P.O. Box 4151,
Zanzibar,
Tanzania,
Mjini Magharibi Region
-
Steps from Stone Town Beach
Great
8.4
8.8
/10
4.5
4.5
/5
Loved by Zanzibar Serena Hotel guests
Helpful staff
Lovely ocean views
Delicious breakfast buffet
Comfortable beds
"The Serena had, maybe, the best location as they are right on the water and have an accessible beach."
Jim H from United States
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"One night, the executive chef Sunil Dutt, prepared a special dinner at The Terrace restaurant where we ate under the stars with waves lapping at the Shore."
Karen W from United States
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"My third stay here! It's so convenient to everything and the staff are exceptional."
Laureen
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Location
Zanzibar Serena Hotel occupies a prime oceanfront position in the historic Stone Town. The hotel is 15 kilometers from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport and is within walking distance of UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the National Museum of Zanzibar and the Arab Fort. Guests can explore vibrant bazaars and ancient architecture, including sultan's palaces and Portuguese forts, right outside the hotel's door.
Accommodations
The hotel offers 51 rooms and suites, each designed in traditional Swahili style with private balconies overlooking the Indian Ocean. Rooms feature high ceilings, antique furnishings, and large four-poster beds draped in mosquito nets for added comfort. The Presidential Suite provides an expansive living space with luxury amenities, showcasing the rich heritage of Zanzibar.
Dining
Zanzibar Serena Hotel presents a variety of dining options, including the rooftop Terrace Seafood Restaurant, which serves fresh-caught seafood with stunning bay views. The Baharia Restaurant hosts weekly Swahili banquets that allow guests to experience authentic local culinary traditions. Guests can unwind at the Masahani Bar with signature cocktails while enjoying live performances by traditional Taarab bands.
Event Spaces
For business and events, Zanzibar Serena Hotel offers a fully appointed Conference Suite accommodating up to 40 guests in various seating arrangements. The hotel's location provides access to notable venues, including the former Sultan Hamoud's Palace for larger gatherings. The attentive banquet team assists in all aspects of event planning, ensuring a seamless experience.
Family Amenities
The hotel offers family-friendly accommodations with children's menus and early dining times for younger guests. Supervised children's swimming areas and a playground allow for fun activities while parents relax. Special excursions, such as dolphin watching and trips to nearby islands, cater to families seeking adventure.
Highlights
Location: 15 kilometers from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport
Accommodations: 51 rooms with Indian Ocean views
Dining: Rooftop seafood restaurant with fresh-caught seafood
Event Spaces: Conference Suite for up to 40 guests
Family Amenities: Children's menus and supervised swimming areas
“In my opinion, Zanzibar Serena Hotel occupies a special place in Stone Town, a spot where Swahili tradition meets refined hospitality. The hotel's dedication to culinary excellence stands out, particularly Chef Sunil's willingness to craft personalized meals. Its location also provides immediate access to the beach and the cultural heart of Zanzibar.”
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel
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Select your room type
Zanzibar Serena Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Superior Double Room Sea View
2 persons
305 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Sea view
Shower
Bathtub
room details
Standard Double Room
2 persons
280 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Shower
Bathtub
room details
Executive Suite
2 persons
625 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Shower
Bathtub
room details
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Check availability and prices for your dates now!
Facilities
Zanzibar Serena Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities:
Great
8.5/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Free 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
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Dining Onsite
Zanzibar Serena Hotel invites guests to explore a rich tapestry of flavors and culinary traditions, reflecting the vibrant heritage of the Spice Island. With an emphasis on local ingredients, fresh seafood, and unique dining experiences, the hotel offers delightful settings for every occasion, from casual lunches by the sea to intimate dinners under the stars.
A charming space infused with the essence of Zanzibar, offering ocean views from its location alongside the central swimming pool and rooftop area.
Key Offerings
Highlights include an array of fresh-caught seafood, grilled specialties, and local dishes flavored with spices cultivated on small farms nearby. Guests can also enjoy individual beach dinners for a truly immersive experience in Zanzibar's natural beauty.
Reservation
Not required.
Hours vary.
