The Best 15 All-Inclusive Resorts in Zanzibar in 2024
Eyeing Zanzibar for your next vacation in Africa? Let me help you find the perfect all-inclusive resort for the best possible experience.
We’ve compiled a no-nonsense list of the top 15 all-inclusive resorts in Zanzibar in 2024, based on firsthand experience, but also on reviews from Trip Advisor, booking.com, and Google.
We’re giving you the lowdown on what others won't tell you.
We have grouped the resorts into three categories: luxury, medium, and affordable.
Luxury Resorts
Zanzibar is a beautiful island on the East Coast of East Africa, and it is home to some of the best all-inclusive resorts in the world. Let’s begin with luxury.
1. Zuri Zanzibar
Zuri Zanzibar stands as a pinnacle of luxury in Zanzibar in 2024, with its impressive architecture and meticulously designed rooms.
The service and reception here are nothing short of top-notch, providing an experience that redefines comfort.
The food quality, which is why most people come here, consistently receives high praise, offering a culinary journey that complements the lavish setting.
You should book the Zuri Zanzibar resort for its incredible beach view. It’s beautiful to watch, a stunning panorama that completes the opulent atmosphere.
In terms of pricing, Zuri Zanzibar falls within the higher end of the luxury spectrum, making it ideal for you who’s seeking a lavish escape on the African continent, with no compromises.
Who’s Zuri ideal for?
Zuri is perfect for Luxury seekers willing to invest in an unmatched experience, those valuing exquisite design, impeccable service, and stunning beach views.
Consider this resort for your honeymoon, or vacation in Africa.
Hotspots
Impeccable architecture and room design.
Exceptional service and reception.
Culinary delights with consistently praised food quality.
Breathtaking beach view.
2. Zanzi Resort
Situated along the Indian Ocean, Zanzi Resort offers an intimate escape with its spacious villas and bungalows.
The ocean-front villas provide a private haven, featuring a personal patio with a pool, surrounded by lush tropical gardens and a gazebo draped in mosquito nets.
If you’re opting for the bungalows in the garden area, access to the main swimming pool enhances the experience.
The resort takes pride in its local Zanzibar cuisine, catering to an international palate, with a menu that includes fresh seafood organic vegetables, and spices sourced from their eco-plantation.
Unwind with ocean-side massages or indulge in various water sports available on-site. The pricing at Zanzi Resort places it in the upper echelon of luxury, appealing to travelers seeking a secluded and culturally enriched retreat.
Who’s it ideal for?
Discerning travelers looking for a secluded, culturally rich experience with a focus on personalized luxury and a connection to the local environment.
Why book?
Intimate and spacious villas with private pools.
Locally-inspired cuisine with fresh seafood.
Ocean-side massages and water sports facilities.
3. Zanzibar Beach Resort
Combining contemporary and Afro-Arabic designs, Zanzibar Beach Resort wows visitors with a unique architectural combination. The property features a swimming pool, and guests can enjoy complimentary WiFi.
Room Quality? Air-conditioned rooms, adorned with Zanzibari beds draped in mosquito nets, create a comfortable retreat.
Each room is equipped with modern amenities, including a flat-screen TV with satellite channels and a minibar on request.
Dining options include the Spice Restaurant, serving African, Oriental, and Indian cuisines, and the Baobab restaurant, specializing in continental dishes.
Trying out all these dishes is to me, the secret to a perfect holiday in Zanzibar.
Ever tried fresh fish straight from the sea? The Seafood Restaurant offers fresh catches, and the Discovery Bar provides a range of beverages.
Pricing for Zanzibar Beach Resort positions it as a mid-range option, attracting travelers seeking a blend of modern comfort and cultural influences.
The Zanzibar Beach resort is ideal for:
Travelers looking for a mid-range option that combines modern amenities with cultural influences, suitable for those who appreciate diverse culinary experiences.
Hotspots
Blend of contemporary and Afro-Arabic designs.
Well-equipped and comfortable rooms.
Multiple dining options showcasing diverse cuisines.
4. Essque Zalu Zanzibar
Essque Zalu Zanzibar presents an aesthetic delight with its architecture, delivering quality rooms and service.
The food quality here is commendable, offering a culinary journey that aligns with the overall elegance of the resort. The beach view is not just a backdrop but an integral part of the experience, providing a soothing and picturesque setting. Positioned in the upper echelon of luxury pricing, Essque Zalu Zanzibar caters to those who seek a refined retreat with a touch of cultural charm.
Who’s the Essque Zalu Zanzibar ideal for?
