See all properties

Zanzibar Serena Hotel

5.0 star property
Luxury hotel on the beach, with outdoor pool
VIP Access

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Zanzibar Serena Hotel

Outdoor pool, pool umbrellas, lifeguards on site
View from property
Terrace/patio
Lobby sitting area
Honeymoon Suite | View from room

Reviews

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful

Popular amenities

  • Bar
  • Parking included
  • Room service
  • Spa
  • 24/7 front desk

Explore the area

View in a map
Kelele Square, Stone Town, Zanzibar Town
  • Place, Nakupenda Beach
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Old Fort
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, Forodhani Gardens
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Airport, Zanzibar (ZNZ-Zanzibar Intl.)
    ‪12 min drive‬
VIP Access
Curated for quality and service, VIP Access stays consistently receive our highest guest ratings.
  • Expect exceptional service
  • Extra savings and perks for Rewards members
Learn more about VIP AccessOpens in a new window

Room options

View all photos for Standard Double room

Standard Double room | Premium bedding, minibar, in-room safe, individually furnished

Standard Double room

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(9 reviews)
  • 280 sq ft
  • Partial ocean view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed OR 2 Twin Beds

View all photos for Superior Double or Twin Room, Ocean View

Superior Double or Twin Room, Ocean View | Premium bedding, minibar, in-room safe, individually furnished

Superior Double or Twin Room, Ocean View

  • 301 sq ft
  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed OR 2 Twin Beds

View all photos for Executive Suite

Executive Suite | Living room | 21-inch LCD TV with satellite channels, TV

Executive Suite

  • 624 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Standard Room

Premium bedding, minibar, in-room safe, individually furnished

Standard Room

  • Sleeps 2

View all photos for Prime Room Sea View

Premium bedding, minibar, in-room safe, individually furnished

Prime Room Sea View

  • Sleeps 2

Executive Double Suite

  • Sleeps 2

Premium Double Suite

  • Sleeps 2

Single Prime Suite For Single Use

  • Sleeps 1

View all photos for Executive Suite

Living area | 21-inch LCD TV with satellite channels, TV

Executive Suite

  • Sleeps 2

You may also like

Ad
On the beach

Royal Mandarin Hotel & Resort

Kiwengwa
  • Pool
  • Breakfast included
  • All inclusive
  • Free WiFi
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, 7 reviews
$212 nightly
The price is $253
Dec 6 - Dec 7
Total with taxes and fees
Royal Mandarin Hotel & Resort

About the neighborhood

Zanzibar Town

Located in Stone Town, Zanzibar Serena Hotel is next to popular attractions like Nakupenda Beach and Shangani Beach. This 5-star hotel welcomes guests with 51 rooms and conveniences like a full-service spa, an outdoor pool, and free in-room WiFi. Centrally located in Zanzibar Town, the hotel is connected to a shopping center and also a short walk from Old Fort and Forodhani Gardens.

What's nearby

  • Nakupenda Beach - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Old Fort - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Shangani Beach - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Forodhani Gardens - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Slave Market - 10 min walk - 0.6 miles

Getting around

  • Zanzibar Intl. Airport (ZNZ) - 16 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Forodhani Park - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪House of Karafuu - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Zenji Garden Café - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Beach House Restaurant - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪Livingstone Beach Restaurant - ‬4 min walk

About this property

Zanzibar Serena Hotel

Luxury hotel on the beach, with outdoor pool
Zanzibar Serena Hotel features a full-service spa, an outdoor pool, and a children's pool. You can take advantage of free parking, along with an airport shuttle (available 24 hours) for USD 90800 per person one-way. The front desk has multilingual staff on hand 24/7 to help with securing valuables, luggage storage, and concierge services. Other amenities at this beach hotel include free WiFi in public areas, conference space, and a 24-hour business center.
21-inch LCD TVs come with satellite channels, and guests can stay connected with free WiFi. Bathrooms offer hair dryers and designer toiletries, and beds sport premium bedding. Other standard amenities include balconies, minibars, and coffee makers.
An outdoor pool and a children's pool are on site.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

The onsite spa has 2 treatment rooms including rooms for couples. Services include facials, body scrubs, body treatments, and manicures and pedicures. The spa is open daily.

