Kisiwa House Hotel - Zanzibar

Boutique hotel in Stone Town, Zanzibar, housed in a restored 1840 Omani merchant's home

Historical Building & Design

Kisiwa House occupies one of Stone Town's oldest buildings, an Omani merchant's home built in 1840. The structure retains its original stone walls, dark wood staircases, and antique Swahili furniture, with Persian rugs and brass fixtures throughout. Guests can hear the story of 'Bibi wa Darini,' the rooftop grandmother, adding a personal layer to the property's history.

Rooms & Amenities

The 22 rooms at Kisiwa House are designed for optimum sea views, with some suites offering separate sitting areas and private balconies. Each room is decorated in Swahili style with dark wood antique furniture, and bathrooms feature spa baths, hairdryers, bathrobes, and free toiletries. Rooms include flat-screen TVs, air conditioning, minibars, and tea and coffee makers, with a turn-down service that lowers mosquito nets in the evening.

Dining Experience

The Darini Rooftop Restaurant serves breakfast and dinner with panoramic views of Stone Town and the Indian Ocean. Dinner is prepared using a 'from market to table' philosophy, with ingredients bought fresh from the market less than 10 minutes away. The menu features Swahili dishes such as pilau and beef skewers, alongside Western staples, and the intimate setting includes live music on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Location & Surroundings

Kisiwa House Stone Town is situated in the historic center of the UNESCO World Heritage site, within walking distance of the House of Wonders, the Old Fort, and Forodhani Park. The property is also close to Jambiani Beach and Jozani Forest Reserve for day trips. Zanzibar International Airport is a 10-minute drive away, and the hotel arranges airport shuttles at an additional cost.

Services & Personalization

Kisiwa House Hotel offers highly personalized guest services, with staff learning guests' names within minutes of arrival and providing tailored recommendations for local activities, restaurants, and shopping. The hotel can arrange guided tours of Stone Town, rental cars, and transfers to the beach. Common areas include a garden, a courtyard lounge with a fountain, and a sun terrace, while the 24-hour front desk handles luggage storage, laundry, and ironing.

• History: 1840 Omani merchant's home, Swahili architectural design
• Rooms: 22 rooms with sea views, spa baths, antique furniture
• Dining: Darini Rooftop Restaurant, market-to-table Swahili cuisine
• Location: UNESCO World Heritage site, walkable to House of Wonders
• Service: Personalized guest services, guided tours arranged