The hype
Reviewers universally adore the aesthetic and the staff's warmth, calling it a 'hidden gem' in the dusty city center.
Sharazad Wonders Boutique
$170-270/ night
Book this if You want a serene, design-forward sanctuary in the heart of Stone Town's chaos, and don't mind waking up to the call to prayer.
Why People Love It
- Stunning Swahili-meets-Italian design in a restored historic courtyard house
- The Door Cafe serves some of the best coffee and healthy food in town
- Impeccably clean rooms that feel like a private home, not a hotel
Quick Take: A beautiful, echoey oasis where you trade a swimming pool for authentic atmosphere and a 5 AM wake-up call.
Reviewed by @wherenextfamily: I found the perfect hideaway in Stone Town. This restored house lets you work in a lush garden by day and unwind on a private balcony by night. It felt like my own secret sanctuary right in the middle of the city.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
Sound insulation is non-existent; you will hear the mosque, the street hustle, and your neighbors' conversations.
- You appreciate architectural restoration and boutique design
- You want to be walkable to the Old Fort and Forodhani Gardens
- You prefer a small, intimate guesthouse vibe (only 8 rooms) over a resort
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.2
- Housekeeping: Daily and thorough. Guests consistently praise the 'spotless' condition of the rooms.
- Bathroom hygiene: Immaculate. Modern fixtures in an old building, with no reports of mold or grime.
- Maintenance: Excellent restoration. The mix of concrete and wood is well-maintained, though old doors can be creaky.
- Linens & towels: Fresh, high-quality white linens and fluffy towels.
- Odors & scents: Smells fresh and airy, often with a hint of lemongrass or local spices, avoiding the mustiness common in Stone Town.
Sleepability™
6MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- 5 AM Call to Prayer (loud and close)
- Echoes from the internal courtyard
- Foot traffic on wooden floors
Before you book
Good to know
- Infrastructure Tax of $5 USD per person/night is payable upon arrival (cash preferred)
- The hotel arranges porters from the taxi drop-off point; coordinate this in advance via WhatsApp
- Breakfast is a la carte and highly rated, not a sad buffet
What to pack
- High-quality earplugs (essential for Stone Town)
- Slip-on shoes for the 'shoes-off' areas common in Zanzibar houses
- Modest clothing for walking around Stone Town (cover shoulders/knees)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Suite with Veranda (1st Floor): Features a private balcony overlooking the courtyard, great for relaxing.
- Quadruple Suite (Room 3): Very spacious, ideal for families or friends, though near the landing.
Rooms to avoid
- Ground floor rooms if you want more privacy from the restaurant/courtyard activity
- Rooms near the staircase if you are sensitive to foot traffic noise
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would love to request one of the 'Suite with Veranda' rooms on the first floor for the private outdoor space. If that is unavailable, a top-floor room would be preferred for a bit more distance from the courtyard noise.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there a swimming pool?
No. The pool is at their sister property in Jambiani, not here. Do not book expecting a dip.
Can a taxi drop me at the door?
No. The streets are too narrow. You will be dropped at a nearby square and must walk ~5 minutes.
Is alcohol served?
Yes, there is a bar on-site serving cocktails and wine, unlike some stricter dry hotels in the area.
Is it safe to walk around at night?
Generally yes, Stone Town is safe, but the alleys can be dark and confusing. Stick to main routes after 10 PM.
Do the rooms have AC?
Yes, all rooms have air conditioning and ceiling fans, which is critical in Zanzibar's humidity.
Is breakfast included?
Usually yes (check your rate). It includes fresh fruit, eggs to order, and excellent coffee.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The hotel offers yoga mats in the rooms; ask reception about nearby classes if none are scheduled on-site.
- ✨
You can book a 'day pass' or transfer to their Jambiani property if you crave a beach day.
- ✨
The 'Door Cafe' is a digital nomad favorite—good wifi and great coffee if you need to work.
5 things to know before you go
💡The check-out time is unusually early (10:00 AM - 10:30 AM), so plan your departure accordingly.
💡The 'city view' often just means looking at the wall of the building next door.
💡You might hear the staff preparing breakfast in the courtyard if you're in a lower-floor room.
💡The water pressure can fluctuate, a common quirk of Stone Town plumbing.
💡There are no TVs in the rooms, encouraging you to disconnect.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Sharazad Wonders Boutique is located and what's nearby.