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 Zanzibar Hotels
Few place names conjure up such evocative visions as Zanzibar; from pure white sand beaches, Swahili culture and ruined Arab palaces, to unspoilt coral reefs and exotic food, the reality does not disappoint. Most people spend a night or two in Stone Town and then head to one of the picture-postcard beaches for some serious down-time. Although luxury hotels with all the amenities are beginning to move in to the island, generally you're paying for a remote unspoilt location or romantic setting. Some of the most interesting places to stay are simple, barefoot-luxury lodges with tons of character and natural beauty but relatively basic facilities. Zanzibar has not yet lost its soul to the vagaries of commercial mass tourism so go now and enjoy it at its real, very real, unspoilt best. The hotels are listed by price category, and their order bears no reflection on our preference.
PLEASE NOTE: IT'S DIFFICULT, AND UNUSUAL, TO BOOK THESE HOTELS DIRECT. OUR PREFERRED EXPERT TOUR OPERATOR IS THE EXCELLENT TANZANIA ODYSSEY (www.tanzaniaodyssey.com 020 7471 8780) WHO WILL TAKE CARE OF YOUR ENTIRE AFRICAN ADVENTURE. MENTION THE HOTEL GURU WHEN YOU CONTACT THEM, AND YOU WILL RECEIVE A 5% DISCOUNT.
 Reviews by Simone Topolski |
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| Luxury: Comfortable hotel reminiscent of a colonial country club |
| Location: On the seafront within 5 minutes walk of Stone Town's main sights and shopping streets |
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| Stone Town's most upmarket hotel is perfect if you prefer having creature comforts to hand. Interiors are reminiscent of an African colonial country club, with dark wood furniture and muslin drapes, while the swimming pool has views over the Indian Ocean. While it lacks the character of other less conventional options the Serena Inn is a comfortable choice for exploring Stone Town and the surrounding area. |
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| Luxury: Shabby chic villas perched above a white sand beach |
| Location: On the northeast coast of the island, about one hour from the airport by car |
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| Perched on coral rock above a strip of fine white sand, this shabby chic lodge has bungalows and villas looking out onto the reefs of the Mnemba atoll. It's a quiet place and your only neighbour is a sleepy fishing village where the hotel supports the local school. Fishing trips with the locals are a highlight while the infinity pool and beach make it a fine holiday retreat. |
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| Luxury: Exclusive private island, haunt of celebrities |
| Location: Just off the north-east coast of Zanzibar's main island Unguja, one hour and a half by road and boat from the airport |
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| If exclusivity is your thing then Mnemba has it in spades. Popular with celebrities, accomodation on this tiny private island is in thatched-sided suites built on wooden platforms over the sand complete with verandahs and a view of the sea from your bed - pure romance. Your own personal butler will ensure that you literally have whatever you desire and at these prices so you should. |
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| Luxury: Six luxurious villas and a sophisticated restaurant with a relaxed feel and terrific location |
| Location: On the south-east coast |
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| You quickly learn to say hakuna matata (no problem) at the Palms, where Zanzibar’s traditional taarab music – a jazzy mix of Arabic, Indian and African sounds – sums up the laid-back atmosphere. Under an immense African sky, it has a magical setting between tropical gardens and a beach of pure white sand. Villas house the six luxurious suites, a happy marriage of colonial and exotic local styles. |
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| Mid Price: A taste of the real Zanzibar at this rambling Stone Town palace |
| Location: In the heart of Stone Town near to the Forodhani Gardens. |
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| Don't expect sophistication at this rambling 19th century palace in the heart of Stone Town. Full of typical Zanzibari furniture and antiques, rooms have open-air bathrooms and verandahs that overlook the rooftops and the Indian Ocean beyond. You're paying for the sheer romance of the place, from waking up with the call to prayer at first light to sipping a cocktail at the rooftop bar during sunset. |
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| Mid Price: Amazing Robinson Crusoe-style eco lodge |
| Location: Just off the coast of Stone Town, about an hour by car and boat from the airport |
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| This award-winning island project, designed to have no impact on the delicate marine ecosystem, is best for those who are prepared to rough it a little. The Robinson Crusoe-style self-sufficient eco-lodges are great fun, traditional food is served in the impressive domed lodge and the staff are passionate and well-informed. Spend an afternoon learning about marine life or climbing the lighthouse; eco-tourism at its best. |
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| Inexpensive: Charming, tranquil budget hotel in a former tea house |
| Location: On Kelele square, a short walk from the sights of Stone Town |
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| A peaceful little hotel in the heart of Stone Town, Beyt al Chai was a former tea house and is decorated with rich colours and lots of Swahili flavour. Rooms have views over the town and the hotel is well-maintained by a small friendly team. From the relaxing lounge area to the honesty bar system this is a good down-to-earth budget option with plenty of character. |
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| Inexpensive: Quiet budget resort on a glorious beach |
| Location: On the North-East coast of the island, about an hour's drive from the airport and Stone Town |
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| Probably the island's best budget beach option and popular with honeymooners, the Shooting Star is a small lodge with private bungalows and rooms overlooking the pure white sand of Kwengwa beach below. Hang out in the bar and play Bao, the local board game, go diving with the bigger hotels nearby or hire and car and explore. Private breakfast served on the beach is ultra romantic. |
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| Inexpensive: Ten cottages for two in a gorgeous sheltered cove |
| Location: Pongwe, Zanzibar East Coast, 30 miles from Stone Town |
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| On an idyllic stretch of coastline, this self-confessed 3-star hotel is stunning and offers great value for money. Consisting of ten cottages for two, all with views of beach and sea, Pongwe is tucked away in a beautiful little cove, sheltered on both sides by a small coral outcrop. As the hotel also owns the surrounding land, it means that the beach is usually deserted. A real piece of paradise. |
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