11 of the Best Boutique Hotels in Zanzibar
11 of the Best Boutique Hotels in Zanzibar

11 of the Best Boutique Hotels in Zanzibar

Welcome to a magnificent oasis of opulence in the heart of Zanzibar, Tanzania. If you're seeking an extraordinary retreat that combines luxury with authentic local charm, look no further than the exquisite boutique hotels scattered across this idyllic island. With their intimate ambiance and personalized service, these hidden gems are sure to captivate even the most discerning travelers.

Indulge yourself in a world where elegance meets tranquility as you discover a selection of boutique accommodations nestled amidst Zanzibar's breathtaking landscapes. Each hotel is thoughtfully designed to reflect its surroundings, seamlessly blending contemporary comforts with traditional Swahili flair. From stylish beachfront villas to historic stone mansions adorned with intricate woodwork, these unique lodgings create an atmosphere that is both enchanting and exclusive.

Whether you long for lazy days on pristine white-sand beaches or yearn to explore the vibrant culture and history of Stone Town, Zanzibar's boutique hotels offer the perfect base for your unforgettable getaway. Let yourself be pampered by attentive staff who go above and beyond to ensure your every desire is met. Experience fine dining showcasing tantalizing local cuisine infused with flavors from around the world. Unwind in private plunge pools or rejuvenate your senses at lavish spa retreats offering ancient holistic treatments inspired by age-old African traditions.

Join us on a mesmerizing journey through Zanzibar's luxurious boutique hotels, where every detail is meticulously crafted to provide an exceptional travel experience like no other.

The Best Boutique Hotels in Zanzibar

Belvedere Resort

Belvedere Resort

Located on the idyllic south-east coast of Zanzibar in Jambiani village, Belvedere Resort is a stunning beachfront property offering guests an unforgettable tropical getaway. With its charming restaurant, stylish bar, and lush tropical garden, this resort provides the perfect setting for relaxation and indulgence. The bungalows feature private entrances and terraces that offer breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. Inside, guests can enjoy the comfort of thatched-roof units equipped with amenities such as fans, sofas, desks, and mosquito nets draped over the beds. The enclosed bathrooms boast exposed brickwork and come with either a bath or shower. At Belvedere Resort, guests can partake in various activities both on-site and in the surrounding areas including cycling, fishing, and diving. The dedicated front desk staff is always available to assist guests with arranging excursions or booking airport shuttle services. Nature enthusiasts will be thrilled to know that Muyuni Forest is just 5 km away while Zanzibar International Airport can be reached within 58 km.

– Beachfront location offering stunning ocean views
– Charming restaurant serving delicious breakfast
– Stylish bar offering a wide variety of drinks
– Lush tropical garden providing a tranquil atmosphere
– Helpful front desk staff assisting with excursion planning and airport transfers

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Dhow Resort

Dhow Resort

Dhow Resort is a luxurious 4-star boutique hotel located in Jambiani, offering guests an exquisite beachfront experience. Opened in December 2021, the resort boasts a private beach area and a bar for guests to enjoy. The hotel features air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi and private bathrooms, ensuring ultimate comfort and convenience for every guest. Indulge in delectable African and American cuisine at the on-site restaurant or take advantage of room service for a more intimate dining experience. The attentive staff at Dhow Resort are available 24/7 at the front desk to assist with any requests or currency exchange needs. Relax by the outdoor swimming pool while enjoying breathtaking pool views from your balcony or unwind on the sun terrace overlooking Jambiani Beach, just steps away from the hotel. For those looking to explore further, Paje Beach is only 2.4 km away.

– Newly opened in December 2021
– Stunning beachfront location
– Private beach area for guests
– Air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi
– Restaurant serving African and American cuisine

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Hotel Tropical Zanzibar

Hotel Tropical Zanzibar

Hotel Tropical Zanzibar is a newly opened 4-star luxury boutique hotel located in Nungwi, just 600 meters from Royal Beach. The hotel offers spacious and air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, each featuring a balcony or terrace with pool views. Some rooms also offer sweeping views of the sea. Guests can enjoy an à la carte or Italian breakfast at the on-site restaurant and take advantage of amenities such as an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden, and a shared lounge. The hotel also offers services like room service, a 24-hour front desk, currency exchange, and a paid airport shuttle service. For recreation, guests can play darts or explore popular cycling routes in the area. Nearby attractions include Nungwi Beach (1.1 km) and Kendwa Beach (1.5 km).

