Zanzibar Serena Hotel

5.0 star property
VIP Access

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Zanzibar Serena Hotel

Honeymoon Suite | View from room
2 restaurants; breakfast, lunch, and dinner served
Outdoor pool, pool umbrellas, lifeguards on site
View from property
On the beach, white sand, sun loungers, beach umbrellas

Reviews

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful

Popular amenities

  • Spa
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Restaurant
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
Kelele Square, Stone Town, Zanzibar Town
  • Place, Shangani Beach
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Old Fort
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, Forodhani Gardens
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Airport, Zanzibar (ZNZ-Zanzibar Intl.)
    ‪15 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

Room options

Standard Double room

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

Superior Double or Twin Room, Ocean View

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Ocean view
  • 301 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed OR 2 Twin Beds
  • Free WiFi

Executive Suite

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

Standard Room

  • Sleeps 2
  • Free WiFi

Prime Room Sea View

  • Sleeps 2
  • Free WiFi

Executive Double Suite

  • Sleeps 2
  • Free WiFi

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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 Forodhani Gardens and Old Fort.

What's nearby

  • Shangani Beach - 1 min walk - 0.0 miles
  • Nakupenda Beach - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Old Fort - 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) - 21 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Forodhani Park - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪House of Karafuu - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Livingstone Beach Restaurant - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Maru Maru Terrace Restaurant - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Mama Mia Gelato - Stone Town - ‬4 min walk

About this property

Zanzibar Serena Hotel

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, tours or tickets, and luggage storage. 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.

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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 Jun 21, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Zanzibar Serena Hotel on Jul 9, 2026 start from $367, 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.

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 Forodhani Gardens. You'll also find House of Wonders and Old Fort less than a mile away.

Is parking available on site 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, body scrubs, massages, and mani/pedis.

Are there luxury amenities available at Zanzibar Serena Hotel?

Yes, guests can indulge in luxuries such as an outdoor pool, an ocean-view restaurant, and champagne service at this hotel.

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 do couples enjoy most about Zanzibar Serena Hotel?

At this beachfront hotel, there are many amenities for couples, including champagne service and in-room massages in each guestroom, and some feature ocean view.

Does Zanzibar Serena Hotel have a hot tub?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this hotel.

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.

Does Zanzibar Serena Hotel have connecting rooms available?

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 5.1 mi away (21 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Zanzibar Serena Hotel?

Yes, every guestroom at Zanzibar Serena Hotel comes with a balcony and some offer ocean views.

Zanzibar Serena Hotel Reviews

Reviews

9.0

Wonderful

Rating 10 - Excellent. 169 out of 252 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 56 out of 252 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 15 out of 252 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 8 out of 252 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 4 out of 252 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

9.4/10

Staff & service

8.6/10

Amenities

9.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sumaiya

Liked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
Amazing place, good location and nice staff
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Joachim

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Perfect combination between town, beach and pool. Ideal location for walking excursions is Stone Town. Clean and comfy rooms overlooking the ocean, friendly and helpful staff all over the place.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

eildert

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Authentique Zanzibar luxuary experience
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Eve

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Staff were lovely, the hotel is beautifully located on the ocean with a great pool. Lots of character
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

katherine

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

10/10 Excellent

Muna

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great hotel with amazing staff
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Teresa

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

Great Stay

Wonderful hotel on the beach in Stone Town. Very friendly staff, excellent breakfast buffet. Nice views and pool.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Thomas

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Catherine

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
The room was beautiful and very clean. Staff were very pleasant and helpful. The food was wonderful. And a great location for walking around Stone Town which was very safe. In all an excellent stay.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Zachariah

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

10/10 Excellent

Nesan

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

stacy

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
Verified

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nancy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very friendly staff, beautiful hotel.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Richard

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

catriona

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
This is a lovely hotel in a historic building. It’s walking distance to all the sights of Stonetown. Our room was clean and comfortable. The balcony looked out to the Indian Ocean. Staff were very helpful and friendly, particularly the receptionist who helped us with booking our transfer to the airport at the end of our stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ashley

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location on the water perfect for sunsets. The staff was very friendly and the location was perfect to be able to walk to Stone Town to explore.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lisa

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Everything was great except I did not receive the food and beverage credit that was promised with my Expedia reservation.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

8/10 Good

Angela

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sharyon

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Aateqa

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful, historic property with amazing views. Everyone working there was friendly.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lucille

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The Zanzibar Serena is a lovely hotel in StoneTown. I wish I had stayed there for my leisure/personal visit as well. The staff are lovely. The pool is wonderful. The food is nice. All around, a terrific place to stay and conveniently located.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jane

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
Verified

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

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

Excellent

Excellent service from the time we arrived to the time we left.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023