Tembo House Hotel Zanzibar Amenities photoTembo House Hotel Zanzibar Exterior photoTembo House Hotel Zanzibar Exterior photo
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From101US$ /night
Check-in
17Apr2026Select date
Check-out
18Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Shangani/Forodhani Street, Zanzibar, Tanzania
-
Next to House of Wonders
Great
8.3
8.8
/10
4.2
4.2
/5

Location

Tembo House Hotel stands prominently along the shores of Stone Town, offering direct access to pristine beaches and scenic ocean views. It serves as a launchpad for excursions to nearby attractions like the spice farms and the bustling local market. Its central position allows guests to explore the UNESCO Heritage Site of Stone Town's rich history seamlessly.

Rooms

Each room at Tembo House Hotel presents a distinct character, showcasing influences from Zanzibar's history. The Presidential Suite includes a spacious private balcony with sea front views and elegant Swahili furnishings. Guests can also opt for the Deluxe Suites that bring the ocean ambiance indoors.

Dining

Bahari Restaurant offers a diverse menu, including local seafood delicacies and tropical juices sourced from local farms. Guests can dine under the shade of Indian Almond trees while enjoying stunning ocean views. The culinary experience is shaped by the rich flavors of Zanzibar's famed spice islands.

Swimming Pool

The hotel boasts an azure central pool, providing a serene retreat just steps away from the beach. An infinity plunge pool on the first floor offers an incredible vantage point overlooking the ocean. This setup allows guests to enjoy leisure moments while taking in the striking views.

Historical Significance

Tembo House Hotel is a storied establishment, having hosted notable figures throughout its history, including Mahatma Gandhi and Freddie Mercury. It stands as a testament to Zanzibar's past, entwining guests in a narrative rich with cultural exchanges. Visitors can step into a vibrant legacy surrounded by historical architecture.

Highlights

Location: Direct access to pristine beaches

Rooms: Distinctive rooms showcasing Zanzibar's history

Dining: Local seafood delicacies at Bahari Restaurant

Swimming Pool: Central azure pool with ocean views

“Tembo House Hotel captures Zanzibar's spirit with its blend of history and beachfront ease. I noted its prime location in Stone Town, alongside modern comforts and family-friendly perks. The chance to savor local cuisine and unwind by the infinity pool makes this hotel a standout choice, in my opinion.”
Hotel logo
Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel
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Select your room type

Tembo House Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Twin Room Balcony City View
2 persons
325 sq. feet 
2 Double beds
Shower
Balcony
Double Room Balcony City View
2 persons
325 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Balcony
Family Room Balcony & Sea View
2 persons
435 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Shower
Balcony
Junior Suite Balcony & Ocean View
2 persons
325 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Balcony
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Facilities

Tembo House Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.3/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • 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
  • Allergy-free rooms
  • Currency exchange
  • ATM/Cash machine
  • Hairdresser
  • Coffee shop
  • Vending machines
  • Fireplace
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key access

Sports & Fitness

  • Diving
  • Snorkelling
  • Cycling
  • Tennis
  • Golf course
  • Billiard tables
  • Darts
  • Table tennis
  • Aerobics
  • Fishing

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle
  • Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Services

  • Paid airport shuttle
  • Valet parking
  • Room service
  • Housekeeping
  • Car hire
  • Laundry
  • Dry cleaning
  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Grocery shopping service
  • Shops/Commercial services

Dining

  • In-room breakfast
  • Restaurant
  • Snack bar
  • Picnic area/ Tables
  • Dinner
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Business centre
  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots
  • Babysitting/Child services
  • Baby pushchair
  • Board games
  • Children's menu
  • Children's pool
  • Children's play area
  • Toys
  • Game room

Facilities for people with disabilities

  • Toilet for disabled
  • Bathroom for disabled

Spa & Leisure

  • Infinity pool
  • Beach access
  • Beach umbrellas
  • Sun loungers
  • Live entertainment
  • Sun terrace
  • Garden area
  • BBQ facilities
  • Leisure/ TV room
  • Spa & wellness centre
  • Turkish bath
  • Pedicure
  • Manicure
  • Waxing
  • Body scrub
  • Facial
  • Treatment room
  • Body wraps
  • Back massage
  • Head massage
  • Foot massage
  • Pool with view
  • Shallow end
  • Make up services

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Mini-bar
  • Sitting area
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle
  • Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock
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Dining Onsite

At Tembo House Hotel, the Tembo Bahari Restaurant offers a delightful fusion of local and international flavors, inviting guests to experience Zanzibar's rich culinary heritage. With a warm ambiance catering to families and couples alike, guests can savor a variety of dishes throughout the day.

