Stone Town, the historic heart of Zanzibar City in Tanzania, is a captivating destination known for its rich cultural heritage, narrow winding streets, and stunning architecture.
If you plan to visit this enchanting UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2025, finding the perfect accommodation is essential to make the most of your stay. From boutique hotels to charming guesthouses, Stone Town offers a range of options to suit various budgets and preferences.
This article will explore some of the best places to stay in Stone Town between 2025 and 2026.
Park Hyatt Zanzibar: A Luxurious Oasis in Stone Town
For those seeking the ultimate luxury experience, Park Hyatt Zanzibar is the perfect choice. This five-star hotel seamlessly blends modern elegance with Zanzibari culture.
Located on the beachfront, it offers breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. The hotel features spacious rooms and suites with local artwork and traditional furnishings.
The amenities include a spa, fitness center, and multiple dining options serving delicious international and local cuisine. With exceptional service and a prime location, Park Hyatt Zanzibar is an idyllic retreat in Stone Town.
Highlights
1. Stunning Ocean Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean from your room or the hotel’s beachfront, creating a serene and picturesque setting.
2. Elegant Accommodations: Experience spacious rooms and suites beautifully adorned with local artwork and traditional furnishings, blending modern luxury with Zanzibari culture.
3. Top-Notch Amenities: Indulge in various amenities, including a rejuvenating spa, a fully equipped fitness center, and multiple dining options offering exquisite international and local cuisine.
4. Exceptional Service: Benefit from attentive and personalized service, ensuring that every aspect of your stay is comfortable and memorable.
5. Prime Location: Situated in the heart of Stone Town, Park Hyatt Zanzibar is easily accessible to local attractions, cultural sites, and vibrant markets, making it an ideal base for exploration.
Emerson Spice Hotel: A Boutique Gem
Emerson Spice Hotel is an excellent option if you’re looking for a unique and intimate stay. Housed in a beautifully restored Swahili mansion, this boutique hotel offers an enchanting atmosphere and personalized service.
Each room is exquisitely decorated with antique furniture, vibrant textiles, and ornate details. The hotel’s rooftop restaurant, The Secret Garden, provides panoramic views of Stone Town while serving delectable fusion cuisine.
Staying at Emerson Spice Hotel is a journey back in time, immersing you in the charm of Zanzibari heritage.
Highlights
1. Historic Elegance: Experience a unique stay in a beautifully restored Swahili mansion, where Zanzibar’s rich history and culture are woven into the hotel’s charming atmosphere.
2. Exquisite Room Decor: Each room features a stunning array of antique furniture, vibrant textiles, and intricate details, creating a warm and inviting ambiance for guests.
3. Rooftop Dining Experience: Savor delectable fusion cuisine at The Secret Garden, the hotel’s rooftop restaurant, while enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of Stone Town.
4. Personalized Service: Enjoy attentive, customized service that caters to your every need, ensuring a memorable and intimate stay.
5. Cultural Immersion: Staying at Emerson Spice Hotel offers a journey back in time, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the charm and heritage of Zanzibari culture.
Maru Maru Hotel: A Blend of Comfort and Culture
Maru Maru Hotel is a delightful blend of contemporary comfort and Zanzibari culture. Situated in the heart of Stone Town, this mid-range hotel offers stylish rooms equipped with modern amenities and traditional touches.
The rooftop terrace provides a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy panoramic views of the city. The hotel’s central location allows for easy exploration of Stone Town’s attractions, including the House of Wonders and the Old Fort.
With its warm ambiance and friendly staff, Maru Maru Hotel offers a cozy retreat for travelers.
Highlights
1. Cultural Charm: Experience the perfect fusion of contemporary comfort and Zanzibari culture in a stylish setting that reflects the region’s rich heritage.
2. Stylish Accommodations: Enjoy well-appointed rooms that feature modern amenities alongside traditional touches, providing a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for guests.
3. Rooftop Terrace: Relax on the rooftop terrace, which offers stunning panoramic views of Stone Town. It is an ideal spot for unwinding after a day of exploration.
