Where to stay in Zanzibar

Giant resorts and all-inclusive hotels are rare on the islands. Zanzibar tends to feature more intimate seaside lodges with personal attention and service. Usually, cottages and villas are built in the local, open-air style with comfortable four-poster beds, en suite bathrooms in Western style, vast patios and Makuti thatched roofs made of palm leaves. This material naturally cools down the rooms underneath. Breakfast is generally included in the price of Zanzibar accommodation.

Simple, comfortable bungalows and rooms, decorated in traditional design, frequently come with en suite bathrooms; all beds have mosquito nets and invariably there will be a patio. Particularly on the east coast, locally managed establishments can be found. Restaurants feature typical Zanzibari cuisine. Prices range from US$25 to US$80 per room.

Up-market accommodation can be found in most areas and is characterized by more extravagant comfort, style and design. These hotels feature excellent international and locally inspired food. Tastefully decorated, they offer a haven of comfort and top facilities for visitors to relax and unwind. They often have a swimming pool since, at most beaches, swimming is only possible at high tide. Prices range from US$80 to US$300 per room.

In most recent years, Zanzibar has experienced a boom of exclusive boutique hotels and splendid hideaways. State-of-the-art design and facilities, located at the best stretches of sandy beaches, allows guests to have the optimum holiday experience. Top-end accommodation boasts private plunge pools, ocean front locations, butler services, private chefs and meals served in absolute privacy – virtually anything can be arranged. Such exceptional getaways start at around US$300 per person per day.

To see the full selection of accommodation options in Zanzibar, please have a look at the Zanzibar accommodation map.