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From115US$ /night
Check-in
05Dec2025Select date
Check-out
06Dec2025Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Shangani/Forodhani Street, Zanzibar, Tanzania
-
Next to the House of Wonders
Perfect
8.2
8.8
/10

Historic Beachfront Location

Tembo House Hotel is a 3-minute walk from the House of Wonders in Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The hotel sits on a beachfront where fishermen have operated since the 8th century. It is 10 km from Kisauni and surrounded by landmarks including Christ Church Cathedral (0.3 km), Old Fort of Zanzibar (0.3 km), and Forodhani Park (0.5 km).

Varied Room Options

Rooms include air conditioning, free WiFi, flat-screen TVs with cable channels, and seating areas. Options range from Double Rooms with pool/sea view balconies and hammam baths to Presidential Suites with Swahili furniture and ocean views. Freddie Mercury Apartments across the road offer 2 bedrooms, city view balconies, and kitchen facilities. All rooms provide complimentary drinking water and tea/coffee makers.

Oceanview Dining Experience

Bahari Restaurant serves local Zanzibari cuisine and international dishes under Indian Almond trees overlooking the Indian Ocean. Menu highlights include fresh seafood from the Indian Ocean and freshly pressed tropical juices like passion fruit, tamarind, and orange. The restaurant features seating that includes historic settees with intricate curved designs.

Pool and Beach Access

The hotel features an azure pool with ocean views and an infinity plunge pool on the first floor. The beachfront provides direct access to the Indian Ocean. The hotel serves as a base for excursions to spice farms, boat rides to nearby islands, and tours of Stone Town's winding lanes and architecture.

Historical Significance and Services

The building has housed notable guests including Mahatma Gandhi, Indira Gandhi, and Freddie Mercury. It previously operated as the Cowasjee Dinshaw and Brothers trading company. Services include 24-hour front desk, 24-hour room service, mosquito nets, and ironing facilities. The hotel offers guided tours to local markets and historical sites.

Must-do experiences

  • Discover the spice market at Darajani for unique local flavors.
  • Savor the seafood pilau at Forodhani Gardens after sunset.
  • Visit the historic House of Wonders for a taste of Swahili culture.
  • Explore the winding streets of Stone Town for hidden art galleries.
  • Take a traditional Dhow sunset cruise for breathtaking views.
View all

Choose the Room

From cosy doubles to spacious family suites – all with flexible options, breakfast, and exclusive deals.
Twin Room Balcony City View
2 persons
30 m² 
2 Double beds
City view
Shower
Balcony
Family Room Balcony & Sea View
2 persons
40 m² 
2 Single beds
Sea view
Shower
Balcony
Junior Suite Balcony & Ocean View
2 persons
30 m² 
1 King-size bed
Ocean view
Shower
Balcony
Double Room Balcony Sea View
2 persons
22 m² 
1 King-size bed
Sea view
Shower
Balcony
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Check Dates & Room Rates

See what's available for your travel dates

Amenities

Thoughtfully designed amenities for a comfortable & memorable stay

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Free parking
  • Off-site car park
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • No pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Wheelchair access
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Locker room
  • Private beach
  • Allergy-free rooms
  • Currency exchange
  • ATM/Cash machine
  • Hairdresser
  • Coffee shop
  • Vending machines
  • Fireplace
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key access

Sports & Fitness

  • Diving
  • Snorkelling
  • Cycling
  • Tennis
  • Golf course
  • Billiard tables
  • Darts
  • Table tennis
  • Aerobics
  • Fishing

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle
  • Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Services

  • Paid airport shuttle
  • Valet parking
  • Room service
  • Housekeeping
  • Car hire
  • Laundry
  • Dry cleaning
  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Grocery shopping service
  • Shops/Commercial services

Dining

  • In-room breakfast
  • Restaurant
  • Snack bar
  • Picnic area/ Tables
  • Dinner
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Business centre
  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots
  • Babysitting/Child services
  • Baby pushchair
  • Board games
  • Children's menu
  • Children's pool
  • Children's play area
  • Toys
  • Game room

Facilities for people with disabilities

  • Toilet for disabled
  • Bathroom for disabled

Spa & Leisure

  • Infinity pool
  • Beach access
  • Beach umbrellas
  • Sun loungers
  • Live entertainment
  • Sun terrace
  • Garden area
  • BBQ facilities
  • Leisure/ TV room
  • Spa & wellness centre
  • Turkish bath
  • Pedicure
  • Manicure
  • Waxing
  • Body scrub
  • Facial
  • Treatment room
  • Body wraps
  • Back massage
  • Head massage
  • Foot massage
  • Pool with view
  • Shallow end
  • Make up services

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Mini-bar
  • Sitting area
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle
  • Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock
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Dining Onsite

At Tembo House Hotel, the Bahari Restaurant beckons guests with a delightful blend of local and international cuisines, echoing the rich history of Zanzibar. This inviting venue promises a culinary adventure that caters to diverse palates in a warm and engaging atmosphere.

