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Planning a trip to Zanzibar and wondering where to stay?You’re not alone. Zanzibar may look small on a map, but choosing the wrong area can completely change your experience. Some beaches are swimmable all day. Others are heavily tidal. Some areas are lively and social. Others are quiet and romantic.

This guide breaks down:

• The best places to stay in Zanzibar

• Real hotel examples with price ranges

• Where to book cheap hotels in Zanzibar

• Which area suits families, couples, or solo travellers

• Safety tips before you book

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Quick Area Comparison: Where Should You Stay?

Now let’s break them down properly.

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Where to Stay in Stone Town (Hotels Worth Booking)

Stone Town is the cultural heart of Zanzibar, and staying here for one or two nights before heading to the beaches makes the experience far richer. The best hotels tend to be historic merchant houses, restored palaces, or boutique properties tucked inside the maze of narrow streets.

These are three hotels that consistently stand out across traveller ratings, location, and atmosphere.

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Luxury Stay: Park Hyatt Zanzibar

Approx. $350 – $600 per night

The Park Hyatt Zanzibar is widely considered the most luxurious hotel in Stone Town, and its location directly on the seafront makes it one of the most desirable places to stay.

Housed in a restored Omani mansion on the waterfront, the hotel blends historic architecture with modern luxury, something very few properties in Stone Town manage to do well.

Guests consistently praise:

• its prime location near Forodhani Gardens
• large sea-facing rooms and balconies
• a quiet courtyard pool (rare in Stone Town)
• excellent service and security

What makes the Park Hyatt stand out is how peaceful it feels despite being in the center of the old town. Many hotels in Stone Town are beautiful but cramped, while the Park Hyatt has wide corridors, spacious rooms, and open courtyards, which makes it feel far more relaxed.

It’s also one of the few hotels where you can watch the sunset over the Indian Ocean without leaving the property.

Best for:

• couples
• luxury travelers
• honeymoon stays
• travelers wanting comfort after a long flight

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Boutique Stay: Emerson on Hurumzi

Approx. $150 – $250 per night

If the Park Hyatt is polished luxury, Emerson on Hurumzi is pure Stone Town character.

The hotel is located in a historic Swahili merchant house built in the 19th century, and stepping inside feels like stepping into Zanzibar’s past. The building itself is famous for its carved doors, antique furniture, and colorful stained glass windows.

What guests tend to love most about Emerson on Hurumzi is its atmosphere and authenticity.

Highlights include:

• uniquely decorated rooms with antique furniture
• traditional Zanzibari architecture
• the famous Tea House rooftop restaurant
• incredible sunset views over Stone Town

Dinner at the rooftop Tea House is often described as one of the most memorable dining experiences in Zanzibar. Guests sit on cushions on the floor while a multi-course Swahili dinner is served as the sun sets over the city.

Unlike larger hotels, the experience here feels personal and deeply connected to the history of the island.

Best for:

• cultural travelers
• couples
• photographers
• travelers who love historic buildings

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Budget Stay: Zanzibar Coffee House

Approx. $70 – $120 per night

For travelers who want to stay inside Stone Town without paying luxury prices, Zanzibar Coffee House is one of the best-rated budget options.

Located in a restored traditional building, the hotel combines simple accommodation with one of the most loved cafés in Stone Town.

The ground floor coffee shop is famous among locals and visitors for its:

• freshly roasted Tanzanian coffee
• homemade pastries
• relaxed café atmosphere

Rooms are smaller than those in luxury hotels, but they are clean, charming, and decorated with traditional carved furniture.

Guests often highlight:

• the warm hospitality of the staff
• the rooftop breakfast terrace
• the central location within walking distance of major attractions

Because the hotel sits right inside the old city streets, it becomes a perfect base for exploring markets, spice shops, and historic sites.

Best for:

• solo travelers
• budget travelers
• digital nomads
• travelers staying 1–2 nights before heading to the beaches

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A Quick Tip for Booking Hotels in Stone Town

Stone Town hotels are often located in historic buildings, which means rooms can be limited and they sell out quickly during peak travel seasons.

Before finalizing your Zanzibar itinerary, it’s usually smart to check availability hotel for your travel dates first, especially between June–October and December holidays.

Many travelers book their Stone Town stay first and then plan their beach resort afterwards.

Stone Town – Culture Before Coast

Stone Town is perfect for 1–2 nights before heading to the beach.

This is where you’ll find:

• Freddie Mercury Museum

• House of Wonders

• Spice tours

• Forodhani Night Market

• Rooftop restaurants

There’s no proper swimming beach here this is about history.

