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Stone Town
(Zanzibar)
Stone Town boasts a rich history. Portuguese invasion and control of the Swahili Coast in the late 16th century ended the golden age of the archipelago, although the Omani Arabs returned to power less than a century later. Today, many of the winding streets and high townhouses of old Stone Town remain unchanged and visitors can walk between the sultan’s palace, the House of Wonders, the Portuguese fort and gardens, the merchants’ houses, and the Turkish baths of the old city. Day-long spice tours to working plantations offer visitors the chance to observe the cultivation of cloves, vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon, and other spices that have made the island famous.
The port city of Stone Town dominates the west coast, and although the beaches of Mangapwani, where slave caves are visible at low tide and nearby Bububu are less than half an hour’s drive away, a night or two spent on the east or north cost is well worth the extra hour it takes to drive there.
Accommodation in Stone Town (Zanzibar)
Located in the heart of Stone Town, 236 Hurumzi rises above standard accommodation by providing elegant, traditionally furnished, airy rooms and a Tower Top Restaurant with a stunning view.
Dhow Palace Hotel occupies a wonderful location within the heart of Stone Town. Converted from a former Omani mansion, Dhow Palace Hotel boasts tall archways, verdant courtyards and traditional Zanzabari furniture and ornaments, giving it a truly authentic feel and atmosphere.
Kisiwa House Stone Town Zanzibar
Kisiwa House Stone Town Zanzibar This luxurious hotel is located in Stone Town. Kisiwa House was originally constructed in 1840 by a rich and influential Omani merchant and it was amongst one of the first buildings in Stonetown. The house has been in the same family for generations and has been recently renovated into a luxury boutique hotel.
Swahili House is located in the heart of Stone Town, Zanzibar. The building is a restored Indian Merchant’s house of the 19th century. Swahili House is a beautifully converted hotel with traditional influences and modern day facilities and Swahili hospitality.
The Tembo House Hotel is set right in the heart of Stone Town, occupying a wonderful harbour-front location.
Zanzibar Coffee House is an authentic Arabic house deep in the heart of Stone Town, Zanzibar. A special place to stay after your safari or time on the beach.
Located in the heart of Stone Town, Serena Inn is set in two historic seafront buildings that have been integrated and restored into a unique single property.
Other regions in Zanzibar
Today, many of the winding streets and high townhouses of old Stone Town remain unchanged and visitors can walk between the sultan’s palace, the House of Wonders, the Portuguese fort and gardens, the merchants’ houses, and the Turkish baths of the old city.
Surrounding Islands near Zanzibar
Pemba to the north of Zanzibar offers excellent diving and the luxurious Fundu Lagoon property. Chumbe Island Coral Park just off Stone Town and nearby Prison, Grave, and Snake Islands make a refreshing day-trip from Stone Town. Also consider Mnmeba Island and Mafia Island.
Here ancient Swahili history, culture and hospitality combine with hundreds of miles of endless beaches and the warm Indian Ocean.
Zanzibar’s coastline offers some of the best beaches in the world, but sand and surf vary depending on what side of the island you’re on.
