How to find the best hotel deal in Zanzibar
Booking flights with us is as easy as it gets, right? Well, that same clever search engine can also help you find bargain prices on Zanzibar hotels. Use these hacks to uncover great prices fast.
The sooner you book, the better. You're more likely to find a cheaper rate on a Zanzibar hotel and have more options to choose from when you plan ahead.
That said, booking at the last minute can pay off. Some places cut their rates a day or two before arrival to avoid having empty rooms.
Flexible on dates? This is your ticket to a lower rate. Experiment with different time frames to discover what deals are up for grabs. Prices are usually cheaper midweek and outside of busy travel seasons.
Explore the range of stays with free cancellation. Lock in a low rate today and easily cancel later if your travel plans change.
Where to stay in Zanzibar
Central Zanzibar
Choose the city centre and be where it's all happening. Take your pick of these accommodation options that keep you near the main attractions in central Zanzibar.
If you're searching for hotels near House of Wonders, check out Zanzibar Spice Hut Apartment. This 3-star Zanzibar hotel is about 0.48 kilometres from this leading sight and tends to attract business travellers.
On the hunt for hotels near Tanzania Attractions? The Neela Boutique Hotel Stone Town is roughly 0.64 kilometres away. Rated 5 stars, this hotel in Zanzibar is a regular pick for couples in particular.
Or experience the city at its best from one of the hotels near Christ Church Cathedral. Park Hyatt Zanzibar is 0.64 kilometres or so from this top sight. It's often chosen by families and has a 5-star rating.
When to go to Zanzibar
Travel demand peaks in July. If you want to be there when it's all happening, this is a fantastic time to book a hotel in Zanzibar.
Explore at a more relaxed pace by locking in a Zanzibar hotel in March. This is the quietest time to visit and prices are often cheaper too.
The weather is worth considering when choosing your travel dates. February brings the warmest conditions, with temperatures reaching highs of 33ºC (91ºF).
Lows hit 21ºC (70ºF) in July, the coolest month here.
Search for Zanzibar hotels during July for the best chance of sunshine. Averaging two days of rain, it's the driest month.
It's rainiest in April, which gets around 21 days of wet weather.
Best hotels in Zanzibar
Best budget hotels
A great trip doesn't have to come with a big hotel tab. With at least 30 budget Zanzibar hotels to choose from, you can spend more on fun experiences and less on where you sleep. You can expect basic comforts like fresh linens and towels, and cosy beds at these well-priced stays.
Zanzibar View Hotel offers comfort that doesn't cost a fortune. Make use of a safe deposit box, parking and more at this 3-star option.
Lost & Found Zanzibar comes with conveniences like a 24-hour front desk and a ticket office. Set yourself up at this 3-star Zanzibar hotel and stretch your budget further on your journey.
A safe deposit box and parking are only a sample of what's offered at Lost & Found Zanzibar. Another win for your bottom line, it's rated 3 stars and is located in Stone Town.
Best 4-star hotels in Zanzibar
When you'd like a little extra from your stay, the 4-star hotels in Zanzibar deliver. With around 20 choices, they generally feature well-designed rooms, attentive service, and extras like on-site bars and restaurants. These hotels feel classy without feeling flashy.
Bellissimo Boutique Hotel nails the 4-star guest experience. Diving services and car rental options help make this Stone Town option a go-to for many.
Asmini Palace Hotel is another inviting option. Make the most of amenities such as a restaurant and concierge assistance at this Zanzibar hotel.
Best luxury 5-star hotels
Featuring anything from soundproof guest rooms to valet parking and gourmet dining experiences, a 5-star hotel is where the bar gets reset. Spa sessions, rooftop lounges, and rainfall showers? You're likely to find that too. Mostly located in Stone Town, there are at least eight luxury hotels in Zanzibar.
Escape the everyday at The Neela Boutique Hotel Stone Town. Diving services and concierge assistance help elevate the experience here.
Best hotels in Zanzibar for families
Travelling with the kids? You need a hotel that goes beyond a bed. Childcare services, cribs, connecting rooms, and kids' menus make family stays easier. You'll find roughly 40 family-friendly hotels in Zanzibar ready to welcome your crew.
Maisara Deluxe Zanzibar lets you plan family time away without breaking the budget. This affordable 2-star option comes with amenities like parking, a laundry and plenty more.
Madinat Al Bahr Business & Spa Hotel brings a luxe edge to the typical family trip. This 5-star stay features Wi-Fi and baby-sitting.
Golden Palm Boutique Zanzibar is another smart pick. Snorkeling and a children's pool are among the amenities at this option.
Best hotels with a spa
Plan for more than just sightseeing. Choose one of the 40 or so Zanzibar hotels with a spa and schedule in time to truly relax. Mostly located in Stone Town, steam rooms, saunas, and wellness services are the types of features they offer.
In need of a reset? Come rest at Zanzibar Palace Hotel. This 4-star option has massage services and concierge assistance.
Located in Stone Town, Jafferji House is another top pick where relaxation comes naturally. Make the most of room service and a garden at this 4-star hotel in Zanzibar.
Island Stone Town balances the buzz of sightseeing with the bliss of a wellness treatment (or two). It offers room service and massage services.
Best hotels with a pool
There are at least 30 pool hotels in Zanzibar, each offering a different experience. City hotels tend to feature indoor or rooftop pools, while resorts generally go big with numerous swimming areas and extras like water slides. Whether you're here for rest or play, you'll find a stay to match.
Relaxing moments by the water will define your stay at Zanzibar View Hotel. With an outdoor swimming pool, a restaurant and a 24-hour front desk, this Zanzibar hotel has everything you need for a memorable visit.
A swimsuit and good vibes are all you need at Freddie Mercury Apartments. Featuring an outdoor swimming pool, a games room and a laundry, this Stone Town stay is rated 2 stars.
Or bring a playful twist to your getaway at Freddie Mercury Apartments. You'll have access to a children's pool, shuttle services and parking at this hotel.
Best pet-friendly hotels
With around ten pet-friendly Zanzibar hotels, your best buddy can share the adventure. Many have outdoor areas or nearby trails to run around in, and some even offer extras like treats and chew toys. A few rules might apply, but most places go out of their way to make your furry friend feel welcome.
House of Spice is a 3-star option in Stone Town. Wi-Fi and a garden are some conveniences available at this pet-friendly hotel in Zanzibar.
There's also room for you and your little buddy at Malindi Boutique. Rated 3 stars, it's located in Stone Town and includes a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk and much more.
Sleep inn Stone Town Hotel is one more place that's a safe bet for pet owners. Amenities here include luggage storage and a laundry.
Flying to Zanzibar
Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ)
Most flights to Zanzibar touch down at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ), this city's main airport. From there, the centre is about 6 kilometres away.
It takes around 15 minutes to reach central Zanzibar by taxi or ride-share. The journey by public transport is roughly 30 minutes.
If you're flying in late, consider booking Mbweni Ruins & Gardens Previously Jungle Paradise. This convenient option is not far from the runway and offers car hire options, among other features.
Also close to ZNZ, Madinat Al Bahr Business & Spa Hotel remains a trusted pick. This 5-star stay holds an impressive overall rating of 4-plus out of 5 based on traveller feedback.
