Antonio Garden Hotel, nestled in the heart of Stone Town, emerges as an ideal choice for travelers seeking a blend of convenience and enriching experiences in Zanzibar. The hotel's prime location allows easy exploration of significant historical landmarks such as the House of Wonders, the Old Fort and the Anglican Church, alongside nearby curio shops, local markets and restaurants. This central yet serene environment offers a tranquil retreat amid the lively streets of Stone Town, making it a superb base for tourists.
The hotel's dining experience receives notable praise, particularly for its breakfast and dinner offerings. Guests frequently commend the breakfast buffet's variety and quality, enjoyed in a picturesque garden setting by the pool. The dining experience extends to dinner, where guests appreciate the delicious and diverse meals, reasonable pricing and overall value for money. The tranquil atmosphere of the poolside restaurant further enhances the dining experience, despite occasional service delays and minor criticisms about food quality.
In terms of room accommodations, reviews highlight a mix of positive and negative aspects. Many guests appreciate the spacious, clean rooms with modern furnishings, comfortable beds and well-equipped bathrooms. Rooms featuring garden views, balconies or kitchenettes are particularly favored. The diligent housekeeping ensures rooms are kept immaculate, contributing to a high standard of cleanliness. However, variability in room quality with some rooms showing wear and tear and occasional issues with humidity and noise, are noted concerns.
The hotel's staff stand out for their friendliness, helpfulness and professionalism, creating a welcoming and pleasant atmosphere. Instances of staff going above and beyond to ensure guest comfort are frequently mentioned, although there are occasional reports of less satisfactory interactions and the need for improved training in some areas.
Guests also enjoy the small but well-maintained spa, which offers soothing treatments and a relaxing atmosphere. While some mention higher prices and occasional closures, the overall spa experience is positive. The pool area garners mixed reviews; it is often described as a peaceful oasis with a beautiful courtyard garden, but cleanliness and maintenance issues, along with limited sun exposure, are occasionally criticized.
The hotel’s excellent proximity to the beach is consistently highlighted with the shore just a short walk away. The beach's beauty and cleanliness, along with the convenience of a nearby beach bar and provided beach chairs, enhance the seaside experience for guests.
Family travelers find Antonio Garden Hotel particularly accommodating with ample space, thoughtful amenities and a range of family-friendly activities and facilities. The hotel’s charming ambiance and safe environment make it an attractive option for families with children, further complemented by the kind and helpful staff.
Overall, Antonio Garden Hotel offers a well-rounded and enjoyable stay for visitors, characterized by its prime location, clean and comfortable accommodations, excellent dining and friendly staff. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in room consistency and Wi-Fi connectivity, the hotel's strengths make it a compelling choice for travelers to Stone Town.
Maru Maru Hotel is a highly recommended place to stay in Stone Town with a great location in the heart of the city and close to all the main attractions. Guests appreciate the hotel's position, saying it is convenient and has a beautiful view from the rooftop terrace. The breakfast experience is outstanding with a wide selection of food and amazing service. The dinner experience is generally positive with guests praising the selection that changes every day and the amazing service. The rooms are clean and well-managed with comfortable beds and great Wi-Fi connection. The staff is friendly, helpful and professional, providing excellent hospitality and service. The rooftop pool and bar/restaurant offer stunning views of the city and are perfect for relaxing and enjoying the city's charm. The outdoor pool is also beautiful and inviting with clean waters that are perfect for a refreshing dip. Overall, Maru Maru Hotel is a top-notch destination for travelers who appreciate a clean and pleasant environment, friendly staff and a great location.
Jafferji House is a beautiful boutique hotel located in the heart of Stone Town, offering a unique and authentic experience for guests. The hotel's central location is ideal for exploring the area's many attractions and the colonial-style design is both charming and comfortable. Guests rave about the delicious breakfast served on the rooftop terrace with a view of the ocean and the staff is widely praised for their outstanding customer service. The rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated in a Swahili, Arabic or African style with handcrafted furniture and colorful accents, although some guests experienced issues with cleanliness. Despite some minor areas for improvement, guests overwhelmingly rated their stay as superb and would recommend staying here in a heartbeat. Jafferji House is a true gem and a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique and romantic getaway in Stone Town.
