Stone Town Hotels, Zanzibar Town

Top reasons to visit Stone Town

• Historic Sites: Explore the rich history of Stone Town through its iconic landmarks, including the Old Fort and the UNESCO-listed architecture.
• Vibrant Bazaars: Wander through colourful markets, where you can shop for local crafts, spices, and unique souvenirs.
• Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in the local culture by attending traditional events and tasting authentic Zanzibari cuisine.
• Thrilling Water Sports: Enjoy a variety of exhilarating activities such as snorkelling, diving, and fishing in pristine waters.
• Charming Accommodations: Choose from a range of delightful hotels and bed and breakfasts for a memorable stay.

Find great hotels in and around Stone Town

Stone Town offers a delightful array of accommodation options, from charming hotels to inviting bed and breakfasts. Whether you're seeking a beachfront getaway, a family-friendly retreat, or a business-focused stay, you'll discover the perfect place to rest your head. With a variety of star-rated hotels and the best lodging choices in the area, your visit to this historic town will be both comfortable and memorable.

• Tembo House Hotel: Nestled in the heart of Stone Town, Tembo House Hotel is a delightful 4-star establishment that offers a unique blend of family-friendly and business amenities. With direct access to the beach, guests can indulge in sun-soaked relaxation right at their doorstep. The hotel is well-equipped for business travellers, featuring a Business Centre, Conference Space, and Meeting Rooms, ensuring that work commitments can be seamlessly met. Families will appreciate the extensive children's facilities, including games, a shared playground, an arcade game room, and a foosball table, making it a perfect choice for a fun-filled getaway.
• Paradise Beach Resort: Located 25.7km from Stone Town, Paradise Beach Resort is a 3-star hotel that caters to those seeking adventure and relaxation. This property is ideal for spa enthusiasts, offering a full range of treatments including massages, facials, and aromatherapy at its luxurious spa. Adventure seekers will love the variety of activities available, from snorkelling and windsurfing to horse riding and boat tours. With a poolside bar to unwind after a day of exploration, it’s an exceptional spot for both relaxation and excitement.
• Sipano Beach Lodge Kiwengwa: Situated 29.0km from Stone Town, Sipano Beach Lodge Kiwengwa is a charming 3-star hotel boasting direct beach access. This property is perfect for business and leisure travellers alike, offering convenient facilities for work while allowing guests to unwind by the stunning beach. With a serene atmosphere and a focus on comfort, it's an excellent choice for those looking to blend productivity with relaxation during their stay in Zanzibar.

Where to stay near Stone Town

Stone Town, a vibrant neighbourhood in Zanzibar Town, offers a perfect blend of history and culture, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a unique vacation experience. Wander through the bright bazaars, explore the charming old town, and soak in the relaxing atmosphere. Whether you're after family adventures or romantic moments, you'll find friendly locals and a plethora of outdoor activities to enjoy in this captivating region.

• Zanzibar Town: As the heart of Zanzibar, Zanzibar Town is a vibrant city that encapsulates the essence of the archipelago. Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is located within its bounds, offering narrow alleys, rich history, and stunning architecture. Visitors flock here year-round, with peak times in January to February and July. Experience the local culture through bustling markets, relax on beautiful beaches, and indulge in water sports. The city's proximity to lush parks and scenic islands makes it a hub for outdoor family adventures, ensuring a memorable vacation.
• Ng'ambo: Just a short stroll from Stone Town, Ng'ambo is a charming village that provides a more local experience. With its visitor numbers peaking from December to February, the area is perfect for those looking to escape the more touristy spots. Ng'ambo boasts beautiful beaches and urban parks, where families can enjoy leisurely outings. The beach is a significant draw for sun-seekers and those wanting to engage in outdoor activities, making it a fantastic addition to your Zanzibar itinerary.
• Mwembeshauri: Located a mere 1.1km from Stone Town, Mwembeshauri is another quaint village brimming with local charm. This tranquil area is ideal for travellers seeking a laid-back atmosphere, with peak visitation occurring between December and February. The stunning beach nearby provides the perfect backdrop for relaxation and fun in the sun. Although not as bustling as its neighbours, Mwembeshauri offers a serene escape, making it a great spot for families and beach lovers alike.

