sharazad Wonders Boutique, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.Show full description
We do our best to keep this list as up-to-date as possible. We last updated it in February 2024. If you know of a boutique hotel that should be on the list, let us know. Click here to contact us. Thanks!
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