Zanzibar Serena Hotel – Hotel in Zanzibar, Zanzibar

Name: Zanzibar Serena Hotel – Stay in Zanzibar, Zanzibar
Address: Shangani Street, Stone Town, Zanzibar, Mjini Magharibi Region
Price range: US$292+
Rating: 8.7

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Key details

About the Hotel

Shangani Street, Stone Town, Zanzibar

Close to the historic old town

Great

8.7

8.8

/10

4.3

4.5

Loved by Zanzibar Serena Hotel guests

ocean views

historic hotel

fresh tropical fruits

live band

swimming pool

"Beautiful location overlooking the ocean. Fantastic service. Outstanding pool area."

Gary from United States

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"The room was exquisite. Balcony on 2 sides with pool and sea views."

Lynda from New Zealand

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"The breakfast was exceptional! The staff were even more exceptional !!."

Odette from South Africa

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"I especially appreciated Chef Sunil for making excellent food that met all of our dietary restrictions."

Julia C from United States

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"Spacious rooms with view of the ocean from every room and pool with walk way around the hotel makes it very attractive."

Quest309875 from United States

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5-star oceanfront hotel in Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site

Rooms & Accommodation

The Zanzibar Serena Hotel offers 51 rooms and suites with ocean views and traditional Swahili, Arab, and colonial decor. Each room includes a satellite TV, minibar, and tea/coffee maker, with private bathrooms with a bath and shower. Superior rooms come with a balcony and a hammock overlooking the Indian Ocean.

Dining

The Terrace Seafood Restaurant is a rooftop venue with ocean views and sunset panoramas. The Baharia Restaurant serves international and Swahili dishes, while the Pool Terrace Bar provides drinks, snacks, and traditional pastries. Breakfast is served buffet-style with an omelette station and fresh local fruits.

Location & Surroundings

The hotel sits on the sea-front of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with a private beach and direct access to the Indian Ocean. Major attractions like the House of Wonders, the Old Fort, and the National Museum of Zanzibar are within a 5-minute walk. Zanzibar International Airport and the ferry terminal are both a 10-minute drive away.

Wellness & Spa

The hotel's spa offers a range of treatments including full body massage, body scrubs, and facial treatments. Couples massage and beauty services like make-up and waxing are available. Guests can also book yoga classes and use the spa lounge/relaxation area.

Family & Activities

The hotel has a kids' pool and an indoor play area, with babysitting and child services on request. Entertainment staff organize themed dinner nights, live music performances, and walking tours of local culture. Bicycle rental, cooking classes, and water sport facilities are available on site.

Highlights

Location: On the sea-front within Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site

Rooms: 51 rooms and suites with ocean views and Swahili decor

Dining: Rooftop seafood restaurant with sunset views

Spa: Full massage, body scrubs, and couples treatments

Family: Kids' pool, indoor play area, and babysitting

Activities: Bicycle rental, cooking classes, and water sports

Must-do experiences

Visit Jozani Forest for a chance to see red colobus monkeys.
Enjoy a spice tour to learn about Zanzibar's aromatic heritage.
Savor fresh seafood at Forodhani Market during sunset.
Explore the history at the Old Fort of Zanzibar for stunning views.
Don't miss St. Joseph's Cathedral for its Gothic architecture.

Location: Perfect

9.5/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

DiningTaste of Zanzibar

The grilled fish and shrimp were heavenly. Breakfast offered authentic, yummy options with a fantastic sea view.

Safa from United Arab Emirates

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Room FeaturesOcean Balcony Bliss

Our gorgeous room featured a large, wraparound porch with a hammock offering stunning ocean views.

Laurie from Qatar

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Spa & LeisureSunset Perfection

The pool and bar area provided an ideal spot to enjoy spectacular sunsets over the water.

Amelia from United Kingdom

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Guest ParkingConvenient Arrival

The doorman went above and beyond, helping with luggage and even fixing a broken suitcase wheel.

bz_traveling1 from United States

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Select your room type

Zanzibar Serena Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Prime Room Sea View
2 persons
28 m²
1 King-size bed
Sea view
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
Standard Double Room
2 persons
26 m²
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
Executive Suite
2 persons
58 m²
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details

Show all rooms

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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

Zanzibar Serena Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Great

8.7/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Free parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
VIP check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Locker room
Currency exchange
Coffee shop
Fireplace
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key access

Sports & Fitness

Wind surfing
Diving
Snorkelling
Canoeing
Horseback riding
Cycling
Yoga class
Sports trainer
Fishing

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible on site for free.

Services

Paid airport shuttle
Room service
Housekeeping
Car hire
Laundry
Dry cleaning
Tours/Ticket assistance
Welcome drink
Happy hour

Dining

In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Snack bar
Bar/ Lounge area
Picnic area/ Tables
Dinner
Packed lunches
Special diet menus

Business

Business centre
Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cots
Babysitting/Child services
Children's buffet
Children's pool
Children's play area
Game room

Spa & Leisure

Infinity pool
Beach access
Beach umbrellas
Sun loungers
Live entertainment
Sun terrace
Garden area
BBQ facilities
Leisure/ TV room
Spa & wellness centre
Pedicure
Waxing
Body scrub
Facial
Treatment room
Back massage
Head massage
Full body massage
Foot massage
Make up services

Room features

Air conditioning
Heating
Mini-bar
Sitting area
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Zanzibar Serena Hotel Location

Shangani Street, Stone Town, Zanzibar

Explore Zanzibar

Explore the Vibrant Surroundings

Old Fort of Zanzibar

6 minutes' walk

Historical fort with cultural events and exhibitions; perfect for a glimpse into Zanzibar's rich history.