The Tembo Palace Hotel in Stone Town, Zanzibar is a charming and well-maintained hotel with a privileged location in the heart of the old city overlooking the sea. Guests rave about the hotel's proximity to the city's main attractions, its direct access to its own beach and its lovely pools. The breakfast selection is diverse and of good quality and the rooms are comfortable, clean and spacious with some offering lovely views of the surroundings. The hotel staff is friendly, helpful and attentive with the FnB manager specifically praised for his exceptional care and service. The pool area is fantastic with three different pools available for guests to use, including a rooftop infinity pool with breathtaking views of the beach. The hotel is family-friendly with spacious rooms and affordable options across the street with full access to their beachfront facilities. The beds are safe and comfortable, providing a good night's sleep. Overall, the Tembo Palace Hotel is a lovely and clean hotel with excellent facilities and a great location, making it a worthwhile stay for any traveler.
The Tembo House Hotel is a top-notch option for anyone looking for an excellent location and an authentic Stone Town experience. Guests rave about the hotel's central location, which is ideal for exploring Stone Town's many attractions, including the Freddie Mercury Museum just around the corner. The hotel also boasts a fantastic beachfront with amazing sunsets and easy access to Forodhani park. The Arabian/colonial design, rooftop pool and separate pool for Tembo Palace also add to the hotel's overall ambience. The breakfast is fantastic and comes with a nice view. The hotel is situated in a beautiful old building with a lot of history and character, making it a great place to relax and unwind. The staff is friendly and polite, contributing to the hotel's overall charm. The hotel provides an interesting and authentic experience with beautiful rooms, but some rooms may need modernizing and better sound insulation. The hotel is known for being warm, welcoming and attentive to guests' needs. The numerous fresh water pools provide a blessing in this warm climate and are a major highlight of a stay at Tembo House Hotel. The hotel's location and beachfront property are loved by guests, but some found it challenging to enjoy the beach due to crowded boats and vendor harassment. Despite some negative feedback about the beds, the majority of guests enjoyed their sleeping experience at Tembo House Hotel. Overall, the hotel's swimming pools, location and staff are highly praised by guests.
A quintessential destination which majestically sits on the beachfront in the center of Stone Town.
Summary of reviews
Park Hyatt Zanzibar is a luxurious and exceptional five-star hotel located in the heart of Stone Town, offering an unbeatable location right on the beach and surrounded by local amenities. Guests rave about the amazing and fantastic location, describing it as great, perfect and exceptional. The hotel's breakfast receives top marks with guests calling it amazing, exceptional, superb and excellent. The rooms are a highlight of any stay with guests raving about their spaciousness, comfort and beautiful decor. The staff are friendly, helpful and well-trained, making guests feel at home. The hotel's cleanliness is impeccable with guests consistently describing the property and rooms as "clean," "beautiful," and "very well maintained." While the pool receives mixed reviews, the hotel's Covid management and the varied and delicious breakfast buffet served in an adapted sanitary context are praised. Overall, Park Hyatt Zanzibar is a luxurious gem that offers exceptional facilities and services, making it a must-visit for anyone looking for a memorable experience in Zanzibar and one of the best five-star hotels in the region.
Positive reviews of Zanzibar Serena Hotel highlight its beautiful colonial architecture, friendly staff and excellent beachfront location. Although there is no official hotel beach, guests can easily access the sea and enjoy the calming sound of the waves. The hotel's breakfast with a beach view is also highly praised and its proximity to Stone Town's main tourist attractions is convenient for guests. Overall, Zanzibar Serena Hotel is a perfect choice for those seeking a beautiful lodge with an unbeatable location.