Tembo Bahari Restaurant

Local and International Cuisine
Ambiance
Family-friendly with a blend of traditional and modern design, creating a cozy yet sophisticated dining environment.
Key Offerings
Signature dishes include a variety of African and European favorites, with options for Halal and vegetarian meals. The restaurant is perfect for family gatherings, romantic dinners, or casual lunches, offering an inclusive menu that celebrates the multicultural essence of the region.
Reservation
Not needed
Open daily from 06:00 to 00:00, serving breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and high tea.

Location

Shangani/Forodhani Street, Zanzibar, Tanzania
Map view
Shangani/Forodhani Street, Zanzibar, Tanzania
Nearby
Museum
Old Fort of Zanzibar
220 m
Museum
House of Wonders
470 m
Historic Site
Stone Town
410 m
Museum
Sultan's Palace
440 m
Hamamni St
Hamamni Persian Baths
530 m
Kenyatta Road
Mercury House
70 m
Church
Christ Church Cathedral
270 m
Park
Forodhani Park
350 m
Kelele Square
150 m
Gallery
Hellen Art Gallery
280 m
Cathedral St
St Joseph's Roman Catholic Cathedral
410 m
Gallery
The Beautiful Eyes
380 m
Princess Salme Museum at Emerson on Hurumzi
390 m
Hamamni Street
Cultural Arts Centre Zanzibar
400 m
Gallery
Hurumzi Henna Art Gallery
470 m
Marahubi Palace
530 m
Hurumzi St
Shree Shiv Shakti Temple
460 m
Jamatini Rd
Malindi Mosque
580 m
Zanzibar
Tippu Tip's House
240 m
Shangani
300 m
Hurumzi Street
470 m
Church
Christ Church
600 m
Shangani St
Mambo Msiige
120 m
P.O.Box 1844,Zanzibar Tanzania Stonetown Zanzibar
Imani Zuberi
530 m
Restaurants
Livingstone Beach Restaurant
110 m
Shanghani St.
Tuna sea view restaurant
0 m
Dikoni
Taarab Restaurant
210 m
90 / 90A Shanghani St DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Zanzibar
Monsoon Restaurant
160 m
Forodhani Forodhani Gardens
Ocean Grill
140 m
Mizingani Rd
Masa Japanese Restaurant
120 m
Kenyatta Rd. 1st Floor Shanghani Post Office
Lazuli
180 m
Shangani district Latitude -6.163158 Longitude 39.187793
Stone Town Cafe
170 m
Kenyatta Road Shangani River
Explore Zanzibar
Local Highlights Near Tembo House Hotel
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Old Fort of Zanzibar
Old Fort of Zanzibar
3 minutes' walk
Historic fortification offering scenic views, cultural events, and a vibrant craft market on its grounds.
House of Wonders
House of Wonders
6 minutes' walk
Cultural museum showcasing Swahili architecture and history, renowned for its impressive late afternoon view.
The Peace Memorial Museum
The Peace Memorial Museum
8 minutes' walk
Museum dedicated to Zanzibar's cultural heritage, featuring exhibitions on the island's history and peaceful coexistence.
Darajani Market
Darajani Market
11 minutes' walk
Bustling market offering local produce, spices, and textiles; perfect for experiencing Zanzibar's vibrant local life.
Beach Time at Astaztour
16 minutes' walk
Relaxing beach experience featuring soft sands; great spot for swimming and enjoying sunset views over the ocean.
Historic Walking Tour
5 minutes' walk
Guided tours through Stone Town's alleys, highlighting history, culture, and architecture; suitable for all ages.
Horse Riding at Maisha Mazuri
4.4 km
Horse riding activities amidst scenic landscapes; ideal for families seeking an adventurous outing.
Spa Treatments at Local Spas
10 minutes' walk
Relaxing treatments available at various nearby spas; offers a chance to unwind after a day of exploration.
Tuna Sea View Restaurant
1 minute' walk
Fresh seafood with ocean views; casual setting perfect for a quick meal or special dining experience.
Monsoon Restaurant
Monsoon Restaurant
2 minutes' walk
Charming eatery specializing in Zanzibari cuisine; signature dishes include grilled fish and local spices.
Livingstone Beach Restaurant
Livingstone Beach Restaurant
2 minutes' walk
Rooftop dining with panoramic views; offers a mix of international and local dishes in a laid-back atmosphere.
Taarab Restaurant
Taarab Restaurant
3 minutes' walk
Serene dining atmosphere featuring Swahili cuisine; captures authentic flavors with vegetarian options available.
