Overview
Perched on the vibrant seafront of Stone Town, Zanzibar Serena Hotel is a luxurious haven woven into the tapestry of Zanzibar’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. Housed in two meticulously restored historic buildings—the 19th-century Extelcoms building and the 18th-century Chinese Doctor’s Residence—this iconic retreat blends Swahili sophistication with Arabic opulence. Just steps from the bustling bazaars, ancient dhow harbors, and sultans’ palaces, the hotel offers an intimate connection to Zanzibar’s rich cultural mosaic, with the Indian Ocean’s gentle waves as your constant companion. Nearby, the pristine beaches of Shangani and Nakupenda beckon, while the coral reefs teeming with marine life invite snorkeling and diving adventures.
The hotel’s atmosphere is one of timeless charm, where high ceilings, cool white walls, and intricately carved furnishings evoke the grandeur of a bygone era. Guests are enveloped in a serene coastal ambiance, with private balconies offering uninterrupted ocean views and the scent of spice-laden breezes in the air. Travel to this coastal gem is effortless: a 20-minute flight from Dar es Salaam or a 15-minute drive from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport places you in the heart of Stone Town, ready to explore its labyrinthine alleys or embark on a dhow cruise at sunset.
Facilities & Features
Zanzibar Serena Hotel offers 51 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, including 41 standard rooms, 6 spacious prime rooms, and 4 luxurious suites, all adorned in traditional Swahili style with carved beds, kilim rugs, and private balconies. Amenities elevate the experience with a large seafront swimming pool, a rooftop Terrace Seafood Restaurant with panoramic bay views, and the Baharia Restaurant serving Swahili and international cuisine. Guests can unwind at the Pool Terrace Bar, indulge in spa treatments, or browse the boutique gift shop. Modern conveniences include free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, satellite TVs, and 24-hour room service, while the hotel’s commitment to sustainability shines through its community outreach and environmental initiatives.
Highlights
Prime Seafront Location: Nestled on Stone Town’s Shangani Peninsula, steps from historic landmarks like the House of Wonders and Mercury House.
Marine Adventures: Dive into vibrant coral reefs or join dolphin and whale-watching tours along Zanzibar’s coastline.
Cultural Immersion: Explore Stone Town’s spice markets, Portuguese forts, and the Old Slave Market on guided walking tours.
Rooftop Dining: Savor fresh seafood at the Terrace Restaurant, with dhows gliding across the horizon at sunset.
Swahili Elegance: Relax in rooms with high ceilings, mosquito-netted beds, and balconies overlooking the Indian Ocean.
Sustainable Luxury: Engage with a hotel that supports local schools, orphanages, and environmental conservation efforts.
