THE 10 BEST Hotels in Zanzibar Island: Your 2026 Guide
Finding the 10 best hotels in Zanzibar Island is the first step toward a tropical vacation you will never forget. Whether you want to wake up to the sound of the Indian Ocean or walk through the historic streets of Stone Town, the right stay makes all the difference.
Zanzibar is famous for its white sands, turquoise waters, and unique culture. From 5 star hotels in Zanzibar to the best affordable hotels in Zanzibar, this island offers something for every budget and traveler style.
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In this guide, we reveal the top-rated stays for 2026. We will look at best hotels in zanzibar all inclusive packages, romantic spots for a honeymoon, and hidden gems in Stone Town.
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1. Baraza Resort and Spa (Dongwe)
If you are looking for the absolute best hotel in zanzibar, Baraza often takes the crown. This 5-star all-inclusive resort is styled like a Sultan’s palace.
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Why it’s great: It offers 30 elegant villas with private pools and stunning views of Paje Beach.
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Best for: Travelers seeking 5 star hotels in zanzibar with a touch of history.
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Vibe: Regal, quiet, and deeply cultural.
2. Park Hyatt Zanzibar (Stone Town)
For those who want to be in the heart of the action, the Park Hyatt is one of the top 10 hotels in tanzania. Located right on the beach in Stone Town, it blends modern luxury with UNESCO heritage architecture.
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Why it’s great: You get a luxury pool overlooking the ocean while being steps away from local markets.
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Best for: History lovers and those searching for top 10 hotels in zanzibar near the city.
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Pro Tip: Watch the sunset from their terrace for the best view in town.
3. Zuri Zanzibar (Kendwa)
Zuri means “beautiful” in Swahili, and this hotel lives up to its name. It is widely considered one of the best hotels in zanzibar for honeymoon trips because of its private bungalows and lush spice gardens.
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Why it’s great: Unlike other parts of the island, the beach here is non-tidal, meaning you can swim all day.
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Best for: Eco-conscious travelers and romantic couples.
4. Hotel Riu Palace Zanzibar (Nungwi)
This is a giant among best hotels in zanzibar all inclusive. Located on the northern tip of the island, it offers a “no-worries” experience where your meals, drinks, and entertainment are all covered.
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Why it’s great: The white sand here is some of the softest on the island.
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Vibe: Lively, fun, and perfect for social travelers.
5. Tulia Zanzibar Unique Beach Resort (Pongwe)
Tulia is famous for its “Unique” label because it offers a very personal touch. It is one of the highest-rated top ten hotel in zanzibar lists thanks to its award-winning service.
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Why it’s great: It features private water slides and a farm-to-table dining experience.
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Best for: Families and couples who want a small, boutique feel.
6. Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa (Paje)
If you love water sports like kitesurfing, this is the place to be. It is a premier choice for beach hotels in zanzibar.
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Why it’s great: High-end villas with massive footprints and a focus on wellness.
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Keyword check: One of the finest 5 star hotels in zanzibar.
7. Mizingani Seafront Hotel (Stone Town)
Looking for cheap hotels in zanzibar stone town that still feel like a palace? Mizingani offers a budget-friendly way to stay in a historic building right by the ferry port.
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Why it’s great: The decor is incredibly traditional, and the price is very competitive.
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Best for: Budget travelers who don’t want to sacrifice style.
8. The Residence Zanzibar (Kizimkazi)
Tucked away in the south, this resort is a sanctuary. It is one of the top 10 hotels in zanzibar island for those who want to escape the crowds.
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Why it’s great: Every villa comes with a private pool and bicycles to explore the 32-hectare estate.
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Highlight: You might even see dolphins in the nearby Kizimkazi bay!
9. Tembo House Hotel (Stone Town)
Tembo is a classic. It is often cited as one of the best affordable hotels in zanzibar with a prime seafront location.
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Why it’s great: It has multiple pools and a very famous “old world” charm.
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Note: It is a “dry” hotel (no alcohol), making it very family-friendly.
10. Kilindi Zanzibar (Nungwi)
Originally designed for Benny Andersson of ABBA, this hotel is a masterpiece of “barefoot luxury.” It consists of white domed pavilions set in 50 acres of tropical gardens.
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Why it’s great: Total privacy. Your “room” is essentially a private house.
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Best for: Reconnecting with nature in total luxury.
Comparison Table: Zanzibar Top Stays
| Hotel Name | Location | Category | Best For |
| Baraza Resort | Dongwe | 5-Star / All-Inclusive | Luxury & Culture |
| Park Hyatt | Stone Town | 5-Star / Boutique | City Explorers |
| Zuri Zanzibar | Kendwa | 5-Star / Eco | Best Swimming Beach |
| Hotel Riu Palace | Nungwi | All-Inclusive | Stress-Free Fun |
| Tembo House | Stone Town | Affordable | Budget & Families |
Travel Tips: What are the best hotels in Zanzibar?
When deciding what are the best hotels in zanzibar, consider the tides. The East Coast (Paje/Jambiani) has dramatic low tides, while the North (Nungwi/Kendwa) allows for swimming all day.
Expert Insight: “If you want to experience the true soul of the island, split your stay. Spend 2 nights in Stone Town and 5 nights at a beach resort.”
FAQ: Your Zanzibar Questions Answered
Which part of Zanzibar has the best hotels? Nungwi and Kendwa in the north generally have the best hotels because the beaches are less affected by the tide. However, Dongwe and Paje offer the most exclusive luxury villas.
Are there cheap hotels in Zanzibar Stone Town? Yes! Hotels like Mizingani Seafront and Shaba Boutique Hotel offer great value for under $100 per night.
Is Zanzibar good for a honeymoon? Absolutely. Many of the 10 best hotels in zanzibar island offer specific honeymoon packages including private beach dinners and couples’ massages.
Should I book an all-inclusive hotel? If you plan to stay at the resort and relax, best hotels in zanzibar all inclusive are a great way to save on high food and drink costs at remote locations.
Plan Your Escape
Zanzibar is more than just a beach—it’s a feeling. Between the scent of cloves in the air and the warm smiles of the locals, you will find a home away from home.
Ready to book? Let the experts help you find the perfect match. Plan your dream THE 10 BEST Hotels in Zanzibar Island safari with Tanzania Safari Experience today and turn your 2026 travel goals into a reality!