Idyllically situated on the sea-front of ancient Stone Town, and flanked by an exotic mix of sultan's palaces, Portuguese forts, ancient dhow harbours, and bright bazaars, the Zanzibar Serena Hotel is a haven of tranquillity and opulence amongst the bustle of one of Africa's most ancient and most enchanting towns. A member of the prestigious Small Luxury Hotels of the World, the inn has been styled to represent the epitome of Swahili style, ethnic elegance and Arabic opulence.
Opened in 1997, Zanzibar Serena Hotel was created by restoring and rehabilitating two historic buildings, The 19th century old Extelcoms building and the 18th century "Chinese doctor's residence". In so doing, the original architectural integrity of the buildings and their decorative finishes both exterior and interior were meticulously protected and where necessary, restored.
These interior and exterior spaces reflect a blend of early 19th century cultural influences typical of the Sultans of Zanzibar. In Zanzibar Serena Hotel, guests thus, experience and connect with the history, culture and lifestyle of what is today recognized as the "Zanzibar Style".
As part of the visual fabric of Stone Town, this respectful transformation was one of the factors that led to the declaration by UNESCO of Stone Town as a World Heritage site.
A stunning oceanfront setting. Interiors adorned in Arabic and Swahili opulence. Warm, gracious hospitality and alluring culinary journeys. Zanzibar Serena Hotel in Stone Town offers all of this and more.
The hotel is tucked into the Zanzibar seafront, amidst the exotic sultan's palaces, Portuguese forts, ancient dhow harbours and bright bazaars of Stone Town. Comprised of two historic buildings designed in traditional Swahili style, this lavish retreat captures the elegance of a grander era since passed.
An ambience of relaxed sophistication has been created in each of the 51 rooms and suites, with wood-framed louver doors opening onto private balconies with uninterrupted Indian Ocean views. Cool, white walls, high-ceilings and crisp royal blues and whites give a sense of Zanzibar coastal serenity and charm.
The rooftop Terrace Seafood Restaurant offers fresh-caught seafood and extraordinary views of the bay, the perfect place to unwind after a day’s venture into Spice Town. Weekly authentic Swahili banquets can be enjoyed by the pool at Baharia Restaurant, whilst Masahani Bar offers signature cocktails and live performances by traditional Taarab bands.
A union of coastal elegance and classic Swahili design and décor, the 51 room and suites at Zanzibar Serena Hotel reflect the grace, beauty and heritage of this ancient seaside city.
All accommodations, from our Standard Rooms to the spectacular Presidential Suite, are created to be a quiet haven and an escape from bustling modern life and the heat of Stone Town. High ceilings, shuttered windows and cool white walls create a sense of airiness. Arched niches, antique plates and brass lamps and traditionally carved basket weave furniture with ceramic inlays infuse each room with a sense of Swahili charm. Wood louver doors give way to private balconies with uninterrupted Indian Ocean views.
When it comes to unforgettably romantic backdrops, the stunning Indian Ocean views, white sandy beach and opulent Swahili décor of Zanzibar Serena Hotel offer a destination wedding setting unlike any other. The island’s natural beauty and the bustling charm of legendary Stone Town provide an idyllic setting whilst the hotel’s gracious hospitality and impeccable service add a touch of true elegance. Our oceanfront locale provides for a rich selection of venues both at the hotel and at several historic venues throughout Zanzibar.
Exchange vows on a seafront terrace, then celebrate with a Swahili-style cocktail reception by the pool. Amaze your guests with a wedding reception at the former Sultan Hamoud's residential palace or the beautifully renovated Old Dispensary, one of Zanzibar's finest historic buildings. Begin your journey together with a ceremony and reception on a traditional dhow (fishing boat) or sweep your guests off to a celebration on a deserted island in the Zanzibar Channel.
No matter how you choose to commemorate your wedding, our experienced banquets team will offer unmatched personalised care and attention, leaving you free to savour each special moment with your guests.
With stunning ocean views and an emphasis on using the finest local ingredients and fresh-caught seafood, the restaurants and bars at Zanzibar Serena Hotel specialise in exquisite cuisine served in extraordinary settings. From a rooftop restaurant with breathtaking bay views, to weekly Swahili banquets by the pool, to cocktails and live Taarab music, enjoy an array of tastes unlike any other.
A union of coastal elegance and classic Swahili design and décor, the 51 room and suites at Zanzibar Serena Hotel reflect the grace, beauty and heritage of this ancient seaside city.
All accommodations, from our Standard Rooms to the spectacular Presidential Suite, are created to be a quiet haven and an escape from bustling modern life and the heat of Stone Town. High ceilings, shuttered windows and cool white walls create a sense of airiness. Arched niches, antique plates and brass lamps and traditionally carved basket weave furniture with ceramic inlays infuse each room with a sense of Swahili charm. Wood louver doors give way to private balconies with uninterrupted Indian Ocean views.
Diwaka Safaris works with your wish list, or offers obligation-free advice, on personally-curated safaris to fit your schedule, budget and desires.
Find Out MoreWe offer unique safaris in East Africa. Our team of proven professionals offer Family Holidays, Cultural Safaris, Eco Safaris, Bird watching Safaris, Beach Holidays, Honeymoon Holidays, Mountain Climbing and Trekking safaris,Camping safaris, photographic Safaris Groups and incentive tour packages, Car hire, Balloon safaris with a personal touch to meet the needs of each of our esteemed customer.
Vladimír Staňura – USA
We wanted to do safari with my wife in Kenya. Diwaka Safaris organized our trip for 17 days professionally. We were very satisfied with all services. The best part was our guide Patrick Waweru who did an excellent job.
josefkingley – USA
Decided to do one a early Jan before the corona nightmare...wasnt decided on the exact itinerary especially the accommodation to choose...did my own research and decided on the ones I could get though decided they can also advice on what they had in mind so that we could compare prices as well as I could get to check on their diff reviews...was a 4 nights trip just Naivasha where we stayed at Naivasha Sopa and Mara at Ashnil..loved ashnil way better cos of the views as well what we got to see the in terms of wildlife..