Jazz in the House
8 minutes' walk
Live jazz sessions on weekends; a cozy venue perfect for music lovers and a laid-back evening out.
Zanzibar International Film Festival
5 minutes' walk
Annual event showcasing films from Africa and the diaspora; perfect for cinema enthusiasts looking for cultural immersion.
98 Degrees Lounge
6 minutes' walk
Popular bar spot known for its craft cocktails and live music; family-friendly atmosphere during early evenings.
Forodhani Gardens Night Market
5 minutes' walk
Evening market featuring street food and local vendors; a great place for families to enjoy Zanzibari cuisine.
Getting around
City Centre
Zanzibar10 min  ·  800 m
Airports
Kisauni (ZNZ)12 min  ·  7.8 km
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 12:00-23:59
Check-out
until 10 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
is available in for free.
Breakfast
At the hotel Tembo House guests are invited to a full breakfast served for free. 
Children & extra beds
Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 1. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Languages
English, German, Spanish, Italian, Dutch, Portuguese, Norwegian, Swedish, Russian, Arabic, Hindi, Swahili
Number of rooms:
85
Former name
tembo house hotel & apartments
Questions of the users
About Tembo House Hotel
What is the ideal time to enjoy a beach getaway at Tembo House Hotel?
10 January 2024
The prime time for a beach holiday is from 20 December to the end of February.
Is there an option for a complimentary airport shuttle service to the hotel?
12 January 2024
The airport shuttle service incurs a charge of $15.
Can arrangements be made for transfers to other locations around Zanzibar?
15 January 2024
Transfers to various parts of Zanzibar can be organized upon request.
Is access to the swimming pool complimentary for hotel guests?
20 January 2024
Guests of the hotel can enjoy free access to the swimming pool.
Why is there a Freddie Mercury apartment at the Tembo House?
25 January 2024
It's named the Freddie Mercury apartment because the famous musician stayed there, making it a significant part of history.
Where is the annex of Tembo House Hotel situated?
30 January 2024
The annex is located across from the main building of the hotel.
Is the swimming pool currently operational?
3 February 2024
The swimming pool is temporarily closed and will reopen in July.
Is late check-out an option, and if so, what are the costs involved?
8 February 2024
Late check-out is available until 12 PM without charge, depending on the desired time of departure.
Will it be possible to check in at 01:40 AM and arrange for airport shuttle service at that hour?
13 February 2024
Yes, a shuttle can collect guests from the airport at that time, although check-in availability may depend on the booking details.
How far is the beach from the hotel?
18 February 2024
The beach is just a short walk away, allowing easy access for guests.
Are there rooms on the ground floor for guests who may have mobility issues?
23 February 2024
The hotel does not have a lift, but rooms are available on the ground floor for easier access.
How much is the airport transfer for groups, and is it a per person rate?
28 February 2024
The transfer fee is $15 per person from the airport, with a group rate of $20 for morning and evening transfers for up to six people.
Do all rooms include a television setup for entertainment?
5 March 2024
Yes, every room is equipped with a television for guest enjoyment.
Is breakfast included if a stay lasts for three days?
10 March 2024
The total amount for a three-day stay includes breakfast only.
Is breakfast served at the annex or only at the main hotel building?
15 March 2024
Breakfast is served at the main building of Tembo Hotel, while the annex is conveniently located just across the road.
Is there a private beach for guests, or will transportation be required to access it?
20 March 2024
There is no private beach, as it is accessible to all; transportation is not necessary to enjoy the beach experience.

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