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Zanzibar Palace Hotel

Zanzibar · Tanzania

House 831 Kiponda Area, .View location

9.0/10Excellent162 Reviews
Cleanliness9.4/109.4
Service9.6/109.6
Comfort8.8/108.8
Condition8.8/108.8
Location9.2/109.2
Neighborhood7.8/107.8
Amenities8.6/108.6
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Room prices, availability, meal plans and cancellation terms are confirmed for your selected dates.

About Zanzibar Palace Hotel

Step into the heart of Stone Town at Zanzibar Palace Hotel, a nine-room boutique property where authentic Swahili atmosphere and warm, attentive staff set the tone from arrival.

Each guestroom is individually decorated, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Zanzibar - carved doors, intricate tilework, and centuries of trade history just steps from your door. A full breakfast is included daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM.

Lunch, dinner, and brunch are available at Palace Restaurant, where the menu blends international cuisine with local Zanzibari flavours. The bar/lounge is the perfect spot to unwind, and 24-hour room service is also available. For moments of relaxation, the on-site spa offers massages, body treatments, and facials.

Complimentary wireless internet access and concierge services complete the experience. Express check-in and check-out are available for your convenience.

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With a stay at Zanzibar Palace Hotel, you'll be centrally located in Zanzibar Town, steps from Malindi Mosque and Beit el-Sahel (Palace Museum). This spa hotel is 0.3 mi (0.5 km) from Darajani Market and 0.5 mi (0.9 km) from Christ Church Cathedral.

Make yourself at home in one of the 9 individually decorated guestrooms. Your Select Comfort bed comes with Egyptian cotton sheets. Complimentary wireless internet access is available to keep you connected. Bathrooms have complimentary toiletries and bathrobes. Featured amenities include express check-in, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby.

A ferry terminal shuttle is provided at no charge.

Popular amenities

Free WiFi
Airport transfers
Dining services
Concierge
Laundry
Spa
Entertainment
Beach services
Non-smoking
Banquet facilities
Transportation services

Check-in and check-out

Check-in from 2:00 PM
Check-in until Anytime
Check-out until 11:00 AM

Hotel policies

Beach nearby No elevators By ocean Noise-free rooms not guaranteed Professional property host/manager Property does not offer onsite COVID-19 testing Property does not require health documentation at check-in Pets not allowed Service animals are allowed Service animals are exempt from fees/restrictions

Cleaning and safety

Sanitization
Contactless check-in is available Contactless check-out is available Cashless transactions are available

Important information

  • Property Alerts

    You'll be asked to pay the following charges at the property. Fees may include applicable taxes:

    • A tax is imposed by the city: USD 5.00 per person, per night

    We have included all charges provided to us by the property.

  • You need to know
    • Reservations are required for massage services and spa treatments. Reservations can be made by contacting the hotel prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation.
    • A car is not required for transportation to and from this property.
    • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.
    • Contactless check-in and contactless check-out are available.
  • Special Instructions
    This property offers transfers from the airport (surcharges may apply). To arrange pick-up, guests must contact the property 24 hours prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation. Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property. For any questions, please contact the property using the information on the booking confirmation. Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools.
  • Instructions
    • Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
    • Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
    • Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
    • This property accepts credit cards and cash
    • Cashless transactions are available
    • Noise-free guestrooms cannot be guaranteed
    • Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit
    • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
  • Optional fees
    • Airport shuttle fee: USD 20 per vehicle (one-way, maximum occupancy 3)

    The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change.

  • Spoken Language

    Swahili

    English

    Italian

    French

Nearby attractions

Malindi Mosque 0.1 km / 0.1 mi
Shakti Temple 0.1 km / 0.1 mi
Beit el-Sahel (Palace Museum) 0.2 km / 0.1 mi
House of Wonders 0.3 km / 0.2 mi
Hamamni Persian Baths 0.4 km / 0.2 mi
Zanzibar Ferry Terminal 0.4 km / 0.2 mi
Christ Church Cathedral 0.4 km / 0.2 mi
Zanzibar Night Market 0.4 km / 0.2 mi
Darajani Market 0.5 km / 0.3 mi
Forodhani Gardens 0.5 km / 0.3 mi
Old Fort 0.5 km / 0.3 mi
Shangani Beach 0.5 km / 0.3 mi
Jaw's Corner 0.6 km / 0.3 mi
The Ancient Door of Stone Town 0.6 km / 0.4 mi
St. Joseph's Cathedral 0.6 km / 0.4 mi

Hotel facilities & services

Services and fees can vary. Check the selected room details and hotel policies before booking.