Tembo Bahari Restaurant

Local and International Cuisine
Ambiance
Family-friendly and accommodating both traditional and modern dining preferences, set within a welcoming environment perfect for all occasions.
Key Offerings
A diverse menu featuring African, American, Italian, and Middle Eastern dishes among others, complemented by vegetarian and Halal options. Ideal for leisurely breakfasts, brunches, and romantic dinners.
Reservation
Not needed.
Open daily from 06:00 AM to 12:00 AM.

Tembo House Hotel Location

Shangani/Forodhani Street, Zanzibar, Tanzania
Map view
Shangani/Forodhani Street, Zanzibar, Tanzania
Nearby
Museum
Old Fort of Zanzibar
800 ft
Museum
House of Wonders
1600 ft
Historic Site
Stone Town
1400 ft
Museum
Sultan's Palace
1500 ft
Hamamni St
Hamamni Persian Baths
1800 ft
Kenyatta Road
Mercury House
300 ft
Church
Christ Church Cathedral
900 ft
Park
Forodhani Park
1200 ft
Kelele Square
500 ft
Gallery
Hellen Art Gallery
1000 ft
Cathedral St
St Joseph's Roman Catholic Cathedral
1400 ft
Gallery
The Beautiful Eyes
1300 ft
Princess Salme Museum at Emerson on Hurumzi
1300 ft
Hamamni Street
Cultural Arts Centre Zanzibar
1400 ft
Gallery
Hurumzi Henna Art Gallery
1600 ft
Marahubi Palace
1800 ft
Hurumzi St
Shree Shiv Shakti Temple
1600 ft
Jamatini Rd
Malindi Mosque
2000 ft
Zanzibar
Tippu Tip's House
800 ft
Shangani
1000 ft
Hurumzi Street
1600 ft
Church
Christ Church
2000 ft
Shangani St
Mambo Msiige
400 ft
P.O.Box 1844,Zanzibar Tanzania Stonetown Zanzibar
Imani Zuberi
1800 ft
Restaurants
Livingstone Beach Restaurant
400 ft
Shanghani St.
Tuna sea view restaurant
0 ft
Dikoni
Taarab Restaurant
700 ft
90 / 90A Shanghani St DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Zanzibar
Monsoon Restaurant
600 ft
Forodhani Forodhani Gardens
Ocean Grill
500 ft
Mizingani Rd
Masa Japanese Restaurant
400 ft
Kenyatta Rd. 1st Floor Shanghani Post Office
Lazuli
600 ft
Shangani district Latitude -6.163158 Longitude 39.187793
Stone Town Cafe
600 ft
Kenyatta Road Shangani River
Explore Zanzibar
Explore Zanzibar
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Old Fort of Zanzibar
Old Fort of Zanzibar
3 minutes' walk
Historic fort dating back to the late 17th century, featuring local crafts and picturesque sea views.
House of Wonders
House of Wonders
6 minutes' walk
The largest and tallest building in Stone Town, showcasing Swahili and Arab culture through exhibitions.
Darajani Market
Darajani Market
11 minutes' walk
Vibrant local market offering fresh produce, spices, and handmade crafts, ideal for shopping and cultural immersion.
Sultan's Palace
Sultan's Palace
6 minutes' walk
Former royal residence transformed into a museum, presenting artifacts and royal memorabilia of Zanzibar's history.
Beach Day at Astaztour
15 minutes' walk
Relaxation spot with sandy beaches and clear waters. Perfect for sunbathing or swimming.
Kite Surfing Lessons
15 minutes driving
Thrilling water sport suitable for all skill levels, with rentals and lessons available at nearby beaches.
Hamamni Persian Baths
Hamamni Persian Baths
7 minutes' walk
Historic Turkish baths providing a serene atmosphere for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Tuna Sea View Restaurant
1 minute' walk
Casual dining with fresh seafood, stunning ocean views, and a vibrant atmosphere. Reservations recommended.
Ocean Grill
Ocean Grill
2 minutes' walk
Offers grilled specialties and a relaxed setting. Perfect for families and groups, accommodating dietary needs.
Monsoon Restaurant
Monsoon Restaurant
2 minutes' walk
Blend of local and international cuisines in a charming environment. Highly praised for its exotic cocktails.
Forodhani Gardens
5 minutes' walk
Evening food market with local street food and live music, great for families and experiencing local culture.
Zanzibar International Film Festival
Slightly more than a 10-minute drive
Annual film festival showcasing local and international films with various events for all ages. Check schedule for dates.
Getting around
City Centre
Zanzibar10 min  ·  2700 ft
Airports
Kisauni (ZNZ)12 min  ·  4.8 mi
Julius Nyerere (DAR)120 min  ·  49.3 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 12:00-23:59
Check-out
until 10 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Breakfast
At the hotel Tembo House guests are invited to a full breakfast served for free. 
Children & extra beds
Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 1. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Languages
English, German, Spanish, Italian, Dutch, Portuguese, Norwegian, Swedish, Russian, Arabic, Hindi, Swahili
Number of rooms:
85
Former name
tembo house hotel & apartments

