Kisiwa House

3.5 star property
Hotel in Zanzibar Town with a rooftop terrace and a 24-hour front desk

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Photo gallery for Kisiwa House

Interior
Breakfast meal
View from property
Premium bedding, minibar, in-room safe, individually decorated
Interior

Reviews

8.8 out of 10
Excellent

Popular amenities

  • Room service
  • Parking included
  • 24/7 front desk
  • Air conditioning
  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry

Explore the area

Map
572 Baghani Street, Zanzibar Town, 609
  • Shangani Beach
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Forodhani Gardens
    ‪7 min walk‬
  • Slave Market
    ‪7 min walk‬
  • Zanzibar (ZNZ-Zanzibar Intl.)
    ‪11 min drive‬

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Room options

Deluxe Twin Room (Burdani)

  • City view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 2 Twin Beds

Deluxe Double Room (Burdani)

  • City view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Double Bed

Junior Suite (Malkia)

  • City view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Double Bed OR 2 Twin Beds

Senior Suite (Sulaima)

  • City view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 2 Twin Beds OR 1 Double Bed

About the neighborhood

Zanzibar Town

Located in Stone Town, Kisiwa House is next to Jaw's Corner and People's Palace Museum. This 3.5-star hotel has 10 rooms and welcomes guests with a restaurant, free in-room WiFi, and free self parking.

What's nearby

  • Shangani Beach - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Old Fort - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Forodhani Gardens - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Slave Market - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Zanzibar Ferry Terminal - 10 min walk - 0.6 miles

Getting around

  • Zanzibar Intl. Airport (ZNZ) - 15 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Passing Show Hotel - ‬10 min walk
  • ‪Meeting Point Cafe - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Lukmaan - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Livingstone Beach Restaurant - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Zenji Garden Café - ‬6 min walk

About this property

Kisiwa House

Hotel in Zanzibar Town with a rooftop terrace and a 24-hour front desk
Guests of Kisiwa House enjoy a rooftop terrace, free WiFi in public areas, and coffee in a common area. There's free parking, and an airport shuttle (available 24 hours) for TZS 40000 per vehicle one way. The 24-hour front desk has staff standing by to help with dry cleaning/laundry, luggage storage, and securing valuables. Additional amenities include express check-in, express check-out, and a terrace.
Guests can expect to find free WiFi and plasma TVs with cable channels. Beds sport premium bedding and bathrooms offer hair dryers and free toiletries. Minibars, coffee makers, and ceiling fans are also standard.

Languages

English, Swahili

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

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

Parking and transportation

  • 24-hour roundtrip airport shuttle (surcharge)
  • Ferry terminal shuttle (surcharge)
  • Free self parking on site

Food and drink

  • A restaurant
  • Coffee and tea in common areas

Restaurants on site

  • Darini

Family friendly

  • In-room crib
  • Laundry facilities

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Laundry facilities
  • Luggage storage
  • Safe at front desk

Guest services

  • Concierge services
  • Dry cleaning/laundry service
  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Turndown service

Outdoors

  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Rooftop terrace

Accessibility

  • No elevator

More

  • 1 building
  • 3 floors
  • Built in 1976
  • Designated smoking areas

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Free crib
  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

  • Bathrobes
  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Separate bathtub and shower
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • Plasma TV with cable channels

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Limited room service
  • Minibar

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Ceiling fan
  • Desk
  • Individual decor
  • Individual furnishings
  • Phone
  • Safe

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; Check-in end time: 9:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Express check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10 AM
Contactless check-out available
Express check-out available

Special check-in instructions

This property offers transfers from the ferry terminal and airport (surcharges may apply); to arrange pick-up, guests must contact the property 72 hours prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation
Guests planning to arrive outside of normal check-in hours 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 ahead of time using the information on the booking confirmation
If you are planning to arrive after 10:00 PM 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

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets or service animals

Children and extra beds

  • Rollaway/extra beds are available for TZS 97000 per night
  • Free cribs/infant beds are available

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

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

  • A tax is imposed by the city: TZS 10483.08 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: TZS 40000 per vehicle (one way)
  • Rollaway bed fee: TZS 97000 per night

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 rollaway/extra beds
This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, a first aid kit, and window guards
  • Check-in: 2:00 PM
  • Check-out: 10 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is open 24 hours a day, and checking in and out are easy with express services. 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.