  • Year of construction: 1902
  • Year of most recent renovation: 2016
  • Total number of rooms: 9
  • Number of floors (main building): 4
  • Number of floors (annexe): 4
  • Twin rooms: 2
  • Suites: 5
  • hotel
  • American Express
  • MasterCard
  • Visa
  • City centre
Show 38 more facilities & services
  • Airport
  • Harbour
  • Beach
  • Key Collection
  • 24-hour reception
  • Check-in hour
  • Check-out hour
  • Wi-fi
  • Transfer serviceExtra charge
  • Airport ShuttleExtra charge
  • Room service
  • Laundry service
  • Babysitting service
  • Multilingual staff
  • Bellboy service
  • Air conditioning in public areas
  • Smoke detector
  • Hotel safe
  • Concierge
  • Luggage room
  • Clothes dryer
  • Library
  • Bar
  • Restaurant
  • Non-smoking area
  • Air conditioning in Restaurant
  • MassageExtra charge
  • Spa treatments
  • Breakfast
  • Breakfast served to the table
  • À la carte lunchExtra charge
  • À la carte dinner
  • Half BoardExtra charge
  • Vegetarian meal
  • Snacks
  • Early departure
  • Identification card at arrival
  • Non-smoking establishment
Meal plans

Meal plan types

Meal options depend on the room and rate you choose. Search your dates to see which meal plans are included.

BB

Bed & Breakfast

BED AND BREAKFAST

Breakfast is included with your stay.

Upon availability

Room types

These are the hotel's room types, rather than live offers. Choose your travel dates to see available rooms, prices and booking conditions. Check availability

  • DOUBLE HONEYMOONDOUBLE • HONEYMOON • 1 Bedroom • 65 m²DBL.HM
    DOUBLE HONEYMOONPhoto unavailable11 photos

    Zanzibar Palace Hotel

    DOUBLE HONEYMOON

    Room photos

    11 photos

    Room overview

    Non-smoking room
    Room size
    65 m²
    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–2 • Adults: max. 2 • Children: max. 0
    Bed setup
    King-size bed 150-183 width
    Bedrooms
    1
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    HONEYMOON

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.HM

    Room amenities

    • Individually adjustable air conditioning
    • Smoke detector
    • Plug adaptor
    • Bathrobes
    • Toiletries
    • 220V power supply
    • Turndown service
    • Cot on demand
    • Wi-fi
    • Balcony
    • Safe
    • Internet access
    • Bathtub: 1
    • Shower: 1
    • Bathroom: 1

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • SUITE CITY VIEW KING BEDSUITE • CITY VIEW KING BEDSUI.CV-KG

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Zanzibar Palace Hotel

    SUITE CITY VIEW KING BED

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–8 • Adults: max. 8 • Children: max. 5
    Room type
    SUITE
    View / characteristic
    CITY VIEW KING BED

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: SUI.CV-KG

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE LUXURYDOUBLE • LUXURYDBL.LX-1

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Zanzibar Palace Hotel

    DOUBLE LUXURY

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    LUXURY

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.LX-1

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • SUITE STANDARDSUITE • STANDARDSUI.ST

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Zanzibar Palace Hotel

    SUITE STANDARD

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–8 • Adults: max. 8 • Children: max. 5
    Room type
    SUITE
    View / characteristic
    STANDARD

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: SUI.ST

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • SUITE GRANDSUITE • GRANDSUI.GD

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Zanzibar Palace Hotel

    SUITE GRAND

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–8 • Adults: max. 8 • Children: max. 5
    Room type
    SUITE
    View / characteristic
    GRAND

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: SUI.GD

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • SUITE HONEYMOONSUITE • HONEYMOONSUI.HM

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Zanzibar Palace Hotel

    SUITE HONEYMOON

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–8 • Adults: max. 8 • Children: max. 5
    Room type
    SUITE
    View / characteristic
    HONEYMOON

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: SUI.HM

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • SUITE EXECUTIVE KING BEDSUITE • EXECUTIVE KING BEDSUI.EJ-KG

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Zanzibar Palace Hotel

    SUITE EXECUTIVE KING BED

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–8 • Adults: max. 8 • Children: max. 5
    Room type
    SUITE
    View / characteristic
    EXECUTIVE KING BED

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: SUI.EJ-KG

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • SUITE CAPACITY 2SUITE • CAPACITY 2 • 1 Bedroom • 45 m²SUI.C2
    SUITE CAPACITY 2Photo unavailable21 photos

    Zanzibar Palace Hotel

    SUITE CAPACITY 2

    Room photos

    21 photos

    Room overview

    Non-smoking room
    Room size
    45 m²
    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–2 • Adults: max. 2 • Children: max. 0
    Bed setup
    King-size bed 150-183 width, Single bed 80-130 width
    Bedrooms
    1
    Room type
    SUITE
    View / characteristic
    CAPACITY 2

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: SUI.C2

    Room amenities

    • TV
    • Internet access
    • Balcony
    • Wi-fi
    • Turndown service
    • 220V power supply
    • Fan
    • Smoke detector
    • Housekeeping

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE LUXURYDOUBLE • LUXURY • 1 Bedroom • 20 m²DBL.LX
    DOUBLE LUXURYPhoto unavailable9 photos