Things to do in and around Stone Town

Stone Town offers a fantastic blend of beach and outdoor activities, making it ideal for family vacations. Visitors can enjoy thrilling water sports, explore cultural venues, and take part in exciting excursions. Don't miss the opportunity for a safari trip or a guided tour of Stone Town to fully appreciate its rich history and vibrant atmosphere.

Shopping

In Stone Town, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Darajani Market, a bustling public market where you can find local produce and crafts. Don't miss the Zanzibar Night Market, perfect for evening strolls and sampling local street food while shopping for unique souvenirs.

Recreation

Enjoy a round of golf at Sea Cliff Golf Course, located 14.5km from Stone Town. With its lush landscapes and outdoor vibes, it's perfect for a relaxing day. After your game, unwind in the serene surroundings or take in the stunning coastal views.

Adventure

Kite Centre Zanzibar is an exhilarating water sports venue located 40.2km from Stone Town. Here, you can experience the thrill of kitesurfing, with lessons available for all skill levels. Enjoy the stunning coastal scenery while riding the waves and feeling the wind in your hair.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Forodhani Gardens, where you can savour local street food and enjoy live music. Visit the famous Tatu Bar for a lively atmosphere, cocktails, and dancing. Don’t miss the rooftop views at Africa House Hotel, perfect for a sunset drink and socialising.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Stone Town

For a budget-friendly trip to Stone Town, consider visiting during the low seasons of April to May and November when accommodation prices drop. Booking your hotel about a month in advance or checking Expedia for last-minute deals can also save you money. Saturdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Thursdays are pricier. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter for eco-friendly hotels and package deals that combine accommodation, flights, and activities for additional savings. Lastly, explore local attractions on foot or use public transport to keep costs down.

• 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: 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: Expedia’s search tool enables you to choose your budget, preferred location, and other criteria. You can easily sort the results by price, displaying the most affordable hotels at the top. Additionally, you have the option to filter your search by hotel type—if you check the Eco-certified option, you'll find a selection of sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save some dollars by combining your Stone Town accommodation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in Stone Town

Stone Town, with its vibrant culture and rich history, is perfect for a family-friendly beach holiday. Explore historic sites, urban parks, and the impressive old fort, or wander through the charming streets of Zanzibar Island. Don't miss the chance to experience the unique local atmosphere, especially in places like Old Stone Town. With a blend of outdoor activities and cultural experiences, Stone Town offers something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for your vacation.

• Slave Market: A poignant reminder of Zanzibar's past, the Slave Market offers a deep cultural experience. Visitors can explore the site where enslaved individuals were once traded, and learn about the region's history and the impact of the slave trade on local communities.
• Forodhani Gardens: This vibrant urban park is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Stroll through lush greenery, enjoy local street food from bustling night markets, and soak in stunning views of the sunset over the ocean, all while experiencing the lively atmosphere of Stone Town.
• Old Fort: As one of the oldest structures in Zanzibar, the Old Fort is a fascinating cultural landmark. Explore its ancient walls, attend local performances, and appreciate the intricate architecture that reflects the island's rich history and diverse influences.

Best time to go to Stone Town

The best time to visit Stone Town is dependant 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	Average
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	Slightly Low
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, Zanzibar is convenient with two major airports. Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) is located 6.4km from Stone Town, with excellent nearby hotels like the 5-star Madinat Al Bahr Business & Spa Hotel, just 1.6km away, offering free airport transportation and a 24-hour shuttle on request. Another option is Park Hyatt Zanzibar, 8.0km away, providing shuttle services for a fee. Alternatively, Dar es Salaam's Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) is 78.9km away, with luxury hotels like Hyatt Regency and Dar Es Salaam Serena Hotel, both offering shuttle services for a fee.