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.
  • 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.
  • Guests must contact this property in advance to reserve rollaway/extra beds.
  • This property accepts credit cards. Cash is not accepted. 
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, a first aid kit, and window guards.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.

Property is also known as

Kisiwa
Kisiwa House
Kisiwa House Zanzibar Town
Kisiwa Zanzibar Town
Kisiwa House Guesthouse Zanzibar Town
Kisiwa House Guesthouse
Kisiwa House Zanzibar Island/Stone Town
Kisiwa House Hotel Stone Town
Kisiwa House Hotel
Kisiwa House Zanzibar Town
Kisiwa House Hotel Zanzibar Town

Frequently asked questions

Are free cancellation options available at Kisiwa House?

Kisiwa House offers free cancellation on some room rates. If you'd like to learn more, review the cancellation policy on our site.

What's there to see around Kisiwa House?

This hotel is situated in Stone Town, just steps from Jaw's Corner and People's Palace Museum, and within a short walk of House of Wonders. You'll also find Old Fort and Nakupenda Beach less than a mile away.

Is there parking available at Kisiwa House?

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

Does Kisiwa House feature a casino?

No, Kisiwa House doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at Kisiwa House?

No, there is no indoor pool at this hotel.

Is Kisiwa House good for couples?

Amenities that appeal to couples at this hotel include a minibar, premium bedding, and a separate bath and shower.

Are there hot tubs at Kisiwa House?

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

Does Kisiwa House have a restaurant that serves breakfast?

No, Kisiwa House doesn't have a restaurant that serves breakfast.

Does Kisiwa House allow pets to stay for free?

No, pets and service animals aren't allowed at Kisiwa House.

Does Kisiwa House have connecting rooms?

No, this hotel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

Where is the closest airport to Kisiwa House?

The closest major airport to Kisiwa House is Zanzibar Intl. Airport (ZNZ), which is 4.8 mi away (15 minutes by car).

Can I book a room with a balcony at Kisiwa House?

No, there aren't any guestrooms with balconies at Kisiwa House.

Kisiwa House Reviews

Reviews

8.8

Excellent

Rating 10 - Excellent. 141 out of 253 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 81 out of 253 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 18 out of 253 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 5 out of 253 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 8 out of 253 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

9.0/10

Staff & service

7.4/10

Amenities

8.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.0/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

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

Very comfortable

- Hotel in great condition, rooms really big and the decor all around the property is lovely. - A/c in the rooms and the power works most of the time and they have a backup generator. - Staff super friendly and knowledgeable - Internet is okay. I was there for work so I probably needed it more than the average traveller. - Could do with a bit more bottled water in the rooms - Good location close to everything - Breakfast a bit boring (fruit, cereal, eggs, crepe). Wish they had an option for a Swahili breakfast.
Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Kate

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The hotel is beautiful and everything was spotlessly clean. The reception staff were amazing especially Frank and also the lady whose name I forgot who was working when I arrived very early and arranged a room for me. She also arranged two tours at short notice. Would highly recommend this lovely hotel
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2021

8/10 Good

Tamara

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Good but no airport transfer

Hotel was lovely and clean. Despite the listing saying they offer an airport transfer, no one was waiting for us. Overall good.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

jana

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location within Stone-town. The staff was exceptionally helpful and friendly. Comfortable rooms with air conditioning.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2021

2/10 Terrible

Nashie

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Heather

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

Great stay

We had a great stay. Perfect location and rooms are nice and clean. Breakfast was delicious and service was wonderful!
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2021

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness
Didnt The noise made by guests checking out eRly morning when they take down their luggage dragging them down the wooden stairs. The step in the room should be clearly marked in red to avoid guests falling as no one expect a step just after one gets into a room. Liked the staff who are extremely friendly and polite. The breakfast is also great in quantity and variety...
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2019

10/10 Excellent

antonio

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

Perfect location to explore Stone town.