    Zanzibar Palace Hotel

    DOUBLE LUXURY

    Room photos

    9 photos

    Room overview

    Non-smoking room
    Room size
    20 m²
    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–2 • Adults: max. 2 • Children: max. 0
    Bed setup
    Double bed 131-150 width, King-size bed 150-183 width
    Bedrooms
    1
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    LUXURY

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.LX

    Room amenities

    • Individually adjustable air conditioning
    • Safe
    • Bathrobes
    • Fan
    • Wi-fi
    • Housekeeping
    • Smoke detector
    • Turndown service
    • Bathroom: 1
    • 220V power supply

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • Double or Twin STANDARDDouble or Twin • STANDARDDBT.ST

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Zanzibar Palace Hotel

    Double or Twin STANDARD

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–6 • Adults: max. 6 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    Double or Twin
    View / characteristic
    STANDARD

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBT.ST

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • SUITE KING SIZE BEDSUITE • KING SIZE BEDSUI.KG

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Zanzibar Palace Hotel

    SUITE KING SIZE BED

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–8 • Adults: max. 8 • Children: max. 5
    Room type
    SUITE
    View / characteristic
    KING SIZE BED

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: SUI.KG

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE SUPERIORDOUBLE • SUPERIOR • 1 Bedroom • 45 m²DBL.SU
    DOUBLE SUPERIORPhoto unavailable12 photos

    Zanzibar Palace Hotel

    DOUBLE SUPERIOR

    Room photos

    12 photos

    Room overview

    Non-smoking room
    Room size
    45 m²
    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–2 • Adults: max. 2 • Children: max. 0
    Bed setup
    King-size bed 150-183 width
    Bedrooms
    1
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    SUPERIOR

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.SU

    Room amenities

    • Housekeeping
    • Smoke detector
    • Fan
    • 220V power supply
    • Wi-fi
    • Balcony
    • TV
    • Bathtub: 1

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • SUITE PARTIAL OCEAN VIEW KING BEDSUITE • PARTIAL OCEAN VIEW KING BEDSUI.KG-PO

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Zanzibar Palace Hotel

    SUITE PARTIAL OCEAN VIEW KING BED

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–8 • Adults: max. 8 • Children: max. 5
    Room type
    SUITE
    View / characteristic
    PARTIAL OCEAN VIEW KING BED

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: SUI.KG-PO

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE STANDARDDOUBLE • STANDARD • 1 Bedroom • 45 m²DBL.ST
    DOUBLE STANDARDPhoto unavailable8 photos

    Zanzibar Palace Hotel

    DOUBLE STANDARD

    Room photos

    8 photos

    Room overview

    Non-smoking room
    Room size
    45 m²
    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–2 • Adults: max. 2 • Children: max. 0
    Bed setup
    King-size bed 150-183 width
    Bedrooms
    1
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    STANDARD

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.ST

    Room amenities

    • Wake-up service
    • Wi-fi
    • Balcony
    • Safe
    • Individually adjustable air conditioning
    • Plug adaptor
    • Housekeeping
    • Fan
    • Bathrobes
    • Toiletries
    • Hairdryer
    • 220V power supply
    • Cot on demand

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

Guest reviews

What other guests saying about Zanzibar Palace Hotel

9.0
Excellent
162 Reviews
Cleanliness
9.4 /10
Service
9.6 /10
Comfort
8.8 /10
Condition
8.8 /10
Location
9.2 /10
Neighborhood
7.8 /10
Amenities
8.6 /10
75 reviews shown
10/10
Exceptional
11 Jun 2026
Marisa
Staff was wonderful, breakfast was amazing, comfy bed and room, great time
Self
10/10
Exceptional
10 Mar 2026
Darius
Excellent hotel
8/10
Excellent
05 Mar 2026
Barry
This property is in a quiet location in Stone Town within walking distance of the Darajani Bazaar and other attractions. The staff is great: Lulu, Jamila, Roderick, Iddi, and director Daniela go out of their way to make you feel welcomed. The A/C in the room works very well, and the breakfast buffet (which is included) is outstanding. It's a great value and I'd recommend staying here.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
05 Jan 2026
ELIZABETH
Wonderful service from start to finish. Amazing breakfast and a beautiful antiquated suite with bags of character and charm.

We stayed in a suite at the very top of hotel and had to walk up quite a few flight of stairs as there is no light. You are helped with luggage, however anyone with mobility issues would may struggle.
Leisure Family
8/10
Excellent
03 Dec 2025
Alexander
Good location, comfortable beds and good breakfast. As provided direct to then - aircon in room hallway/communal areas and some of the decor is in need of a bot of a refresh.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
27 Sep 2025
David Waddell

Recommended hotel, with friendly staff.

