Reviews of Zanzibar Coffee House
Wildlife sightings and reviews
65 independent comments and wildlife information from our travellers who have visited Zanzibar Coffee House and kindly agreed to share their thoughts. They do not necessarily represent the views of Expert Africa
"Zanzibar Coffee House review"
The rooftop sitting area had spectacular views, though the breakfast itself was a bit disappointing in terms of choice, by comparison with the safari and beach lodges. We didn't get a cooked breakfast on our final day because we had to leave before the kitchen opened at 6.00 am, so they gave us coffee, fruit and muffins.
It's a 10 minute walk back from the waterfront area, but it's fairly easy to take a wrong turning, and pretty dark at night, so you need a torch and a good sense of direction! It felt perfectly safe though." See all these reviews: 7n in Tanzania; 5n in Zanzibar
"Zanzibar Coffee House review"
Although Stone Town is compact and easy to walk around, at night there is little street lighting and virtually no street signs. As many of the restaurants are around Shangani Road, which is quite a distance from the ZCH, it is easy to become disorientated trying to find one's way back across town late at night and I got completely lost doing so!
I hired an excellent guide from under a tree outside the Serena Inn, who charged US$5/hour.
I ate at the Silk Route Restaurant (next to the National Bank of Commerce), which was a tasty Indian restaurant (main course: Tsh15,000)." See all these reviews: 7n in Zanzibar
"Zanzibar Coffee House review"
They were most helpful in providing us with drinks and something to eat prior to our early morning departure." See all these reviews: 6n in Zanzibar; 4n in Rwanda; 1n in Tanzania; 1n in Kenya
"Zanzibar Coffee House review"
The room was just over 7ft wide. It was quite long which felt like you were living in a corridor. The bathroom was 33 inches wide. We asked if there was another room available but were told that we would have to pay a lot more for a different room – but that there were none available anyway. Don't remember there being an option for upgrading the room but having looked at their website and the brochure both show tantalising snippets of photos, but no proper images of the rooms!
The staff were helpful and breakfast was lovely, but I would not recommend this hotel to a friend." See all these reviews: 8n in Zanzibar; 3n in Rwanda
"Zanzibar Coffee House"
The roof-top terrace was great for watching the sunset, catching the breeze and for breakfast.
Gorgeous, smiling all-female staff insisted on carrying our bags up 3 flights of stairs to the room (despite serious protesting!)." See all these reviews: 8n in Tanzania; 1n in Zanzibar
"Zanzibar Coffee House review"
Our room was huge, and in such an athmospheric building - having a beer on the roof at night we were in a different world. A refuge from the noise and warren of the town." See all these reviews: 5n in Zanzibar; 4n in Tanzania
"Zanzibar Coffee House review"
There also was a lack of information regarding the hotel, such as how we got in at night when the coffee shop was closed, also that we had a honesty fridge upstairs (which at first was not stocked) to help ourselves to soft drinks, or beers. Also the morning we left early, they said they would provide coffee and a sandwich but they didn't say where or what time.
The breakfast lounge up on the roof the only place you could sit apart from your room or coffee shop, was suppose to be available in the evenings, but the night watchman had locked up by 9.00pm so was not available. We can understand if nobody is around they would tidy up but if you are out for a meal , which since it is only B & B you would only get back to the hotel about this time.
Disappointing as I am sure this could be a really comfortable haven in a busy, dusty town, as we where only here two nights it didn't matter to much but I wouldn't like to stay here longer." See all these reviews: 10n in Zanzibar
"Zanzibar Coffee House review"
Breakfast was good but the take away breakfast on departure was not acceptable.
There were disadvantages to the location - e.g. no vehicular access, so luggage had to be carried ." See all these reviews: 7n in Tanzania; 5n in Zanzibar
"Zanzibar Coffee House review"
However, they do offer to pick you up from your restaurant and escort you home, which would help.
We stayed for one night and that was enough for our purposes, which was mainly bargain-hunting." See all these reviews: 6n in Tanzania; 1n in Zanzibar
"Zanzibar Coffee House review"
You may have to watch where you step in the narrow alleyway outside but inside it's a beautiful oasis and the views from the rooftop terrace are fantastic." See all these reviews: 8n in Tanzania; 6n 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.
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.
Park Hyatt
The Park Hyatt Zanzibar is a high-quality example of this group, with excellent facilities and service.
Maru Maru Hotel
In the heart of Stone Town, Maru Maru combines contemporary style and creature comforts with a Zanzibari twist.
Seyyida Hotel
The Seyyida is a characterful old hotel near the seafront in Stone Town, with the rare bonus of a swimming pool.
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.
