A warm welcome and a window into Zanzibar’s spice-trading past.
Location: Tucked away in the winding alleys of Stone Town, Zanzibar Coffee House sits right at the heart of this UNESCO-listed old quarter. It is a brilliant base for exploring the city's labyrinthine streets, spice markets, and historic buildings. Step outside and you're instantly immersed in the sounds, scents, and stories of Zanzibar's trading past - yet inside, it is a peaceful retreat from the bustle.
Rooms: There are just eight rooms at Zanzibar Coffee House, each one individually decorated with hand-carved Zanzibari furniture, richly patterned fabrics, and plenty of old-world charm. Some have traditional four-poster beds or stained-glass windows, and all are full of character. The style is simple but thoughtful, with a strong sense of place - ideal if you're after atmosphere over polish.
Amenities: The rooftop terrace is a real highlight - a lovely spot for a fresh coffee, light breakfast, or just taking in the view over Stone Town's rooftops and the Indian Ocean beyond. There's a cosy café on the ground floor too, where they roast their own beans and serve excellent cakes. Wi-Fi is available, though expect it to be patchy - part of the charm of being in such a historic building.
Activities: Staying here puts you within easy walking distance of Stone Town's key sights - from the old slave market and the Sultan's Palace to the bustling Darajani market. The team can also help arrange spice tours, boat trips to nearby island, or even a day on the beach if you fancy escaping the city heat. It is a great place to spend a day or two soaking up Zanzibar's culture before heading to the coast.
Sustainability: Zanzibar Coffee House supports local famers by sourcing its coffee beans from smallholder growers on the island and roasting them in-house. Much of the furniture is made by local craftspeople using traditional methods, and the lodge employs and trains staff from the surrounding community. It is a small, locally run business that gives back in meaningful ways - exactly the kind of place we like to support.
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Alistair
Zanzibar Expert