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Emerson Spice Hotel

3.5 star property

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Photo gallery for Emerson Spice Hotel

Room (Violetta) | 1 bedroom, individually decorated, individually furnished
2 restaurants; lunch and dinner served
Interior
Interior entrance
Property entrance

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Bar
  • Laundry

Explore the area

View in a map
Stone Town, Zanzibar Town
  • Place, Hamamni Persian Baths
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, House of Wonders
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Christ Church Cathedral
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Airport, Zanzibar (ZNZ-Zanzibar Intl.)
    ‪10 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Design Twin Room (Mimi)

A room with a four-poster bed, wooden furniture, and a canopy.

Design Twin Room (Mimi)

  • Sleeps 2
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Room (Belle)

Room (Belle) | 1 bedroom, individually decorated, individually furnished

Room (Belle)

  • City view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Room (Violetta)

Room (Violetta) | 1 bedroom, individually decorated, individually furnished

Room (Violetta)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(2 reviews)
  • City view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Room (Semele)

Room (Semele) | 1 bedroom, individually decorated, individually furnished

Room (Semele)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(3 reviews)
  • City view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Double Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Room (Camille)

Room (Camille) | 1 bedroom, individually decorated, individually furnished

Room (Camille)

  • City view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Design Twin Room (Mimi)

Design Twin Room (Mimi) | 1 bedroom, individually decorated, individually furnished

Design Twin Room (Mimi)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(11 reviews)
  • City view
  • 344 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 2 Large Twin Beds
  • Free WiFi

About the neighborhood

Zanzibar Town

Located in Stone Town, Emerson Spice Hotel is next to Shakti Temple and Christ Church Cathedral. This 10-room, 3.5-star hotel welcomes guests with conveniences like 2 restaurants, free breakfast, and free in-room WiFi.

What's nearby

  • House of Wonders - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Christ Church Cathedral - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Old Fort - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Slave Market - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Forodhani Gardens - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles

Getting around

  • Zanzibar Intl. Airport (ZNZ) - 21 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Forodhani Park - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Livingstone Beach Restaurant - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Lukmaan Restaurant - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Maru Maru Terrace Restaurant - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Secret Garden - ‬1 min walk

About this property

Emerson Spice Hotel

A local mainstay since 1870, Emerson Spice Hotel offers free WiFi in public areas, a terrace, and laundry facilities. Airport transportation is made easy with an airport shuttle (available 24 hours) for USD 25 per vehicle one-way. Front-desk staff can assist with luggage storage, securing valuables, and tours or tickets. Additional amenities include a porter/bellhop and a garden.
Guests can stay connected with free WiFi. Bathrooms offer deep soaking tubs and free toiletries. Other standard amenities include ceiling fans and wardrobes or closets.
The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

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Jul 15 - Jul 16
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Property amenities

Internet

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

Parking and transportation

  • No onsite parking available
  • 24-hour roundtrip airport shuttle on request for a surcharge

Food and drink

  • Free continental breakfast available daily 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM
  • 2 restaurants
  • A bar/lounge

Restaurants on site

  • Rooftop restaurant
  • Secret Garden

Things to do

  • Bicycle storage

Family friendly

  • Laundry facilities

Conveniences

  • Guidebooks
  • Laundry facilities
  • Limited-hour front desk
  • Luggage storage
  • Safe at front desk

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Porter/bellhop
  • Tour and ticket assistance
  • Turndown service

Outdoors

  • Beach towels
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Terrace

Accessibility

  • No elevator

More

  • 1 building
  • 5 floors
  • At least 80% organic food
  • Built in 1870
  • Comprehensive food waste policy
  • Designated smoking areas
  • Eco-friendly cleaning products used
  • Local artist showcase
  • Local culture and ecosystem education
  • Locally sourced food prioritized
  • Locally-owned and organized tours and activities
  • No plastic coffee stirrers
  • No plastic drinking straws
  • No plastic soft drink bottles
  • No plastic water bottles
  • Non-plastic coffee stirrers available
  • Non-plastic drinking straws available
  • Reusable cups
  • Reusable tableware
  • Some LED lighting used
  • Traditional architecture
  • Vegan dining options
  • Vegetarian breakfast available
  • Vegetarian dining options

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided
  • Blackout drapes

Bathroom

  • Deep soaking bathtub
  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer (on request)
  • Partially-open bathroom
  • Shampoo
  • Shower/bathtub combination
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Free bottled water
  • Limited room service

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Ceiling fan
  • Electrical adapters
  • Individual decor
  • Individual furnishings
  • Laptop workspace
  • Water-efficient toilets

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 1:00 PM; Check-in end time: 10:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

This property offers transfers from the airport (surcharges may apply); guests must contact the property with arrival details before travel, using the contact information on the booking confirmation
The front desk is open daily from 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Front desk staffed during limited hours
This property doesn't offer after-hours check-in
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Renovations and closures

The property is closed between April 21 and May 20.

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

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 4.00 per person, per night
  • Deposit is payable by bank transfer and is due within 24 hours of booking the reservation.

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 25 per vehicle (one-way)

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
Guests must contact this property in advance to reserve high chair
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
Noise-free guestrooms cannot be guaranteed
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
  • Check-in: 1:00 PM—-10:00 PM
  • Check-out: 10:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is available during limited hours. For convenient arrivals and departures, you can take advantage of the airport shuttle (available 24 hours), which is offered for a fee.

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.
  • No parking is available onsite.
  • Guests must contact this property in advance to reserve high chair.
  • 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.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.
  • Noise-free rooms can't be guaranteed.