Really friendly helpful staff. Great rooms. I’d recommend.
Self
8/10
Excellent
22 Sep 2025
Dirk

Authenticity

We state in this hotel for a few nights and I was very impressed with the stuff who was friendly and extremely positive in all aspects. This is Africa and I learned very quickly that I have to adjust my expectations to fully enjoy what this place has to offer. Everyone was trying their best to make this stay for me and my mother enjoyable. Every stay has glitches and any of my concerns have been addressed immediately. I can definitely recommend this place even though it's not right on the beach but everything is very close. I would like to point out that this place might be not fully suitable for people with Mobility problems since the stairs to the rooms can be challenging depending on which floor you are.
Friends_and_family Family
10/10
Exceptional
17 Sep 2025
Kris
Outstanding hotel in a great Stone town location
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
09 Sep 2025
Malembe S.
Beautiful hotel with excellent service from the staff. The hotel is nestled away inside Stone Town but we enjoyed being able to walk to the water and not being far from the sites. The hotel room was beautifully decorated. I would definitely revisit.
8/10
Excellent
24 Aug 2025
kevin
Proprietress and her staff were amazing. Meals superb. I was really looked after. They booked tours for me also. Would definitely stay there again
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
17 Jul 2025
Rosario
I stayed at Zanzibar Palace Hotel from June 8 to June 10 and had an amazing experience. The hotel is full of character, with beautiful Zanzibari decor and a peaceful atmosphere. The staff were incredibly warm and helpful, the breakfast was delicious, and the location was perfect—close to all the sights, yet quiet at night. A true gem in Stone Town. Highly recommended!
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
21 Jun 2025
Bopaya
Great staff… bathrooms could use a refresh.. great location.. though a bit difficult to find.. overall.. outstanding value .. the staff are superb!!!
Leisure Self
8/10
Excellent
01 Mar 2025
Carolyn
Staff very friendly and accommodating. Great location in the city of stone town very walkable. Breakfast daily. This review is based on staying in two different rooms. The Shaba was large spacious. The rosemond was small and adequate but the water pressure in the shower was very low and no privacy curtain in the window. The amount of light in the rooms are low when applying makeup or using the mirror.
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
29 Dec 2024
Ahmed
The bathroom privacy is uncomfortable
10/10
Exceptional
26 Oct 2024
Roy
Daniela was a fantastic and welcoming host. This historic, well appointed hotel will be a favorite memory and repeat visit. The food was delicious. The coffee and beds were some of the best I've had in Africa. Daniela and I had a great conversations and she arranged a prison island tour for us. It was my second trip to Stone Town and second tour. Last time it wasn't bad but this time it was a better experience. The pilot and your guide this time were far superior to the last prison island excursion.
Leisure Friends
10/10
Exceptional
15 Oct 2024
catherine

Wonderful

I had a wonderful stay at the Zanzibar Palace Hotel. The owner and staff were very nice, helpful and accommodating to my needs. The breakfast was delicious and filling. I did not even need lunch and would be good until dinner. The hotel and rooms are very beautiful and authentic, I felt like a Disney princess :)
Business
10/10
Exceptional
08 Oct 2024
Robert
Very charming and atmospheric hotel in an old mansion in the center of Stone Town, 3-10 minutes’ walk to restaurants, Darajani Market, shops, Forodhani waterfront park and historic sites. Very clean with updated bathroom, including excellent shower, and internet and very good restaurant just for guests (nine rooms only). We stayed in Rosewood, a very small but attractive room on the 3rd floor (2nd floor for Europeans). Many stairs, no elevator. Daniela, the owner, and all of the staff are professional, attentive, helpful and friendly. We’d stay here again.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
03 Sep 2024
William
Great spot in the middle of town if your in stone town it’s a perfect central location
10/10
Exceptional
29 Aug 2024
Megan
Very uniquely Zanzibar with an owner who goes out of the way to make you comfortable and happy. Great place to stay
Leisure Self
6/10
Pleasant
06 Aug 2024
Eric
The property lacks personality and an identity. Seems more like a hostel than a hotel. It’s a cool building but the decor and design is non-existent and there is little energy in the place. Location is good and the airport pick up for VIP was helpful.
Leisure Friends
6/10
Pleasant
31 Jul 2024
Dennis
Friendly and helpful staffs.
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
27 Jul 2024
Kimberly
This place is authentically decorated and very charming. The room and veranda are quite spacious and very well appointed with warm personalized details like elegantly hand written tags on the hair and body care bottles. The bed is very comfortable. Daniella is incredibly helpful. I was nervous about getting lost on my way to a dinner reservation even though it was very close. The center of town can be a bit of a maze to navigate, so she had one of her staff escort me the entire way there. She also informed me that the restaurant staff would accompany me back. After dinner, I was escorted comfortably back. The breakfast is so pleasant with a varied selection of buffet items as well as prepare to order items. Oh, and they have a really nice coffee machine that can make lattes, espresso, regular coffee, etc. it was some of the best coffee I enjoyed on the trip. I am a solo traveler in my early 60’s so I regularly interact with staff to enjoy conversations. Daniela is quite engaging, a real joy to speak with. She’s never too busy to provide a suggestion or partake in a conversation. The restaurant and bar staff were just as delightful and I even shared drink recipes with one.
An incredibly great stay! I would stay here again!
Leisure
4/10
Poor
23 Jul 2024
Chrystal
Too old and run down. Stairs were unsafe and not level.
Bed was too high. Bathroom was tiny and old. Tv didn’t work well. I didn’t like the mosquito netting around the bed.
Family
10/10
Exceptional
19 Jul 2024
Paul
Great stay with awesome staff.
Business_and_leisure Friends
2/10
Poor
14 Jul 2024
Lisa
I've stayed in hundreds of hotel rooms across the globe of various quality and this one takes the cake for some serious malfunctions. I was prepared for unique and thought it would be a super cool place. We had the honeymoon suite. Up six very steep flights of stairs (could be charming). I had immediately asked to be shown the room. They insisted on showing us around the lobby. Seriously. I really just needed to go to pee but they had to show us the dirty couch. we make it up the 6 steep flights. Weird. They show us the bathroom. Which is up another flight of stairs and outside. It was pouring rain. Although there was a cover I peed while getting rained on. Like for real. So we leave and sightsee for a few hours. We come back and head the six flights back to our room. And we can't get in. Try unlocking it and it it kept getting relocked. From the inside. There was someone in there that kept relocking the door. Slightly off but okay. The lady for turn down service finally lets us into our own room and continues to awkwardly do not sure what. Then with us in the room she sprays crazy amounts of roach spray. Like for real. The room has a sheen of roach spray that is settling all over it and us. Completely nauseated by the smell and the process. Unbelievable. I called down and asked them to find us a cab. To be fair to the hotel I didn't complain. I just wanted out. since I didn't touch one thing I asked for partial refund. They said no. Stay at the Hyatt.
Leisure Partner
2/10
Poor
17 Jun 2024
veronica
It was totally the opposite of what we expected certainly not 4 star. Misold
Leisure Partner
8/10
Excellent
06 Jun 2024
Thomas
Property and staff were nice. Getting to the hotel is difficult. Roads leading to property aren’t much wider than a car width.
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
02 Jun 2024
Perry

