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. 75 photos
TEMBO HOUSE HOTEL, Zanzibar – A Smart Stay in the City
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Key details
About the Hotel
Shangani/Forodhani Street, Zanzibar,
- Next to the House of Wonders
Great
8.4
8.8
4.2
4.2
4-star beachfront hotel in Zanzibar
Rooms
Each room in Tembo House Hotel showcases its unique character, representing a piece of Zanzibar history. The Presidential Suite offers a sea front view with a spacious private balcony, while the Deluxe Suites feature ocean breezes that enhance the ambiance. For larger groups, the
Swimming Pool
The hotel features an
Dining
Dining at Tembo House is an experience under the Indian Almond trees, where the
Location
Tembo House Hotel occupies a historic building in the heart of
Heritage
Tembo House Hotel is steeped in history and has housed notable figures including
Highlights
Location: Historic building in Stone Town
Rooms: Freddie Mercury Apartments with hammam
Dining: Bahari Restaurant with ocean views
Swimming: Infinity plunge pool overlooking ocean
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.
Choose the Room
From cosy doubles to spacious family suites – all with flexible options, breakfast, and exclusive deals.
- Twin Room Balcony City View2 persons30 sq. feet2 Single bedsAir conditioningBalconyroom details
- Double Room Balcony City View2 persons30 sq. feet1 King-size bedAir conditioningBalconyroom details
- Family Room Balcony & Sea View2 persons40 sq. feet2 Single bedsAir conditioningBalconyroom details
Show all rooms
Check Dates & Room Rates
See what's available for your travel dates
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Check-in/ Check-out
Amenities
Thoughtfully designed amenities for a comfortable & memorable stay
General
- No smoking on site
- Wi-Fi
- Parking
- 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
Show more
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 House Hotel Location
Shangani/Forodhani Street, Zanzibar,
Explore Zanzibar
Local Highlights Near Tembo House Hotel
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
6 minutes' walk
Cultural museum showcasing Swahili architecture and history, renowned for its impressive late afternoon view.
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
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
2 minutes' walk
Charming eatery specializing in Zanzibari cuisine; signature dishes include grilled fish and local spices.
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
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
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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
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel 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
Guest Ratings & Reviews
Real Guest Experiences & Ratings
Show moreShow less
Pros
Central location
Rooftop pool
Beachfront access
Friendly staff
Good breakfast
Cons
Small rooms
AC malfunction
Guest reviewsbased on 2472 reviews
Nicholas from United Kingdom
Family with children
Double Room Balcony Sea View
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: February 10, 2026
9.0/10
Historic Charm by the Ocean
breakfast variety beach access prompt service understanding staff
The breakfast buffet offered a huge variety of options. I liked eating breakfast next to the beach each morning. The staff addressed our toddler's needs promptly. The wait staff were very understanding, a great help to us.
The bed was firmer than I prefer, and the room lacked a designated space for suitcases, so I kept my luggage under the bed.
Dining
9/10
The breakfast included a Swedish buffet with diverse choices. I found good hot breakfast options, as well as tasty juices. The coffee tasted great and complemented the morning meal well.
Service
10/10
The staff showed generosity and kindness at all times. They provided useful information on local attractions. I felt really safe, they were very friendly and accommodating.
Facilities
8/10
There are three pools available . I appreciated the cleanliness around the pool areas. The hotel has direct access to the beach. The hotel provides beach towels convenience.
Rooms
9/10
The room was super clean, contributing to a comfortable stay. The beds are quite large. I had a balcony with a nice view. The historic building details were a plus.
0 Helpful
|
Richard from United Kingdom
Single
Double Room Balcony Sea View
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 31, 2026
6/10
Mixed feelings about this Hotel
dirty street wrong building
The location is great because it is close to restaurants and shops.
I booked a double room, but I was put in another building. The way to get there was short BUT quite dirty. The experience was NOT what I expected.
0 Helpful
Gillian from Ireland
Family with children
Double Room Balcony Sea View
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 24, 2026
9.0/10
Was very good
helpful staff common area
The staff were very helpful and cute, a wonderful first impression. Common areas had a nice appearance, also the location by the sea was fantastic. The pool remained well maintained aND enjoyable for everyone. I found the position very central to every facility.
Facilities
9/10
The hotel features multiple swimming pools. It has a snooker table as well as foosball. Guests can also benefit from the close proximity to beaches and historical sites. Wi-Fi is available throughout the premises.
Rooms
8/10
My fabulously comfy room was in the annexe, it had good aircon. The beds were generous sizes plus the room included everything that needed for a short stay. All rooms offer a balcony overlooking the sea.
Dining
9/10
Breakfast offers a varied selection. I enjoyed the breakfast in the restaurant by the beach. It was a beautiful place. The hotel provides breakfast boxes for early checkouts, very thoughtful.
Service
10/10
The staff were friendly aND warm . They offered assistance with luggage storage, especially appreciated when going on safari. Staff dealt efficiently with any issues I had.
0 Helpful
|
Caroline from France
Couple
Double Room Balcony Sea View
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 31, 2025
9/10
serene moments arabic vibe helpful staff
the sea view double room offered a special balcony overlooking the ocean it allowed for serene moments. the bathroom had a unique arabic vibe i found enchanting. helpful staff were available ensuring i didn't notice any power cuts due to backup power.
the room décor seemed slightly worn it lacked a refresh.
0 Helpful
Naomi from United States
Family with children
Double Room Balcony Sea View
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 22, 2025
9.0/10
Historical STAY with attentive STAFF
attentive staff clean room magical chef
the staff were attentive. they were very professional. our room was authentic and clean. the facilities are just spot on. i will definitely come back for vacation the full family. the breakfast was really good with a magical chef. the chef makes a show with the omelet!
it is perfect for those who appreciate a touch of history. i moved to a different room. the room was smaller.
Location
10/10
the hotel offers direct access to the beach. it is near the harbour. the hotel is situated conveniently for exploring the town, a really great benefit. there are things to see for sure.
Dining
9/10
the breakfast had many options. we could not evaluate the breakfast offer since we had to leave early. the staff prepared breakfast boxes for us. the boxes were good, i appreciated this gesture a lot.
Facilities
8/10
there are three pools. one pool is refreshing and big. another pool on the upper level is very shallow. it is nice for watching sunsets from there. i saw this pool and liked it.
0 Helpful
|
Nathaniel from United States
Couple
Double Room Balcony Sea View
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 10, 2025
6/10
Mixed Feelings About This Stay
moldy smell faulty ac
The breakfast was alright, not bad, it had decent options.
I found the room to be quite old, the furniture showed its age and lacked comfort. There was also a moldy smell, it was definitely not good for my health. The AC was faulty, it was not cooling the room effectively. This made sleeping difficult.
0 Helpful
Show more reviews
Questions of the users
About Tembo House Hotel
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 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.Next best alternative
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