"Also the privacy of having your own pool was really nice."
Udoka from Nigeria
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"We stayed in an ocean front room which was fantastic - the private pool was a great size."
Dave-Jerseyboy from United Kingdom
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"The resort is set in a very natural surrounding and there is lots of opportunity to catch the wildlife in action (including cheeky monkeys!)."
TASNEEM
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5-star private villa resort in Zanzibar
Location
The Residence Zanzibar is situated on a vast 32-hectare estate along a mile-long pristine beach, providing direct access to the Indian Ocean. The hotel is close to spice plantations, where guests can learn about local spices, and the rare Red Colobus Monkeys can be spotted in the surrounding nature. This secluded hideaway combines the allure of tropical gardens with the tranquil beauty of the coastline.
Rooms
The resort offers 66 spacious villas that blend local cultural influences with contemporary design. Each villa includes a private pool, outdoor deck, and garden or ocean views, ensuring a relaxing atmosphere for guests. Amenities include open-air showers and personal butler service upon request.
Dining
The resort hosts two restaurants that reflect the spice and culture of Zanzibar, serving a range of international and local dishes. Guests can enjoy unique dining experiences, including farm-to-table options with produce sourced from the resort's kitchen farms. The Pavilion Restaurant offers Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine in an inviting setting located within the gardens.
Wellness
The Spa at The Residence Zanzibar features six spacious treatment pavilions and a relaxation area within two hectares of tropical gardens. Guests can experience treatments that incorporate local plants and spices for a holistic approach to wellness. The wellness offerings aim to rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit.
Activities
The Residence Zanzibar provides numerous water sports including sailing, kayaking, and snorkeling, available directly from the resort. Guests can explore the extensive gardens by foot or bicycle, or engage with local wildlife, including the Red Colobus Monkeys. The resort also features a kids' club, offering activities for children aged 4 to 14, including cooking classes and games.
Highlights
Location: 32-hectare estate and mile-long beach
Rooms: 66 spacious villas with private pools
Dining: Farm-to-table dining experience
Wellness: The Spa with six treatment pavilions
Activities: Water sports and wildlife exploration
“The private villas certainly stand out, especially for families needing space and privacy; each comes complete with its own pool. While the resort is quite expansive and offers unique dining experiences, some areas could use a refresh to truly match the luxury villa experience. Overall, it's a lovely spot that promises relaxation.”
Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel
Select your room type
The Residence Zanzibar offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Luxury Garden Pool Villa
2 persons
155 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Garden view
Air conditioning
Bathtub
room details
Luxury Ocean Front Pool Villa
2 persons
155 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
Prestige Ocean Front Pool Villa
2 persons
194 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
Show all rooms
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Check availability and prices for your dates now!
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Check-in/ Check-out
Facilities
The Residence Zanzibar offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Perfect
9.0/10Review score
General
Non-smoking rooms
Parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
VIP check-in/ -out
Express check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Wheelchair access
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Locker room
Private beach
Currency exchange
Hairdresser
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Sports & Fitness
Fitness centre
Diving
Snorkelling
Tennis court
Badminton
Billiard tables
Darts
Table tennis
Yoga class
Sports trainer
Aerobics
Services
Paid airport shuttle
Room service
Housekeeping
Car hire
Laundry
Dry cleaning
Tours/Ticket assistance
Welcome drink
Happy hour
Dining
In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Poolside snack bar
Snack bar
Dinner
Packed lunches
Special diet menus
Business
Business centre
Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying
Children
Cots
Babysitting/Child services
Board games
Children's menu
Children's play area
Kids club
Game room
Spa & Leisure
Outdoor swimming pool
Beach access
Beach umbrellas
Sun loungers
Live entertainment
Sun terrace
Garden area
Leisure/ TV room
Spa & wellness centre
Sauna
Steam room
Jacuzzi
Pedicure
Manicure
Waxing
Body scrub
Facial
Treatment room
Body wraps
Back massage
Head massage
Full body massage
Foot massage
Pool with view
Room features
Free Wi-Fi in rooms
Air conditioning
Mini-bar
Sitting area
Patio
Terrace
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities
Bathroom
Free toiletries
Media
CD player
AM/FM alarm clock
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Dining Onsite
At The Residence Zanzibar, dining options celebrate a fusion of Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Grill traditions, all set against the backdrop of pristine beaches and lush gardens. Enhanced by stunning sunsets and intimate atmospheres, each venue promises a distinctive culinary experience that indulges the senses.
The Pavilion
Caribbean and Mediterranean
Ambiance
Traditional setting offering an immersive dining experience in a large living area
Key Offerings
Savor dishes influenced by Indian, Arabic, and Mediterranean flavors, complemented by an atmospheric dining experience extending beyond the plate.
Reservation
Reservations recommended.
Dinner from 19:30 - 22:30, daily
The Dining Room
Caribbean and Mediterranean
Ambiance
Family-friendly, traditional, and romantic atmosphere, ideal for both casual and intimate dining
Key Offerings
Start your day with a hearty breakfast in a spacious dining area, enjoying vibrant flavors amid a welcoming atmosphere.
Reservation
Reservations not needed.
Breakfast from 07:30 - 10:30, daily
The Residence Zanzibar Location
Mchangamle, Kizimkazi, Kizimkazi,
Explore Kizimkazi
Explore Nearby Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Kizimkazi Old Mosque
10-minute drive
A historic mosque dating back to the 12th century, showcasing Arabian architecture and serene surroundings, great for cultural appreciation.
Kizimkazi Beach
10-minute drive
Known for its tranquil atmosphere, this beach is ideal for relaxation and enjoying pristine sands along the picturesque coast.
Vundwe Island
10-minute drive
A stunning island reachable by boat, perfect for nature lovers, featuring diverse marine life and beautiful snorkeling spots.