Boutique hotel in center of Stone Town

Great stay in the center of Stone Town. The building is unique with an interesting history and every room has a slightly different vibe. Our room has a balcony to the busy street below and an in-room large bath/shower. All of the staff were very friendly and gave maximum effort to ensure we enjoyed our stay.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
17 May 2024
Rob
Amazing character, this. Hotel has a charm that totally enhanced my stay and out in context where I was and the history.
The staff - omg so courteous and helpful, in all my travels I have not experienced more genuine hospitality
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
17 Apr 2024
nicholas
Beautiful old building with charm. Very friendly and helpful staff.
Business_and_leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
31 Mar 2024
Samuel
I enjoyed the traditional Cousy nature it has. I did not like the fact it doesn’t have ramp access at the entrance and no elevator… UNESCO prevented that I understand but it makes it family unfriendly
Leisure Family_with_children
10/10
Exceptional
30 Jan 2024
Stanley
I have stayed at dozens of hotels throughout Africa, and this is my new favorite! We loved every part of it…the bed, bath, beauty, ambiance, food, wine, staff, and owner! The room had all the amenities we needed, the bed was exceptionally comfortable, the location in the heart of stone town is superb, and the breakfast delicious! We have already booked our next stay.
Business Partner
10/10
Exceptional
01 Jan 2024
Christopher
The staff were some of the nicest people I have ever met. Friendly, genuine and helpful! I can not say enough good things about the people who work at Zanzibar palace
The location was within walking distance of everything we wanted, the breakfast was excellent
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
12 Dec 2023
Fahmy

Lovely place with very friendly staff

Great place with traditional touch and top location. Right in the heart of stone town. Very friendly and helpful, always happy to help.
Would definitely stay again. I had a room with balcony which was very nice to watch the sun come up in the morning and see people go about their daily lives in stone town. Fantastic way to experience the real Zanzibar.
Self
8/10
Excellent
03 Dec 2023
Takashi
Very friendly. If the room had a small table for Laptop work I would be happier.
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
23 Nov 2023
Anouska
Great location-within walking distance of Darjani Market and Freddie Mercury’s house. The staff was attentive and helpful. The room I stayed in was huge and clean. It was 3 flights up but they help you with your luggage.

They offer spa services which is done in a hotel suite. The massage I had was terrific.


My only regret is I didn’t have more time there.
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
12 Oct 2023
Denise
Stayed for one night and wish we stayed longer. Staff very friendly breakfast was delicious. Also included free pick up from airport.
Leisure Partner
2/10
Poor
24 Sep 2023
Verified traveler
Entire room was filthy. Beds had mites and we started itching as soon as we laid down. The room was sprayed with pesticides and they kept the room closed which caused us to have difficulty breathing and respiratory distress. The odor of the pesticides were clearly present. In over 30 years and 65 countries, by far the worst hotel I've ever stayed in.
4/10
Poor
12 Aug 2023
David

Think before you book anything central stone town.

