When considering visiting the beautiful Tanzanian island, people often wonder about the best areas to stay in Zanzibar. While each place tells a story and invites you to immerse yourself in the wide range of experiences that make this paradise island unique, finding the best accommodation in Zanzibar according to your needs is essential.
The northernmost point has the posh area of Nungwi, with its white sands and clear water. The southern parts of the island are for people who want to balance comfort and cost. Before discussing the best areas to stay in Zanzibar, let’s see what is special about this destination.
Zanzibar’s unique charm
From the bustling markets in Stone Town to the beautiful beaches where turquoise waves caress your skin, there are plenty of things to do in Zanzibar. Get lost in a patchwork of experiences where natural and cultural riches come together to make a symphony of moments you’ll never forget.
Zanzibar is a beautiful island where life moves quickly. Stone Town is the first stop on your trip. And also probably the last. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site with lively shops, historic sites, and Swahili culture.
In the Indian Ocean, you can snorkel and dive, and on the beaches of Nungwi and Kendwa, you can enjoy traditional dhow boat trips and busy beach bars. You can smell the island’s unique scents at a spice farm and learn about the rare and indigenous Red Colobus monkeys that live in the Jozani Forest.
The best time to visit Zanzibar is from June to October and from December to February when it’s dry. Enjoy a variety of foods, stories about the past, and a relaxed atmosphere for a trip you’ll never forget.
READ MORE: Best time to visit Zanzibar
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Best areas to stay in Zanzibar + hotel recommendations for each
The best hotels in Zanzibar for each type of budget
Here is a list of the best hotels in Zanzibar for every price to enjoy the island’s warm hospitality. The variety of hotels in the best areas to stay in Zanzibar will surely please even the pickiest travelers.
There are luxurious seaside resorts in Nungwi and cute, cheap places to stay in less-visited parts of the island. Enjoy a symphony of comfort, style, and affordability that will make your stay in this East African gem excellent.
- best budget hotel: Villa Kiota
- best mid-range hotel: Marafiki Beach Hotel & SPA
- best luxury hotel: Zuri Zanzibar
The Most Popular Regions in Zanzibar
Explore the northern parts of the island. Nungwi has beautiful beaches and high-end guesthouses. Step into Stone Town’s historic alleys and experience its lively markets and past.
Explore the southern hideaways, where simple happiness and real Zanzibari life meet. There’s more to these places than just their locations; they’re also the starting points for unforgettable adventures.
Let’s take them individually and discover the best areas to stay in Zanzibar, depending on your budget, what type of traveler you are, and what you want from your vacation there.
Stone Town – the best place to stay when you start or end your trip to Zanzibar
Although I don’t recommend staying only in Stone Town when you visit Zanzibar, I suggest you stay at least two nights here to discover everything the old town offers.
Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site on the eastern shores of Zanzibar. It’s a unique mix of old-world beauty and modern conveniences.
The complicated web of narrow streets, shaped by Arabian, Persian, Indian, and European cultures, shows how culturally rich Zanzibar is. The area is appealing because it’s full of life, with busy markets and minarets that echo with cultural harmony.
If you want a real Zanzibar experience, stay in Stone Town for at least two nights. There are small hotels in centuries-old buildings, perfect for the most authentic experience you could ask for.
Stone Town is a must-see because of its doors, the rhythmic sounds that echo through its streets, the stunning architecture, the food, and the friendly people living there.
Best cheap hotels in Stone Town:
Best mid-range hotels in Stone Town:
Best luxury hotels in Stone Town:
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Park Hyatt Zanzibar
Best historic hotels in Stone Town:
Personal preference – Dhow Palace Hotel
Here I spent the last 2 nights in Zanzibar, and I liked it, so I recommend it. The location is perfect, close to all the tourist attractions in Stone Town. The Dhow Palace Hotel in Stone Town is a historic gem that blends Swahili architecture with contemporary amenities.
Its spacious rooms offer a cozy retreat after exploring the lively streets. The rooftop terrace offers stunning views of the city and the Indian Ocean. The hotel is known for its warm hospitality and rich cultural atmosphere.