4. Prime Location: Centrally located, Maru Maru Hotel allows easy access to key attractions, including the House of Wonders and the Old Fort, which are perfect for sightseeing.
5. Welcoming Atmosphere: With its warm ambiance and friendly staff, Maru Maru Hotel provides a cozy retreat for travelers seeking comfort and a taste of local hospitality.
Zanzibar Serena Hotel: A Fusion of Elegance and History
For a touch of colonial charm combined with modern luxury, the Zanzibar Serena Hotel is a fantastic choice. Located on the seafront, this historic property seamlessly blends Swahili and Arab influences in its architecture and decor.
The tastefully furnished rooms and suites reflect the island’s rich cultural heritage. The hotel features a swimming pool, a spa, and multiple dining options, including a rooftop restaurant offering breathtaking views.
Zanzibar Serena Hotel provides a refined and elegant stay with a sense of history.
Highlights
1. Colonial Charm: Experience the perfect blend of colonial elegance and modern luxury in a historic property that showcases the unique architectural influences of Swahili and Arab cultures.
2. Culturally Rich Accommodations: Enjoy tastefully furnished rooms and suites that reflect Zanzibar’s rich cultural heritage, providing a comfortable and stylish retreat.
3. Seafront Location: The hotel offers stunning ocean views on the seafront, enhancing the overall ambiance and providing a serene escape.
4. Exceptional Amenities: Relax at the hotel’s swimming pool, indulge in rejuvenating treatments at the spa, or savor delicious meals at multiple dining options, including a rooftop restaurant with breathtaking vistas.
5. Refined Atmosphere: With its elegant decor and sense of history, Zanzibar Serena Hotel offers a sophisticated stay that immerses guests in the charm and beauty of the island.
Zenji Hotel: A Budget-Friendly Gem
Travelers on a budget will find Zenji Hotel to be an excellent option. Situated in a restored traditional Zanzibari house, this budget-friendly hotel offers cozy rooms at affordable rates.
The hotel’s location in Stone Town’s heart allows easy access to popular attractions, such as the Forodhani Gardens and the Sultan’s Palace. The friendly staff is always ready to provide recommendations and assistance, ensuring a pleasant stay.
Zenji Hotel offers excellent value for money without compromising on comfort.
Highlights
1. Affordable Accommodations: Zenji Hotel provides cozy rooms at budget-friendly rates, making it a perfect choice for travelers looking to enjoy Zanzibar without overspending.
2. Restored Traditional Charm: Housed in a beautifully restored traditional Zanzibari building, the hotel offers a unique ambiance that reflects the island’s cultural heritage.
3. Prime Location: In the heart of Stone Town, Zenji Hotel provides easy access to popular attractions like Forodhani Gardens and the Sultan’s Palace, which are perfect for sightseeing.
4. Friendly and Helpful Staff: The welcoming staff is always available to provide recommendations and assistance, ensuring guests have a pleasant experience.
5. Excellent Value for Money: With its combination of comfort, charm, and affordability, Zenji Hotel offers superb value for travelers looking to explore Zanzibar without sacrificing quality.
The Swahili House: Authentic Zanzibari Experience
The Swahili House is an appealing choice for an authentic Zanzibari experience. This boutique hotel captures the essence of Stone Town’s cultural heritage.
The rooms are tastefully decorated with traditional Zanzibari furnishings and vibrant fabrics. The hotel’s rooftop terrace offers panoramic views and is perfect for enjoying the sunset.
The Swahili House is conveniently located near popular attractions, markets, and restaurants, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the local atmosphere.
Highlights
1. Cultural Heritage: Experience the true essence of Zanzibar at The Swahili House, a boutique hotel that beautifully reflects Stone Town’s rich cultural heritage.
2. Charming Accommodations: Each room is tastefully decorated with traditional Zanzibari furnishings and vibrant fabrics, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for guests.
3. Stunning Rooftop Terrace: Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from the hotel’s rooftop terrace, an ideal spot to relax and watch the sunset over the historic town.
4. Convenient Location: Situated close to popular attractions, local markets, and restaurants, The Swahili House allows guests to immerse themselves fully in the vibrant local atmosphere.
