Dhow Palace Hotel

Dhow Palace Hotel sits at the heart of Stone Town, Zanzibar's historic quarter designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The property occupies a setting of Swahili alleyways, within walking distance of the markets, mosques, and waterfronts that define this city's character. Its central position makes it an urban base for exploring Stone Town on foot, before venturing out to the island's beaches.

Why stay here

We've selected this property for its direct location within Stone Town, allowing you to immerse yourself in Zanzibar's historical and cultural fabric without relying on daily transfers. It suits travelers seeking to combine urban discovery and Swahili architecture with excursions to the island's beaches organized from the front desk. Room configurations available—from standard to triple, with suite and sea view or pool view options—adapt to solo travelers, couples, and small groups alike.

Guests on Google give the property a rating of 4.5 out of 5 (based on over 3,800 reviews). Feedback highlights the cultural immersion offered by Stone Town's setting and the wealth of activities accessible from the island. One point to bear in mind: several Zanzibar visitors note that swimming conditions vary by beach and tide, and that transport and excursion prices can be surprising—it's advisable to discuss these aspects with our team before departure.

Atmosphere

The hotel embodies Stone Town's character: historic architecture, narrow alleyways, lively urban energy. The district is vibrant around the clock, with dense pedestrian traffic and the distinctive sounds of a Swahili medina. The property suits travelers comfortable with an authentic urban environment rather than an isolated beachfront resort.

Guest rooms

Dhow Palace Hotel offers a range from standard rooms to a presidential suite, with sea view or pool view options in higher categories. The Deluxe Triple Room features a balcony. Premium categories (Deluxe Double Suite, Presidential Suite) cater to couples seeking greater comfort or unobstructed views. An additional bed is available for a supplement of 25 USD per night; children under 6 sharing their parents' bed without an extra bed incur no charge.

Services and facilities

Available data does not specify a detailed list of the property's facilities. The front desk can arrange private transfers to the northern and eastern beaches of the island. For any questions about services offered, please contact us directly.

Location and access

The hotel is located in Stone Town, approximately 15 minutes by car from Zanzibar's international airport. Zanzibar has no structured urban bus network: local travel is primarily by taxi (fare to be negotiated before the journey) or by daladala, the local shared minibuses serving different sectors of the island.

In the area

The immediate neighborhood offers several dining options, including Da Luigi restaurant and Salim Nzota restaurant, which serves local Tanzanian cuisine. For artisanal shopping, Kundemba Social Cooperation offers locally made products. Happy Massage & Spa is nearby for those seeking treatment between visits. The Forodhani waterfront, which comes alive in the evening with street food stalls, is also within walking distance. Guided walking tours of Stone Town are offered by local guides such as Juma Eco Guide Stone Town, based in the district. Stone Town's central market, where pharmacies and currency exchange offices are located, is accessible on foot in about ten minutes.

Planning your stay

Dhow Palace Hotel fits naturally into an itinerary combining Stone Town and Zanzibar's beaches. Our team is available to help you organize transfers, excursions, and stages of your stay based on your dates and preferences.