Best things to do in Stone Town:
- Wander Through Forodhani Gardens
- Visit the House of Wonders
- Explore the Narrow Streets
- Tour the Old Fort
- Visit Prison Island
Kendwa – for the best beaches in Zanzibar
Kendwa is a secret paradise on the northern coast of Zanzibar. It has beautiful beaches (the most beautiful beaches in Zanzibar in my opinion) and a calm atmosphere. With its soft white sands and clear blue water of the Indian Ocean, it’s a great place to relax.
Kendwa is more peaceful than its neighbor, Nungwi, making it ideal for people who want to escape it all. Kendwa has a variety of places to stay, from small resorts to seaside bungalows.
All of them have a view of the beautiful sunsets. Kendwa gives you a real Zanzibari experience, whether you’re doing water sports, eating fresh seafood at places on the beach, or just relaxing.
Best mid-range hotels in Kendwa:
Best luxury hotels in Kendwa:
Personal preference – Resort in Kendwa: Riu Palace Hotel
I spent 5 nights at Riu Palace Zanzibar, and I think it is the ideal choice for a luxury getaway, with plenty of delicious food and the most beautiful beach on the island.
Riu Palace in Zanzibar offers a luxurious retreat where luxury and the Indian Ocean’s embrace merge. The all-inclusive resort offers a serene getaway with palm palms, azure seas, and decadent buffets.
The staff ensures comfort and delicious food, creating unforgettable memories of calm and luxury. Guests can enjoy the exotic setting and beach activities.
READ ALSO: Hotel Review: Hotel Riu Palace Zanzibar
Best things to do in Kendwa:
- Visit the Village
- Enjoy Sunset Cruises
- Dine on Fresh Seafood
- Visit Mnemba Atoll
- Relax on Kendwa Beach
Paje – Serenity in the Southeast | Best areas to stay in Zanzibar
Paje is one of the best places to stay in Zanzibar because of its easygoing vibe, beautiful beaches, and lively local scene.
It’s a peaceful place to escape, with blue water and soft white sand. Kiteboarders and water sports fans come from around the world to Paje to enjoy these activities.
In Paje, you can stay in anything from beachfront cottages to small hotels or gorgeous luxury resorts. At dusk, the beach becomes a lively hub where beach bars and local restaurants serve some of the island’s best food.
Paje is the best place to stay in Zanzibar to experience its unique magic.
Best cheap hotels in Paje:
Best mid-range hotels in Paje:
Best luxury hotels in Paje:
Personal preference – Hotel in Paje: Mahali Zanzibar
Mahali Zanzibar, a serenity sanctuary surrounded by lush gardens and the Indian Ocean, provided a personal refuge for three unforgettable nights. The warm staff and rhythmic lullaby of the ocean created a symphony of tranquility.
The best things to do in Paje:
- Attend a beachfront yoga class
- Kite surfing in the azure waters
- Lunch at the Rock Restaurant
- Experience the Paje Night Market
- Visit the Jozani Forest
Nungwi – the best area to stay in Zanzibar for nightlife
Nungwi is a coastal paradise and one of the best areas to stay in Zanzibar. It’s a tropical haven with beautiful beaches, clear blue water, and a mix of culture and maritime appeal.
The pace of daily life and the soft lapping of the Indian Ocean add to the area’s beauty. The beach has fine, ivory sand and is excellent for sunbathers who want to relax by the water.
Traditional dhow boat making has been passed down through generations and is another thing Nungwi is known for. In Nungwi, you can stay in anything from fancy seaside resorts to small, cozy hotels that give you a great view of the beautiful sunsets.
There are local markets, seafood restaurants, and lively beachfront bars in the town, which makes people want to experience the magical spirit of the island.
Best cheap hotels in Nungwi:
Best mid-range hotels in Nungwi:
Best luxury hotels in Nungwi:
Things to do in Nungwi:
- Explore Mnarani Marine Turtles Conservation Pond
- Attend the Nungwi Full Moon Party
- Take a sunset cruise
- Visit Nungwi Village
- Enjoy local seafood at beachfront restaurants
Kiwengwa – best honeymoon location in Zanzibar
Kiwengwa, on the northeastern coast of Zanzibar, is famous for tourists who want to find a balance between relaxation and cultural exploration.
Beautiful beaches in the area with fine coral sand make it a peaceful place to relax and do water sports. It’s one of the best areas to stay in Zanzibar for tourists needing less-crowded places.
The clear water makes the coral reefs and sea life below look beautiful. Kiwengwa is unique because of its rich cultural tapestry. Its friendly people and lively markets take you on a sensory trip.