Similar properties

Outdoor pool, pool umbrellas, sun loungers
Park Hyatt Zanzibar
  • Pool
  • Spa
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, 263 reviews
$360 nightly
The price is $424
Dec 8 - Dec 9
Total with taxes and fees
Park Hyatt Zanzibar

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • 24-hour roundtrip airport shuttle on request for a surcharge
  • Free self parking on site
  • Onsite parking includes off-street options

Food and drink

  • 2 restaurants
  • A bar/lounge
  • A coffee shop/cafe
  • A poolside bar
  • Couples/private dining
  • Free daily manager's reception
  • Private picnics
  • Snack bar/deli

Restaurants on site

  • Baharia Restaurant
  • Terrace Restaurant

Things to do

  • Arcade/game room
  • Bicycle rentals
  • Children's pool
  • Full-service spa
  • Library
  • Outdoor pool

Family friendly

  • Arcade/game room
  • Children's pool
  • In-room babysitting (surcharge)
  • Laundry facilities
  • Lifeguards on site
  • Outdoor pool
  • Snack bar/deli

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Free newspapers in lobby
  • Gift shop/newsstand
  • Laundry facilities
  • Luggage storage
  • Safe at front desk

Guest services

  • Concierge services
  • Dry cleaning/laundry service
  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Multilingual staff
  • Porter/bellhop
  • Proposal/romance packages
  • Tour and ticket assistance
  • Turndown service

Business services

  • 24-hour business center
  • 621 square feet of conference space
  • Meeting room

Outdoors

  • Beach loungers
  • Beach towels
  • Beach umbrellas
  • Garden
  • On the beach
  • Picnic area
  • Pool umbrellas
  • Terrace

Full-service spa

  • 2 treatment rooms
  • Body scrubs
  • Couples treatment rooms
  • Facials
  • In-room massages
  • Manicures/pedicures
  • Spa open daily

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • No elevator
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible pool
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk
  • Wheelchair-accessible restaurant

More

  • 1 building
  • 3 floors
  • Banquet hall
  • Designated smoking areas
  • Lifeguards
  • Mosquito nets

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Blackout drapes
  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

  • Bathrobes
  • Designer toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Separate bathtub and shower
  • Slippers
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 21-inch LCD TV with premium cable/satellite channels

Food and drink

  • 24-hour room service
  • Champagne service
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Electric kettle
  • Free bottled water
  • Minibar

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Individual furnishings
  • Laptop-compatible safe
  • Phone

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: noon; Check-in end time: midnight
Early check-in subject to availability
An early check-in fee will be charged
Contactless check-in available
Late check-in subject to availability

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM
Contactless check-out available
Late check-out subject to availability
A late check-out fee will be charged

Special check-in instructions

This property offers transfers from the airport (surcharges may apply); to arrange pick-up, guests must contact the property 48 hours prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation
Guests must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions; front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 48 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation
If you are planning to arrive after noon please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
For any questions, please contact the property using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets or service animals

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

You'll be asked to pay these charges at the property:

  • A tax is imposed by the city: USD 5.00 per person, per night

These are all of the charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Airport shuttle fee: USD 90800 per person (one-way)
  • Early check-in is available for a fee (subject to availability)
  • Late check-out is available for a fee (subject to availability)

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property
  • Check-in: noon—-midnight
  • Check-out: 10:00 AM
The front desk is open 24 hours a day. For convenient arrivals and departures, you can take advantage of the airport shuttle (available 24 hours), which is offered for a fee. Driving? This property offers free parking.
Property Registration Number Z0000010668

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash.
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed in guestrooms.
  • There are no elevators.

Property is also known as

Hotel Serena Zanzibar
Serena Hotel Zanzibar
Serena Zanzibar
Serena Zanzibar Hotel
Zanzibar Serena
Zanzibar Serena Hotel
Zanzibar Serena Hotel Hotel
Zanzibar Serena Hotel Zanzibar Town
Zanzibar Serena Hotel Hotel Zanzibar Town

Frequently asked questions

Is a free cancellation option available at Zanzibar Serena Hotel?

Zanzibar Serena Hotel provides free cancellation on certain room rates. For specific requirements, look at the cancellation policy on Orbitz.

How much does it cost to stay at Zanzibar Serena Hotel?

As of Dec 5, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Zanzibar Serena Hotel on Dec 15, 2025 start from $273.49, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What can I see close to Zanzibar Serena Hotel?

This hotel is situated in Stone Town, just steps from Nakupenda Beach and Shangani Beach, and within a short walk of Old Fort. You'll also find Forodhani Gardens and Slave Market less than a mile away.

Is there parking available at Zanzibar Serena Hotel?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the hotel.

Is there a spa available at Zanzibar Serena Hotel?

There is a full-service spa available for guests to enjoy and services include couples treatments, massages, body treatments, and mani/pedis.

Does Zanzibar Serena Hotel feature a casino?

No, Zanzibar Serena Hotel doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at Zanzibar Serena Hotel?

No, this hotel doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is an outdoor pool.

What amenities will couples enjoy at Zanzibar Serena Hotel?

At this beachfront hotel, there are many amenities for couples, including Champagne service and in-room massages in each guestroom with some featuring ocean views.

Does Zanzibar Serena Hotel have a hot tub?

No, this hotel doesn't have a spa tub.

Does Zanzibar Serena Hotel have a restaurant that serves breakfast?

Yes, Zanzibar Serena Hotel has 2 restaurants, and serves breakfast for a surcharge.