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Boutique Hotels in Downtown Zanzibar

Downtown Zanzibar offers a range of boutique hotels that combine modern elegance with the charm of the historic city. With their unique designs and personalized service, these hotels provide a luxurious retreat for travelers looking to experience the culture and beauty of Zanzibar.

Casa Beach Hotel Casa Del Mar

Casa Beach Hotel Casa Del Mar

Located in the picturesque Jambiani village, Casa Beach Hotel "Casa Del Mar" offers an idyllic beachfront experience with a well-maintained tropical garden. This boutique hotel features free Wi-Fi throughout and a refreshing swimming pool. The on-site restaurant serves both local and international cuisine, while the bar is perfect for enjoying a refreshing drink. The guest rooms are spacious and feature balconies, private entrances, and comfortable seating areas. Mosquito nets over the beds ensure a peaceful night's sleep. The private bathrooms are equipped with showers. Guests can start their day by enjoying breakfast on the terrace before embarking on snorkelling trips or other exciting excursions organized by the friendly staff. Stone Town and the Zanzibar Ferry Terminal are easily accessible within an hour's car ride, and airport shuttles can be arranged for convenience.

– Stunning beachfront location
– Well-appointed rooms with balcony
– Friendly and helpful staff
– Delicious breakfast served on the terrace
– Convenient access to Stone Town and Zanzibar Ferry Terminal

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The Golden Blue Luxury Hotel (Bwejuu)

The Golden Blue Luxury Hotel (Bwejuu)

The Golden Blue Luxury Hotel, located just steps away from Bwejuu Beach, offers 4-star accommodation in the charming village of Bwejuu. Opened in June 2021, this boutique hotel boasts a beautiful garden, a spacious terrace, and a stylish bar. With free WiFi throughout the property, guests can enjoy convenient room service and a dedicated concierge service. The hotel offers both continental and vegetarian breakfast options to cater to various dietary preferences. Indulge in the luxurious amenities provided by this 4-star establishment, including an inviting indoor pool. The Golden Blue Luxury Hotel also offers airport transfers and car rental services for added convenience during your stay. Each room is thoughtfully designed with a balcony overlooking the pool, complete with a private bathroom featuring shower facilities, complimentary toiletries, and a hairdryer. All rooms are equipped with a fridge for storing refreshments. Guests can savor delectable African, Italian, and Mediterranean cuisine at the on-site restaurant or request vegetarian and vegan options as per their preferences. For adventure seekers, the hotel provides bike hire services for exploring the area's popular cycling routes. Paje Beach is just 1.7 km away from The Golden Blue Luxury Hotel while Jozani Forest is approximately 15 km away.

– Prime location steps away from Bwejuu Beach
– Elegant interiors with well-appointed rooms featuring pool views
– Indoor pool for relaxation and rejuvenation
– Convenient airport transfer service available
– Wide range of dining options including African, Italian & Mediterranean cuisine

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Mwezi Boutique Resort

Mwezi Boutique Resort

Located in Jambiani, just 41 km from Zanzibar City, Mwezi Boutique Resort is a stunning luxury hotel that offers an unforgettable experience for guests. With its outdoor pool and private beach area, the resort provides breathtaking views of the sea. The bungalows are beautifully designed and come with either full or partial sea views, as well as a terrace and a bathroom with shower. Guests can enjoy delicious meals at the on-site restaurant and take advantage of free WiFi and private parking. The Duplex Bungalows also feature a comfortable seating area. Additionally, the resort offers a 24-hour front desk and car hire services. Popular activities in the area include snorkeling and fishing, making this an ideal destination for adventure enthusiasts. Kiwengwa is located 40 km away from Mwezi Boutique Resort, while Paje is only 5 km away. Kisauni Airport is easily accessible at just 38 km distance.

– Stunning views of the sea
– Outdoor pool & private beach area
– Free WiFi & private parking
– Comfortable seating areas in Duplex Bungalows
– Exciting activities like snorkeling & fishing available nearby

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Zanzibar 5 Star Boutique Hotels

Zanzibar's 5-star boutique hotels offer an exclusive and personalized experience, combining luxury with the unique charm of the island. With stunning beachfront locations and exquisite design, these boutique hotels provide a haven for those seeking relaxation and indulgence.

