Nighttime At Forodhani Market
The sun sets every day and as it sets, Forodhani market of the Stone Town rises at every Zanzibar nightlife. Forodhani Gardens park comes alive and turn itself into an under-the-sky food market. As it changes into a busy street food selling stalls, devour the domestic delicacies like urojo with potatoes, chickpea, chutney, flakes, and warm sauce. Zanzibar fresh seafood kebabs, pizza, and also real sugarcane juice combine with ginger and lime.
Bonus Special Hotels In Zanzibar
Underwater hotel
If you want a truly unique experience in Zanzibar, consider staying in a Zanzibar underwater hotel. The Manta Resort has an underwater room off the shore where the bedroom is underwater. You may have heard of sleeping with the fishes, but never like this!
The top floor of the room is a lounge area where you can lay out in the sun and relax. The main floor has a deck, outdoor living room area, and a bathroom, of course. Then, you head down a ladder and experience the magic of the ocean. Windows in the underwater bedroom let you see the sea life around you. This is a one-in-a-lifetime experience that will let you be immersed in the ocean like never before.
If you want to stay right on the water, check out Dreamers Island. You can rent a houseboat right off the coast of Stone Town and really enjoy the ocean. From the boat, you can fish or just sunbathe on the deck. Imagine being able to snorkel right outside your front door!
Another amazing idea is to stay on Mnemba Island, a small island located around 3km off the coast of Zanzibar and probably the most intimate and secluded place you can stay in Tanzania. It is truly a beach paradise and it is also perfect for people who are going to Tanzania for their honeymoon, but not only them! If you want to truly feel like you are on your own private island paradise, I recommend staying at AndBeyond Mnemba Island! There are only 12 rooms on the entire island and each of them is equally gorgeous!
Chumbe: Exceptional Diving & Snorkelling In A Marine Sanctuary
Lying 12km / 7.5mi south of Zanzibar Town, uninhabited Chumbe Island was designated Zanzibar’s first marine reserve and now delivers an incredible underwater experience within the ambit of strictly controlled eco-tourism. The shallow-water reefs are pristine and there are turtles, rare birds and some 370 fish species to discover.
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Walking The Narrow Streets Of Stonetown
A predominantly Arab culture can be seen existing in this part of the island. Stonetown gets its name from the old buildings here which were built in the 19th century. The winding alleyways are full of handicraft shops, mosques, cafes, restaurants and houses. If you have enough time and an interest in knowing more about the history and culture of Zanzibar and particularly Stone Town, through its architecture, you can take a walking tour of the area. However, we preferred to just take a walk around on our own, walk in the narrow lanes and explore the bustling town all by ourselves before settling for a few cocktails, while enjoying the sunset, at The Terrace Restaurant.
The North Coast Kendwa And Nungwi Beaches
The North coast is popular because its least affected by the tides. There are two popular Zanzibar beaches in the north, Nungwi and Kendwa.
Nungwi is known for its diving, while Kendwa has more nightlife to offer. In the north, you can also visit Mnemba Island, just a kilometer off the shore. This has great diving and snorkelling spots and is also a home to green turtles!
Here is my list of hand-picked hotels in North Zanzibar, all sorted by price and category so its easy for you to find what you need:
Luxury
- Riu Palace Zanzibar has a private beach, a spa, and a dive center. It truly offers a luxury, all inclusive Zanzibar experience!
- Zuri Zanzibar offers beachside bungalows in Kendwa for couples or for families if youre on a Zanzibar family holiday. When youre not on the beach, you can wander through the garden or hang out by the pool. This is truly one of the best Zanzibar luxury hotels!
- Zanzibar Queen Hotel is one of the best north east hotels. Located in Matemwe, this hotel has diving facilities, a barbeque, water sports facilities, and even a spa center! Mnemba Island is also just 6 km off the coast.
- Z Hotel is a beautiful spot for an escape. It has everything you could want, including an infinity swimming pool and a spa. It also is known for its famous Z Hotel rooftop bar, which might be one of the best places on the island for drinks at sunset!
Middle-priced
Budget
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Best Hotel In Zanzibar Kizikula
The Kizikula can only be described as a hidden paradise. Located on the south coast near the village of Kizimkazi, the property is nicely removed from the hustle and bustle. It boasts lots of authentic nature, and beautiful coastal views of the Indian Ocean.
Pristine white sandy beaches, jungle scenery, and a relaxed atmosphere have given Zanzibar the reputation of being one of the best destinations in the world.
Despite its relatively small size, the island has many different regions, all of which are very distinct and offer unique qualities to travellers. From hiking through luscious greenery, to diving beneath the waves into an underwater paradise you wont be short of amazing things to do.
Stone Town is the largest town on the island. It is the best place to stay in Zanzibar to discover theforgotten side, away from the commercial luxury beach resorts. If you want to absorb some of the islands rich history and culture, spend your days exploring quirky buildings and cobbled alleys.
If youre looking to zone out and find your inner zen then the South Coast is the ultimate spot. An off-the-beaten-path location with a tranquil atmosphere, its the perfect place to relax. You can explore natural beauty at your own pace, making it ideal for couples.