Chuini Zanzibar Lodge by NEWMARK is a beautiful and serene destination that offers a perfect setting for a romantic and relaxing getaway. The unique location, calm atmosphere and historical charm create an ideal backdrop for couples looking to spend quality time together. The staff is exceptional, going above and beyond to make guests' experiences special with personalized touches like setting up private dining areas. Guests appreciate the privacy and intimacy of the lodge, making it an excellent choice for newlyweds or anyone looking to celebrate a special occasion. The African style and attention to detail add to the overall charm and magic of the experience with many guests even proposing to their partners during their stay. Whether it's for a honeymoon or a well-deserved break, Chuini Zanzibar Lodge by NEWMARK is a must-visit for those seeking a memorable and romantic vacation.
Mangrove Lodge is a beautiful and tranquil hotel located away from the busy city, surrounded by local villagers and offering a fantastic beach, pool and garden. The location is perfect for a quiet getaway and exploring Stonetown and the island. Guests have raved about the fantastic breakfast with a variety of daily options and abundance of fruit. The dinner is also praised for its fresh and delicious local dishes. The rooms are comfortable and well-equipped, although some may need updating. The hotel is generally very clean and well-maintained with a friendly and accommodating staff. The wifi is weak and only available in communal areas, but the pool is stunning with ocean views and the beach is beautiful. Mangrove Lodge is a family-friendly hotel with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. While some guests found the beds uncomfortable, most enjoyed a comfortable stay. Overall, Mangrove Lodge offers a peaceful and relaxing stay in a beautiful natural environment.
Madinat Al Bahr Business & Spa Hotel receives high praise from guests for its remarkable location, luxurious accommodations, and superb service. Located conveniently close to the airport with stunning ocean views, the hotel is ideal for both ease of access and exploration of nearby Stone Town. The tranquil setting and lush greenery further complement the calming atmosphere, making it a superior choice for travelers seeking relaxation combined with urban proximity.
The hotel excels in its culinary offerings, especially its breakfast and dinner services. Guests commend the extensive and high-quality breakfast buffet along with the diverse and delicious dinner options, notably the Indian cuisine. While there are minor remarks about the Western food options and some pricing concerns, the overall dining experience remains a highlight.
Accommodations in the hotel are spacious, clean, and well-designed, with a tasteful mix of Arab and Indian decor. Comfortable beds, luxurious bedding, and fantastic ocean view balconies ensure restful stays, though some minor inconsistencies in bed comfort and bathroom updates have been noted.
The hotel is universally applauded for its cleanliness and maintenance. The rooms, pool areas, and general property are kept impeccably tidy, contributing to a warm and inviting atmosphere. Moreover, the exceptional staff is a notable strength; praised for their friendliness and attentiveness, they make every guest’s stay memorable, further enhancing the guest experience.
In addition to the amenities, the hotel's spa and wellness offerings provide a relaxing retreat despite some areas identified for improvement. Similarly, the pool area is a guest favorite, offering a beautiful place to unwind, although the beach experience is mixed due to its condition and accessibility issues.
Despite a few critiques about its five-star status and the condition of certain facilities, Madinat Al Bahr Business & Spa Hotel continues to impress with its luxury, exceptional service, and comprehensive offerings, ensuring a tranquil and enjoyable stay for its guests.
Mbweni Ruins & Gardens, previously known as Jungle Paradise, offers guests an enchanting stay characterized by its stunning location, exceptional service, and a tranquil environment. Conveniently situated between the airport and historic Stone Town, the hotel provides breathtaking views and proximity to a beautiful private beach, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking relaxation and exploration. The serene gardens and picturesque surroundings offer an idyllic backdrop for both leisure and discovery, amplified by the attentive management and staff who enhance guests' experiences.
The breakfast at Mbweni Ruins & Gardens is well-regarded for its quality and diverse offerings, particularly highlighted by fresh dishes and ocean views from the breakfast deck. Although service speed can be a minor issue, the culinary experience is generally satisfying. Dinner also receives praise, especially for its fresh seafood and the enchanting terrace dining under sunset views, though the menu could benefit from more variety. Despite some service delays, the overall dining experience is a pleasant one.
