Zanzibar Serena Hotel Swimming Pool photo The photo captures a beautiful tropical resort scene. A large, inviting turquoise swimming pool dominates the foreground, surrounded by a reddish-brown tiled patio. Several lounge chairs with white cushions are neatly arranged around the pool, some sZanzibar Serena Hotel People photo A woman is relaxing on a balcony, enjoying a cup of tea and a light meal. She is sitting in a cushioned armchair with a striped pattern, wearing a white robe. The balcony overlooks a stunning turquoise ocean with a few boats visible in the distance. Zanzibar Serena Hotel Macro Details photo The photo shows a person holding a white mug of coffee with dark liquid inside. The person is wearing a white robe and appears to be seated at a table. Their hands are outstretched, offering the mug to someone or something out of frame. 

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From292US$ /night
Check-in
26Apr2026Select date
Check-out
27Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

Hotel Overview and Details

P.O. Box 4151, Zanzibar, Tanzania
-
Close to the Historic Old Town
Great
8.5
8.8
/10
4.3
4.5
/5

Location

Zanzibar Serena Hotel sits oceanfront in historical Stone Town, adjacent to UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This location allows direct access to iconic landmarks like the House of Wonders and the Arab Fort, just minutes away. The hotel is 15 kilometers from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport with efficient airport transfer options available.

Rooms

The hotel offers 51 rooms and suites crafted in traditional Swahili style, showcasing high ceilings and ornate decor. Each room comes with a private balcony that provides uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean. Room options range from Standard Rooms to the luxurious Presidential Suite, catering to various preferences.

Dining

Zanzibar Serena Hotel hosts several dining venues, including the rooftop Terrace Seafood Restaurant specializing in fresh-caught seafood. Guests can enjoy authentic Swahili banquets at Baharia Restaurant by the pool, enhancing their culinary experience. The Masahani Bar offers signature cocktails, with live traditional Taarab music for an immersive dining atmosphere.

Wellness

The hotel offers Maisha treatments that start with a personalized consultation focusing on skincare and body care needs. Signature rituals and body ceremonies are provided, ensuring a relaxing experience complemented by African traditions. Guests can also enjoy a pool area located steps from the Indian Ocean, ideal for cooling off.

Family-Friendly Amenities

Zanzibar Serena caters to families with a supervised swimming pool and activities designed for children. The hotel provides children's menus and special dining hours to accommodate younger guests. Families can also arrange adjoining rooms for a more cohesive experience.

Highlights

Location: UNESCO World Heritage Sites nearby

Rooms: 51 rooms and suites with ocean views

Dining: Rooftop Terrace Seafood Restaurant

Wellness: Maisha treatments focused on personalized care

Family-Friendly: Activities and children's menus for young guests

Must-do experiences

  • Visit the historic Stone Town for its vibrant culture and architecture.
  • Don't miss the spice tour at a local farm for a sensory delight.
  • Savor fresh seafood at Forodhani Night Market after sunset.
  • Experience a traditional dhow sunset cruise along the coastline.
  • Explore the Zanzibar Butterfly Centre for a unique nature experience.
View all

Choose Your Room Category

The hotel offers a range of accommodations including doubles, family rooms, and suites—plus breakfast, free cancellation, and special rates.
Superior Double Room Sea View
2 persons
305 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Sea view
Shower
Bathtub
Standard Double Room
2 persons
280 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Bathtub
Executive Suite
2 persons
625 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Bathtub

Room Availability and Pricing Calendar

Find available rooms and check today's best prices!

Facilities

This hotel provides premium amenities for a memorable and relaxed stay
Facilities: Great
8.5/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • 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

  • Electric kettle

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
Show more

Dining Onsite

At Zanzibar Serena Hotel, dining is a vibrant celebration of the island's rich culinary heritage. Guests can indulge in an array of flavors, from fresh seafood to local spices, all enjoyed against the stunning backdrop of ocean views and the lush landscapes of Zanzibar. Each meal is an invitation to savor the exquisite tastes of the Spice Island.
Zanzibar Serena Hotel Restaurant photo The photo shows a bright and airy living area of a room, possibly a hotel suite or a vacation rental. The walls are painted a clean white, and the room is well-lit with natural light coming in from multiple sources. 

The room features a comfortable

Baharia

African, British, Indian, Pizza, Seafood, Local, Asian, Grill/BBQ
Ambiance
Set along the sea wall, Baharia offers breathtaking ocean views from its central dining area, complemented by the soft sounds of waves and the gentle island breeze.
Key Offerings
Baharia features a special emphasis on local flavors with a menu that celebrates the bounty of fresh-caught seafood and seasonal ingredients. Dine al fresco with sunset drinks or enjoy intimate beach dinners catered for a select few.
Reservation
Yes
Hours vary.