Kiwengwa has a variety of places to stay, from fancy seaside resorts to small, cozy boutique hotels. Here are my top recommendations for places to stay in Kiwengwa:
Best cheap hotels in Kiwengwa:
Best mid-range hotels in Kiwengwa:
Best luxury hotels in Kiwengwa:
Personal preference – Hotel in Kiwengwa: Mvuvi Boutique Resort
I stayed two nights at Mvuvi Boutique Resort in Kiwengwa, and I can recommend it as an ideal choice for this area. Mvuvi Boutique Resort in Zanzibar offers a blend of luxury and coastal charm, offering a personalized escape with stunning sea views and breathtaking sunsets.
The resort’s attention to detail, from elegant decor to impeccable service, transforms guests into indulgent experiences. With its serene atmosphere and authentic Zanzibari allure, Mvuvi Boutique Resort is a coastal haven where time lingers in moments of pure bliss, providing a peaceful escape for guests.
READ MORE: Staying at Mvuvi Boutique Resort in Kiwengwa, Zanzibar
Things to do in Kiwengwa:
- Snorkel in the clear waters
- Visit nearby Muyuni Beach
- Attend cultural events in the area
- Take a dhow cruise
- Take a spice tour
Jambiani – the best place to stay in Zanzibar for an authentic village experience
One of the best places to stay in Zanzibar is in Jambiani, which has beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and a unique local charm. With its white sand and blue water, it’s a peaceful place to get away and enjoy water sports or relax.
The natural village feel and friendly Zanzibari people make it even more appealing. Various locations to stay, from guesthouses to seaside resorts, offer comfort and the island’s unique character. Jambiani is undoubtedly one of the best areas to stay in Zanzibar.
Best cheap hotels in Jambiani:
Best mid-range hotels in Jambiani:
Best luxury hotels in Jambiani:
The best things to do in Jambiani:
- Visit the Seaweed Center
- Take a bike ride around the area
- Take a kite surfing lesson
- Relax on Jambiani Beach
- Stroll through Jambiani’s narrow streets
Matemwe – best for breathtaking coral reefs | Best areas to stay in Zanzibar
Matemwe, a coastal haven in Zanzibar, is a special place thanks to the beautiful coral reefs and turquoise seas.
Matemwe’s laid-back vibe, where time is counted in sunrises and sunsets instead of minutes and seconds, makes this area one of the best places to stay in Zanzibar.
In Matemwe, boutique beachfront hotels are the height of luxury and offer a perfect sunrise view. When you see the sky changing pink and gold, you wonder if you’re still in real life or have stepped into a postcard.
Best cheap hotels in Matemwe:
The Best mid-range hotels in Matemwe:
Best luxury hotels in Matemwe:
The best things to do in Matemwe:
- Visit the Matemwe Village
- Attend a traditional dhow race
- Take a guided tour of Matemwe’s natural attractions
- Dive or snorkel in the coral reef
Pongwe – peaceful and romantic escape
Pongwe, located on the southeastern coast of Zanzibar, is a hidden gem among those seeking an unspoiled paradise. Why is Ponque one of the best areas to stay in Zanzibar? It’s simple! Because it offers a tranquil shoreline embraced by palm trees.
The coral reefs of Pongwe are an underwater carnival showcasing fish dance and marine life. Snorkeling in these pristine waters feels like stepping into a living aquarium.
Pongwe’s charm lies in its boutique lodges, which blend luxury with the island’s authenticity. The accommodations offer a front-row seat to the sunrise, turning the sky into a masterpiece.
Best mid-range hotels in Pongwe:
Best luxury hotels in Pongwe:
The best things to do in Pongwe:
- Take a boat trip to explore the coastline
- Explore the Pongwe Forest
- Enjoy the tranquility of Pongwe’s natural surroundings
- Experience local cuisine at beachfront restaurants
Michamvi – one of the best areas to stay in Zanzibar for a laid-back ambiance
Michamvi is considered one of the best areas to stay in Zanzibar. It offers pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters. The beach is a canvas for nature’s artistry, inviting visitors to lose themselves in its beauty.
What sets Michamvi apart is its unspoiled authenticity and intimate escapes that blend seamlessly with the natural landscape.
