swahili house zanzibar
authentically restored 19th century old Merchant House
4 Sultan Suites 6 Suites 9 Deluxe Rooms
Magical Rooftop Terrace with Restaurant & Bar
19 rooms restored and decorated in traditional Swahili style
5 floors built around characteristic Zanzibar courtyard & staircase
Traditional influences and modern day facilities
Centrally located for exploring Stone Town and its many treasures
Located in the bustling heart of Stone Town the building was originally set up and used as an Indian Merchant House in the 19th century. In the 125 years that were to come the building was home to one of the many Sultan families and then became a hotel some years ago. After Moivaro Lodges & Tented Camps purchased the hotel, renovations started in May 2008. Most of the hotel has been restored into its original state, but we have been making some changes as well. The result is The Swahili House - a sparkling hotel with traditional influences and modern day facilities in combination with authentic Swahili hospitality.
The Swahili House has 5 floors that are all built around a beautiful traditional Zanzibar courtyard. The floors are all reachable via traditional Zanzibari staircases and an elevator, which is still under construction. The 22 rooms are spread out over 4 floors and can be divided in 3 different room categories: Sultan Suites: large, spacious rooms with balcony. Approx. 45m2. Deluxe Rooms: standard size double or twin room. Approx. 21m2. Suites: medium sized, spacious rooms with balcony. Approx. 33m2.
The rooms all are restored and decorated in traditional Swahili style, but adjusted to Western standards, which for example includes European sized mattresses, air conditioning and a fan. Most rooms will feature a spectacular open bathroom including a shower and bath, which are ideally to relax after a busy day of exploring Stone Town and its many treasures.
The Swahili House would definitely not be the same without our rooftop terrace. The rooftop terrace will house our bar & restaurant overlooking the Indian Ocean. Enjoy a cocktail, lunch or dinner while indulging in stunning views of Stone Town and the Swahili Coastal area. Our á la carte menu is a combination of Eastern and Western influences, spices and flavors and includes a wide variety of freshly caught fish and seafood, Mediterranean Tapas and is changed on a daily basis. A Continental and full English breakfast buffet will be served from our rooftop kitchen every morning. And last but certainly not least: The Swahili House offers a large variety of wines, international spirits and delicious cocktails to enjoy a romantic sun set with!
The Swahili House is located in the center of Stone Town close to all the little bustling streets, alleys, market, shops, restaurants and other points of interest. House of Wonders are all within walking distance from the hotel.
We can organize professional guides who’ll assist you while discovering Stone Town in order to get the maximum out of your visit to this busy little town and its hundreds of little streets. Besides that, we offer various trips in and around Stone Town. Learn everything about the spices you normally only see at the shelves in the supermarket on a Spice Tour or visit the cheeky Colobus monkeys at Jozani Forrest. Explore the magnificent Menai bay while snorkeling or just enjoy a relaxing massage – there are plenty of things to do and see. Naturally, we offer transfers to and from the airport or other areas on Zanzibar as well.