5. Personalized Experience: With its focus on authenticity and charm, The Swahili House offers a unique and memorable stay. This makes it perfect for travelers seeking a genuine Zanzibari experience.
Tembo House Hotel: Historic Elegance
Tembo House Hotel is a 19th-century landmark located on the seafront. It offers a blend of Swahili and Arabic architectural styles.
The hotel features spacious rooms and suites with antique furnishings, giving you a glimpse into Zanzibar’s past. You can relax by the pool or at the rooftop restaurant overlooking the Indian Ocean.
Highlights
1. Historic Landmark: Step back in time at Tembo House Hotel, a beautifully preserved 19th-century landmark that showcases Zanzibar’s rich history.
2. Architectural Fusion: Experience the unique blend of Swahili and Arabic architectural styles, which adds to the hotel’s charm and reflects the island’s diverse cultural heritage.
3. Relaxing Amenities: Unwind by the pool or indulge in delicious meals at the rooftop restaurant. The restaurant offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean, perfect for enjoying the sunset.
4. Spacious Accommodations: Enjoy comfortable rooms and suites adorned with antique furnishings, providing a glimpse into Zanzibar’s storied past while ensuring a cozy stay.
5. Central Location: Located in the heart of Stone Town, Tembo House Hotel provides easy access to local attractions, markets, and cultural experiences, making it an ideal base for exploration.
Dhow Palace Hotel: Quaint and Comfortable
Dhow Palace Hotel is a cozy boutique hotel in a beautifully restored building. The rooms are tastefully decorated and combine modern amenities with traditional Zanzibari elements.
The courtyard and rooftop terrace provide peaceful retreats after a day of exploring Stone Town. The hotel’s location near famous landmarks like the House of Wonders and the Old Fort makes it a convenient base for sightseeing.
Dhow Palace Hotel offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere for a comfortable stay.
Highlights
1. Charming Boutique Experience: Enjoy the cozy ambiance of Dhow Palace Hotel, housed in a beautifully restored building that reflects the charm of Zanzibari architecture.
2. Tastefully Decorated Rooms: Each room combines modern amenities with traditional Zanzibari elements, ensuring guests a comfortable and culturally rich stay.
3. Tranquil Courtyard and Rooftop Terrace: Relax in the peaceful courtyard or unwind on the rooftop terrace, providing serene spots to escape after exploring Stone Town.
4. Convenient Location: Ideally situated near famous landmarks such as the House of Wonders and the Old Fort, the Dhow Palace Hotel is a perfect base for sightseeing.
5. Welcoming Atmosphere: Experience a warm and inviting atmosphere, making Dhow Palace Hotel an ideal choice for travelers seeking comfort and a sense of home during their stay.
Clove Hotel: Quaint and Affordable
Clove Hotel is a charming, budget-friendly option that provides a cozy and affordable stay. The hotel is in a restored historic building and offers clean, comfortable rooms with simple decor.
The friendly staff is always available to assist you with any requests and provide recommendations for exploring Stone Town. Despite its affordable rates, Clove Hotel maintains high cleanliness and offers a convenient base for budget-conscious travelers.
Highlights
1. Budget-Friendly Charm: Clove Hotel offers a cozy and affordable stay, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking a charming experience in Stone Town.
2. Historic Setting: Housed in a beautifully restored landmark building, the hotel captures the essence of Zanzibar’s architectural heritage while providing modern comforts.
3. Comfortable Accommodations: Enjoy clean and comfortable rooms featuring simple decor, ensuring a relaxing environment for a restful night’s sleep.
4. Friendly and Attentive Staff: The welcoming staff is always on hand to assist with requests and provide helpful recommendations for exploring the sights and sounds of Stone Town.
5. Convenient Base for Exploration: With its central location, Clove Hotel serves as a perfect launching point for discovering local attractions, markets, and cultural experiences without breaking the bank.
Jafferji House & Spa: Boutique Luxury
Jafferji House & Spa is a boutique hotel that blends modern luxury with traditional Zanzibari elegance. The exquisitely designed rooms feature antique furniture and luxurious amenities.