Accommodations here provide stunning sunrise views and an immersion into an untouched paradise. Michamvi is a whispered secret among those who appreciate the beauty of simplicity, making it one of the best areas to stay in Zanzibar.
Best cheap hotels in Michamvi:
Best mid-range hotels in Michamvi:
The best things to do in Michamvi:
- visit Kae Funk Art Gallery
- Explore Muyuni Forest
- Visit Pingwe Beach
- Sunset at Michamvi Kae Beach
- Explore Chwaka Bay
Things to know before booking accommodation in Zanzibar
What are the most important things to know when picking a place to stay in Zanzibar?
It’s essential to plan your trip to Zanzibar so that you can stay in the best places. Each area has its unique charm. Everyone has choices, whether you want to be near the beach or in the historic Stone Town.
For a more authentic experience of the island, look for unique places to stay, like eco-friendly retreats or small resorts. Knowing the tide plan is also essential because it can change what you can do at the beach.
Finally, don’t forget to enjoy Zanzibar’s delicious food by staying in a place with a restaurant serving local specialties. Thinking about these things before choosing the best area to stay in Zanzibar can ensure that your time here will be magical.
What is the best area in Zanzibar for beaches?
The best areas to stay in Zanzibar for pristine beaches are Nungwi and Paje. Nungwi is a beachfront utopia with ivory sands and vibrant marine life. Paje, on the other hand, is a haven for kite surfers and sunseekers, with fine coral sands and azure waters.
READ MORE: The 7 best beaches in Zanzibar
What is the best area in Zanzibar for thrilling aquatic adventures?
The best areas to stay in Zanzibar for aquatic adventures are also Nungwi and Paje. Nungwi offers clear waters and lively coral reefs, perfect for snorkeling and diving.
Paje is known for its consistent winds, making it an excellent spot for kiteboarding and windsurfing. Matemwe and Kiwengwa also offer opportunities for underwater exploration and thrilling water activities.
What is the best location in Zanzibar for cultural experiences?
Stone Town is the best place to stay in Zanzibar when considering cultural activities. With its mix of Arab, Persian, Indian, and European styles, Stone Town is a living reminder of the island’s long past.
The Cultural Arts Center in Stone Town keeps Zanzibar’s artistic history alive by showcasing the work of local artists. A museum about Zanzibar’s past can be found in the House of Wonders.
At the night market in Forodhani Gardens, you can try various foods that use Zanzibar’s unique spices. Inside Stone Town’s old walls are lively markets and important historical sites that will take you right into the heart of Zanzibar.
Where to stay in Zanzibar for a more private getaway?
Matemwe and Pongwe are the best areas to stay in Zanzibar for a private vacation. Matemwe has private villas and resorts with beautiful views of the Indian Ocean.
Pongwe, on the other hand, has private beachfront homes with personalized service for a truly personal experience. Also, the southern shores of Kizimkazi are a quiet place to relax in waters full of dolphins.
Whether you’re in Michamvi, Matemwe, Pongwe, or Kizimkazi, Zanzibar is a place where you can enjoy the comfort of privacy.
Which part of Zanzibar has the calmest mood and most beautiful scenery?
Matemwe is one of the best places to stay in Zanzibar if you’re searching for the calmest mood and most beautiful scenery on the island.
Its beautiful beaches and small hotels make it a private haven in the middle of Zanzibar’s natural beauty. Every day in Matemwe, the morning and sunset are works of art. The ocean turns golden, and the sky turns pink and orange.
How many days do you need in Zanzibar?
Stay in Zanzibar for five to two weeks to soak up its charm. Pick between Matemwe, Stone Town, Paje, or Nungwi; each offers a different experience.
Every location adds to the island’s symphony, causing each day to unfold like a gripping novel’s chapter. The kaleidoscope of memories you make during your stay in Zanzibar better indicates time spent there than hours.
Should you stay in just one or more locations when visiting Zanzibar?
It can be challenging to choose between staying in one place or several other parts of Zanzibar due to the island’s wide variety of scenery and cultural riches.
A concentrated stay in one place, like the lively beach town of Nungwi, can benefit individuals looking for a deeper connection. But traveling to different parts of the island, where immaculate beaches and coral reefs combine to create a tranquil setting, can help you discover the island’s varied character.
In the end, the decision is in your hands. However, if you’re staying at least one week in Zanzibar, I suggest staying in at least two different areas.
