Zanzibar Hotels – The Best Resorts, Towns and Beaches

Zanzibar hotels reflect the island’s rich heritage of Arabian, Swahili, Indian and European cultures in the architecture and wide range of local cuisine. Often called the Spice Island, Zanzibar is famous for picture-perfect white beaches, amazing tropical weather, inviting crystal blue waters where you will find some of the best snorkelling, kite surfing and diving spots anywhere in the world.

Romantic bungalows, infinity pools, spas and beach dining make Zanzibar hotels and resorts the perfect honeymoon destination. There are also plenty of activities to keep children busy on a family holiday.

This guide looks at the best value for money, mainland Zanzibar accommodation options according to price range. Starting from the most expensive to the lowest price per night. 

Zanzibar Hotels

Ultimate Luxury Hotels and Resorts in Zanzibar

1. Best Luxury Resort – Baraza Resort and Spa (9.5/10)

A 5-star, all-inclusive boutique resort on Paje Beach, Bwejuu. 30 Arabian style villas with Swahili arches and spacious interiors decorated with brass lanterns, antique furnishings and cement carvings. There are several dining facilities available as well as a spa and a gym.

2. Elewana Kilindi – 9.5/10

This luxury boutique hotel has 15 white-domed pavilions set in a 50 acre, tropical garden along a remote beach on the northeast coast. Eastern influences are evident in the design and decor of the rooms. Guests have a choice of available watersports, private dining options and access to a spa. 

3. Zawadi Hotel – 9.5/10

5-star hotel in Dongwe on the southeast coast. 12 exclusive villas sit on top of a cliff with ocean views and calming white interiors. Guests have access to a hidden beach below the cliffs. Activities on offer include learning traditional weaving and cooking lessons.

4. Zuri Zanzibar – 9/10

56 individual bungalows and villas on a remote beach, 13miles from the city centre. Zuri is set in a beautifully landscaped garden and most of the suites have direct ocean views. The eco-friendly hotel is dedicated to sustainable practices. Guests can enjoy spa treatments, live music and dining on the beach.

5. White Sands Luxury Villas and Spa – Relais and Chateaux (8.5/10)

An eco-luxury resort on the east coast along Paje beach. There is an on-site kite surfing facility and you can take lessons or rent equipment. Spa treatments incorporate seaweed, spices and coconut and the resort has its own organic vegetable garden.

6. Park Hyatt Zanzibar (8/10)

From its authentic dining experiences and spacious guest rooms to its scenic infinity pool and palm-fringed beaches – Park Hyatt Zanzibar offers the ideal setting to immerse yourself in the timelessness of Stone Town.

Best Value Mid-Range Hotels in Zanzibar

1. Best Mid-Range Zanzibar Hotel – Fumba Beach Lodge (8/10)

26 whitewashed bandas on the southwest coast, 30min from Zanzibar Airport. The cottages are set on the forest edge with sea views and private terraces. The lodge has a pool, spa and gym. Fresh vegetables and herbs are grown in the on-site garden and used to prepare delicious meals for the restaurant.

2. Z Hotel – 8/10

Located on the northern tip of the island along Nungwi, famous for amazing diving, fishing and snorkelling spots.  The popular hotel and rooms are strewn with cheerful prints and bespoke, coconut wood furniture. Z Hotel’s Sexy Fish restaurant comes highly recommended for fresh seafood dishes.

3. Melia Zanzibar – 8.5/10

When it comes to size and class, Melia Zanzibar is one of the most impressive resorts found in Zanzibar. This all-inclusive luxury beach resort is strung out along the North-Eastern coast of Zanzibar, boasting a private stretch of pristine beach-front. A standout feature for guests of the hotel is the world-class service.

4. Riu Palace Zanzibar – 8.5/10

All-inclusive 5-star hotel on Nungwi beach. Chandeliers hang from the ceilings and rooms are spacious and elegantly furnished with earth-toned decor. Guests can choose from 3 themed restaurants. The spa offers hydro-massage and steam baths.

5. Kasha Boutique Hotel – 7/10

11 private villas on the northeast coast. The spacious bungalows are simply furnished with touches of bright colours. The staff are exceptionally friendly and helpful. Unfortunately, there is no wifi in the rooms and dining options are limited and pricey. 

6. Sunshine Hotel – 7/10

An ocean-front hotel in the heart of Matemwe on the northeast coast. 16 Eco-friendly rooms decorated in chic Swahili style are designed to channel the cool breeze (there are no air-cons). There is a restaurant on-site and massages can be arranged.

Best Budget Zanzibar Hotels under $200 per night

1. Best Budget Hotel – Sea Cliff Resort and Spa (8.5/10)

This 4-star, Arabian-meets-modern style resort with 48 rooms is located on a private beach on the west coast.  All possible facilities are available including the only golf course and driving range on the island, stables and tennis courts. Guests can choose from 4 bars and 3 on-site restaurants or relax by infinity pools or at the spa.

2. Kiwengwa Beach Resort – 7/10

In Kiwengwa, close to the beach and 40 minutes from Stone Town. There is a selection of over 150 rooms and suites. Rooms are neat with air conditioning and flat-screen TV’s. There is a fitness centre, three different restaurants and bars on site. Some of the cottages have jacuzzis.

3. Sevi Boutique Hotel – 8/10

Located near the fishing village of Kigomani on the northeast coast. 13 traditional thatched bungalows and one luxury villa spread out amongst tropical vegetation. The hotel supports the community through locally sourced furniture, decor and ingredients for the restaurant. Guests are encouraged to bring along supplies for Kigomani school.  

4. Tembo Hotel and Apartments – 7/10m

On the beachfront in Stone Town, this colourfully decorated, antique furnished hotel has a rich history including once being the American Consulate, as well as offices of the largest trading company in the Indian Ocean. All rooms and apartments are air-conditioned and there is a swimming pool.

5. DoubleTree Hotel by Hilton in Stone Town – 7/10

In the centre of Stone Town, close to the beach and market. Guests are greeted with a fresh cookie on arrival. The historical hotel is decorated in hand-carved furniture and has a rooftop restaurant, fitness centre and a spa.

Want to combine your Zanzibar holiday with a trip up north for some mountaineering and safari tours? Check out these other guides on hotels in Tanzania:

• +13 Best Hotels In Arusha (Accommodation Near Kilimanjaro)
• 15 Best Hotels In Moshi - Kilimanjaro Accommodation Options
• Mount Kilimanjaro Hotels - The 13 Best Places For Post-Climbing R&R

Conclusion

I hope you enjoyed my Zanzibar Hotel article! Whatever your desired budget is, you can realise it with a trip to one of East Africa's most exotic destinations. 

You can learn more information about the best safari resorts from our guide and the best Zanzibar hotels from one of our recommended partners.