Reviews of trips to Stone Town
358 holiday reviews from our travellers of holidays which include Stone Town.
The Flying Fish
UK
"Selous, Fumba and Stone Town"
I visited Zanzibar and 1 other country between 21 Jul 2008 and 3 Aug 2008
"Well done Expert Africa! Ellie was really well informed and helped us throughout.
Everything was organised perfectly and both Ellie and Claire were well informed about the Impala Camp, Fumba and Zanzibar Coffee House. I think it really helped that they had actually been there (saw Claire in the Impala visitors' book!!)
A great service. You were recommended to us by friends and we wouldn't hesittate to do the same should any of our friends be thinking about travelling to Africa.
The guide book was a good read too....
Suggestions for improvement:
Not really! A very presonal, well informed and very efficient service. Not much to improve on here...
Perhaps could have mentioned that buying a visa on arrival in Tanzania for $50 was an option? Wouldn't have really affected us but might be worht mentioning if anybody forgets before going." Read full review: 13 nights in Africa; 7 on a Zanzibar holiday
Everything was organised perfectly and both Ellie and Claire were well informed about the Impala Camp, Fumba and Zanzibar Coffee House. I think it really helped that they had actually been there (saw Claire in the Impala visitors' book!!)
A great service. You were recommended to us by friends and we wouldn't hesittate to do the same should any of our friends be thinking about travelling to Africa.
The guide book was a good read too....
Suggestions for improvement:
Not really! A very presonal, well informed and very efficient service. Not much to improve on here...
Perhaps could have mentioned that buying a visa on arrival in Tanzania for $50 was an option? Wouldn't have really affected us but might be worht mentioning if anybody forgets before going." Read full review: 13 nights in Africa; 7 on a Zanzibar holiday
Overall trip
Excellent
The Kites
Palo Alto
"Honeymoon in Zanzibar"
I visited Zanzibar between 20 Jul 2008 and 25 Jul 2008
"We had a fabulous experience where the goal was to relax and take in the scenery on the island of Zanzibar. We greatly appreciate the fantastic expertise of Chris McIntyre and Ann Lederman, without whom this trip would not have been possible. The entire trip was planned on short notice, and was complicated by our own unreachability while traveling during the planning process. Also making things difficult were several itinerary changes that were unexpected but necessary.
We felt to be in great hands with the team at Expert Africa, and Ann in particular made a potentially difficult trip easy with her speed and incredible resourcefulness. In one instance, she was able to orchestrate hand delivery of an airline ticket to me in Arusha, Tanzania, when e-ticketing was unavailable and I was in-transit through Africa. Though I am an American, living in San Francisco, and Expert Africa is a tour operator based in the U.K., I always felt your services were instantly accessible, to a greater extent than even locally based tour operators in Africa.
We will always be grateful for your fantastic work in putting together our honeymoon, and if we ever have the wonderful opportunity of another vacation in Africa, we would use your services in a heartbeat.
Thanks again;
Suggestions for improvement:
We felt we received exceptional service, and have no suggestions for improvement." Read full review: 5 nights in Africa; 1 on a Zanzibar holiday
We felt to be in great hands with the team at Expert Africa, and Ann in particular made a potentially difficult trip easy with her speed and incredible resourcefulness. In one instance, she was able to orchestrate hand delivery of an airline ticket to me in Arusha, Tanzania, when e-ticketing was unavailable and I was in-transit through Africa. Though I am an American, living in San Francisco, and Expert Africa is a tour operator based in the U.K., I always felt your services were instantly accessible, to a greater extent than even locally based tour operators in Africa.
We will always be grateful for your fantastic work in putting together our honeymoon, and if we ever have the wonderful opportunity of another vacation in Africa, we would use your services in a heartbeat.
Thanks again;
Suggestions for improvement:
We felt we received exceptional service, and have no suggestions for improvement." Read full review: 5 nights in Africa; 1 on a Zanzibar holiday
Overall trip
Excellent
Miss P-A
China
"Perfect Honeymoon!"
I visited Zanzibar and 1 other country between 20 Jul 2008 and 3 Aug 2008
"Our overall experience was what we dreamed of. Africa is a unique untouched beauty. We would definitely recommend this trip to our friends excluding the Beyt al Chai experience. In the end we did accepted this as an adventure at Zanzibar island, but it wasn't a pleasant thing to happen since it was our honeymoon, if it was in other trip we wouldn't have been so disappointed.
The game drives were great, even with the fact of missing the migration at the Serengeti. The CC Africa lodges are amazing, the staff is very friendly. Everything is great there! It's a worthwhile experience. No one should miss it!
The Matemwe Retreat is all fantastic..and as we said before our butler was tireless!
This trip was everything that we expected. We are very looking forward to go back to Africa very soon." Read full review: 14 nights in Africa; 7 on a Zanzibar holiday
The game drives were great, even with the fact of missing the migration at the Serengeti. The CC Africa lodges are amazing, the staff is very friendly. Everything is great there! It's a worthwhile experience. No one should miss it!