Zanzibar Serena Hotel Location
P.O. Box 4151,
Zanzibar,
Tanzania,
Mjini Magharibi Region
Map view
P.O. Box 4151,
Zanzibar,
Tanzania,
Mjini Magharibi Region
City landmarks
Landmark
Old Dispensary
3300 ft
Museum
House of Wonders
2300 ft
Museum
Sultan's Palace
2200 ft
Landmark
Hamamni Persian Baths
2200 ft
Market
Darajani Market
3500 ft
Landmark
The Peace Memorial Museum
2900 ft
Church
Old Slave Market
3000 ft
Gallery
Hurumzi Henna Art Gallery
2200 ft
Landmark
Marahubi Palace
2300 ft
Landmark
Shree Shiv Shakti Temple
2200 ft
Landmark
Kiponda
3400 ft
Landmark
Malindi Mosque
2600 ft
Church
Christ Church
2500 ft
Landmark
Hurumzi Street
2300 ft
Landmark
Slave Chambers
2900 ft
Nearby
Museum
Old Fort of Zanzibar
1500 ft
Historic Site
Stone Town
1900 ft
Kenyatta Road
Mercury House
1000 ft
Church
Christ Church Cathedral
1600 ft
Park
Forodhani Park
2000 ft
Kelele Square
400 ft
Gallery
Hellen Art Gallery
500 ft
Cathedral St
St Joseph's Roman Catholic Cathedral
1400 ft
Hamamni Street
Cultural Arts Centre Zanzibar
1800 ft
Princess Salme Museum at Emerson on Hurumzi
2000 ft
Gallery
The Beautiful Eyes
1900 ft
Zanzibar
Tippu Tip's House
400 ft
Shangani
800 ft
Shangani St
Mambo Msiige
500 ft
Vuga
1100 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
Zanzibar Serena Hotel Activities
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Mercury House
4 minutes walking
Historic home of Freddie Mercury, showcasing Zanzibari architecture with an intriguing link to the music legend.
Old Fort of Zanzibar
6 minutes walking
An ancient fortress representing diverse cultural influences, often hosting local craft markets and performances.
House of Wonders
9 minutes walking
A former palace turned museum, displaying Swahili and Zanzibari heritage with insights into the island's history.
Forodhani Park
7 minutes walking
A vibrant waterfront park famous for its evening food market offering delicious local street food and entertainment.
Watersports at Astaztour
20 minutes' drive
Exciting water activities like snorkeling and diving; rental services are available for gear.
Horse Riding at Maisha Mazuri
10 minutes' drive
Serene horseback riding experiences through beautiful landscapes. Pre-booking is recommended.
Local Market Visits
13 minutes walking
Explore vibrant local markets like Darajani, offering fresh produce and artisan goods, ideal for cultural immersion.
Buni
1 minute walking
Charming café offering local dishes with farm-to-table freshness. Ideal for casual brunch.
Travellers Cafe
1 minute walking
A relaxed vibe with a diverse menu; try the seafood specialties and artisan breakfasts.
Sunset Bar at Africa House
3 minutes walking
Rooftop bar with stunning sunset views; perfect for cocktails and light bites in a romantic setting.
Old Fort Events
6 minutes walking
Regular cultural performances and live music events make this fort a hub of entertainment and local culture.
Forodhani Food Market
7 minutes walking
Evening markets with live music and local delicacies, great for families and travelers alike.
Getting around
City Centre
Zanzibar12 min
·
3300 ft
Airports
Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ)13 min
·
5.0
mi
Julius Nyerere Airport (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
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback about Zanzibar Serena Hotel from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 209 verified reviews
8.7/10
Great
89%
Recommend
Breakfast
9.3/10
Cleanliness
9.0/10
Comfort
9.1/10
Facilities
8.5/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.8/10
Location
9.5/10
Paid Wi-Fi
8.0/10
Staff
9.2/10
Value for money
8.0/10
Pros
Welcoming staff
Comfortable beds
Authentic breakfast
Cons
Tepid shower
Lack of care
Guest reviews
based on 882 reviews
4.5/5
based on 356 reviews
8.4/10
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.
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Questions of the users
About Zanzibar Serena Hotel
Is it easy to walk to the beach from the hotel?
15 November 2024
Yes, guests can easily access the beach on foot as it is located directly in front of the hotel.
Can a room accommodate two adults and one child?
22 January 2025
Only one room can accommodate this request. If booked as a double, a supplement will be charged for the extra child.
What is the cost if we want to extend our room stay until 1 AM due to a night flight?
2 March 2025
A day room is available for a charge of $102 until 1 AM. Please confirm your preference to finalize arrangements.
What unique activities are available for guests at the hotel?
10 April 2025
The hotel organizes signature activities such as guided tours of Stone Town, spice tours, and experiences of traditional Swahili culture, including feasts and music shows.
Is there a special experience for honeymooners?
25 May 2025
Honeymooners can enjoy the Sea Front Prime Room or Executive Suite with complimentary perks including decorations, dinner, and massages to enhance their romantic getaway.
Can an additional bed be provided in the room for a third guest?
30 June 2025
Yes, arrangements can be made to add an extra bed in a suite to accommodate a third person comfortably.
What are the rates for transfers from the ferry terminal to the hotel?
14 August 2024
Seaport transfers are provided at a rate of $20 for a one-way trip, accommodating up to six passengers per vehicle.
Is it possible to arrange a shuttle for airport transfers?
18 September 2024
Airport transfers are available for $40 per vehicle, accommodating up to six passengers.
What is the check-in process for late-night arrivals?
5 October 2024
Check-in is typically at 1 PM, but arrangements can be made for late arrivals, including a shuttle service for a nominal fee.
When is the ideal time to enjoy a beach vacation at this destination?
12 November 2024
The best time to visit for a beach holiday is from mid-July to September and again from December until the end of February.