No yea or coffee facilities in room, Not enough change at reception to take cash to pay for things with USD, even though all prices were in USD.
Chef did not know what a Caesar salad was, despite it being on the limited menu. I was served toast cut into squares, with lettuce (no dressing whatsoever) and two boiled eggs cut in half. That as it, nothing else at all as part of the Caesar salad.
There is no lift and the top floor is 6 flights of steep stairs, not too much of a challenge for me. But worth keeping in mind.
The noise from the infant school next door at 630am wakes you. You can hear everything on the streets around you, despite being on the top floor. And the various local Mosques broadcast the calling prayer VERY loudly as per their schedule.
The bed was comfy, tv very limited and aircon very noisy.
Self
10/10
Exceptional
07 Jul 2023
Isabelle
The staff was amazing! From the time we stepped into the hotel, everyone was so kind and accommodating! They even walked us to the restaurant where we were having dinner, so we wouldn’t get lost!! Beautiful establishment. Daniela, the hotel manager, was hospitable and showed her appreciation for the staff and guests!
Leisure Family
8/10
Excellent
04 Jul 2023
Peter
The hotel is in the centre of Stone Town. It is a more traditional style hotel with a lovely ambiance.
Walking is easy and fun
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
29 Jun 2023
Musstanser
Good place. Friendly management. The internet this time wasn’t great. The hotel is old but very livable. It’s close to everything.
Leisure
10/10
Exceptional
29 Jun 2023
Dirk
This is an independent boutique hotel in the middle of Stonetown. It is a historic building from the 18th century, lovely restored but constrained by early architecture. Don't expect a Hilton.

Like in European hotels, e.g., Florence, the rooms are tall and narrow, spotless, and wifi works. There is no elevator and no central air-conditioning. You have your individual unit, which is more than adequate and typical for Africa. The breakfast was lovely.

Everything in StoneTown is within a five-minute walk. Remember, most StoneTown streets are too narrow for cars. There is no swimming in StoneTown; you have to go to the other side of the island or take a boat out for that.

For me, there are two types of tourists: those that stay within the cocoon of chain hotels and venture out only for a few hours to see the sights, and there are those that seek an immersive experience and acknowledge a certain level of inconvenience due to local customs. Zanzibar Palace hotel is for the latter.
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
08 Apr 2023
Awtum
I loved my stay at the Zanzibar Palace Hotel. It was a intimate hotel so you feel included and seen. Everyone of the staff I met (Lulu and Abdul) were wonderful. Any thing I needed , they provided a solution. Daniella is very hands on owner, which is great. Professional and knowledgable. She makes accommodations easy. I was a solo female traveler from the US so it was a great experience. My room was great. Design is a mix of vintage with a mixture of African, Persian, and Arabic influence. Lovely overall.
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
22 Mar 2023
Peter
I loved the ambiance. The staff was great, very helpful. I will definitely recommend to my family & friends.
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
06 Mar 2023
Ming

Wonderful Stay

The stay was wonderful. Great host/manager, Daniela, took care of my needs and arranged local tour for me. Nice and yummy breakfast daily. The staff team took care of me and everyone was friendly.
Self
10/10
Exceptional
06 Feb 2023
Carmen
Wow, total hidden gem! Both the staff and the proprietor were excellent. Our room was even more beautiful than the photos. Close to the markets and great shopping for treasures. We would stay again in a heartbeat 💗. Great breakfast too, it was included with our stay.
Leisure Friends
10/10
Exceptional
19 Oct 2022
annabelle
My stay at the Zanzibar Palace hotel was magnificent. It was like staying with a beautiful family and as a solo traveler I felt safe and so welcome. It was so easy to book day tours through the manager based on her wonderful knowledge of all the great things to do in Zanzibar not just the popular tourist options. Having a great little restaurant and chef was also fantastic as a solo traveller if I did not feel like venturing out for dinner after a hard day exploring. Fresh jumbo prawns! My room was very large and cleaned immaculately each day and had an excellent safe to keep my valuables in. They will even do your laundry daily if you so wish for an incredibly low fee. I have never stayed at better accommodation!
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
22 Aug 2022
Philip

In the heart of Stone Town

Beautiful historical building in the heart of old town, but with a balcony view across the city. And great breakfast as well
Partner
8/10
Excellent
23 Jul 2022
David
Great hotel in the centre of Stonetown. Unique historic property, Duria suite (honeymoon) was an amazing room with a stunning outdoor bathroom terrace overlooking the rooftops. Hotel restaurant was ok good but very quiet. Breakfast good. Staff friendly.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
18 Jul 2022
Miri

