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Upendo House Hotel

3.5 star property
Guesthouse in Zanzibar Town with free breakfast and spa services

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Photo gallery for Upendo House Hotel

Outdoor pool, sun loungers
Interior entrance
Deluxe Double Room | Minibar, in-room safe, individually decorated, blackout drapes
Restaurant
Restaurant

Reviews

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful

Popular amenities

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

Explore the area

View in a map
213/214 Hurumzi street, Stone Town, Zanzibar Town
  • Place, Forodhani Gardens
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Old Fort
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, Slave Market
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Airport, Zanzibar (ZNZ-Zanzibar Intl.)
    ‪11 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Superior Double Room, Balcony

Superior Double Room, Balcony | Minibar, in-room safe, individually decorated, blackout drapes

Superior Double Room, Balcony

  • 65 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Superior Double Room

Superior Double Room | Minibar, in-room safe, individually decorated, blackout drapes

Superior Double Room

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • 65 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Deluxe Double Room

Deluxe Double Room | Minibar, in-room safe, individually decorated, blackout drapes

Deluxe Double Room

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(3 reviews)
  • 65 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

About the neighborhood

Zanzibar Town

Located in Stone Town, Upendo House Hotel is next to Shakti Temple and House of Wonders. This 8-room, 3.5-star guesthouse has conveniences like free breakfast, a restaurant, and an outdoor pool.
View more Guest Houses in Zanzibar TownOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • House of Wonders - 1 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Forodhani Gardens - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Old Fort - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Christ Church Cathedral - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Slave Market - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles

Getting around

  • Zanzibar Intl. Airport (ZNZ) - 22 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Forodhani Park - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪House of Karafuu - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Lukmaan Restaurant - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Secret Garden - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Zenji Garden Café - ‬4 min walk

About this property

Upendo House Hotel

Guesthouse in Zanzibar Town with free breakfast and spa services
Guests of Upendo House Hotel enjoy an outdoor pool, free WiFi in public areas, and spa services. Helpful staff can provide dry cleaning/laundry services, concierge services, and a safe deposit box at the front desk. Additional amenities include laundry facilities, a porter/bellhop, and a water dispenser.
Bathrooms have hair dryers, free toiletries, and bathrobes. Other standard amenities include minibars, coffee makers, and safes.
Recreational amenities at the guesthouse include an outdoor pool.

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

Guests can pamper themselves by indulging in the onsite spa services. Services include deep-tissue massages, facials, body scrubs, and manicures and pedicures. A variety of treatment therapies are provided, including aromatherapy.

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • No onsite parking available

Food and drink

  • Free continental breakfast available daily 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM
  • A bar/lounge
  • A restaurant

Things to do

  • Bicycle rentals
  • Designer stores
  • Outdoor pool

Family friendly

  • Laundry facilities
  • Outdoor pool

Conveniences

  • Laundry facilities
  • Safe at front desk
  • Water dispenser

Guest services

  • Concierge services
  • Dry cleaning/laundry service
  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Porter/bellhop
  • Tour and ticket assistance
  • Turndown service

Outdoors

  • Beach towels
  • Pool loungers

Spa

  • Aromatherapy
  • Body scrubs
  • Deep-tissue massages
  • Facials
  • Manicures/pedicures

Accessibility

  • No elevator

More

  • Designated smoking areas
  • Eco-friendly cleaning products used

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided
  • Blackout drapes

Bathroom

  • Bathrobes
  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Electric kettle
  • Minibar
  • Tea bags/instant coffee

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Individual decor
  • Recycling
  • Safe

Policies

Check-in

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

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

There is no front desk at this property
The host will greet guests on arrival
This property doesn't offer after-hours check-in
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Host will greet you

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

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

  • Deposit: USD 200 per accommodation, per stay

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.

  • 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 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
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
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: 2:00 PM—-midnight
  • Check-out: 10:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18

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 credit card for incidental charges and 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.
  • This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash.
  • This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Reservations need to be made in advance for massage services. Contact the guesthouse at the phone number listed on your booking confirmation.
  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.

Property is also known as

Upendo House
Upendo in Town
Upendo House Hotel Guesthouse
Upendo House Hotel Zanzibar Town
Upendo House Hotel Guesthouse Zanzibar Town

Frequently asked questions

Is free cancellation available at Upendo House Hotel?

Upendo House Hotel provides free cancellation on select room rates. If you'd like to learn more, review the cancellation policy on our site.

What is there to do close to Upendo House Hotel?

This guesthouse is situated in Stone Town, just steps from House of Wonders and Beit el-Sahel (Palace Museum), and within a short walk of Old Fort. You'll also find Forodhani Gardens and Shangani Beach less than a mile away.

Is parking available on site at Upendo House Hotel?

No, there isn't parking at this guesthouse.

Is a spa located at Upendo House Hotel?

Spa services at the guesthouse include deep-tissue massages, aromatherapy, mani/pedis, and body scrubs.

Does Upendo House Hotel have a casino on the premises?

No, Upendo House Hotel doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at Upendo House Hotel?

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

What amenities will couples enjoy at Upendo House Hotel?

There are plenty of amenities for couples at this guesthouse, including an outdoor pool, a bar, and a restaurant.

Are there hot tubs at Upendo House Hotel?

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

Does Upendo House Hotel have a restaurant that serves breakfast?

Yes, Upendo House Hotel serves free continental breakfast each morning from its restaurant.

Does Upendo House Hotel allow pets to stay for free?

No, pets aren't allowed at Upendo House Hotel.