Hotel Location

P.O. Box 4151, Zanzibar, Tanzania
Map view
P.O. Box 4151, Zanzibar, Tanzania
Nearby
Museum
Old Fort of Zanzibar
1500 ft
Park
Forodhani Park
2000 ft
Historic Site
Stone Town
1900 ft
Kenyatta Road
Mercury House
1000 ft
Forodhani Gardens
1400 ft
Gallery
Hellen Art Gallery
500 ft
Cathedral St
St Joseph's Roman Catholic Cathedral
1400 ft
Princess Salme Museum at Emerson on Hurumzi
2000 ft
Gallery
The Beautiful Eyes
1900 ft
Hamamni Street
Cultural Arts Centre Zanzibar
1800 ft
Zanzibar
Tippu Tip's House
400 ft
Shangani
800 ft
Restaurants
Travellers Cafe
300 ft
Kelele Square
Buni
100 ft
Shangani Street
Sunset Bar at the Africa House
600 ft
Shangani Street
swaad restaurant
200 ft
Shangani St Shangani
Taarab Restaurant
500 ft
90 / 90A Shanghani St DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Zanzibar
Stone Town Cafe
900 ft
Kenyatta Road Shangani River
Explore Zanzibar
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Old Fort of Zanzibar
Old Fort of Zanzibar
6 minutes' walk
An iconic historic site featuring beautiful architecture and cultural displays, perfect for history enthusiasts.
House of Wonders
House of Wonders
9 minutes' walk
Zanzibar's first building with electricity, showcasing exhibitions on Swahili culture and history.
Darajani Market
Darajani Market
13 minutes' walk
A bustling local market where visitors can sample fresh produce and spices, reflecting the vibrant local culture.
Forodhani Park
Forodhani Park
7 minutes' walk
A scenic waterfront park famous for its night food market, ideal for enjoying local street food.
Maisha Mazuri Horse Riding Club
10 minutes' drive
Offers guided horse riding experiences through local landscapes, perfect for thrill-seekers.
Spa Services
5 minutes' walk
Relaxation and wellness treatments available at nearby spas, providing a tranquil escape from city life.
Travellers Cafe
Travellers Cafe
1 minute' walk
A casual spot with local and international dishes, known for its vibrant atmosphere and specialty coffee.
Sunset Bar at the Africa House
Sunset Bar at the Africa House
3 minutes' walk
A rooftop bar offering breathtaking sunset views, serving a range of cocktails and delicious tapas.
swaad restaurant
swaad restaurant
1 minute' walk
Features an array of traditional Zanzibari dishes, prepared with fresh, local ingredients in a cozy setting.
Old Fort of Zanzibar
Old Fort of Zanzibar
6 minutes' walk
A venue for music and cultural events, hosting performances, art exhibitions, and vibrant gatherings.
Mercury House
Mercury House
4 minutes' walk
Live music events celebrating local talent throughout the week in a charming historical setting.
Navigating city
City Centre
Zanzibar12 min  ·  3300 ft
Airports
Kisauni (ZNZ)13 min  ·  5.0 mi
Julius Nyerere (DAR)119 min  ·  49.2 mi
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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 for free.
Breakfast
At the hotel Zanzibar Serena guests are invited to a full breakfast served for free. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
13
Former name
Zanzibar Serena Inn

Guest Reviews and Hotel Ratings

Honest Guest Feedback Based on Real Stays
Review score
Based on 269 verified reviews
8.7/10
Great
86%
Recommend
Cleanliness
9.0/10
Comfort
9.0/10
Facilities
8.5/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.6/10
Location
9.5/10
Staff
9.2/10
Value for money
8.1/10
Pros
Beach location
Zanzibar decor
Friendly staff
Comfortable bed
Cons
Loud music
No elevator
Low water pressure
Limited breakfast
Guest reviews
based on 882 reviews
4.5/5
based on 359 reviews
8.5/10
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.
Open reviews
Questions of the users
About Zanzibar Serena Hotel
Can guests easily walk to the beach from the hotel?
1 October 2024
Yes, the beach is conveniently located right in front of the hotel, making it easily accessible on foot.
Is it possible for two adults and one child to stay in the same room?
5 November 2024
Yes, there is a room that can accommodate two adults and one child, although an extra charge will apply for the additional guest if the room is booked for double occupancy.
What is the fee for extending room usage until 1 a.m. for a night flight?
15 December 2024
A day room can be arranged for $102 should it be needed until your departure time.
What kind of activities can be enjoyed through the hotel during a stay in Zanzibar?
12 February 2025
Visitors can partake in unique Zanzibar activities, such as tours of Stone Town, spice tours, and swimming excursions like Safari Blue. Cultural experiences like Swahili feasts and sunset dhow cruises are also available.
Can recommendations be made for the best room options for a honeymoon?
27 March 2025
For a dreamy honeymoon experience, the Sea Front Prime Room or Executive Suite is highly recommended. Special perks such as decorations and complimentary meals can enhance your stay.
Is it possible to arrange for a shuttle service from the ferry terminal to the hotel?
21 April 2025
Yes, there is a shuttle service available from the ferry terminal to the hotel at a rate of $20.00 for a one-way trip.
Are airport transfer services provided to guests?
30 April 2025
Airport transfers are available at a rate of $40 for a one-way trip, accommodating up to six passengers per vehicle.
Is the hotel suitable for wheelchair users?
10 May 2025
Yes, the property has wheelchair accessibility, although there are some steps around the building.
How can guests enjoy watching live sports during their stay?
15 June 2025
All rooms feature televisions, and live sports can be enjoyed at the Masahani Bar, which includes a large screen connected to DSTV for guest viewing.
Are spa services available at the hotel?
1 July 2025
Yes, spa services are offered at the hotel, providing a variety of treatments to help guests unwind and rejuvenate.

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