Defiantly going back

A unique hotel , with a special atmosphere.
Friends_and_family Family
10/10
Exceptional
03 Jul 2022
Ryan
The staff here are SO acommodating and elevate the experience to the highest level. Stowed our luggage, opened the kitchen late, and were incredibly helpful in general.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
16 Sep 2021
Mustafa
Everything was clean and decent. Italian lady in the front (probably the owner) takes care about each detail at the property. Located in the center of old town,close to the sights and easy to find.
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
11 Jun 2021
Verified traveler
I had a wonderful stay. Danielle and her team are very nice and nothing was trouble. I also had an amazing massage. Great value and I'd stay there again.
Business_and_leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
11 Mar 2020
Verified traveler
What a wonderful stay in Stonetown. Daniela has reached out to me when I booked to offer a car service from the airport and I knew from there that we would be well taken care of. We stayed in the Dunia (top suite) with a balcony that offered a panoramic view of the city. The room was lovely with a very comfortable bed and ample living space. We booked all of our excursions through the hotel and Daniela’s recommendations were spot on. We loved the spice plantation tour, and the visit to prison Island to meet the tortoise. We are also connected with a local guide who brought us on a private tour of the city. Food and service were spectacular and I would highly recommend this hotel for its unique charm, boutique experience right in the middle of the action!
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
21 Feb 2020
Megan

Great little hotel in the heart of stone town

Great little hotel in stone town! Fantastic staff and service. No rooftop but plenty of options in walkable distance to enjoy the outdoors (eg zanzibar coffee house and walk to the main stone town beach). Would stay again!
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
03 Aug 2019
Chad

Great stay at the Palace

Wonderful small hotel right in the middle of the small winding streets of Stone Town. Rooms were very nice and the service and hospitality were first rate. Everyone was so nice and accommodating. Breakfasts and the one dinner we ate there were very tasty. Great people working there!
Friends
10/10
Exceptional
30 Jan 2019
Margaret
We chose the property for the location in Stonetown, and its unique boutique vibe. We liked the classic decor, the uniqueness of each sleeping room, and the location right in the middle of town near the ferry port. The staff were welcoming and helpful, including during our pre-arranged arrival at around 3am, due to flight schedules. They arranged multiple tours and reliable car transport to other locations for us at fair rates.
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
23 Nov 2018
Robert
A very charming hotel! I felt like I was a sultan for my overnight stay. The food at the restaurant was outstanding! The staff was very helpful for oraganizing some walking tours for me. Highly reommended!
10/10
Exceptional
29 Aug 2018
Arin
Very attentive and friendly staff. Very clean and lovely property. Its location in Stone's Town is hard to find and does not seem that safe an area, but the hotel is a very pleasant surprise on the inside.
Only other issue is that because of location no outside view except other stone buildings.
10/10
Exceptional
18 Aug 2018
Cam
The staff and service were outstanding...the best experienced in a month of African travel. Great little hotel, old world charm with lovely conversion features and upgrades and management really understands boutique hotel concept
10/10
Exceptional
19 Jun 2018
Keg

Lovely hotel in the alleyways of Stone Town

A lovely, character hotel with outstanding food and excellent red wine. Easy walking distance to ferry from Dar. Highly recommended.
6/10
Pleasant
04 Jan 2018
Matthias
Super Service; nice perfect Location to explore Stone Town; nice old traditional building nicely renovated; good breakfast; not recommended if you´re travelling with car but no Access and Parking Close to the Hotel; A/C was not working; no minifridge to cool Drinks in the room;
Family
10/10
Exceptional
21 Feb 2017
Verified traveler
Great location, beautiful building. Staff was very helpful and kind.
6/10
Pleasant
09 Oct 2015
Artur

Zanzibar so called \"palace\"...

We got a small, cramped cluttered room with even worse bathroom... in silly condition, and year of the building is not an excuse fore poor maintenance and all inconviniences that we experienced.

This would be just fine for a 2 star hotel with half of the price that we paid for it. Well one bad choice kept us away from the hotel for whole days at least ;)
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
05 Oct 2015
Jada

Intimate hotel in the heart of things

We spent 9 days in this boutique hotel. It was lovely, our room was so cute with lovely touches from flowers on the bed on arrival to towels laid out in different style each day (even a heart to end our stay). It was beautifully turned down twice a day and made us feel so welcomed. Our room was lovely as a romantic as retreat and to get out of the madness of he markets.

What truly made the hotel was the lovely, thoughtful, ever smiling and helpful staff. Those there morning until night working tirelessly to ensure our needs were met, from room service, freshly squeezed juices to providing a pandit when my partner felt unwell. They went above and beyond with even the guy there coming out to translate for us when our rental car was broken into.

Neema, Jacq, Lucy were wonderful and full of smiles, jokes and warm welcomes. We were very impressed by our boxed breakfast when we had to leave for the airport at 3am and our wake up calls.

Their evening restaurant was lovely and the chef really paid attention to detail with his food.