Property is also known as

Emerson Spice Hotel Hotel
Emerson Spice Hotel Zanzibar Town
Emerson Spice Hotel Hotel Zanzibar Town

Frequently asked questions

What is there to do within easy reach of Emerson Spice Hotel?

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

How much does it cost to stay at Emerson Spice Hotel?

As of Jul 7, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Emerson Spice Hotel on Jul 8, 2026 start from $129, including 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.

Is there parking available at Emerson Spice Hotel?

No, this hotel doesn't offer parking.

Does Emerson Spice Hotel feature a casino?

No, Emerson Spice Hotel doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at Emerson Spice Hotel?

No, there is no indoor pool at this hotel.

Is Emerson Spice Hotel a good place to stay for couples?

There are many amenities for couples at this hotel, including a garden-view restaurant and a bar/lounge plus some guestrooms feature in-room massages.

Does Emerson Spice Hotel have a hot tub?

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

Does Emerson Spice Hotel feature a restaurant that includes a breakfast menu?

Yes, Emerson Spice Hotel has 2 restaurants, and serves free continental breakfast each morning.

Does Emerson Spice Hotel allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets and service animals aren't allowed at Emerson Spice Hotel.

Does Emerson Spice Hotel have connecting rooms available?

No, this hotel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

What is the closest airport to Emerson Spice Hotel?

The closest major airport to Emerson Spice Hotel is Zanzibar Intl. Airport (ZNZ), which is 4.8 mi away (21 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies at Emerson Spice Hotel?

Yes, some guestrooms at this hotel offer a furnished balcony where guests can enjoy city and courtyard views.

Emerson Spice Hotel Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 99 out of 117 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 15 out of 117 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 117 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 117 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 117 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Staff & service

9.2/10

Amenities

9.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rune

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Lived in Kate it was an nice place.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

lesley jane

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful building, great staff. Fantastic room (Violetta)
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Judith

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
The hotel’s decor and ambience were absolutely lovely. I had a beautifully spacious room with a balcony. The rooftop provides a wonderful venue for breakfast and dinner. The hotel arranged a transfer from the airport- very helpful as the hotel is located in the midst of Stone Town’s maze of lanes.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

sandra

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The rooms were decorated well and was very clean. Staff was so friendly and helpful. Loved the rooftop for breakfast and the location was perfect.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Patricia

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

Beautiful Hotel

Amazing stay. From the warm welcome and services. Truly enjoyed the food in the Secret Garden and rooftop.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Nicklas

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful, History
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Christopher

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Special place. The staff outstanding. A few remarkable days at this wonderful historic 'hotel'.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lena

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Excellent stay in a place immersed in history.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Iren

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
My room was a work of art with unique furnishings and exquisite detail
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Judith

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
This is a beautiful hotel. Each room is beautifully decorated and spacious. Air conditioning plus a ceiling fan makes the room comfortable for sleeping. My room had a lovely balcony overlooking a garden. The internal courtyard makes the hotel very quiet. The rooftop is lovely for breakfast and dinner or the Secret Garden within the hotel compound is also lovely for a meal. The hotel is within easy walking distance of the seafront.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

emile

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We had a wonderful stay and couldn’t have asked for a better welcome. The staff were very friendly and accommodating, we arrived very early in the morning and were pleasantly surprised when they offered us breakfast and allowed us to check in early. The property itself is stunning: a beautiful historical building that has been thoughtfully and tastefully decorated. Our room was spacious, elegant, and very comfortable. The location is also great, in a pretty and vibrant street and just a few minutes away from the night market and the sights. Highly recommended!
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Greg

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

A wonderful hotel

Lovely hotel Really good and friendly service Fabulous ambience Beautiful breakfast
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Heidi

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

Great ambience

Great ambience, great hotel, a special experience.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

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

Everything amazing!

Amazing, great people, great food, great hotel. Rooms are beautiful, comfy, clean!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Niels Søndergaard

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
One of the most charming places we've ever stayed at. Antique, yet very clean and safe. Food was delicious, best we had on Zanzibar. Staff wonderful. Highest recommendation.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Janet

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Fantastic place in heart of old Stonetown. Beautiful unique rooms, fantastic food in a rooftop restaurant with an an amazing view, and and a very helpful staff.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marcela A.

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The staff are beyond friendly
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Heidi

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

Great ambience

Great ambience, a special experience. Set menu dinner at the rooftop restaurant was good, breakfast as well.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne

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

Amazing historic hotel

Beautiful histric hotel in the heart of Stonetown. Lots od stairs and no elevator but the views are amazing! Great breakfast too!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

cécile

Liked: Amenities
Very delicate staff. Well situated in stone town Glorious breakfast.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Erica

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Loved the character of the building. The details were tasteful and well designed. Such a unique place to stay!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michael

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
An older building, filled with antiques. Incredible service. Thoroughly loved our stay.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sandra

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Incredibly historic building with unique individually decorated rooms! Perfect location for walking around Stonetown. Delicious breakfast served on rooftop! Request Belle room if you don't want a lot of stairs. It has a huge balcony along the front of the building so it's fun to see tourists stop and take photos!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Angela

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Our experience was amazing. The architecture is superb, the staff extraordinarily helpful and we had such an amazing time. The rooftop is breathtaking and all the staff is kind and polite. We want to return soon.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Robert

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The staff was welcoming and friendly. The hotel was clean and elegant. The atmosphere was perfect but the call to prayer at 5:15 was a bit disturbing.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023