SHABA BOUTIQUE HOTEL, Zanzibar – A Smart Stay in the City
About the Hotel
Historic Stone Town Location
Shaba Boutique Hotel occupies an old trade building in the heart of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It sits 500 meters from Darajani fruit and fish market and 430 meters from the ocean front. The Forodhani Food Market, where local chefs prepare meals, is within walking distance. The hotel is 10 km from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport.
Traditional Accommodation Options
The hotel offers three room categories: 4 Suites with king-size beds, queen-size and single beds, or king-size and bunk beds; 5 Deluxe rooms with king or queen beds; and 4 Standard rooms with queen beds. All rooms feature air conditioning, ceiling fans, mosquito nets, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, safety deposit boxes, and private bathrooms with hairdryers. Rooms have Zanzibari-style furnishings and city views.
On-Site Facilities & Services
The property provides 24-hour security, a rooftop terrace with city views, and excursion information. Staff speak multiple languages and can arrange spa treatments at nearby facilities. The hotel holds a Travelife Gold Certificate for sustainability. An ATM is available 200 meters away, and UK-style (type G) electrical outlets are provided in rooms.
Nearby Attractions & Activities
The hotel is a 2-minute walk from the House of Wonders museum and 500 meters from landmarks including the Old Dispensary, Christ Church Cathedral, Sultan's Palace, and Hamamni Persian Baths. Guests can visit Prison Island, Spice Farms, or see Red Colobus monkeys. A PADI diving center is 800 meters away, and bicycle rentals are available.
Dining & Local Cuisine
Many restaurants serving Indian, Ethiopian, Lebanese, Asian, Arabic, and Italian cuisine are located next door. The nearby House of Spices features a wine bar, restaurant, and two tea rooms just a 2-minute walk away. The Forodhani Food Market offers freshly prepared local meals cooked in front of guests.
Choose the Room
Check Dates & Room Rates
Getting around
All Transportation Options at a Glance
Amenities
General
- No smoking on site
- Free Wi-Fi
- Safe deposit box
- No pets allowed
- 24-hour security
- Luggage storage
- Smoke detectors
- Fire extinguishers
Services
- Paid shuttle service
- Housekeeping
- Tours/Ticket assistance
Room features
- Air conditioning
- Sitting area
- Tea and coffee facilities
Media
- Flat-screen TV
- AM/FM alarm clock
Location
Guest Ratings & Reviews
The hotel has a unique and well-curated room on the first floor filled with ornaments from all around the world, offering a wonderful experience, although the rooms are on the narrow side. The location, perfect for exploring Stone Town, is a bit noisy due to street noise but provides an authentic local feel. The dining experience is exceptional, with delicious fresh juice, tropical fruit, and more, making it one of my best stays. The hotel offers a great value for the money.
Waking up to local Stone Town sounds and greetings from the street below was a unique experience. The room was clean and comfortable with essential air conditioning, though the strong anti-insect Poisson odor was a drawback while away. The location was perfect for exploring the real Stone Town, albeit slightly noisy due to street sounds. The dining experience was delightful with customized meals made on the spot. The hotel offers great value for the prime location but prepare to walk a bit due to narrow streets.
The hotel offers amazing rooms which are beautifully decorated and provide great value, perfect for a luxurious break after our camping safari. The downside was the lack of a proper window leading to some noise disturbances late at night.