Kisiwa House
Kisiwa House is a historic boutique hotel located in the heart of Stone Town, Zanzibar, offering a unique combination of heritage, Swahili elegance, and modern comfort. Dating back more than 170 years, this beautifully restored property allows guests to experience Zanzibar’s rich history while staying within walking distance of the city’s markets, historic landmarks, museums, and winding alleys.
Why Choose Kisiwa House
Located on a quiet street in the historic centre of Stone Town, the hotel provides a peaceful retreat while keeping guests close to Zanzibar’s cultural attractions. Original architectural details, antique furniture, brass features, and Swahili-inspired décor give the property a distinctive sense of place.
It is ideal for:
- Stone Town cultural holidays
- Couples and honeymooners
- Boutique luxury stays
- Zanzibar history and heritage experiences
- Short stays before or after a safari
- Tanzania safari and Zanzibar combinations
Historic Accommodation
Kisiwa House has nine rooms and suites, carefully restored to preserve the character of the historic building while providing contemporary comfort. The accommodation includes two Sulaima Senior Suites, two Malkia Junior Suites, and five Burdani Deluxe Rooms.
Accommodation features include:
- Swahili-inspired interiors
- Antique furnishings
- Air conditioning
- Ensuite bathrooms
- Comfortable beds
- Modern amenities
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Selected spacious suites
- Traditional architectural details
The Sulaima Senior Suites can accommodate two adults and two children, while the Malkia Junior Suites can accommodate two adults and one child, making selected suites suitable for families.
Dining and Hotel Facilities
Dining at Kisiwa House provides an opportunity to enjoy local flavors within a historic setting. Darini Restaurant focuses on fresh seafood and Zanzibari spices, while the courtyard lounge offers a relaxed place to enjoy spiced tea or a tropical drink.
Facilities and services include:
- Darini Restaurant
- Courtyard lounge
- Rooftop dining and views
- Garden area
- Free Wi-Fi
- Room service
- Airport transfers
- 24-hour front desk
- Family-friendly accommodation
The rooftop provides panoramic views across Stone Town and toward the Indian Ocean, creating a memorable setting for dining and relaxation.
Things to Do in Stone Town
Staying at Kisiwa House makes it easy to explore Stone Town on foot. The surrounding historic streets are filled with traditional carved doors, markets, cafés, shops, and important cultural landmarks.
Popular experiences include:
- Stone Town walking tours
- Visiting Forodhani Gardens
- Exploring Darajani Market
- Spice tours
- Zanzibar cultural tours
- Sultan’s Palace visits
- House of Wonders area
- Prison Island excursions
- Sunset dhow cruises
Stone Town is particularly suitable for travelers who want to experience Zanzibar beyond its beaches and discover the island’s Arab, African, Indian, and European influences.
Nearby Attractions
Guests can easily explore:
- Stone Town
- Forodhani Gardens
- Darajani Market
- Old Fort
- Sultan’s Palace
- House of Wonders
- Zanzibar ferry terminal
- Prison Island
- Spice Farms
The hotel is also conveniently positioned for travelers combining a Stone Town stay with a beach holiday in Paje, Nungwi, Matemwe, or another coastal destination.
Experience Zanzibar’s Heritage
For travelers looking for more than a conventional beach resort, Kisiwa House offers an intimate way to experience the history and character of Zanzibar. Its more than 170 years of heritage, traditional architecture, personalized atmosphere, and central Stone Town location make it especially attractive for couples and cultural travelers.
It is also an excellent stop before or after a Tanzania safari. Guests can spend a few nights exploring Stone Town before continuing to Zanzibar’s beaches or returning home after adventures in Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, or other parts of Tanzania.
Explore our Zanzibar Beach Holiday Packages and Tanzania Safari & Zanzibar Tours to combine a cultural Stone Town experience with a relaxing beach holiday or an unforgettable safari.