The 20 Best Boutique Hotels in Zanzibar Archipelago (2026)

Guest Review: Simply put, the easiest 10/10 rating. Can’t recommend this place enough! We spent two weeks at Samawa Living for our honeymoon, and it was absolutely amazing. I have been to hotels all over the world, but Samawa is my favorite hotel experience! Everything was just perfect. Hotel rooms were large, super nice and really well equipped (even yoga mats and beach bag). They also keep them very clean. We really enjoyed chilling on the sunbeds in a quiet pool area, working out in the gym and in yoga classes. As well as the general vibe of the place, which is in large part due to the most friendly and helpful staff I have met! I also have to mention that the a la carte breakfast was a whole other level compared to regular hotel breakfast buffets (freshly made passion fruit juice is the best juice ever!). The food in general was by far the best we had in Zanzibar. Even though we had lunch and dinner other places in Paje and Jambiani, and normally don’t eat much at hotel restaurants, we ended up eating much more at the hotel than we had planned for. Big qudos to the chefs! It is not a large and overcrowded hotel, which allows for a much more pleasant stay than big hotels or resorts. Even though it’s not located on the beach, the beach is just a very short walk (or complimentary buggy ride) away - and we enjoyed the option of hanging out at a place with more peace and quiet than right on the beach itself. While we were there, they put on live music nights, movie nights and helped us with recommendations and bookings for tours and experiences. All in all, if you are going to Zanzibar, do yourself a favor and stay at Samawa! Thank you for so much for making our honeymoon perfect! Asante sana!

Guest Review: Lovely property, they are attentive to detail and the location is beautiful. My room was overlooking the sea and the pool. Exactly what I needed for my vacation. The staff is very nice and welcoming and the owners are very lovely people. Definitely will stay here next time i visit Zanzibar.

Guest Review: A family run boutique hotel. Pia and Hashim were the perfect hosts. A warm welcome on arrival, freshly squeezed juice and a plate of the most delicious local fruit. The staff have all been at the hotel for many years and nothing is too much. The property is clean and welcoming. There are a variety of rooms. We had a downstairs en-suite. Beautiful bed linen and fresh towels everyday. Towels provided to use on the beach. Snorkels, water Shoes, hats all available to borrow. Books to read and games to play if that’s what you fancy doing. Breakfast is included and my goodness what a variety. A paradise within a paradise and we didn’t want to leave.