7 Best Hotels in Tanzania

Tucked away in Stone Town, this small hotel, once the home of one of the richest men in Zanzibar, was the brainchild of two New Yorkers. You'll find it hard to believe you're in the 21st century when you step through the carved wooden doors of this authentic Omani Arab building with bright rooms, original stucco decor, gorgeous antique furnishings, deep-green stone baths, and overhead fans. You'll sleep in a high four-poster bed complete with billowing mosquito net, and dine on the high rooftop restaurant—now one of the "it" places in Zanzibar, which is also perfect for sundowners. Treat yourself to one of the spacious top-floor suites, which come with spectacular views and a private teahouse.

Located on the outskirts of a forest, a 1905 farmhouse is now home to this intimate, family-run mountain lodge with converted cottages filled with handmade furniture and public lounging areas that invite you to stay for days. There are numerous activities provided by the lodge—boating on a pristine lake where you can spot some 200 different bird species, nature walks, horse riding, village tours, and an ever changing variety of outside dining areas nestled between lush lawns and jungle growth. The outdoor spa is one of a kind and not to be missed. Believe us when we say that this is a place you'll want to spend more than just a day pre- or post-safari.

While there are many small lodges that dot this part of the coastline, this is a small boutique hotel that's intimate in space and style. Quaint bungalows between the swaying palms on the soft white sand are neat and modern with large bathrooms and showers, a/c, mini bar, and lounge area. The double rooms are by far the best of the bunch, with the family villa being front and center on the rocks facing the ocean. If you're not going for dolphin trips or taking a low tide evening stroll you will likely be relaxing in the inviting main lounge area or poolside.

This former teahouse is now an intimate hotel with a whole lot of character and great service. The steep ornate wooden staircase takes you to the guest rooms which have high ceilings, thick walls, and small windows that keep out the heat. The carved wooden four-poster beds are draped in mosquito netting, adding a sense of relaxation, and each room has an en suite bathroom with carved motifs and some with sunken tubs. There's a beautiful restaurant downstairs; its comfortable seating is a good place to escape the pace of the town. The pool is actually located at the DoubleTree Hilton, about 200 meters (656 feet) from the hotel.

Located right in the center of the maze of alleyways that make up Stone Town, this historic building has been converted into a hotel with wonderfully whimsical rooms, each with a different theme. Each room is massive, and most have balconies with views out onto the town. Traditional Swahili furniture, stained glass window detailing, ornate drapes, and high mosquito-draped four-poster beds (that you need a step to climb into) complete the romantic Zanzibari feel. There's a downstairs café and an excellent rooftop restaurant. Note that taxis can't drive right up to the hotel, so get your driver to walk the final stage with you.

Upendo in Swahili translates to "love", and guests will certainly fall in love with this small boutique beach hotel. On the quieter beach of Michumvi, Upendo Beach has three luxury villas tucked into the swaying palms. Each of these spacious double-level hideaways comes with its own private butler, upper floor plunge pool, and lounge areas. Four separate suites are within a private family villa and come with the same flair and jovial quirk that is found throughout the property. Pops of vibrant color, local artisanal touches, and modern amenities are present throughout the communal lounge and bar areas. Thursday evenings have live music around the infinity pool. 

Within easy walking distance from Stone Town's main attractions, this little boutique hotel is a trip back in time with antique furniture and traditional materials conveying Zanzibar's varied and rich history. There are just three rooms on each of its three floors, and each is bedecked in traditional Arabic style with plush, colorful cushions; double- and king-size beds; and a large shower and bathroom area. Dunia Room, located right at the top of the hotel, is perfect for anyone seeking something a little different, with an outdoor shower and your own private sundeck with views over the town and down to the ocean.