There is one item every traveller NEEDS. Some travellers dont even know they need it, but those travellers need it more than anyone.
Final Thoughts On Where To Stay In Zanzibar
So, thats the paradise island of Zanzibar! We hope weve helped you navigate where to stay in Zanzibar!
From backpacker hostels, to luxury beachside resorts and authentic homestays, theres a slice of paradise for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Get planning, this stunning Indian Ocean island is waiting for you to explore!
Do you own an awesome hostel, hotel or apartment? Want to be featured in our list? Email to find out how.
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Where To Stay In Kiwengwa
- luxury
- Melia Zanzibar Its indulgent living at its very best at the 5-star Melia Zanzibar its private villas and infinity pools overlook the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Set on a 300-meter private beach, the All-Inclusive luxury hotel caters to every need and more. Theres no shortage of dining options, with five restaurants and bars serving local and international cuisine. Unwind at the lavish spa, play a game of tennis, or cool off with a swim in the bougainvillea-fringed infinity pool. The choice is yours!
- With multiple thatched bungalows on the edge of the ocean, Marafiki Bungalows is an escape from the everyday. Stay in traditional huts or a honeymoon suite and spend your days relaxing beside the pool or on the beach, practicing yoga, cycling around the resort , taking up a cooking class, or indulging in ocean view massages. Ideal for foodies, you can tuck into local delicacies at the Sunday Swahili Dinner or dine with your toes in the sand at the Wednesday night beach BBQ night.
midrange
You will find Michamvi in the southeast corner of Ugunja island. This peninsula is well known for its gleaming white beaches, scatterings of palm trees, as well as a stretch of the incredible barrier reef to explore. The tide goes out for hundreds of meters here, and its a great place for snorkeling or splashing around in the shallows.
Best Hotel In Nungwi Aluna Nungwi
This jungle-style hotel has the perfect mix of traditional Zanzibar with a modern twist. The hotel is happy to organize an array of leisure including snorkeling trips, sunset cruises, and scuba diving. It is a great place to stay in Zanzibar if you want to spend your days exploring its incredible outdoors.
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Kendwa Coolest Area To Stay In Zanzibar
Kendwa neighbors the more famous Nungwi, with slightly calmer vibes. Just off the coast are a great host of incredible coral reefs, making it a hotspot for snorkeling and diving. Nicknamed as having rasta beach vibes, Kendwa has a great selections of beautiful beaches which are equipped with laid-back beach bars.
Despite its calmer atmosphere, a few times a year as the sun goes down Kendwa hosts incredible full moon parties attracting tourists from all over. If youre heading to Zanzibar at the right time, its an incredible event to join!
Best Bed & Breakfast In Kendwa Hamia Zanzibar Villa 1
Located on the outside of Kendwa Village, this villa is home to a quiet atmosphere in a private gated area. Only a ten-minute walk from the areas charming beaches, Hamia Villa allows you to get the best of both worlds with a place to escape the busy beach bars. Rooms are equipped with large balconies, some of which have magnificent panoramic sea and garden views
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Bwejuu Beach Relaxation & Reef Safari
Bwejuu is one of the top beaches in Zanzibar.
This white sandy beach on the islands southeast coast is lined with palm trees and only an hour and a half away from Stone Town.
Its one of the quietest parts of Zanzibar and a popular choice for those seeking total relaxation, peace and privacy.
There are plenty of activities and excursions to do around the area, including a mangrove forest and dhow boat trip, a visit to the local village of Bwejuu, a reef safari, snorkelling and diving, a visit to Stone Town, or a day trip to the Jozani Forest, which is home to the Red Colobus Monkey.
The Best Beach Resorts Around Bwejuu Beach
- Baraza Resort and Spa is a family-run resort with spectacular views of the Indian Ocean.
- Breezes Beach Club and dive centre is a tranquil, relaxed resort that caters mostly to families and couples.
- The Palms is one of the islands most exclusive private resorts and is perfect for Zanzibar honeymooners or couples looking for privacy. Each villa has a private plunge pool and a terrace with magnificent views of the Indian Ocean. It was voted one the World’s Most Romantic All-Inclusive Resorts by Travel + Leisure.
All three of the above beach resorts make up The Zanzibar Collection, a portfolio of privately owned luxury hotels and resorts inspired by the magic of this exotic beach destination.
Cheap Places To Stay In Zanzibar
If you are just getting started in Zanzibar as a solo digital nomad, there are some great low-budget accommodation options to that will ease your start and the websites where you can search for them: hotelscombined.com or hostelworld.com
The accommodation options range from guesthouses, hotels, hostels, and private houses. It might take some time to find a house that suits you and is up to the standards.
Couchsurfing: According to the couchsurfing.com website, there are roughly 1,200 hosts in Zanzibar City willing to offer accommodation free of charge. This may be a temporary solution for solo newbies in town who would like to get to know some locals at the beginning of their adventure.