The hotel’s spa provides a variety of treatments designed for relaxation and rejuvenation. Meanwhile, the rooftop restaurant boasts stunning panoramic views of Stone Town, and the attentive staff is dedicated to delivering a personalized experience. Jafferji House & Spa is an excellent choice for travelers seeking boutique luxury and attentive service.
Highlights
1. Elegant Design: Experience the perfect blend of modern luxury and traditional Zanzibari elegance in exquisitely designed rooms adorned with antique furniture and upscale amenities.
2. Relaxing Spa Treatments: Indulge in a variety of rejuvenating treatments at the hotel’s spa, providing a tranquil escape to relax and unwind during your stay.
3. Stunning Rooftop Views: Dine at the rooftop restaurant, enjoying panoramic views of Stone Town while savoring delicious meals in a picturesque setting.
4. Personalized Service: The friendly and attentive staff ensures a customized experience, catering to your needs and making your stay as comfortable as possible.
5. Boutique Luxury Experience: Jafferji House & Spa is the ideal choice for travelers seeking a unique boutique luxury experience combined with cultural charm and exceptional service.
Conclusion
When planning your visit to Stone Town in 2025 or 2026, choosing suitable accommodation is crucial to enhance your experience. Whether you’re looking for luxury, boutique charm, or budget-friendly options, Stone Town offers a range of accommodations to suit different preferences.
Each establishment has a unique character and amenities, from the opulent Park Hyatt Zanzibar to the intimate Emerson Spice Hotel. Consider your budget, location preferences, and desired comfort level to select the perfect place to stay in Stone Town and make lasting memories of your Zanzibar adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Stone Town?
Stone Town is the historic center of Zanzibar City and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its narrow alleys, bustling bazaars, and rich cultural heritage, it features a blend of Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences, reflecting the island’s diverse history.
This unique architectural tapestry includes intricately carved doors, mosques, and churches, showcasing the island’s multicultural past. As you wander its winding streets, you’ll discover vibrant markets filled with spices, textiles, and handicrafts, offering an authentic taste of local life.
What are the must-see attractions in Stone Town?
Key attractions include the House of Wonders, the Old Fort, and the Sultan’s Palace. Each site offers a glimpse into the island’s history, with the House of Wonders showcasing Swahili architecture and the Old Fort providing insights into Zanzibar’s defense against invaders.
Don’t miss the vibrant Forodhani Gardens, where you can sample local street food and enjoy the sunset by the waterfront. The Slave Market is another significant site that offers a poignant reminder of the island’s past. The narrow streets are perfect for exploring unique shops and local art galleries, making each corner an adventure.
Is Stone Town safe for tourists?
Yes, Stone Town is generally safe for tourists. As with any travel destination, you must be mindful of your surroundings, secure your belongings, and refrain from wandering alone in quieter areas after dark.
Most locals are warm and hospitable, often keen to share insights about their culture and history. Connecting with local guides can enrich your visit and offer an extra layer of safety, as they are familiar with the area and can provide helpful advice for exploring the town and its attractions.
What is the best period to visit Stone Town?
The best time to visit Stone Town is during the dry seasons, which take place from June to October and again from December to February. These months provide comfortable weather, perfect for exploring the city and engaging in outdoor activities while avoiding the heavy rains that occur from March to May.
During this dry period, you can look forward to warm temperatures and sunny days, making it perfect for strolling through the streets, visiting attractions, and participating in local events and festivals. Planning your visit during these months will help you make the most of your Stone Town experience.
What local dishes should I try in Stone Town?
While in Stone Town, sample local dishes such as Zanzibari biryani, seafood curry, and the famous street food snacks at Forodhani Gardens. Zanzibari biryani is a fragrant rice dish typically made with marinated meats and spices, while seafood curry highlights the island’s rich marine resources.
Don’t miss trying the spicy Zanzibar pizza, a unique blend of flavors wrapped in a crispy dough, and refreshing fresh fruit juices from local vendors. These culinary delights authentically taste the island’s vibrant culture and traditions.