Does Upendo House Hotel have connecting rooms?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this guesthouse.

Where is the closest airport to Upendo House Hotel?

The closest major airport to Upendo House Hotel is Zanzibar Intl. Airport (ZNZ), which is 5 mi away (22 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies at Upendo House Hotel?

Yes, some accommodations at Upendo House Hotel offer a balcony and may feature city views.

Upendo House Hotel Reviews

Reviews

9.2

Wonderful

Rating 10 - Excellent. 50 out of 71 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 15 out of 71 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 4 out of 71 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 71 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 71 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Staff & service

9.4/10

Amenities

9.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.0/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

8/10 Good

John, San Diego

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Sheets were a bit hard as well as the bed. Not enough towels at the pool. Restaurant was top notch and a hidden gem! Evening server Lydia was exceptional! Bernard at the front desk took us shopping as well! Recommend if you want to be in the middle of everything in a convenient location just bring earplugs.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Wienczyslawa

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
A wonderful boutique hotel experience together with amazing gourmet food, great spa services (thanks Happy!), and roof top pool. The staff are all super friendly and every day of my 10-day stay I felt like I was coming back home. Thanks everyone at Upendo house!
Stayed 10 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alayna

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Constance

Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

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

Charm and comfort in the heart of Stone Townn

What a wonderful stay - the room was comfortable and chic with strong AC, a comfort bed, and a nice bathroom. The rooftop bar and pool were lovely with amazing views of the ocean. Benjamin and the other staff were extremely helpful and friendly. The location was great - right in the heart of Stone Town. I highly recommend it!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Isabelle

Liked: Property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Perfect hotel for a short stay in Stone Town

Stayed for 2 nights and the hotel was perfect. Very close to all the main things to see and to the coastline. Amazing rooftop pool and bar area. Food was delicious!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Nydia

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

Thank you Upendo Staff

The view from the rooftop pool and the location of the hotel is amazing. Every single staff person I came in contact with at Upendo provided exceptional customer service. By the end of my one week stay, the staff felt like family. I was so sad to leave. I was so well taken care of. Kassim crafted the most delicious and beautiful cocktails. Lydia and Abella provided warm service with a smile during meals in The 5th Restaurant. Benjamin arranged all my excursions, taxi and overall concierge services. Rita and Krishna greeted us daily and made sure everything was going well. It was also great being able to spend time at the Upendo Beach house location. We met other travelers during cocktail hour on the rooftop. Zanzibar is a beautiful place but the staff here made my trip!
Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Marcy

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Perfect location, near everything in stone town and beautiful sunsets at the rooftop pool and bar. Food was espectacular!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

8/10 Good

Peter

Traveled with partner
Liked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great hotel. But staff might send what you think are gratuities and then try to charge you for them.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

6/10 Okay

Emma

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The rooms are clean and the shower is amazing. The restaurant is also really nice. The only downside was the noise. We were on the first floor (one above ground level) and it was so loud from the street. We could hear phones ringing from the street below and everyone’s conversations, yelling, and music from a nearby restaurant. It kept us up at night. Other than that, it was really clean, the rooftop bar and pool were really nice and the staff was super friendly.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

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

Enthralling

We had an amazing time! Excellent service, staff and stunning views from rooftop!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

6/10 Okay

Verified traveler

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Was on the first floor, streets were extremely noisy till very early on in the morning. Music & noise. No lift but staff did help with bags. Staff were extremely friendly and helpful. Bathroom is a wet room so whole floor is soaked. Food & cocktails were nice.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer Cristin

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

Love this place

This hotel is located in a great location and is super cute! The rooftop bar/pool/restaurant is really nice and the breakfast is fabulous!! We loved everything we had. The view from the pool is very nice and hip! The boutique in the hotel had very nice high end clothing and other neat stuff. The rooms are small but very nicely done and great bathroom amenities. I would stay here again for sure and I’m kind of a hotel snob but Upendo is super cute and decorated nicely
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

2/10 Terrible

Stacey

Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kamau

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

Excellent Stay!

Excellent stay! I love the staff and the rooms were comfortable and clean. Enjoyed the rooftop pool and restaurant. Centrally located in stone town. The only improvement would be to eliminate the occasional unwanted crawling critter. Otherwise a perfect stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Waleed

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

4/10 Poor

Thomas

Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

8/10 Good

Martha

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
My room was very comfortable, if a bit overpriced. Unfortuately my view out the window was an alley of rusted roofs and infrastructure - this was #203 - more like a very comfortable cell. The electricity went out in the middle of the night making it very hot. However, the rest of the hotel was pleasant, the upper floors are surely preferable, but you must be able to walk up.. lll in all a good, safe location and nice staff. I wish they would have either put me in a better room or charged me less.

10/10 Excellent

Naurin

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Absolute best
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024

8/10 Good

Jack

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Good hotel if staying in Stone Town. Reception staff, especially Benjamin, was very helpful upon arrival, booking taxis and restaurant reservations. Pool is nice and breakfast was good as well. Would say prices in the shop were more like London and Paris prices, so stayed away from that, which is unfortunate as they have some nice bits.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Christian

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Claudina fernandes

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Love upendo house. Would book again

10/10 Excellent

Opubo

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

Recommended stonetown stay

Comfortable stay, great shower, perfect location which is a stone throw from forodhani market, great views, great food and accomodating staff (special shout out to Benjamin who sorted out my travel needs and to the security man). The only feedback would be, please install a wardrobe to hang clothes and install a small shelf right next to the shower so that guests can easily reach their shower gel and sponge when having a shower.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lindsay

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023