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Tembo House Hotel from previous guests about their experience.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
Tembo House Hotel enjoys a superb location right on the beach in the heart of Stone Town, making it easy to explore the historic attractions. Guests frequently highlight the access to the beach, perfect for sunset viewing, and the beautiful swimming pool. Breakfast receives praise for its varied and plentiful selection, sometimes with local flavors. While most find the location ideal, some guests have noted that rooms facing the road can be a bit noisy.
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Review score
Based on 1965 verified reviews
8.2/10
Great
86%
Recommend
Location
9.4/10
Staff
8.9/10
Value for money
8.2/10
Facilities
8.3/10
Pros
Helpful staff
Amazing location
Clean room
Good facilities
Cons
Extra bill
Small pools
Guest reviews
based on 1965 reviews
8.2/10
based on 4314 reviews
8.3/10
benoît from france
Single
double room balcony sea view
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 04, 2025
8.7/10

excellent stay in historic setting

ideal locationhelpful staffvaried breakfastconvenient access
the location was ideal. the staff were helpful. i found the breakfast selection varied and plentiful. i especially liked the beach access and found it very convenient (perfect for sunset viewing!).
The wifi signal in my room was a little weak at times.
Dining
9/10
the breakfast buffet featured a wide array of options. i noticed fresh fruits, pastries, and local specialties. the dining area was clean and well maintained with prompt service.
Facilities
8/10
the hotel had three pools available to guests. i counted ample sun loungers and umbrellas around the pool areas. the reception provided efficient service for tours and transportation.
Rooms
9/10
my room included a balcony with sea views. it featured air conditioning and a spacious bathroom. the room had a mini-fridge and a television with multiple channels.
0 Helpful
|
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Emily from Canada
Family with children
double room balcony sea view
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:November 29, 2025
9/10

wonderful beachfront stay!

direct accessbreakfast options
the hotel location was amazing! the rear entrance gave direct beach access, and the front entrance was near the town center. the breakfast offered many options, including a crepe and omelette station where items were prepared fresh.
0 Helpful
Questions of the users
About Tembo House Hotel
What is the ideal season for a delightful beach getaway at the hotel?
30 April 2024
The best time to enjoy a perfect beach holiday is from 20 December to the end of February.
Are there any complimentary shuttle services available from the airport to the hotel?
5 March 2024
A shuttle service is available for a fee of $15.
How can I organize an airport transfer or transport to a different location in Zanzibar?
19 June 2024
Airport transfers can be arranged, along with transportation to various areas in Zanzibar.
Is access to the swimming pool offered free of charge?
14 July 2024
Hotel guests can enjoy swimming pool access at no additional cost.
What is the story behind the Freddie Mercury apartment?
22 September 2024
The apartment is named after Freddie Mercury himself, who once stayed there, making it a historic place.
Can you provide details on the location of the annex relative to the main building?
10 August 2024
The annex is situated across from the main hotel building, providing easy access.
Is the swimming pool currently operational?
17 October 2024
The pool is currently closed for repairs and is expected to reopen by July.
Is it possible to arrange a late check-out, and what is the process?
28 November 2024
Late check-out can be arranged at no charge until 12 PM, depending on availability for a later time.
Can guests check in at a very late hour, such as 01:40 AM, and will airport shuttles be available at that time?
11 February 2025
Yes, shuttles can accommodate 01:40 AM arrivals, and check-in is possible depending on the booking.
How far is the hotel from the beach, and is it easily accessible?
4 December 2024
The beach is just a few minutes' walk from the hotel, providing free access to all guests.
Is there an elevator in the hotel for guests who may have difficulty with stairs?
19 January 2025
There is no elevator available, but ground floor rooms can be offered for convenience.
What is the cost for multiple passengers on the airport transfer service?
22 March 2024
The fee is $15 per person for groups of six or more, and $20 for morning and night transfers for smaller groups.

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