Where to Stay in Zanzibar: Best Luxury Hotels

Where to stay in Zanzibar, Tanzania: luxury hotels, neighbourhoods and dining, with research-based guidance from Peters Signature.

Where to stay in Zanzibar: the best hotels and neighbourhoods

The Spice Island: turquoise waters, historic Stone Town, and exotic indulgence.

Zanzibar, a jewel in the Indian Ocean, offers a captivating blend of pristine beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. Explore the labyrinthine alleys of Stone Town, inhale the scent of spices on a local farm, and surrender to the serene beauty of its turquoise waters. This enchanting 'Spice Island' provides an idyllic escape for those seeking luxury, relaxation, and discovery.

• Location: Zanzibar, Tanzania
• Region: Africa
• Recommended length of stay: 4–7 nights
• Best time to visit: June-October (dry season) offers warm, sunny days perfect for beach activities and exploring. December-February is also dry and hot. Avoid the long rains (March-May).

Best neighbourhoods to stay in Zanzibar

Stone Town

Historic, bustling, bohemian. Best for History buffs, cultural immersion, souvenir shopping. Where to stay: Wander the narrow streets and visit the Old Fort and House of Wonders..

Nungwi

Lively, pristine, resort-focused. Best for Beach lovers, diving, sunsets, social evenings. Where to stay: Visit the Mnarani Marine Turtle Conservation Pond..

Kendwa

Relaxed, vibrant, stunning beaches. Best for Sunset parties, beach relaxation, swimming at any tide. Where to stay: Enjoy a Full Moon Party if your trip aligns..

Kizimkazi

Authentic, tranquil, dolphin spotting. Best for Dolphin tours, quiet escape, local village experience. Where to stay: Morning dolphin safari from the village..

Where to eat near your hotel in Zanzibar

• The Rock Restaurant — Seafood, Contemporary — $$ — Their famous Lobster in Zanzibar Sauce or the Seafood Platter, with unparalleled ocean views.
• Emerson on Hurumzi — Swahili Fine Dining — $$ — The traditional Zanzibari tasting menu, served on a rooftop with sunset views.
• Forodhani Gardens Night Food Market — Street Food, Seafood — $ — Zanzibar Pizza, freshly grilled seafood skewers, and sugar cane juice.
• Essque Zalu Zanzibar - The Jetty Bar — Casual Dining, Cocktails — $ — Light bites and refreshing cocktails while enjoying the ocean breeze.

Local intel: what to do in Zanzibar

• Haggle respectfully when shopping in Stone Town for souvenirs; it's part of the experience.
• Take a spice tour to learn about the island's aromatic heritage and taste fresh fruits and spices directly from the farm.
• Wear modest clothing when exploring Stone Town (shoulders and knees covered) out of respect for local customs, as it's a Muslim-majority population.
• Explore Prison Island (Changuu Island) to encounter giant Aldabra tortoises and enjoy snorkeling in the clear waters.
• Book a dhow cruise at sunset from Stone Town or Nungwi for a magical experience on a traditional wooden boat.

A 4–7 nights plan for Zanzibar

Day 1

Morning: Arrive in Stone Town. Guided historical walking tour of Stone Town, visiting the Old Fort, House of Wonders, and Freddie Mercury's House. Afternoon: Explore the bustling Darajani Market and shop for spices and local crafts. Evening: Enjoy a memorable rooftop dinner with sunset views and live music at Emerson on Hurumzi.

Day 2

Morning: Morning excursion for a Spice Tour to a local farm, discovering the island's aromatic treasures. Afternoon: Boat trip to Prison Island (Changuu Island) for giant tortoise encounters and snorkeling. Evening: Feast on fresh seafood and local delicacies at the vibrant Forodhani Gardens Night Food Market.

Day 3

Morning: Transfer to a luxury beach resort in Nungwi or Kendwa. Relax on the pristine white-sand beaches. Afternoon: Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or try a local Dhow boat trip. Evening: Experience dining at the iconic The Rock Restaurant, perched on a rock in the Indian Ocean.

Getting around Zanzibar

For transfers between Stone Town and beach resorts, private taxis or pre-arranged hotel transfers are recommended. Within Stone Town, walking is the primary and best way to explore. For longer day trips, hiring a private driver is advisable. Dala-dalas (local mini-buses) are cheap but crowded and not recommended for luxury travelers.

Travel tips for international visitors to Zanzibar

• Best time to visit: June-October (dry season) offers warm, sunny days perfect for beach activities and exploring. December-February is also dry and hot. Avoid the long rains (March-May).
• How long to stay: 4–7 nights
• Local currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
• Language: 'Asante sana' (thank you very much) is always appreciated by locals.

What to skip in Zanzibar

• Don't parade in skimpy swimwear outside of resort areas or beaches, particularly in Stone Town.
• Avoid tour operators offering 'swimming with dolphins' who chase the animals aggressively.
• Don't drink tap water; stick to bottled water.
• Haggling too aggressively or disrespectfully; aim for a friendly negotiation.

The best luxury hotels in Zanzibar, Tanzania cluster in a handful of districts, and the district matters more than the name on the door. Plan on 4–7 nights to do Zanzibar properly.

Zanzibar city guide · reviewed luxury hotels · best time of year to go · destinations across Africa · luxury hotels by city · compare Zanzibar with other cities

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