Travelers desiring a luxurious escape with an emphasis on aesthetic appeal, excellent service, and a beachfront setting.
Hotspots
Aesthetic architecture and quality rooms.
Commendable food quality.
The scenic beach view enhances the overall experience.
5. Park Hyatt Zanzibar
Park Hyatt Zanzibar welcomes guests with an outdoor pool and a restaurant, creating a comfortable space for relaxation. This air-conditioned hotel provides free WiFi access and boasts a spa and wellness center.
Room quality? Rooms are well-equipped, featuring a flat-screen cable TV, a minibar, and tea and coffee-making facilities. Private bathrooms include a bathtub, free toiletries, a hairdryer, and a bidet, ensuring a convenient stay.
All rooms offer views of the surroundings, adding to the overall experience. Beyond the rooms, guests can enjoy additional amenities, including a fitness center, a tour desk, and luggage storage.
Fun things to do? If you’re up for adventure, the resort offers on-site activities such as snorkeling, diving, golf, and more. The pricing at Park Hyatt Zanzibar positions it as a mid-range option, suitable for travelers looking for a well-rounded experience with a variety of on-site activities.
Standout Features
Outdoor pool and restaurant for relaxation.
Well-equipped rooms with modern amenities.
Spa and wellness center for added comfort.
On-site activities including snorkeling, diving, and golf. The best time to visit Tanzania for underwater activities is during the warm season from November to April.
Medium Resorts
The medium resorts category caters to those seeking a balance between comfort and affordability. These resorts offer decent amenities, making them suitable for travelers who want a pleasant stay without breaking the bank.
6. Zanzibar Palace Hotel
Situated in the heart of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Zanzibar Palace Hotel offers a blend of culture and comfort.
What’s special? The hotel provides a swimming pool, a fitness center, and a spa, catering to various needs. Air-conditioned rooms feature a flat-screen TV, a minibar, and a private bathroom with a shower.
Food quality? The restaurant serves a variety of international and local dishes, allowing guests like yourself to savor diverse flavors during their stay.
The pricing at Zanzibar Palace Hotel falls within the medium range, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a culturally rich experience without compromising on comfort.
Standout Features
Located in the heart of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Swimming pool, fitness center, and spa for relaxation.
Air-conditioned rooms with modern amenities.
A Restaurant offering a variety of international and local dishes.
Ideal For
History enthusiasts exploring Stone Town.
Travelers seeking a culturally rich experience.
Those looking for a unique blend of comfort and historical surroundings.
7. Melia Zanzibar
Nestled on the northeast coast overlooking the Indian Ocean, Melia Zanzibar offers a blend of class and comfort. The resort features a private beach, an outdoor pool, and a spa, providing ample opportunities for relaxation.
Air-conditioned rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV, a minibar, and a private bathroom with a shower.
Various dining options, including international and local cuisine, cater to diverse tastes.
The pricing falls within the medium range, making Melia Zanzibar an attractive option for those seeking a beachfront experience without the premium price tag.
Standout Features
Private beach, outdoor pool, and spa for relaxation.
Air-conditioned rooms with modern amenities.
Various dining options offering international and local cuisine.
Ideal For
Couples on a honeymoon seeking a romantic beachfront setting.
Families looking for a blend of comfort and scenic views.
Business travelers wanting a touch of class during a work trip.
8. Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa
Positioned in the medium category, Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa is an amazing bargain when it comes to comfort, class, and pricing.
The resort's decent architecture, good rooms, and reliable service make it suitable for various activities like family outings, beach relaxation, and affordable getaways.
The food quality is a strong point, providing a culinary experience that complements the overall setting. The beach view adds to the appeal, creating a pleasing atmosphere for guests.
With a pricing structure that doesn't break the bank, this resort caters to travelers seeking a comfortable stay with a focus on good food and a scenic beach.
Standout Features
Decent architecture with good rooms.
Reliable service for a comfortable stay.
Strong food quality enhances the culinary experience.
Pleasing beach view.
Ideal For
Families looking for a budget-friendly beach vacation in Zanzibar.
Individuals seeking a comfortable stay without breaking the bank.
Those interested in beach relaxation and good food.
9. Zanzibar Serena Hotel
Zanzibar Serena Hotel, nestled in the heart of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a gem that combines history and comfort. The hotel offers more than just a stay, with a swimming pool, fitness center, and spa for relaxation.
Air-conditioned rooms come equipped with a flat-screen TV, minibar, and a private bathroom featuring a refreshing shower.