Pete Inlet Bay
10-minute drive
A scenic bay offering beautiful views, ideal for picnicking or casual walks along the shore and experiencing local wildlife.
Snorkeling Tours
10-minute drive
Guided tours available to vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Equipment rental and transportation can be arranged easily.
Yoga Sessions
15-minute drive
Relaxing outdoor yoga classes on the beachfront, perfect for unwinding and enhancing mental wellness. Sessions are available year-round.
Fishing Excursions
10-minute drive
Fishing trips catered for thrill-seekers, with local guides providing equipment and insight into the rich waters around Zanzibar.
The Fisherman's Restaurant
10-minute drive
Enjoy fresh seafood and local dishes in a relaxed atmosphere. Reservations recommended for peak hours, with vegetarian options available.
Kizimkazi Café
10-minute drive
A casual spot known for its coffee and local snacks, perfect for a light meal or refreshing drink after a day on the beach.
Local Night Market
10-minute drive
A vibrant market with local crafts, street food, and live music happening every weekend, perfect for cultural immersion and family fun.
Jazz at Sunset Lounge
15-minute drive
A relaxed bar featuring live jazz performances, ideal for a chill evening with crafted cocktails and a cozy atmosphere.
Getting around
City Centre
Kizimkazi 8 min · 3.0 mi
Airports
Kisauni (ZNZ) 88 min · 36.2 mi
Julius Nyerere (DAR) 89 min · 36.5 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
from 11:00-12:00
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Children & extra beds
Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 2.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Languages
English, German, Spanish, Hindi, Bahasa Indonesian, Swahili, Tamil, Telugu
Year renovated:
2011
Number of rooms:
66
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback about The Residence Zanzibar from previous guests about their experience.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
The Residence Zanzibar is often described as a gem, offering a luxurious experience with spacious oceanfront pool villas. Guests particularly appreciate the well-maintained grounds that host diverse wildlife, and many enjoyed excursions to Stone Town. The buffet-style meals with themed evenings and live music are a highlight for many, though some guests have found the prices for drinks and food to be rather high. The gym includes treadmills and stationary bikes, and a comfy king-size bed and hot tub can be found in the villas.
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Review score
Based on 548 verified reviews
9.0 /10
Perfect
89 %
Recommend
Comfort
9.4/10
Cleanliness
9.2/10
Free WiFi
7.9/10
Value for money
8.1/10
Pros
Villa accommodation
Private pool
Exceptional staff
Tranquil property
Cons
Remote location
Cold food
Expensive drinks
Guest reviews
based on 548 reviews
9.0/10
based on 312 reviews
8.7/10
Dominic from United Kingdom
Couple
Luxury Garden Pool Villa
5 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: February 01, 2026
6/10
Mixed feelings at this hotel
inattentive service uncleared glasses
I was disappointed by the service around the pool. It was not attentive. Empty glasses remained uncleared. Guests had to fetch towels independently, even with several staff members present.
0 Helpful
Dominic from United Kingdom
Family with children
Luxury Garden Pool Villa
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 12, 2026
6/10
some issues NEED addressing
lack of safety child seat
The staff were polite. The rooms are very GOOD.
I found a concerning lack of attention to safety issues. The hotel did not provide a child seat for airport transfers. This is unacceptable for a 5-star resort. The seat was also not installed, and the driver was UNABLE to secure it. I feel that the management needs to address these safety concerns with their transfer vehicles.
0 Helpful
Dominic from United Kingdom
Couple
Luxury Garden Pool Villa
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 07, 2026
9/10
Excellent Service and Facilities
equipped gym spacious rooms tidy housekeeping
The on-site gym has treadmills and stationary bikes. The rooms are spacious. Housekeeping kept our room tidy. Our personal pool was cleaned several times.
0 Helpful
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Questions of the users
About The Residence Zanzibar
As a solo traveler seeking a charming room with a bathtub and ocean view, can I find an option priced below $200 per night?
18 April 2025
Currently, the lowest price for ocean view accommodations begins at $300 per night.
Can a Luxury Ocean Front Pool Villa accommodate two children aged 3 and 6, along with two adults?
22 March 2024
Yes, the children can comfortably sleep on rollaway beds placed in the living area.
How private are the villas and their pools? My wife wears a hijab, and privacy is essential for us.
10 July 2024
The villas can be allocated for maximum privacy, ensuring a secluded experience.
Is it possible to add an extra bed for a third traveler in the luxury garden pool villa?
30 September 2025
Adding an extra bed is feasible; please confirm your booking details for arrangements.
Are halal meal options available at the resort?
15 August 2024
Halal meals are offered for guests who require them.
Do all villas come equipped with bathtubs for guests seeking a relaxing soak?
5 November 2025
Yes, all villas are provided with bathtubs.
Can two single beds be arranged instead of a double bed in a luxury villa for two male guests?
12 January 2025
Yes, twin bed options are available for the luxury garden pool villa.
Do you provide airport shuttle services, and what is the cost of transportation from the airport?
28 February 2024
Private airport transfers are available at a cost of $105 each way.
Can the private pool in the luxury garden pool villa ensure complete privacy during our stay?
25 June 2024
Privacy of the private pool varies based on villa allocation; please provide booking details for confirmation.
What is the best villa option for those wishing for a private pool that cannot be seen from outside?
19 October 2025
The luxury garden pool villa is highly recommended for optimal privacy.
Is there a possibility for a late check-out until 16:00, and what are the fees involved?
8 December 2024
Late check-out until 16:00 can be arranged, subject to availability, with a fee of 50% of the room rate.
Are there packages for honeymooners if we choose a stay of four nights or more?
3 September 2025
Yes, there is a special honeymoon package available for guests staying four nights or longer.