My only issue at the hotel would be we chose the room that was on a busy noisier side (fine at night as the AC drowned out the noise) but the room was so lovely we didn't really mind.
Perhaps good to have more guide books, points of interest knowledge and maps but I found all the amazing places to go from trip advisor to be honest.

The location was perfect not too on the main road and near the markets.
Partner
8/10
Excellent
25 Aug 2015
Alex

Generally happy but underwhelmed

My wife and I spent 3 nights. We loved the idea of staying in Stone Town and experiencing the authentic feel of the cramped streets and ancient alley ways. In general, we were happy to have stayed in this Dutch-owned boutique hotel with a few caveats. Based on the reviews and website, we did have a rather different picture of the hotel than what we found. The hotel does have nice ambiance, amazing local staff and a location that is very convenient in terms of distance to ferry. We ended up paying about $470 for 3 nights in the Nadia room. This must’ve been the smallest hotel room I've every stayed in. Decor was pleasant but nothing special with an attempt at a Moroccan theme. The bathroom was tiny, old and definitely not what you'd expect when paying so much (despite a heavily discounted price). The soaking tubs are only available in a few select rooms. The bed was comfortable with a mosquito net but takes up nearly half the room. Expect some street noise given the location but that didn't bother us too much. The room was not wired well with hard to reach plug point. Restaurant serves an excellent complementary breakfast which we loved but we didn't eat any other meals there due to exorbitant cost. You can find many wonderful diverse restaurants on the street and pay at least 50% less. Would encourage the owners to provide fair compensation for their local staff who are truly wonderful people who went out of their way to make sure we received the highest level of service.
Partner
8/10
Excellent
24 Aug 2015
Michael

Stone Town hotel

Very pleasent stay, the room was a bit small (Nadia) and on hindsight would have been happy to take a bigger room. Would rather select a hotel on the edge of Stone Town out of the noise. Hotel was clean and the staff very helpful, food was good, try the King Prawns, excellent.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
13 Aug 2015
Darnell

Wonderful Stay, Beautiful Hotel, Amazing Staff

We contacted the hotel to let them know that we'd be arriving early in the morning to drop off our luggage and they told our room wouldn't be ready for several hours later. However, upon arrival, a member of the staff made arrangements for us to enter the room early. Both the room and the hotel were kept clean around the clock. The hotel is also located close to restaurants, markets, and the beach. Lastly, when checking out in the early hours of the morning, our taxi driver was a no-show. But, once again, the hotel staff were extremely accommodating and arranged for a taxi to pick us up (even at 3am). The next time we are in Zanzibar, we are definitely booking with this hotel.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
07 Aug 2015
Verified traveler

Stone Town Hotel

Great Hotel in Stone Town with an old world vibe. Really enjoyed it
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
23 Jul 2015
Richard

Fantastic old town location

Arrived early due to the fastjet flight times but were accomodated immediately, they gave us breakfast and organised a room, very kind as 8.30 was a pretty early check in!!! Beautiful hotel, stunning rooms and ideal location for exploring stone town.
6/10
Pleasant
16 Jul 2015
Benjamin

Nice hotel but...

My girlfriend and I stayed at the Zanzibar Palace Hotel in Stonetown for one night before heading to the beaches on the east side of the island for two nights. The hotel was clean and the room very funky. The staff was lovely. We visited during Ramadan and were woken at midnight by a drumming group performing somewhere nearby in the neighborhood... not sure if this is related to Ramadan. Jelle, the hotel manager was generally helpful in terms of pointing us in the right direction during our short stay and arranging a walking tour for us however, one of our interactions with Jelle was really frustrating. Upon checkout Jelle provided us with our bill for food and the walking tour in USD. We wanted to pay in TSH and he converted from USD to TSH using an exchange rate of 2400TSH to 1USD, which was higher than any rate we had seen to that point, and during our entire two weeks in Tanzania. The rate should have been 2200TSH to 1USD max - we had gotten about 2000TSH for 1USD the day before. We felt like we were scammed. I should have asked him to look up the rate online in the moment, but I didn't as the encounter was already awkward because I asked him why the rate was so high. I didn't really understand the answer, but I also didn't feel it was appropriate for me to argue with the rate. I liked the hotel, but I wouldn't stay there again.
Partner
6/10
Pleasant
07 Jul 2015
khalid

Good

Good hotel central in Stone Town .The name of the hotel gives the wrong impression.I think it is expensive compared to the facilities provided.
The staff are very helpful
10/10
Exceptional
04 Jul 2015
S.M.

A charming and unique hotel in Stone Town.

Excellent location in Stone Town in a restored original Zanzibari building.
10/10
Exceptional
30 Jan 2015
John

Traditional rooms with modern day comforts

Excellent hotel with traditional rooms that have modern day comforts

Location & surroundings

Zanzibar Palace Hotel
House 831 Kiponda Area, ., Zanzibar, Tanzania

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Zanzibar Palace Hotel

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