The Matemwe Retreat is all fantastic..and as we said before our butler was tireless!
This trip was everything that we expected. We are very looking forward to go back to Africa very soon." Read full review: 14 nights in Africa; 7 on a Zanzibar holiday
Overall trip
Excellent
Dr M & Mrs C
UK
"How many holidays of a lifetime can i have?"
I visited Tanzania and 1 other country between 17 Jul 2008 and 1 Aug 2008
"Nothing much to add to all the comments here. We all enjoyed the holiday throughout. Such a range of experiences!
I think overall the standard of accommodation at Selous and Pongwe was 'under=-sold' and the quality of the food was higher than we expected.
Only thing we didn't think was worth it was trip to Prison Island, which we organised ourself- but it was quite an overcast and choppy day so we ducked out of the snorkelling which might have added to it.
Also I think the advice against taking travellers cheques should be rather more strongly stated; although we were able to cash them directly for dollars in Stonetown we did have to do a bit of shopping around and quite a high commission rate. I'm not sure we would have any success with sterling.
Suggestions for improvement:
Nothing to add to the various comments above. We will certainly speak positively of Expert Africa and recommend to anyone looking for a similar experience." Read full review: 15 nights in Africa; 7 on a Tanzania safari
I think overall the standard of accommodation at Selous and Pongwe was 'under=-sold' and the quality of the food was higher than we expected.
Only thing we didn't think was worth it was trip to Prison Island, which we organised ourself- but it was quite an overcast and choppy day so we ducked out of the snorkelling which might have added to it.
Also I think the advice against taking travellers cheques should be rather more strongly stated; although we were able to cash them directly for dollars in Stonetown we did have to do a bit of shopping around and quite a high commission rate. I'm not sure we would have any success with sterling.
Suggestions for improvement:
Nothing to add to the various comments above. We will certainly speak positively of Expert Africa and recommend to anyone looking for a similar experience." Read full review: 15 nights in Africa; 7 on a Tanzania safari
Overall trip
Excellent
Family G
Oxordshire
"A fantastic holiday"
I visited Tanzania and 1 other country between 14 Jul 2008 and 29 Jul 2008
"We couldn't have asked for a better holiday - both on safari and in Zanzibar.
Suggestions for improvement:
If only Expert Africa dealt with the rest of the world!
It was a pleasure to deal with Eleanor and her knowledge of all aspects of our holiday was spot on. Every single transfer went to plan, all on time, and the accommodation at all the venues was exactly as she had described it to me.
It was Eleanor's suggestion for us to spend 3 days in Ruaha and we wouldn't have missed it for anything.
Thank you." Read full review: 15 nights in Africa; 7 on a Tanzania safari
Suggestions for improvement:
If only Expert Africa dealt with the rest of the world!
It was a pleasure to deal with Eleanor and her knowledge of all aspects of our holiday was spot on. Every single transfer went to plan, all on time, and the accommodation at all the venues was exactly as she had described it to me.
It was Eleanor's suggestion for us to spend 3 days in Ruaha and we wouldn't have missed it for anything.
Thank you." Read full review: 15 nights in Africa; 7 on a Tanzania safari
Overall trip
Excellent
Prickly Pear
Dublin
"Tanzania/Zanziabr Honeymoon"
I visited Tanzania and 1 other country between 9 Jul 2008 and 26 Jul 2008
"Overall we were very pleased with our trip,
Our Guide on the Safari, Nuru was absolutely brilliant, he had so much knowledge and didn't have to rely on the CB or following other people around to find the animals. The way he was able to spot some of them was unbelievable. Also he had such a knowledge of all the small animals as well, always showing the animal afterwards in the books he had and always correct on their name as well.
he looked after us from the moment we landed to the time we took off for Zanzibar. We were very lucky to have some one like him.
The accomodation was very impressive overall considering the general standard on view. Was really impressed with the quality and variety of the food as well.
Tanzania is such a lovely country and would love to visit it again some time in the future.
A big Thanks to Claire & Ann who helped us out in preparing for the trip that were always very helpful when dealing with them." Read full review: 17 nights in Africa; 9 on a Tanzania safari
Our Guide on the Safari, Nuru was absolutely brilliant, he had so much knowledge and didn't have to rely on the CB or following other people around to find the animals. The way he was able to spot some of them was unbelievable. Also he had such a knowledge of all the small animals as well, always showing the animal afterwards in the books he had and always correct on their name as well.
he looked after us from the moment we landed to the time we took off for Zanzibar. We were very lucky to have some one like him.
The accomodation was very impressive overall considering the general standard on view. Was really impressed with the quality and variety of the food as well.
Tanzania is such a lovely country and would love to visit it again some time in the future.