Hostels: There are numerous hostels around the city, many of them conveniently located in Stone Town or in the beach areas. Most hostels offer multiple types of accommodation from dorms to individual rooms to apartments. Prices start from $10 per person per night.
Private lodging: It is an individual room in someones private house. You stay and share amenities and facilities with the hosting family. Prices start from $8 per person per night.
Bed & Breakfast: This option generally offers individual rooms along with breakfast. Prices start from $14 per person per night.
Other options include accommodation found on websites like Airbnb, booking.com, hotels.com, etc.
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Stone Town Where To Stay In Zanzibar When You First Arrive
With Zanzibars incredible selection of world-class beaches, people tend to forget the island is full of fascinating culture and history! Theres no better place to explore this than the islands largest town Stone Town!
The quirky area is rich in culture, and boasts stone-built restaurants and bars, lining cobbled alleys. The interesting town has easy access to those postcard destinations, making it a great place to stay for your first few days in Zanzibar.
Quick Tip! Wed recommend staying near the old town, as some neighborhoods in the area can be a little sketchy.
South Coast Where To Stay In Zanzibar For Couples
Zanzibars South Coast provides visitors with a rural and off-the-beaten-path adventure. What can be best described as the tranquil and peaceful part of the island, it is the perfect place to stay if you want to relax and explore the great natural beauty at your own pace.
Its lesser-known location means there are only a few accommodation options which can make you feel like you have the island to yourself.
This is where to stay in Zanzibar for those who want to try something new.
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Breezes Beach Club And Spa
With the sea almost right at your doorstep, you will surely have a relaxing and blissful vacation in Promised Land Lodge. Lush palm trees surround this hotel, giving it picturesque backdrops. Aside from its natural beauty, this hotel impresses its guests with its cozy and airy rooms with a view. All rooms are accentuated by locally crafted furnishings, and each one has an outdoor seating area, which is a perfect place to meditate in the morning. Also, this hotel houses an outdoor pool, an on-site restaurant, a spa and wellness center, and a shared lounge.
Matemwe Beach Local Culture & Scuba Diving
Matemwe is a section of coastline on the northeast of Zanzibar.
The long, idyllic beach at Matemwe has some of the finest sand on the island and amongst the palm trees at the back of the beach youll find traditional fishing villages, which offer a fascinating insight into the local culture.
Around two kilometres offshore, just beyond the main reef, is the world-famous island of Mnemba Atoll a popular scuba diving spot surrounded by pristine and very accessible coral reefs.
The area around Matemwe Beach has the best diving and snorkelling on the island, plus some excellent kitesurfing and sailing.
Where to Stay Around Matemwe Beach
- Matemwe Lodge is perched on an outcrop overlooking a shallow, coral-fringed lagoon on the quiet northeast coast of Zanzibar Island. The easy access to Mnemba makes this resort a great option for those who want to dive the Atoll.
- Mnemba Island Lodge is an upscale all-inclusive resort situated on a private island just 4.5 kilometres off the northeast coast of Zanzibar, surrounded by coral reefs bursting with life. Famous guests at Mnemba Island Lodge include Tom Cruise, Naomi Campbell and Bill Gates.
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Mizingani Seafront Hotel Stone Town
Are you looking for a city hotel but still want some of the spirits of other Zanzibar resorts? Mizingani Seafront Hotel is a great choice.
This central hotel includes fantastic sea views, private balconies, and complimentary breakfast for travellers without sacrificing location. On offer, youll find a large shared swimming pool and a world-class restaurant. It is one of the best Zanzibar hotels rated by fellow travellers.
Explore Night Streets Of Stone Town
Stone town is the soul and heart that beats and breathes all through Zanzibar. Surround yourself in maze of irresistible alleys, building attracted by Arabic style, and get lost in the magic of stone town that it provides to every visitor. Befriend a domestic vendor and drink a cup of coffee or just take a walk and embrace the history, authenticity and culture of Stone Town. While on foot exploring the town, you will not fail to see the uniqueness of every pretty spot that you discover in every turn you take.
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Unwind At Kendwa Rock
Experience the complete room during the falls at Kendwa Rocks Beach Hotels, where the complete Moon party is hosted on a Saturday night every month. During the party on Zanzibar nightlife, you can enjoy a big range of activities including acrobats, dancing to music and fire-eaters, enjoying a tasty grilled meals or chilling on the beach. The party attracts locals as well as visitors, even guests from Dar es Salaam. Even if you are not in Zanzibar during the complete moon events, you can still enjoy yourself at Kendwa Rocks. Spend the evening at Mermaid Restaurant and enjoy a range of tasty seafood as well as domestic and international meals.
Where To Stay Along The North Coast
The North Coast of Zanzibar is one of the regions least affected by the tides. Two of the most popular beaches in the area are Nungwi and Kendwa.
Nungwi is a divers dream, while Kendwa has a wider variety of activities on offer, including bustling wildlife. Mnemba Island is 1 kilometre off the shore and offers fantastic diving and snorkelling spots, too.
If you are looking for the best place to stay in Zanzibar up north, here is where you should go.
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