Hotels in Stone Town, Zanzibar Town

Top reasons to visit Stone Town

• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Stone Town is recognised for its historical significance, featuring unique architecture and rich cultural heritage.
• Bustling Markets: Experience vibrant local markets where you can shop for spices, crafts, and souvenirs.
• Beautiful Beaches: Enjoy stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxation and water sports.
• Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in local traditions through theatre performances and guided city tours.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from luxurious hotels to charming guesthouses, catering to all preferences and budgets.

Find great hotels in and around Stone Town

Discover an array of accommodation options in the enchanting Stone Town, Zanzibar. From luxurious hotels like the Park Hyatt to charming bed and breakfasts, there’s something to suit every traveller's needs. Whether you seek a family-friendly getaway, a beachside retreat, or a business-friendly environment, Stone Town has it all. Notable options include Seafarers Loft and various island hotels that promise an unforgettable experience in this historic location.

• Tembo House Hotel: Nestled in the heart of Stone Town, the 4-star Tembo House Hotel offers a unique blend of hot spring and beach-themed experiences, making it an ideal choice for families seeking relaxation and adventure. With a guest rating of 8.6, this hotel features direct access to a pristine beach and a natural hot spring nearby. The property is designed to cater to families, providing amenities such as a children's pool, games, and a foosball table, ensuring that younger guests are well entertained while parents unwind in the serene atmosphere.
• Paradise Beach Resort: Located 26km from Stone Town, the 3-star Paradise Beach Resort is a fantastic option for families and adventure seekers alike. This resort features direct beach access and offers a variety of adventure sports, including horse riding, fishing, and windsurfing. Guests can indulge in onsite snorkelling or explore the local waters with boat tours. The resort is family-friendly, offering amenities such as a children’s club and babysitting services, allowing parents to enjoy some leisure time while their children are engaged in fun activities.
• Turaco Spice Tree, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel: Situated in Stone Town, the 4-star Turaco Spice Tree is a luxurious retreat boasting a guest rating of 8.8. This hotel is perfect for families looking to enjoy a beach getaway while experiencing the local culture. With direct access to the beach, it provides a tranquil setting for relaxation. The hotel offers essential amenities for children, including a first aid kit, window guards, and babysitting services, ensuring a safe and enjoyable stay for families. The stylish ambience and attentive service make it a memorable choice for visitors.

Where to stay near Stone Town

Stone Town, a vibrant neighbourhood in Zanzibar Town, offers a rich tapestry of history and culture for visitors to explore. Wander through its narrow streets, where the atmosphere is a delightful mix of relaxation and romance. Discover the bustling trading towns nearby, immerse yourself in the local heritage, and enjoy the warm hospitality of friendly locals. With its beautiful beaches and captivating sights, Stone Town is the perfect destination for a memorable family vacation.

• Bawe Island: Nestled a short 6km from Stone Town, Bawe Island is a picturesque destination known for its stunning beaches and eco-friendly ambiance. With a consistent flow of visitors throughout the year, the island sees a peak in arrivals from November to January. It offers a tranquil escape for those seeking outdoor adventures such as snorkelling and diving, as well as relaxation on its pristine shores. Popular attractions include charming resorts and beautiful parks, making it an ideal spot for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
• Bububu: Located 8km from Stone Town, Bububu is a vibrant city that thrives on its cultural richness and scenic coastal views. This destination witnesses a rise in visitors from January to February and in October, attracting those eager to indulge in water sports and enjoy breathtaking sunsets. The area boasts a variety of cultural experiences, including theatres that showcase local performances. With its inviting beaches and historical monuments, Bububu offers a delightful mix of relaxation and cultural exploration.
• Kama: Situated 13km away from Stone Town, Kama is a lively city that captivates visitors with its blend of beach relaxation and cultural experiences. The peak tourist season occurs from December to February, drawing in those keen on entertainment and local culture. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local atmosphere at bustling public markets or enjoy theatrical performances that highlight the region's artistry. With its beautiful beaches, historic forts, and fascinating monuments, Kama promises a rich and engaging experience for all who visit.