House of Wonders

9 minutes' walk

Zanzibar's first electric building showcasing Swahili coastal culture; features stunning exhibitions and beautiful views.

Darajani Market

13 minutes' walk

Vibrant local market with fresh produce and local crafts; an authentic experience of everyday Swahili life.

Forodhani Park

7 minutes' walk

Popular evening gathering spot with food stalls; enjoy local snacks and views of the sea as the sun sets.

Maisha Mazuri Horse Riding Club

14 minutes' drive

Horse riding along scenic trails; great for families and offers lessons for all skill levels.

Water Sports at Astaztour

16 minutes' drive

Thrill-seekers can partake in snorkeling and diving activities; equipment rentals available for a day at the beach.

Spa Day

5 minutes' walk

Relaxing spa options at nearby facilities, perfect for those seeking tranquility and rejuvenation.

6 Degrees South Grill and Wine Bar

2 minutes' walk

Sleek ambiance with a mix of local and international dishes; try their seafood specialties and signature cocktails.

Buni

1 minute's walk

Charming local spot offering traditional Zanzibari dishes; famous for its chicken biryani and vegetarian options.

The Beach House Restaurant

1 minute's walk

Chic beachfront dining; enjoy fresh seafood and stunning sunset views while savoring exotic cocktails.

Forodhani Food Market

7 minutes' walk

Evening food market with live music; enjoy local street food while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Stone Town.

The Old Dispensary

12 minutes' walk

Cultural venue offering performances and art exhibitions; perfect for an evening of local arts and entertainment.

Getting around

City Centre
Zanzibar 12 min · 1 km
Airports
Kisauni (ZNZ) 13 min · 8.1 km
Julius Nyerere (DAR) 119 min · 79.2 km

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 12:00-23:59

Check-out

from 09:00-10:00

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible on site for free.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.

Breakfast

You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs USD 20.0 per person.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Number of rooms:

Former name

Zanzibar Serena Inn

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Zanzibar Serena Hotel from previous guests about their experience.

Review score

Based on 362 verified reviews

8.8 /10

Great

88 %

Recommend

Breakfast

8.5/10

Cleanliness

9.1/10

Comfort

9.1/10

Facilities

8.7/10

Free Wi-Fi

8.7/10

Location

9.5/10

Paid Wi-Fi

8.1/10

Staff

9.3/10

Value for money

8.0/10

Pros

Really good staff

Prime location

Excellent food

Cons

Small rooms

Inconsistent service

Maintenance issues

based on 882 reviews

4.5/5

No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.

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Questions of the users

About Zanzibar Serena Hotel

Is there a designated area for veiled women to sunbathe privately?

12 December 2024

Currently, there isn't a specific private sunbathing area for veiled women, but the suggestion is appreciated for future considerations.

Can guests easily access the beach on foot from the hotel?

05 April 2025

Yes, the beach is conveniently located directly in front of the hotel, making it easily accessible on foot.

Are there any specific arrangements for a family of two adults and one child in one room?

18 August 2024

Accommodations for two adults and one child can be made, but there may be an additional charge if the room is booked as a double.

Does the hotel have an elevator for guests?

22 September 2024

Yes, there is an elevator available for guests, ensuring easy access to different floors.

What options are available if I need to keep my room later due to a night flight?

14 February 2025

A day room can be arranged if needed, typically at a charge. Please confirm upon arrival for availability.

What activities can guests enjoy while staying at Zanzibar Serena Hotel?

03 January 2025

Guests can explore various activities like visiting Stone Town, spice tours, dolphin watching, cultural feasts, and more. The hotel also offers organized excursions for a rich experience.

Is there a shuttle service available from the ferry terminal to the hotel?

09 May 2025

Yes, shuttle service is available from the ferry terminal to the hotel at a rate of $20.00 per van.

What are the recommended dining options within the hotel?

24 June 2024

There are several exceptional dining options at the hotel, including a rooftop seafood restaurant with stunning views and an array of traditional Swahili dishes offered at the poolside restaurant.

What are the check-in and check-out procedures at the hotel?

11 March 2025

Check-in is from 12:00 PM and checkout is until 10:00 AM. Early or late check-in/check-out can be requested, but cannot be guaranteed.

Is parking available at the hotel for guests traveling by car?

29 October 2024

Yes, free private parking is available on-site without the need for reservation.

Are there any notable attractions nearby the hotel?

17 November 2024

The hotel is conveniently located near many attractions including the National Museum of Zanzibar and the historic Arab Fort, all within easy walking distance.

Is there a swimming pool available for guests to use?

07 February 2025

Yes, Zanzibar Serena Hotel features a swimming pool for guests to enjoy.