Historic elegance in the heart of Zanzibar’s Stone Town
Step into a timeless blend of Swahili charm and boutique comfort
Location: Kisiwa House is perfectly placed in the heart of Stone Town, Zanzibar's historic old town and UNESCO World Heritage site. Just a short stroll from the bustling Forodhani Gardens and the vibrant Darajani Market, it offers easy access to winding alleyways, artisan shops, and landmark sites like the House of Wonders. This location balances the energy of the town with quiet corners where you can soak in the island's rich culture and history.
Rooms: The hotel has 11 individually styled rooms and suites, blending classic Swahili architecture with modern comfort. Each room is spacious, with high ceilings, large windows, and hand-crafted furnishings that echo Zanzibar's heritage. From cosy deluxe rooms to expansive senior suites, all offer en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and calming décor designed for restful says.
Amenities: Kisiwa House focuses on intimate, boutique comfort. There's a charming rooftop terrace that doubles as a dining area and lounge, providing panoramic views over Stone Town's rooftops and the Indian Ocean beyond. The restaurant serves authentic Zanzibari and fusion cuisine made from fresh, local ingredients. Throughout the hotel, you will find thoughtful touches such as personalised service, daily housekeeping, and complimentary bicycles for exploring the town.
Activities: Guests can easily explore Stone Town's labyrinthine streets on foot or by bike, visiting museums, spice markets, and historical sites. The hotel's concierge can arrange dhow cruises at sunset, cultural tours, or day trips to nearby beaches and Jozani Forest. For those seeking a deeper dive into local life, cooking classes and Swahili language lessons are also available.
Sustainability: Kisiwa House embraces responsible tourism by supporting local people and sourcing ingredients from nearby producers. The hotel employs energy-efficient systems, including LED lighting and water-saving measures, to minimise environmental impact. Staff training emphasises community engagement and conservation, reflecting a commitment to preserving Zanzibar's cultural and natural heritage.
Get in touch to start planning your unforgettable stay at Kisiwa House today
Best places to stay in Zanzibar
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.
Speak to a Zanzibar expert today
and start planning your tailor-made holiday
Alistair
Ottilie
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