Guests find the rooms spacious, comfortable, and clean, with many enjoying the large balconies offering ocean views. While there are occasional remarks about dated decor and musty smells, the accommodations provide a comfortable escape for travelers. The hotel’s cleanliness is generally appreciated, although consistency in housekeeping could be improved.
The staff at Mbweni Ruins & Gardens consistently stand out for their friendliness and dedication, contributing to a welcoming and hospitable atmosphere. Their attentiveness in ensuring guest satisfaction is repeatedly noted, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
Though Wi-Fi connectivity in rooms can be inconsistent, the pool area, with its serene ambiance and cleanliness, offers a delightful retreat. The beach, renowned for its beauty and tranquility, provides a relaxing and picturesque coastal experience, complemented by the surrounding mangroves and lush gardens.
Mbweni Ruins & Gardens is particularly family-friendly, with amenities that cater to both relaxation and exploration, making it a convenient base for nearby attractions. The comfortable beds further ensure a restful stay. Offering a four-star boutique experience with a blend of luxury and warmth, Mbweni Ruins & Gardens successfully provides a memorable getaway enriched by its natural beauty and superior service.
Sea Cliff Resort & Spa offers exceptional experiences that meet global 5-star resort standards. The resort features amazing facilities and services. While some guests have reported that the hotel does not meet the standards of a true 5-star hotel, Sea Cliff Resort & Spa still offers a very exceptional stay and merits consideration as a premier resort. Some guests have expressed dissatisfaction with the added government tax, which was not clearly communicated during booking.
Sunny Palms Beach Bungalows is a charming retreat that offers guests a serene and picturesque escape right on the beach. The secluded location provides stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for those seeking relaxation away from bustling city life. Although the remote setting means limited access to nearby stores and activities, the beautiful vistas and attentive staff create a lovely stay for visitors who value tranquility.
Guests are consistently impressed by the breakfast offerings, which feature an extensive variety of delicious and freshly prepared options. The inclusion of fresh fruit juices, pastries, and the ability to enjoy custom-made waffles or omelets adds a touch of indulgence to the morning meal, leaving a positive impression on most diners.
The dining experience at Sunny Palms Beach Bungalows is notably satisfying, with many reviews praising the tasty and delicious food, especially the seafood, which is described as exceptional. While some find the restaurant choices limited and meals slightly pricey, the overall quality and flavor of the dishes make the dining a reliable and pleasant experience.
Accommodations at Sunny Palms Beach Bungalows are consistently praised for their spaciousness, cleanliness, and comfort. The villas and apartments are well-maintained, stylishly furnished, and equipped with modern amenities like large screen TVs with streaming services. Families particularly appreciate the larger villas that come with private pools, offering ample space for relaxation and entertainment.
Cleanliness is a standout feature at Sunny Palms Beach Bungalows, with guests frequently highlighting the immaculate condition of the property and its facilities. The dedicated housekeeping staff ensures that all areas are spotless, contributing to the resort’s modern and serene ambiance.
The staff at Sunny Palms Beach Bungalows are celebrated for their exceptional service, characterized by attentiveness and a friendly demeanor. Guests appreciate the warm and accommodating nature of the team, which enhances the overall hospitality experience. The staff's commitment to excellent customer service significantly contributes to making guests feel welcome and valued during their stay.
The pool facilities are impressive, providing a clean and spacious environment for relaxation with stunning ocean views. The proximate location of the pool to a quiet beach enhances the aquatic experience, allowing guests to effortlessly enjoy both settings.
The pristine beach setting adds further allure, offering a tranquil escape with fine white sands and peaceful surroundings. Families find the resort particularly inviting, with amenities like a children’s play area and family villas with private pools catering to their needs. The spacious, secure environment enables families to unwind and create lasting memories together.
Although WiFi connectivity in rooms can be inconsistent, some guests appreciate this as an opportunity to disconnect and fully enjoy the stunning beach surroundings offered by the bungalows.
Overall, Sunny Palms Beach Bungalows emerges as a delightful destination for travelers seeking comfort, relaxation, and stunning scenery in a serene beachfront setting.