Stone Town hotels in Zanzibar Town

Top reasons to visit Stone Town

• Historic Sites: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Stone Town, with its winding streets, ancient forts, and rich history.
• Cultural Vibrancy: Immerse yourself in local markets, vibrant theatre performances, and the lively atmosphere of the town.
• Outdoor Adventures: Engage in thrilling water sports and beach activities perfect for families and adventure seekers alike.
• Diverse Accommodation: Enjoy a variety of lodging options, from charming hotels to cosy bed and breakfasts catering to all travellers.
• Friendly Locals: Experience the warmth of Zanzibar's people, enhancing your stay with their hospitality and local insights.

Find great hotels in and around Stone Town

Stone Town offers a delightful variety of accommodation options, from charming hotels to cosy bed and breakfasts, catering to all types of travellers. Whether you seek a serene beachside retreat, a family-friendly environment, or a business-friendly setting, you'll find suitable choices throughout this historic town. With accessible rooms and well-appointed facilities, your stay in Zanzibar will be both comfortable and memorable.

• Tembo House Hotel: Embracing a blend of cultural heritage and modern comfort, Tembo House Hotel is a 4-star gem located in the heart of Stone Town. This family-friendly establishment offers direct access to the beach, making it ideal for both leisure and business travellers. Families will appreciate the extensive amenities designed for children, including a dedicated pool, an arcade game room, and safety features like window guards and a first aid kit. The hotel’s inviting atmosphere and convenient location ensure guests can easily explore the rich history and vibrant life of Stone Town.
• Paradise Beach Resort: Situated 25.7km from Stone Town, Paradise Beach Resort is a delightful 3-star retreat perfect for eco-conscious families seeking a beach getaway. This eco-certified property not only prioritises sustainability, but also provides direct beach access, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Zanzibar. With a variety of child-friendly amenities, including a children’s club, babysitting services, and a pool designed for younger guests, parents can relax knowing their little ones are entertained. The resort's commitment to an eco-friendly experience makes it a standout choice for environmentally minded travellers.
• Sipano Beach Lodge Kiwengwa: Located 29.0km from Stone Town, Sipano Beach Lodge Kiwengwa is a charming 3-star accommodation that caters to beach lovers and business travellers alike. This lodge boasts direct access to the stunning Kiwengwa beach, making it a prime spot for relaxation and recreation. The welcoming ambiance and essential amenities make it a comfortable choice for those looking to unwind after a day of exploring. Guests appreciate the lodge's tranquil setting, perfect for both work and leisure, providing a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

Where to stay near Stone Town

Stone Town, Zanzibar, offers a captivating blend of history and culture, perfect for those seeking a relaxing yet enriching experience. Explore the winding streets adorned with vibrant African fabrics, and unwind at affordable retreats that capture the essence of the African sun. Nearby, discover romantic hideaways and friendly locals that enhance your stay, making your visit to this UNESCO World Heritage site both memorable and delightful.

• Zanzibar Town: As the vibrant heart of Zanzibar, Zanzibar Town boasts a rich tapestry of culture, history, and stunning coastal beauty. Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is nestled within this city, inviting visitors to wander its narrow alleys filled with intricately carved doors, bustling markets, and historical sites. The city offers a perfect blend of beach relaxation and outdoor activities, with nearby resorts and shopping centres catering to families and solo travellers alike. Key landmarks include scenic beaches, lush parks, and the alluring Indian Ocean, providing an unforgettable travel experience.
• Bububu: Located a mere 8.0km from Stone Town, Bububu is a charming coastal city that offers a more laid-back atmosphere while still being close to the heart of Zanzibar. Visitors are drawn to its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities, including thrilling water sports. The city's cultural offerings, such as local theatres and community events, enrich the visitor experience. Notable attractions nearby include stunning beaches, historic forts, and serene islands, making Bububu an excellent choice for those seeking both adventure and cultural immersion.
• Kama: Situated 12.9km away from Stone Town, Kama is a delightful city renowned for its vibrant beach scene and rich cultural experiences. Travellers flock here for the lively public markets and guided tours that showcase the local lifestyle. The city features inviting beaches perfect for swimming and relaxation, while its entertainment-themed activities ensure there's always something happening. With proximity to family-friendly beaches and enchanting islands, Kama is an ideal destination for those looking to blend leisure with cultural exploration.

Things to do in and around Stone Town

Stone Town offers a delightful blend of beach and outdoor activities perfect for family vacations. Visitors can engage in thrilling water sports, explore local theatre performances, and immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of public markets. Adventure seekers can find an array of activities in Zanzibar, ensuring there's something for everyone looking for excitement and unique experiences during their stay.

Shopping

In Stone Town, visit Darajani Market for a vibrant local atmosphere, where you can find a variety of gifts and souvenirs. Don't miss the Zanzibar Night Market, which offers a bustling experience with local crafts and delicious street food, perfect for an evening stroll.

Recreation

Experience the serene surroundings at Sea Cliff Golf Course, located 14.5km from Stone Town. Enjoy a round of golf amidst lush landscapes and indulge in outdoor activities that rejuvenate your spirit, all while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the region.

Adventure

Experience thrilling water sports at Kite Centre Zanzibar, located 40.2km from Stone Town. Enjoy kite surfing lessons and the vibrant atmosphere of this outdoor adventure hub, where you can embrace the waves and the stunning coastal scenery.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Stone Town is vibrant and filled with charm. Enjoy cocktails at the iconic Tatu Restaurant, or immerse yourself in local culture at the Old Fort, where live music and performances abound. For a laid-back vibe, visit Mercury's for drinks and a stunning ocean view.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Stone Town

To save money on your trip to Stone Town, consider visiting during the off-peak months of April to May and November, as prices are generally lower. Booking your accommodation about a month in advance can yield the best rates, especially on Saturdays, which are the least expensive days. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and type, and look for last-minute deals to snag additional savings. Combining your hotel with flights and activities in a package can also lead to significant discounts, ensuring a more economical stay in this beautiful location.

• 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 specify your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can organise your results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring that the most affordable hotels appear at the top. 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 you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy significant savings 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, a captivating destination in Zanzibar, is perfect for beach lovers and families seeking outdoor adventures. Explore a variety of attractions, including historic sites, urban parks, and forts, all of which offer rich cultural experiences. Whether you're interested in history or simply enjoying the vibrant atmosphere, Stone Town caters to every traveller's desires, ensuring a memorable holiday.

• Forodhani Gardens: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Forodhani Gardens, an urban park where locals and tourists converge to enjoy the bustling night market. Dine on fresh seafood and local delicacies while taking in the stunning views of the waterfront.
• Slave Market: Step into the poignant history at the Slave Market, a significant cultural site that reflects Zanzibar's complex past. Here, you can learn about the tragic legacy of the slave trade and its impact on the region’s identity.
• Old Fort: Explore the Old Fort, a historic fortress that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Zanzibar. Wander through its impressive architecture and enjoy local art exhibitions in a setting steeped in history.

Best time to go to Stone Town

The best time to visit Stone Town can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Stone Town falls in March, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Stone Town falls in July, 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

When planning your visit to Stone Town, Zanzibar, you can fly into two major airports. Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) is situated 6.4km from Stone Town, with excellent hotels such as the 5-star Madinat Al Bahr Business & Spa Hotel, located 1.6km away, offering free airport transportation and 24-hour shuttles on request. Park Hyatt Zanzibar and Hotel Verde Zanzibar are also nearby, providing various shuttle services. Alternatively, you can fly into Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam, positioned 78.9km from Stone Town, with luxurious options like Hyatt Regency and Johari Rotana, both offering convenient shuttle services to the airport.