Very nice vintage boutique hotel,close to everything,perfect to explore Stone town,nice decoration.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2019

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Beautiful space, great staff, convenient location. I wouldn't hesitate to stay there again.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2019

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Loved the decor, location, friendly staff, wifi speeds & more. A leaking bathroom was a downer.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2019

4/10 Poor

Verified traveler

Disliked: Room comfort

3* hotel

A 3*hotel, the rooms need to be renovated.AC, TV, Hair dryer were not working. It took over 2h for someone to check on it, it wasn’t possible to fix any of it. It was the only hotel in the area which you could easily enter in the evening hours without someone at the front desk (poor security). Positive: central location, delicious breakfast with a sea view, nice style of furniture.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2019

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Liked: Staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Nice hotel in Stone Town, traditional design and architecture. I had a pleasant stay, service was good. My only complaint was with my room. I was #1 on the ground floor facing the street. It’s very noisey, you hear foot/Moto traffic all night as well as anything happening at reception. Plus side is you don’t have to walk the stairs (there are a lot) to access your room, but you will for breakfast. Be prepared. If you can, request a room on a higher floor in the back. In a great location for exploring Stone Town... around the corner from lots of shops and a few cafes.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2019

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2019

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
What a beautiful property, good location. Very clean and friendly staff
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

GToor, Ithaca, NY

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Better than expected. In the heart of Stonetown. Very good location for everything you wanna do in Zanzibar. Spacious rooms and bathrooms. Very cool vibe at the restaurant. Very tasteful decor. I loved everything here. Go. Go. Go.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2019

10/10 Excellent

Ton, Dar es Salaam

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Great room with beautiful big bathroom and bathtub . Corridors on all floors very specially decorated.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2019

8/10 Good

Roger

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Everything was very good apart from the bed which was very hard.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2019

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Traveled with group
Liked: Staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great helpful staff. Beautiful old house. It’s located in a neighborhood in the old town that is inhabited by locals with all the noise, color and smells.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2019

10/10 Excellent

Selam

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

Beautiful place to stay in Stone Town

This hotel really provided the best service. The staff were all very friendly, accommodating, and made you feel welcome. The breakfast was very nice, and the location is in the heart of Stone town so it made a great base for walking around. The room was really clean, and the furniture very comfortable. L
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2019

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Service was good, people were good, but there was a sewer smell in the toilet
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2019

6/10 Okay

Sara

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Disliked: Staff & service
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2018

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Kisiwa is a beautiful period property nestled amoung the historic buildings of Stone Town. The hotel staff were very friendly and helpful. The room was large clean and with some nice period features. Breakfast on the rooftop had eveeything we needed and tasted great. Only downside is they charge double for any trips or tours. I would advise you to book with one of the tour guides as it is exactly the same tour but a lot cheaper.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2018

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Nicely decorated boutique hotel in the historical area of Stonetown. Good location for walking and touring the town. Spacious and comfortable rooms. Very nice bed. Room was air-conditioned and had a television. The bathroom was large and clean. Never saw an insect in the room. The rooftop restaurant had a nice breakfast included with the stay. The hotel communicated with us days before we arrived and set up a car to pick us up at the airport. Good service. The hotel is in a quieter area of Stonetown away from the mosque loudspeakers. The prayers can still be heard but at a fainter volume. I would definitely stay at this hotel again.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2018

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Perfect location, typical and very unique Zanzibar style property in top top condition. Our room 10 seemed rand new rennovated :-) Loved it and would be back anytime! Thank you all!!!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2018