Things to do in Stone Town

Shopping

In Stone Town, visit the bustling Darajani Market for fresh produce and local crafts. For a more curated experience, head to the Forodhani Night Market, where you can sample street food and buy handcrafted souvenirs. The Zanzibar Curio Shop offers unique gifts reflecting the island's rich culture.

Recreation

The Zenji Hotel offers a tranquil atmosphere with wellness services, including rejuvenating massages and yoga sessions. Unwind in their serene lounge area while enjoying refreshing herbal teas, making it an ideal spot for relaxation amidst the vibrant culture of Stone Town.

The Spice Island Hotel boasts a spa that incorporates local ingredients for traditional treatments. Guests can indulge in holistic therapies and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, providing a soothing retreat after exploring the bustling streets of Stone Town.

At the Changuu Private Island, visitors can engage in wellness activities such as guided meditation and beach yoga. Surrounded by pristine waters, this idyllic setting serves as a perfect backdrop for relaxation and self-discovery.

Adventure

Explore the winding streets of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can visit the historic House of Wonders and the vibrant Darajani Market. Experience a spice tour nearby, immersing yourself in the island’s rich aromatic heritage and indulge in traditional Swahili cuisine at local eateries.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Stone Town at the stylish Tatu Restaurant and Lounge, where you can enjoy innovative cocktails. For a more laid-back vibe, visit the iconic Forodhani Gardens, bustling with food stalls and local delicacies, perfect for an evening stroll and casual bites.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Stone Town

To save money during your visit to Stone Town, consider travelling in the low seasons of April to May and November when accommodation prices drop. Booking your hotel about a month in advance or exploring last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia can yield significant savings. Saturdays are the most economical days to stay, while Thursdays are pricier. Utilise Expedia’s search tools to find budget-friendly hotels, and consider combining your accommodation with flights and activities for additional discounts. Don't forget to explore free attractions and use local transport to keep costs low while enjoying the vibrant culture of Zanzibar.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Stone Town are April to May and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to August and December, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Stone Town is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Stone Town is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Stone Town is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can organise your results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Stone Town with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Stone Town

Stone Town, a charming destination for beach and outdoor family vacations, offers a rich blend of historic sites, urban parks, and museums. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture and vibrant city life, making it an ideal spot for families seeking unique experiences. Recommended activities include exploring the fascinating Stone Town and the bustling Zanzibar City, ensuring a memorable holiday filled with discovery.

• Forodhani Gardens: A vibrant urban park located in the heart of Stone Town, Forodhani Gardens offers a lively atmosphere with stunning sunset views. Families can enjoy leisurely strolls, while the local food vendors provide a taste of Zanzibari street food, making it a delightful spot for relaxation and socialising.
• Slave Market: This historic site serves as a poignant reminder of Zanzibar's past, where visitors can learn about the region's intricate culture and history related to the slave trade. The atmosphere encourages reflection and understanding of the struggles faced by many.
• Old Fort: As one of the oldest structures in Stone Town, the Old Fort boasts impressive architecture and a rich cultural heritage. Explore its many galleries and events, offering insight into the local arts and traditions.

Best time to go to Stone Town

The best time to visit Stone Town is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. March is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	82.2°F (27.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	82.6°F (28.1°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
March	82.9°F (28.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	81.0°F (27.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
May	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	78.1°F (25.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
July	76.8°F (24.9°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	77.0°F (25.0°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
September	77.9°F (25.5°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	80.8°F (27.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
December	82.0°F (27.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Stone Town

Reaching Stone Town, Zanzibar is convenient with two major airports nearby. Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) is situated approximately 6km from Stone Town. Recommended hotels near the airport include the 5-star Madinat Al Bahr Business & Spa Hotel, located 2km away, which offers a 24-hour airport shuttle and complimentary transport for children. Both the Zanzibar Serena Hotel and Park Hyatt Zanzibar are also excellent options, each about 8km from ZNZ. Alternatively, DAR es Salaam's Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) is 79km away, with notable hotels like the Dar Es Salaam Serena Hotel and Hyatt Regency, both around 11km from the airport, providing 24-hour shuttle services.