Reviews of Zanzibar Palace Hotel
Wildlife sightings and reviews
48 independent comments and wildlife information from our travellers who have visited Zanzibar Palace Hotel and kindly agreed to share their thoughts. They do not necessarily represent the views of Expert Africa
"Book me in Serena Inn!!!!!"
"zanzibar hotel old fashioned fusty character"
partly in the choice of decor which was old fashioned rather than quirky. it just did not seem fresh, and i realised that it was a very old place, and the owners were at pains not to destroy its unique original character,we just were not taken with it, it certainly did not come up to its price expectations. the 1st room they showed us was not nice and one window looked out onto a newly bricked wall which was so close it felt oppressive. The bathroom had all the arabic and oriental touches but felt mucky although i am sure it was clean but i did not feel inclined to bathe in there.
we changed to the top floor at extra cost just so we had a bit more air, and the fact that it had a tiny roof top deck which you could climb up to. also the open air shower and bathroom were situated here, and it felt less stuffy. I know this place was recreated in the old and authentic style and i am all for character and authenticity, but we were not that comfy or happy there. shame as we had high hoped for outr last two nights in Stonetown. the lady who manages the hotel ,a dutch woman was very helpful and very nice.
Same goes for Stonetown ,we hd not expected it to be so rundown, and we did a town tour and saw all the important sights and buildings, and we will put down to the experience of travel and seeing the world. It was interesting to understand the past and present culture and its turbulent history. at least the Aga Khan is funding major renovation there which in years to come will make it a great place ." See all these reviews: 9n in Zanzibar; 4n in Tanzania
"Zanzibar Palace Hotel review"
Fairly steep stairs so you have to be reasonably fit." See all these reviews: 9n in Zanzibar; 3n in Tanzania
"Zanzibar Palace Hotel review"
Great central location and ideal for the short period we were in Stone Town." See all these reviews: 6n in Tanzania; 1n in Zanzibar
"Zanzibar Palace Hotel review"
"Zanzibar Palace Hotel review"
The location was pretty good too, within easy walking distance to all the sights and not too far into the alleyways so as to risk getting lost.
Stone Town itself was definately worth the visit, although we'd have struggled for things to do after a couple of days. Also the large gardens on the seafront where the food stalls come out in the evening are currently under reconstruction. It's great t see money being put into the area, although disappointing we missed the final result!
TIP: if you fancy a spice tour it's cheaper to go from Stone Town than from the East Coast." See all these reviews: 10n in Zanzibar; 6n in Tanzania
"Zanzibar Palace Hotel review"
A 5.00am wake up call was preceded by the call to prayer from the nearby mosque.
It was atmospheric and welcoming." See all these reviews: 8n in Zanzibar; 5n in Tanzania
"A stay at Zanzibar Palace Hotel"
The hotel provides good accomodation but the evening meals could be improved.
We experienced a problem in that our voucher from you stated half board whilst the booking by Fisherman Travel was only for B & B. Staff at the hotel said that this was happening frequently and when we came to settle our bill they tried to include the price of evening meals until we pointed out again what are terms were.
For anyone visiting this area we would mention that many people try to get you to offer them a tip, even the staff at the security machine in Dar es Salaam airport." See all these reviews: 7n in Tanzania; 2n in Zanzibar
"Zanzibar Palace"
After staying in such attractive locations for the previous days, we found the contrast noticable, as the hotel is in a dusty town street and our our outlook was onto walls opposite. We found our room to be a little dark.
We dined in both evenings and found the meals delicious being served by a most charming young woman.
A problem had occured the day that we arrived with the access. Bollards had appeared making it impossible for taxis to drive to the hotel, necessitating a walk of about 100 m. This was not a problem for us, but others may find it so." See all these reviews: 7n in Tanzania; 5n in Zanzibar
"Zanzibar Palace Hotel review"
Holiday styles & special interests in Zanzibar
From birdwatching breaks to walking holidays, find great ideas for your trip in Zanzibar.
Other lodges in Stone Town
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
Serena Inn
Now trumped by the nearby Park Hyatt, the Serena Inn, in its historic building, was formerly Stone Town's only international-style hotel.
Zanzibar Coffee House
The Zanzibar Coffee House is a small quiet hotel tucked away in the back streets of Stone Town, with lovely, simple rooms.
Beyt al Salaam
The Beyt al Salaam is a pleasant, boutique hotel with only six rooms and atmospheric and stylish Zanzibari décor.
Dhow Palace Hotel
The Dhow Palace is a very good-value, mid-range hotel, full of Swahili character, and the pool makes it appealing to families.
Emerson Spice
Emerson Spice is a beautiful small hotel in the heart of Stone Town with individually designed rooms adorned with gorgeous fabrics.
Kholle House
Kholle House offers an atmospheric Stone Town stay in a historic building, and is very good value for money.
Jafferji House
Jafferji House is a converted old house that blends modern facilities with traditional style. The ten, unique rooms are show great attention to detail.
Swahili House
Swahili House is a traditionally styled boutique hotel furnished to a high standard with a convenient location in the centre of Stone Town.
Tembo Hotel
The Tembo Hotel is a good-value, family-friendly hotel right on the seafront in Stone Town, with 36 rooms and a good-sized swimming pool.
Emerson on Hurumzi
Emerson on Hurumzi was Stone Town's first boutique hotel, featuring antique furniture, unique, stylish rooms and a superb rooftop restaurant.
Mbweni Ruins Hotel
Mbweni Ruins Hotel is very convenient if you want to stay on the beach, but very close to Stone Town, or visit Chumbe Island.
Park Hyatt
The Park Hyatt Zanzibar is a high-quality example of this group, with excellent facilities and service.
Maru Maru Hotel
In the heart of Stone Town, Maru Maru combines contemporary style and creature comforts with a Zanzibari twist.
Seyyida Hotel
The Seyyida is a characterful old hotel near the seafront in Stone Town, with the rare bonus of a swimming pool.
Kisiwa House
Kisiwa's central location in the heart of Stone Town's Shangani area makes it a great base to explore this fascinating town.
