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Introduction:
Planning an island adventure in Zanzibar but want to keep things affordable? This guide is for you!
From backpacker-friendly hostels and charming guesthouses to scenic campsites and cozy apartments, Zanzibar has a wealth of budget-friendly accommodation options that allow you to fully enjoy the island's magic without compromising on comfort.
Whether you're exploring the historic alleys of Stone Town, the stunning beaches of Kendwa and Nungwi, or the untouched beauty of Mafia Island, you’ll find options to suit every style and budget. Let’s explore some of the best affordable accommodations across Zanzibar’s top destinations!q
Stone Town
Hostels
Lost & Found Hostel
A vibrant, centrally-located hostel perfect for solo travelers and groups alike. It offers clean dorms, private rooms, and a social atmosphere for connecting with fellow adventurers.New Teddy's on the Beach
Known for its friendly service and relaxed vibe, this hostel provides a comfortable stay with all the basics, just steps away from Stone Town’s historical sites.
Guesthouses
The Swahili House
Experience a touch of history in this beautifully restored guesthouse, featuring traditional Zanzibari architecture. Its rooftop terrace offers stunning views of the town and the Indian Ocean.Jafferji House and Spa
A budget-friendly, boutique-style guesthouse that combines charm with comfort, offering both luxury and affordability in the heart of Stone Town.
Apartments
Stone Town Luxury Apartments
Located in the heart of Zanzibar City, this hotel on Kiponda Street provides an excellent base for exploring the vibrant surroundings. With a high walkability score of 97, it’s perfect for travelers who love to explore on foot.Within a short 0.3-mile radius, you’ll find 63 restaurants offering a wide range of local and international cuisines, along with 47 unique attractions. The hotel’s proximity to key transport hubs like Kisauni Airport (5 miles) and Dar Es Salaam International Airport (49 miles) makes it convenient for travelers.
Additionally, rental cars are readily available for those who wish to venture further. For comparison, nearby hotels such as the Zanzibar Palace Hotel and Tembo House Hotel offer a variety of amenities and price ranges to suit different budgets and preferences.
Zanzibar Spice Nest Apartments
Zanzibar Spice Nest Apartment offers a comfortable stay in the heart of Stone Town, just a 5-minute walk from the historic St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Cathedral and steps away from the iconic Old Fort of Zanzibar.
Guests will find a fully equipped kitchen with coffee/tea facilities, a refrigerator, and an oven, perfect for preparing meals during their stay.
Centrally located 1 km from the city center and a short drive from Kisauni Airport, this apartment provides easy access to local attractions like Darajani Market. Guests can enjoy city views from select rooms, which include modern amenities such as a walk-in shower and separate toilet.
For those looking to explore, bus access is available 0.7 km away, and various activities like diving, canoeing, and hiking can be arranged, with car rentals available on-site.
Kendwa
Hostels
Homeland Swahili Lodge
A cozy 2-star hostel in Nungwi, offers budget-friendly accommodations close to Nungwi Beach. Perfect for backpackers, it features a welcoming atmosphere with amenities like free daily breakfast, WiFi, and a communal area with hammocks. The lodge offers both dormitory and double rooms, each with comfortable beds, a private bathroom, and some with a kitchenette. Known for its friendly staff and the owner’s attentive service, guests can enjoy complimentary shuttle service to the beach. However, some reviews highlight challenges with amenities and service consistency, so it's ideal for flexible travelers seeking authentic local experiences.Sunset Kendwa Hostel
Offering a relaxed atmosphere and direct beach access, it’s perfect for those who want to chill out and soak up Kendwa’s sunset views.
Guesthouses
La Fontana Restaurant and Bungalows
Situated in the heart of Kendwa and just a short walk from Kendwa Beach, offers charming, air-conditioned rooms with balconies that showcase scenic garden and sea views. With an impressive 8.1 rating from over 160 reviews, guests often highlight the warm hospitality, comfortable rooms, and delicious food, particularly the breakfast.The property features a restaurant, free WiFi, and an outdoor swimming pool, along with free on-site parking and airport shuttle services. Guests also appreciate the location, close to both Royal and Nungwi Beaches, making it an ideal spot for beach lovers.
The property’s partnership with Kendwa Rock allows guests to enjoy additional beachside facilities, enhancing their stay with even more comfort and convenience.
Rated 8.6 and described as “fabulous” by guests, is a highly recommended stay just 70 meters from Kendwa Beach.
Known for its warm hospitality led by Mustafa, the host, this property offers free WiFi, free on-site parking, and an airport shuttle.
Guests frequently praise the villa's excellent location, close to restaurants and ideal for beach activities and sunsets. Rooms are spacious, air-conditioned, and equipped with private bathrooms, and the villa also features a three-bedroom option, perfect for larger groups.
The guesthouse, started to support the local community, provides a tranquil, budget-friendly escape just steps away from the stunning beach.
Nungwi
Hostels
Rafiki Backpackers
Offers a welcoming, laid-back stay just 1.3 km from the pristine Nungwi Beach. Guests enjoy access to a private beach area, free bicycles, and private parking, making it easy to relax and explore.The hostel includes a bar and a restaurant with international dishes, catering to diverse tastes. Rooms feature private bathrooms, with some offering sea views or a terrace.
Communal amenities like a shared kitchen, barbecue area, and a social lounge encourage interaction, while activities like hiking add a touch of adventure. Ideal for budget travelers, Rafiki Backpackers is family-friendly, with helpful staff available around the clock to assist.
Guesthouses
Makofi Guest House in Nungwi provides a homely, laid-back atmosphere just a 90-second walk from the stunning Nungwi Beach.
Known for its friendly vibe, this guest house emphasizes trust and community, making guests feel at ease from the moment they arrive. With a high rating for cleanliness, location, and value, it offers amenities like a restaurant, bar, outdoor terrace, and complimentary breakfast.
Quiet hours from 10:30 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. help maintain a peaceful environment, while communal spaces like the BBQ area and board games encourage interaction. Ideal for budget travelers, Makofi Guest House is a top choice for enjoying Zanzibar.
Offers a superb stay with a welcoming atmosphere and excellent value, scoring 9.1 in guest reviews.
Just a short walk from Nungwi Beach, this cozy hotel is known for its friendly staff, delicious breakfast, and clean facilities.
Guests can enjoy amenities like a shared kitchen, terrace, bar, and garden.
The hotel’s location makes it easy to explore nearby beaches and local attractions. Each room is thoughtfully designed, with options for garden views, patios, and air conditioning, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing experience at an affordable price.
Apartments
Aluna Beach Apartments in Nungwi offers a tranquil beachfront experience, boasting superb reviews with a 9.0 rating for cleanliness, comfort, and stunning views. This modern and newly furnished property has spacious, air-conditioned rooms with private balconies overlooking the ocean, making it perfect for unwinding. Guests enjoy easy beach access, a large terrace, and friendly staff known for their excellent service.
Manager Bony and the team go above and beyond to assist with bookings for tours and taxis, adding convenience to your stay. Aluna Beach Apartments combine luxury with local charm, providing an unforgettable Nungwi escape.
Conclusion
Each of these accommodations offers a unique way to experience Zanzibar without stretching your budget. Choose the one that best suits your travel style and get ready to discover the rich beauty and culture of Zanzibar!
