Opened in 2009, the Swahili House is a classic Zanzibari guesthouse with a fabulous location in historical Stone Town. Built in the 19th-century as an Indian merchant’s home, this large guesthouse has been converted into a charming hotel without sacrificing too many of its original features. Indeed, much of the building has been restored to something closer to its original state, albeit with some modern improvements made in the process. The overall result is delightful—a beautifully-converted hotel with traditional influences and modern day facilities, underpinned by Swahili hospitality.
The Swahili House is located a little further from the historical centre of Stone Town than a number of other, better-established guesthouses—the seafront and night market is a five minute walk away.
Accommodation
The Swahili House is a tall townhouse, with five floors built around a central courtyard. A rather steep wooden staircase connects the floors. Guests with limited mobility should only consider the ground floor rooms.
The 22 guest rooms occupy the bottom four floors, and are split between three categories: Deluxe, Suite, and Sultan Suite. Even within each category, the layout and size of the rooms differs, as they follow the structure of the original home. All of the rooms, however, are comfortably furnished with intricately carved wooden Zanzibari beds, stone benches and vibrant fabrics. Most of the suites include a small private balcony. All rooms are air-conditioned and feature en-suite bathroom with shower and bath (some of the deluxe rooms are shower only).
Dining
Like any good Zanzibar guesthouse, the Swahili Guesthouse has a rooftop restaurant and bar with a view of Stone Town and the Indian Ocean. A good continental-style breakfast is provided here each morning. Lunch and dinner menus are also available.
The Swahili Guesthouse serves alcohol.
Activities
Tour of historic Stone Town
Spice tour
Island and beach excursions
Child Policy
There are no age restrictions at the Swahili House. Families can be accommodated.