A big Thanks to Claire & Ann who helped us out in preparing for the trip that were always very helpful when dealing with them." Read full review: 17 nights in Africa; 9 on a Tanzania safari
Overall trip
Excellent
Mr T & Mr L
Amsterdam
"Great Visit"
I visited Tanzania and 2 other countries between 4 Jul 2008 and 20 Jul 2008
"Expert Africa live up to their name :)"
Read full review: 16 nights in Africa; 9 on a Tanzania safari
Overall trip
Excellent
Seven larks
Vermont
"Expert Africa is first rate!"
I visited Zanzibar between 28 Jun 2008 and 7 Jul 2008
"Our trip was nearly flawless! It was great to have a vacation where all the details were arranged for us and all transports occurred on schedule.
Claire Scott was extremely patient, accepting changes to the duration of our trip and answering all questions without a hint of annoyance. We were totally delighted with the choice of hotels and her very good advice." Read full review: 9 nights in Africa; 9 on a Zanzibar holiday
Claire Scott was extremely patient, accepting changes to the duration of our trip and answering all questions without a hint of annoyance. We were totally delighted with the choice of hotels and her very good advice." Read full review: 9 nights in Africa; 9 on a Zanzibar holiday
Overall trip
Excellent
Ms Meerkat
Surrey
"Tanzania trip"
I visited Tanzania and 1 other country between 27 Jun 2008 and 11 Jul 2008
"Everything that Expert Africa arranged was done efficiently. All the transfers were on time and we were kept informed at every transfer.
Thank you for making our holiday a magic experience." Read full review: 14 nights in Africa; 7 on a Tanzania safari
Thank you for making our holiday a magic experience." Read full review: 14 nights in Africa; 7 on a Tanzania safari
Overall trip
Excellent
Mr & Mrs K
N London
"An unforgettable holiday/adventure"
I visited Tanzania and 1 other country between 21 Jun 2008 and 6 Jul 2008
"The trip was unforgettable. We felt our itinerary was perfect with just the right amount of time in each place. We were overwhelmed by the warmth and friendliness of the people wherever we went which added enormously to the enjoyment of our time in Tanzania. It is certainly a country I would like yo go back to.
We felt Claire/Expert Africa did a fantastic job sorting our holiday and preparing us for the trip. We were really impressed with how smoothly it went considering how much we moved about." Read full review: 15 nights in Africa; 7 on a Tanzania safari
We felt Claire/Expert Africa did a fantastic job sorting our holiday and preparing us for the trip. We were really impressed with how smoothly it went considering how much we moved about." Read full review: 15 nights in Africa; 7 on a Tanzania safari
Overall trip
Excellent
358
reviews of Stone Town by travellers since August 2007
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Inspire meWhere to stay in Stone Town
Our suggestions for places to stay in Stone Town
Zanzibar Coffee House
The Zanzibar Coffee House is a small quiet hotel tucked away in the back streets of Stone Town, with lovely, simple rooms.
Serena Inn
Now trumped by the nearby Park Hyatt, the Serena Inn, in its historic building, was formerly Stone Town's only international-style hotel.
Zanzibar Palace Hotel
The Zanzibar Palace Hotel is a highly regarded boutique hotel with very personal service and just nine rooms, all of them Zanzibari in style.
Beyt al Salaam
The Beyt al Salaam is a pleasant, boutique hotel with only six rooms and atmospheric and stylish Zanzibari décor.
Dhow Palace Hotel
The Dhow Palace is a very good-value, mid-range hotel, full of Swahili character, and the pool makes it appealing to families.
Emerson Spice
Emerson Spice is a beautiful small hotel in the heart of Stone Town with individually designed rooms adorned with gorgeous fabrics.
Kholle House
Kholle House offers an atmospheric Stone Town stay in a historic building, and is very good value for money.
Jafferji House
Jafferji House is a converted old house that blends modern facilities with traditional style. The ten, unique rooms are show great attention to detail.
Swahili House
Swahili House is a traditionally styled boutique hotel furnished to a high standard with a convenient location in the centre of Stone Town.
Tembo Hotel
The Tembo Hotel is a good-value, family-friendly hotel right on the seafront in Stone Town, with 36 rooms and a good-sized swimming pool.
Emerson on Hurumzi
Emerson on Hurumzi was Stone Town's first boutique hotel, featuring antique furniture, unique, stylish rooms and a superb rooftop restaurant.
Mbweni Ruins Hotel
Mbweni Ruins Hotel is very convenient if you want to stay on the beach, but very close to Stone Town, or visit Chumbe Island.
Maru Maru Hotel
In the heart of Stone Town, Maru Maru combines contemporary style and creature comforts with a Zanzibari twist.
Park Hyatt
The Park Hyatt Zanzibar is a high-quality example of this group, with excellent facilities and service.
Kisiwa House
Kisiwa's central location in the heart of Stone Town's Shangani area makes it a great base to explore this fascinating town.
Seyyida Hotel
The Seyyida is a characterful old hotel near the seafront in Stone Town, with the rare bonus of a swimming pool.
