Reviews of Serena Inn
Wildlife sightings and reviews
63 independent comments and wildlife information from our travellers who have visited Serena Inn and kindly agreed to share their thoughts. They do not necessarily represent the views of Expert Africa
"Serena Inn review"
"Serena Inn review"
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"Serena Inn review"
But, Stonetown is such a God-awful place; it was filthy, run down, (even the taxi driver apologised for the state of the place, and this without us saying anything!) and expensive. How people manage to find it "fascinating" (this comment from someone else staying at the Mchanga Beach) is completely beyond us." See all these reviews: 4n in Tanzania; 1n in Zanzibar
"Short stay at the Serena Inn"
It was a good place to explore Stonetown, very central, and we enjoyed having the pool to cool off." See all these reviews: 10n in Tanzania; 2n in Zanzibar
"Serena Inn Review"
Breakfasts were sumptious in the lovely dining-room overlooking the sea which was always busy with commuter dhows at the start of the day. It felt less personal than Fundu but then it is of-course a city hotel and considerably larger." See all these reviews: 16n in Tanzania; 2n in Zanzibar
"Luxury in Stonetown"
"Delightful & friendly Serena Inn"
The location was perfect as we had all the benefits of being by the beach but could meander through the very interesting streets of Stone Town at our leisure as the hotel was so well positioned. Stone Town is interesting with plenty to investigate and we never felt threatened or uncomfortable (except for the humidity) during our stay. An altogether memorable visit." See all these reviews: 8n in Tanzania; 4n in Zambia; 3n in Zanzibar
"Good place to stay when in Stone Town"
There are some very good restaurants near by, serving real culinary delights, in particular the at Beyt al Chai (opposite) and the Silk Route (near the fort)." See all these reviews: 6n in Tanzania; 6n in Zanzibar
"A disappointing stay at the Serena"
The restaurant food was disappointing and rather ordinary for the price. We ordered prawns for the starter and there were only 2 prawns on the plate costing about $7. When we commented on this, we were told it was only an appetizer. Other appetizers were larger. The restaurant was overlooking the beach with open windows, and it gradually dawned on us that the trickle of water down the beach was from a toilet and explained the smell!
We had a very early start, hence the stay at Serena, but the water went off in the night. We had to ring to find out what was happening and the staff said it was fixed, but it wan't so we had to ring again. Then it was fixed but only just in time (with cold water only) for us to get out for our flight. They did serve a decent breakfast at 5.30 which was much appreciated. The pool closed at 6pm! Far too early.
Beautiful setting and furnishings but we felt the restaurant and water let it down. In our view it was not that high a standard for its cost.
If you want to go shopping, do be aware that they basically close down at prayer time and in the evening. The shops were expensive. It was even worse as it was during Ramadam. If you want to go shopping, go in the morning between 10 and 12." See all these reviews: 8n in Tanzania; 4n in Zanzibar
Holiday styles & special interests in Zanzibar
From birdwatching breaks to walking holidays, find great ideas for your trip in Zanzibar.
Other lodges in Stone Town
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
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.
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.