Zen Boutique Resort

Zen Boutique Resort

Zen Boutique Resort is a newly opened luxury resort located in Jambiani, just a short distance from the stunning Jambiani Beach. The resort offers guests a range of facilities including an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden, and a shared lounge. For those looking to explore the area, Jozani Forest is only 28 km away and can be easily reached from the resort. When it comes to dining options, Zen Boutique Resort boasts a restaurant serving African, Chinese, and British cuisine. Guests can also enjoy drinks at the terrace bar or relax in the nightclub. The resort provides excellent services such as concierge service for extra convenience. All accommodation units are elegantly appointed with air conditioning, fridge, minibar, kettle, shower with complimentary toiletries and wardrobe for storage purposes. Each unit features its own private bathroom and bed linen is provided as standard. Guests can start their day with an array of breakfast offerings including buffet-style options or choose from à la carte or continental menus. Special dietary requirements such as vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free meals can also be accommodated upon request.

– Newly opened luxury boutique hotel
– Conveniently located near Jambiani Beach
– Wide range of dining options including African, Chinese and British cuisine
– Outdoor swimming pool for relaxation
– Excellent services like concierge service

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Babalao Bungalows

Babalao Bungalows

Babalao Bungalows is a charming boutique hotel located in Nungwi, which opened its doors in May 2020. This delightful property offers a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for guests. With free bikes available, visitors can easily explore the surrounding area and take in the stunning scenery. The outdoor swimming pool provides the perfect place to relax and cool off on hot days, while the garden and shared lounge offer serene spaces to unwind. Babalao Bungalows also boasts an excellent restaurant serving delicious meals, as well as a terrace and bar for guests looking to socialize or enjoy a refreshing drink. Additional conveniences include a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, room service, and free WiFi throughout the property. Each room at Babalao Bungalows is beautifully appointed with air conditioning, a safety deposit box, wardrobe, private bathroom with shower and complimentary toiletries. Guests can start their day right with a daily breakfast that offers continental, vegetarian or vegan options. The hotel's prime location allows easy access to popular attractions such as Nungwi Beach just 100 meters away and Royal Beach less than one kilometer from the property. The nearest airport is Abeid Amani Karume International Airport situated 61 kilometers from the hotel.

Pros:
– Boutique hotel offering personalized service
– Free bikes available for guests to explore the area
– Relaxing outdoor swimming pool surrounded by lush gardens
– Excellent on-site restaurant serving delicious meals
– Convenient amenities including 24-hour front desk assistance and airport transfers

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Zuri Zanzibar (Kendwa)

Zuri Zanzibar (Kendwa)

Located in the Kendwa Beach district of Kendwa, Zuri Zanzibar is a luxurious resort offering guests a truly idyllic beach getaway. With its own private beach area and free WiFi, Zuri Zanzibar ensures that guests have everything they need for a seamless stay. The property features an outdoor swimming pool surrounded by lush gardens, a terrace for relaxation, and a bar to enjoy refreshing cocktails. Guests can indulge in Middle Eastern cuisine at the on-site Maischa Restaurant, which offers exquisite dining experiences. The rooms at Zuri Zanzibar are tastefully decorated and equipped with air conditioning, wardrobes, desks, and flat-screen TVs. Some rooms even offer spectacular views of the pool or garden. Each day begins with a delicious continental breakfast served by the resort. For those seeking adventure and exploration, snorkeling is available nearby at Coral Reefs Snorkel just a short walk away from the resort.

Pros:
– Private beach area for exclusive relaxation
– Beautifully landscaped gardens surrounding the outdoor swimming pool
– Exquisite Middle Eastern cuisine offered at Maischa Restaurant
– Spectacular views of either the pool or garden from some rooms
– Convenient location near Coral Reefs Snorkel for fun water activities

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The Trendiest Boutique Hotels in Zanzibar

Zanzibar is home to some of the trendiest boutique hotels in East Africa, offering unique and stylish accommodations that cater to the desires of discerning travelers. From chic decor inspired by local culture to breathtaking ocean views, these hotels provide an unforgettable experience for those seeking luxury and exclusivity in this stunning tropical paradise.

