A sanctuary in the heart of a busy town
A charming hotel overlooking the Indian Ocean
Location: The Dhow Palace Hotel sits in the centre of Zanzibar’s historic Stone Town, just a short walk from key attractions like the Arab Fort, Forodhani Gardens and the local markets. Though it’s in the heart of the action, the hotel feels like a serene retreat once you step inside.
Rooms: There are 30 traditionally styled rooms, some with views of the Indian Ocean or the hotel’s inner courtyard and swimming pool. All feature carved wooden furniture, four-poster beds, air-conditioning, en-suite bathrooms and modern touches like a TV. Rooms in the newer wing also offer private balconies.
Amenities: The rooftop restaurant serves a mix of local and international dishes with impressive views across the town’s rooftops. There’s also a central pool for cooling off after a hot day of sightseeing, and the hotel’s interiors are full of Swahili antiques and Zanzibari design details that give it real character.
Activities: Guests can explore Stone Town’s UNESCO-listed streets, shop in the markets or visit museums and historical sites. The hotel can help arrange guided tours, island excursions and transfers to the island’s beach resorts.
Sustainability: While not a certified eco-hotel, the Dhow Palace supports local culture by using traditional materials, local staff and regional suppliers wherever possible.

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Best places to stay in Stone Town
Zanzibar Trip Inspiration
When to go to Zanzibar
Find out the best time to visit Zanzibar with our month by month guide.
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
January is dry season in Zanzibar, it is the best time to swim with whale sharks and exploring the isles corals reefs and exotic fish, with water clarity of 25 meters.
February
February is dry season in Zanzibar, it is the best time to swim with whale sharks and exploring the isles corals reefs and exotic fish, with water clarity of 25 meters.
March
In March Zanzibar experiences a period of long rains - showers become more frequent and it can be very wet from the middle of March.
April
The long rains make April a mixed month to travel, as beaches along the Indian Coastline become very hot and wet. Activities like scuba diving take a turn, with water clarity decreasing due to the weather. We would recommend not travelling during this time.
May
Temperatures during May are high, with strong winds and continual rainfall. If you travel during this time you won't witness the best of Zanzibar.
June
June, the wet season is finally over, temperatures are cooler making it a beautiful time to lounge on the beach or explore the culturally rich Stone Town. Sporadic rainfall may occur across the month.
July
Dry season is in full swing, with consistent weather over this period with little wind and low rainfall. Diving is good during July with clarity levels increasing.
August
Dry season is in full swing, with consistent weather over this period with little wind and low rainfall. Diving is good during August with clarity levels increasing as long as the weather remains temperate.
September
Dry season is in full swing, with consistent weather, the added bonus of September is the possibility of whale watching.
October
October is the ideal month for exploring coral reefs and exotic marine life, with water clarity of 25 meters or more it is perfect for any water lovers. The weather remains temperate, with little wind and rainfall.
November
November brings the arrival of the summer rains and winds, but if you're a keen fisherman, billfish season kicks off. Otherwise, it is the best time to swim with the mighty whale shark and to go coral reef diving.
December
The wet season continues in Zanzibar during December. However, it is the best time to swim with whale sharks. Diving is not at its best but visibility is good for exploring the isles corals reefs and exotic fish.
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