Best Hotels in Stone Town

Luxury:
Park Hyatt Zanzibar – approx. $350–$600 per night

Boutique:
Emerson on Hurumzi – approx. $150–$250 per night

Budget:
Zanzibar Coffee House – approx. $70–$120 per night

Nungwi – Classic Zanzibar Beach

If it’s your first visit and you want easy swimming and white sand, Nungwi is one of the best places to stay in Zanzibar.If you want a full breakdown of where to stay, what to do, and how to plan your visit, read our full guide Nungwi Beach Zanzibar: Hotels, Things to Do & Travel Guide

The water is swimmable most of the day — tides don’t affect it as dramatically as the east coast.

Things to Do in Nungwi

• Sunset dhow cruise

• Snorkeling trips

• Diving

• Beach bars

• Island hopping

Best Hotels in Nungwi

Riu Palace Zanzibar (Adults-only luxury) – $300–$500
Royal Zanzibar Beach Resort (Family-friendly) – $200–$350
The Z Hotel (Boutique style) – $180–$300

Kendwa – Relaxed But Social

Kendwa offers similar swimmable beaches to Nungwi but feels slightly calmer.

It’s ideal if you want beach time without heavy nightlife.

Hotels in Kendwa

Gold Zanzibar Beach House – $350–$700
Kendwa Rocks – $120–$250

This is a great middle ground between party and peace.

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Paje & Jambiani – Budget & Bohemian

If you’re trying to book a cheap hotel in Zanzibar, look here.

These areas are:

• Popular with backpackers

• Big for kitesurfing

• Relaxed and youthful

Be aware: the tide goes out dramatically.

Hotels & Zanzibar Lodges in Paje

New Teddy’s Place – $25–$60
Aluna Paje – $120–$200
Zanzibar White Sand Villas – $400+

Matemwe – Quiet Luxury Near Mnemba Atoll

If you’re snorkeling or honeymooning, Matemwe is one of the best areas to stay.

It’s peaceful, scenic, and close to Mnemba Atoll.

Zanzibar Lodges in Matemwe

Matemwe Lodge – $300–$500
Zanzibar Queen Hotel – $250–$400

Be aware: beaches are tidal, so a pool matters.

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Michamvi – Romantic & Secluded

Michamvi feels remote and intimate.

Sunsets here are some of the best on the island.

Hotels in Michamvi

Konokono Beach Resort – $250–$500
Kichanga Lodge – $120–$200

Ideal for couples who want privacy.

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Is Zanzibar Safe for Tourists?

This is one of the most searched questions.

Overall, Zanzibar is considered safe for tourists.

However, here’s what you should know:

• Petty theft can happen in Stone Town  don’t walk alone late at night.

• Dress modestly in town areas (Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim).

• Avoid displaying expensive jewelry.

• Use hotel-arranged transfers at night.

• Respect local customs outside beach zones.

Beach areas like Nungwi, Kendwa, and Matemwe are generally very safe, especially within hotel properties.

If you use common travel sense, Zanzibar is a comfortable and welcoming destination.

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How to Book Cheap Hotels in Zanzibar

If budget matters:

• Stay in Paje or Jambiani

• Travel during March–May (low season)

• Avoid peak December–January pricing

• Book early for July–August

Budget stays can start from $25 per night.

Mid-range averages $120–$250.

Luxury begins around $300+ per night.

Should You Split Your Stay?

Yes.

Many travellers do:

1–2 nights in Stone Town
Then 3–5 nights on the beach

This gives you culture + relaxation without long transfers daily.

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Final Thoughts

The best places to stay in Zanzibar depend entirely on your travel style.

If it’s your first time and you want easy swimming → Nungwi or Kendwa.

If you want culture → Stone Town.

If you want budget and vibe → Paje.

If you want honeymoon-level quiet → Matemwe or Michamvi.

Zanzibar isn’t about choosing the “best” hotel.

It’s about choosing the right coast.

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FAQ: Where to Stay in Zanzibar

What are the best places to stay in Zanzibar?

Nungwi and Kendwa are best for easy swimming. Stone Town is best for culture. Matemwe is ideal for honeymooners. Paje is best for budget travellers.

What are the best hotels in Zanzibar?

Top-rated options include Park Hyatt Zanzibar, Riu Palace Zanzibar, Gold Zanzibar, and Zanzibar White Sand Villas.

Are Zanzibar lodges better than resorts?

Lodges are more intimate and boutique-style. Resorts offer more facilities like kids’ clubs and all-inclusive packages.

Where can I book a cheap hotel in Zanzibar?

Paje and Jambiani offer the most affordable options, starting from around $25 per night.

Interested to know more about Zanzibar and beyond ?.Read More:

• Tanzania Safari & Beach: The Ultimate Bush-to-Beach Guide (Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Zanzibar)

• Explore Zanzibar Beaches: Best Areas, Where to Stay, Budget & Things to Doho