BaraBara Eat&Sleep – Eco Boutique Hotel (Paje)

BaraBara Eat&Sleep - Eco Boutique Hotel (Paje)

BaraBara Eat&Sleep – Eco Boutique Hotel is a newly opened luxury hotel located in Paje. Situated just 400 meters from the stunning Paje Beach and 1.6 km from Bwejuu Beach, this eco-friendly hotel offers guests a wide range of amenities and activities to enjoy. The property features free bikes for guests to explore the area, as well as a garden, shared lounge, and terrace where one can relax and unwind. The hotel also boasts a private beach area and a bar, perfect for soaking up the sun or enjoying refreshing cocktails by the sea. The air-conditioned rooms at BaraBara Eat&Sleep – Eco Boutique Hotel offer garden views and come with modern furnishings, including a wardrobe and free WiFi. Each room is equipped with a kettle and has a private bathroom that includes a shower and complimentary toiletries. Some rooms even have kitchenettes with fridges for added convenience. Guests can start their day off right with breakfast available every morning which includes à la carte, continental, and Italian options. For those looking to explore beyond the beach, Jozani Forest is just 18 km away from the accommodation.

– Newly opened luxury boutique hotel
– Free bikes provided for guests
– Private beach area
– Charming garden and terrace to relax in
– Stylishly decorated rooms with modern amenities

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Natural Garden Hotel

Natural Garden Hotel

Located on the breathtaking beachfront just a 5-minute drive from Jambiani, Natural Garden Hotel is a charming boutique hotel that offers a tranquil escape. This recently reopened 4-star hotel features comfortable bungalows with hand-made furniture and balconies or patios offering stunning sea views. Guests can indulge in delicious vegan meals at the on-site restaurant, which serves a fusion of Swahili and Italian cuisine. The friendly staff is always ready to assist with organizing exciting activities such as snorkeling, dolphin tours, spice tours, and visits to the enchanting Jozani forest. With its private beach area and convenient location just 50 minutes from Zanzibar, Natural Garden Hotel is the perfect retreat for those seeking relaxation and adventure.

– Breathtaking beachfront location
– Charming bungalows with sea views
– Delicious vegan restaurant on-site
– Assistance with organizing leisure activities
– Close proximity to Zanzibar Airport

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FAQ

What are some luxury boutique hotels in Zanzibar?

Zanzibar offers a plethora of luxury boutique hotels that cater to different tastes and preferences. Some popular options include Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa, a stunning beachfront property known for its private villas with plunge pools and spa facilities, and The Palms, an intimate resort featuring luxurious villas with private plunge pools amidst lush gardens. Another notable choice is Essque Zalu Zanzibar, offering stylish suites and villas overlooking the Indian Ocean along with multiple dining options.

What amenities can I expect at a boutique hotel in Zanzibar?

Boutique hotels in Zanzibar pride themselves on providing exceptional amenities to ensure a memorable stay. You can expect features such as personalized service, spacious and well-appointed rooms or villas with modern amenities like air conditioning, free Wi-Fi access, flat-screen TVs, and minibars. Many boutique hotels also offer additional facilities like swimming pools, spa services for relaxation and rejuvenation, fine dining restaurants serving local cuisine or international dishes, as well as organized activities such as water sports or cultural experiences.

Are there any boutique hotels in Stone Town?

Yes! Stone Town offers several charming boutique hotel options for visitors seeking to explore the historic heart of Zanzibar. For instance, Emerson Spice Hotel provides an authentic experience within the narrow streets of Stone Town while boasting unique rooms individually decorated with traditional Swahili furnishings. Similarly, Park Hyatt Zanzibar combines exquisite design with modern comforts offering luxurious accommodations overlooking the Indian Ocean.

Can you recommend any beachfront boutique hotels in Zanzibar?

Absolutely! If you're looking for a beachfront experience on the beautiful shores of Zanzibar Island, there are fantastic options available to you. One standout is Kilindi Zanzibar which offers exclusive pavilions set within lush tropical gardens and infinity pools overlooking the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Another exquisite choice is Matemwe Retreat, a secluded resort offering spacious villas with private plunge pools and direct access to pristine white sandy beaches.

What makes boutique hotels in Zanzibar unique?

Boutique hotels in Zanzibar offer a distinctive blend of luxury, personalized service, and local charm that sets them apart from larger chain hotels. These properties often feature stunning traditional architecture complemented by contemporary design elements, creating an intimate ambiance for their guests. Additionally, boutique hotels in Zanzibar strive to provide a more authentic experience by showcasing local culture through their décor, cuisine, and activities while offering exceptional attention to detail and tailored experiences for each guest's preferences.

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