Stone Town Hotels, Zanzibar Town

Top reasons to visit Stone Town

• Historic Architecture: Wander through the narrow streets of Old Stone Town, admiring the intricate Swahili and Arab architecture that reflects its rich history.
• Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in local traditions by visiting museums and participating in vibrant dance performances.
• Stunning Beaches: Relax on nearby beautiful beaches, perfect for sunbathing and enjoying the warm Indian Ocean.
• Delicious Cuisine: Savor the flavours of Zanzibar through its renowned street food and local restaurants.
• Friendly Atmosphere: Experience the warm hospitality of the locals, making your visit truly memorable.

Find great hotels in and around Stone Town

Discover a range of exceptional accommodation options in Stone Town, from charming bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly retreat, a business-friendly environment, or a relaxing beach holiday, Stone Town offers the perfect stay. Notable options include the renowned Mizingani Seafront Hotel, along with various star-rated establishments that cater to diverse preferences and budgets. Experience the unique charm of this historic town while enjoying all the comforts of home.

• Tembo House Hotel: Tembo House Hotel boasts a commendable guest rating of 8.6 and is nestled in the heart of Stone Town, ideal for those seeking a unique beach holiday with a hot spring theme. The hotel offers direct beach access, allowing guests to enjoy the sun and sea at their leisure. Families will appreciate the extensive amenities designed for children, including a shared playground, arcade game room, and foosball table. With a natural hot spring nearby, guests can indulge in relaxing thermal experiences while enjoying a family-friendly atmosphere.
• Paradise Beach Resort: Located 26km from Stone Town, Paradise Beach Resort caters to families looking for a delightful beach retreat. This hotel features direct access to the beach, making it an excellent choice for sun-seekers. The property provides various amenities for children, such as a dedicated pool, an onsite babysitting service, and a complimentary children's club. With a focus on family-friendly facilities, guests can enjoy a relaxed and engaging holiday experience while soaking in the beauty of the surrounding coastal landscape.
• Turaco Spice Tree, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel: With a guest rating of 8.8, Turaco Spice Tree combines luxury with a family-oriented atmosphere, situated conveniently in Stone Town. This hotel also offers direct beach access, inviting guests to unwind by the ocean. The property caters to families with amenities such as window guards, a first aid kit, and in-room childcare services, ensuring peace of mind for parents. The hotel's inviting ambience and beachside location make it a splendid choice for those seeking a memorable family holiday.

Where to stay near Stone Town

Stone Town, a captivating neighbourhood in Zanzibar Town, offers an enchanting blend of history and culture, perfect for families and beach lovers alike. Visitors can wander through the narrow streets of Old Stone Town, soak up the sun on nearby beaches, and experience the warm, friendly atmosphere that characterises this unique region. With its romantic charm and secluded spots, Stone Town is an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and rich cultural experiences.

• Zanzibar Town: As the main city of Zanzibar, Zanzibar Town encompasses the historic Stone Town, renowned for its winding alleys and vibrant culture. Visitors flock here for its stunning beaches, outdoor activities, and family-friendly experiences. Between January to February and July, the town sees a surge in tourist activity, making it lively and bustling. Attractions such as picturesque beaches, lush parks, and various resorts create an inviting atmosphere for relaxation and exploration. The local theatre offers a glimpse into the rich culture of the island, while water sports provide an exhilarating experience for adventure enthusiasts.
• Ng'ambo: Located a mere 805m from Stone Town, Ng'ambo is a charming village that offers a unique cultural experience. The village attracts visitors mainly between December and February, perfect for those seeking a romantic getaway or cultural immersion. While here, you can enjoy the local theatre, which showcases traditional performances and the area's rich history. With beautiful beaches and significant historic sites nearby, Ng'ambo provides a serene retreat away from the more bustling Stone Town, allowing visitors to soak in the laid-back island life and scenic coastal views.
• Mwembeshauri: Just 1km from Stone Town, Mwembeshauri is another delightful village that offers an authentic Zanzibari experience. The area is popular with travellers year-round, particularly during the peak months of December to February. Known for its beautiful beaches, Mwembeshauri is ideal for sunbathers and those looking to relax by the sea. While the village may be smaller, its proximity to Stone Town makes it a convenient spot to experience the tranquillity of island life, all while being close to the vibrant culture and history of the main city.

Things to do in Stone Town

Stone Town offers a delightful blend of beach and outdoor activities perfect for family holidays. Visitors can indulge in thrilling water sports, enjoy vibrant live dance performances, and explore the bustling public market. With its rich culture and inviting atmosphere, Stone Town is an ideal destination for adventure seekers and those looking to immerse themselves in local traditions.

Shopping

Close to the heart of Stone Town, Darajani Market buzzes with local produce and handmade crafts, offering a vibrant atmosphere for souvenir hunting. For a more curated selection, visit the Old Fort's artisan shops, where unique textiles and intricate carvings reflect the island's rich culture.

Recreation

Experience the tranquil ambiance at the Spice Garden Spa, where you can indulge in traditional herbal treatments and soothing massages amidst lush surroundings. For relaxation, consider participating in yoga sessions at the Zuri Zanzibar, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and serene settings to rejuvenate your mind and body.

Adventure

The Old Fort, a stunning historical site, offers a glimpse into Zanzibar's rich past with its impressive architecture and cultural events. Explore the bustling Darajani Market, where you can taste local delicacies and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of daily life.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Stone Town by visiting the Old Fort, where you can enjoy live music and local performances. The Forodhani Gardens is ideal for sampling street food while mingling with locals. Don’t miss the rooftop bars for stunning sunset views over the Indian Ocean.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Stone Town

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Stone Town are March to May, 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: Booking a hotel around Stone Town about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• 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: Utilise Expedia’s search wizard to narrow down your preferences, such as budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To uncover the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your expenses by combining your hotel reservations in Stone Town with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Stone Town

Stone Town offers a delightful blend of beach, outdoor, and family holiday experiences. Visitors can explore its rich culture through historic sites, urban parks, and museums, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a family-friendly environment. With a variety of attractions, Stone Town is perfect for immersing oneself in the local culture while enjoying the vibrant city life and beautiful surroundings.

• Forodhani Gardens: Stroll through this vibrant urban park located in the heart of Stone Town. Forodhani Gardens is an ideal spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts, offering stunning views of the sunset over the ocean, local food stalls, and a lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings.
• Slave Market: This historic site holds deep cultural significance, providing insight into Zanzibar's past and the tragic history of the slave trade. Visiting the Slave Market allows you to reflect on the island's history and understand its impact on contemporary society.
• Old Fort: Known as the oldest building in Stone Town, the Old Fort is a remarkable historic fortress that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Zanzibar. Explore its impressive architecture, art exhibitions, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere surrounding this iconic landmark.

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

Flying into Stone Town is convenient with two major airports. Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) is situated 6km away, with notable hotels like Madinat Al Bahr Business & Spa Hotel just 2km from the airport, offering a range of transportation services including a 24-hour airport shuttle. Zanzibar Serena Hotel and Park Hyatt Zanzibar, both 8km from the airport, also provide shuttle services. Alternatively, DAR es Salaam’s Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) is located 79km away. Hotels like Dar Es Salaam Serena Hotel and Hyatt Regency Dar Es Salaam, both 11km from the airport, offer shuttles and other transport options for easy access to Stone Town.