Will Zanzibar Serena Hotel allow pets to stay for free?

No, pets and service animals aren't allowed at Zanzibar Serena Hotel.

Are there connecting rooms at Zanzibar Serena Hotel?

No, this hotel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

How close is the airport from Zanzibar Serena Hotel?

The closest major airport to Zanzibar Serena Hotel is Zanzibar Intl. Airport (ZNZ), which is 4.9 mi away (16 minutes by car).

Can I book a room with a balcony at Zanzibar Serena Hotel?

Yes, every guestroom at Zanzibar Serena Hotel comes with a balcony with some featuring ocean or pool views.

Reviews

Zanzibar Serena Hotel Reviews

9.0

Wonderful

9.6/10

Cleanliness

9.4/10

Staff & service

8.4/10

Amenities

8.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

8.4/10

Eco-friendliness
Rating 10 - Excellent. 160 out of 241 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 54 out of 241 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 15 out of 241 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 8 out of 241 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 4 out of 241 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Richard

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The bed was perfect and our room had a nice view of the pool and ocean. The staff, Rabia, Yunus, and Yussuf Big to name only a few were great. A perfect place to stay for 4 days before our safari.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Esther

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness
Was suppose to get a bottle of wine- did not get. Had to schlep an ok. Bottle of wine back to the us. Almost not worth it. Also 10 dollar credit was not honored u til u brought t it up. I get asked to hire their colleagues for tour guide (which was fine, but I felt like a source of commodity). It did t make me feel very good. Also did t feel so good getting feeling somewhat whenever I was buying wine when I was by myself in
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Thomas

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Hotel was marvelous - great location, fabulous views of the ocean and the friendliest staff we've ever had
Our balcony overlooking the Indian Ocean
Wonderful room
Interesting decor
Architectural delight
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Nesan

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful property Amazing Staff Shoutout to David and the breakfast staff they are amazing!!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

stacy

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It was wonderful, staff was great and pool was beautiful and the live music was the best!!! I will stay there again if I go back!!!
View from room
Same but sunset
View from pool
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

katherine

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful property, great service, delicious food!!
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

6/10 Okay

Hisham

Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Wonderful and very special hotel
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dale

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Cathy

Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Melanie

Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

4/10 Poor

Noor, Houston

Traveled with partner
Disliked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Property rundown and staff doesn’t care
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

4/10 Poor

Darren

Traveled with partner
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
Overpriced for what is on offer. Room wasn’t ready for check-in time and even though we had to wait 1.5 hours to check-in, they would not provide a late checkout when the hotel wasn’t at full capacity. For the room price, you would be better off staying at the much nicer hotel next door.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Diana

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Absolutely amazing! I will definitely be back. Everyone treats you like family. Excellent service. Fabulous food. Beautiful accommodations.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

melissa

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

cindy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Lovely property in a quiet corner of Stonetown. Great swimming pool. Historic quality of hotel added a charming feel. Most rooms overlook the ocean. The amenities were complete and the room was very comfortable. Spend a little extra to get an outside balcony or verandah. The staff was wonderful and helpful. There are lots of restaurants nearby. I can't speak for the food at the on property restaurant since I had to leave early and skipped the breakfast. I would definitely stay here again on a Stonetown visit.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Zachariah

Liked: Amenities
This was a great stay
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

4/10 Poor

Ian

Traveled with partner
Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
The property is in a good location but is extremely tired and old fashioned. They are installing an elevator but this was right next to our room so very noisy works. The entire facilities need a major renovation. The staff were wonderful especially Johannes in the concierge.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

8/10 Good

Angela

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The location and pool were great. The restaurant food was excellent, free breakfast excellent. Pool service from Damian especially was fabulous.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Laureen

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
My third stay here! I love Zanzibar and love staying here. It's so convenient to everything and the staff are exceptional. Big Joe is always there to welcome us! And Johannes and Suliman also are great. Food is good, view is spectacular, rooms are big and have an "Old World" feel. I love it here!
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2024

6/10 Okay

Rozmin, AURORA

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Hotel does not have an elevator. People struggle to take stairs up to their floors. Rooms look tired and need refurbishing. Rooms also need more lighting - feel dark and depressing.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

2/10 Terrible

Igor

Disliked: Cleanliness
Upon check out I received the bill which had 2 same numbers in it. When I argued, they cancelled one of them but afterwards, on the way to ferry they called the driver and started asking for more moneys. Even after check out. Hotel after all is good, most of the staff are friendly. But guys, check the bills and be careful.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024

6/10 Okay

Alkarim

Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sharyon

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Serena Hotel

Amazing experience at the Hotel Serena. The staff here are incredible I cant imagine staying anywhere else in Zanzibar. The views, the food, the drinks, everything was top notch!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jane, Memphis

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location, staff very courteous. I had a great room with a balcony facing the ocean. Very comfortable. Breakfast was plentiful and delicious.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

Hotels

Flights

Packages