The Baharia Restaurant caters to diverse tastes, serving a variety of international and local dishes, while the Terrace Restaurant provides an elegant spot for cocktails and light snacks.
The pricing of Zanzibar Serena Hotel falls within the mid-range, making it an affordable choice for those who want to explore the rich history of Stone Town without compromising on comfort.
Standout Features
Located in the heart of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Swimming pool, fitness center, and spa for relaxation.
Air-conditioned rooms with modern amenities.
Baharia Restaurant offers a variety of international and local dishes.
Terrace Restaurant for cocktails and light snacks.
Ideal For
History enthusiasts exploring Stone Town.
Travelers seeking a culturally rich experience.
Those looking for mid-range affordability with added amenities.
10. Dream of Zanzibar
Dream of Zanzibar offers a functional design, decent rooms, and service, making it a suitable mid-range option for various travelers. The rooms, while not extravagant, provide a comfortable stay.
The food quality here is good, satisfying diverse palates. The beach view, though not breathtaking, adds to the overall experience, creating a pleasant atmosphere.
Dream of Zanzibar's pricing falls within the mid-range, making it an affordable choice for those who prioritize comfort and good food over luxurious frills.
Standout Features
Functional design with decent rooms.
Satisfactory service for a comfortable stay.
Good food quality offering diverse options.
The beach view adds to the overall experience.
Ideal For
Travelers looking for a mid-range option with good food and comfort.
Those prioritizing a relaxing stay with decent amenities.
Individuals seeking affordability without compromising on quality.
11. Royal Zanzibar Beach Resort
Royal Zanzibar Beach Resort, despite its basic architecture, stands out for its reliable rooms and service. The accommodations, while not extravagant, provide a comfortable stay.
The food quality is commendable, offering a satisfying dining experience. The beach view, though not jaw-dropping, is enjoyable, contributing to a relaxed atmosphere.
Positioned in the mid-range category, Royal Zanzibar Beach Resort is an affordable option for travelers seeking a reliable stay with good food and a beachfront setting.
Standout Features
Basic architecture with reliable rooms.
Commendable service for a comfortable stay.
Good food quality offering a satisfying dining experience.
Enjoyable beach view adding to the relaxed atmosphere.
Ideal For
Travelers looking for an affordable beachfront stay.
Those prioritizing reliability and good food over extravagant amenities.
Individuals seeking a mid-range option for a relaxed vacation.
Already eager to pack your bags for Zanzibar? Here’s a detailed guide on everything you need to know on getting to Zanzibar.
Affordable Resorts
The affordable resorts category caters to budget-conscious travelers who still want a comfortable and enjoyable stay without breaking the bank. These resorts provide basic amenities and services at a more wallet-friendly price.
12. Bluebay Beach Resort & Spa
Bluebay Beach Resort & Spa, with its no-frills design, offers a budget-friendly option without compromising on comfort. While the rooms and service are straightforward, they provide a satisfactory stay.
The quality of East African cuisine served here meets expectations, and the beach view justifies the affordable price. The resort features a spa for those seeking relaxation.
The pricing falls within the affordable range, making Bluebay Beach Resort & Spa a practical choice for those on a budget.
Standout Features
No-frills design with straightforward rooms.
Satisfactory service for a budget-friendly stay.
Good food quality meeting expectations.
Beach view justifying the affordable price.
Ideal For
Budget-conscious travelers seeking an affordable beach stay.
Those prioritizing simplicity and cost-effectiveness.
Individuals looking for a practical option without compromising on comfort.
13. Kisiwa House
Kisiwa House, situated in the heart of Stone Town, offers a small-scale retreat with great architecture and rooms.
Despite its size, the service is top-notch, and the food quality is excellent, making each guest's experience memorable. The beach view stands out as a unique feature, providing a refreshing escape.
The hotel provides essential amenities such as a swimming pool, fitness center, and a spa. Air-conditioned rooms are equipped with modern conveniences like a flat-screen TV, minibar, and a private bathroom with a shower.
The restaurant serves a variety of international and local dishes, adding to the cultural charm. Kisiwa House is positioned as an affordable option, making it ideal for those who appreciate personalized service and cultural immersion on a budget.
Standout Features
Small-scale retreat with great architecture.
Top-notch service for a personalized experience.
Excellent food quality showcasing diverse flavors.
The unique beach view adds to the refreshing atmosphere.
Ideal For
Travelers looking for a culturally immersive experience.
Those appreciating personalized service on a budget.
Individuals seeking affordability without compromising on comfort.
14. The Manta Resort
The Manta Resort, located off the beaten path, offers a unique design, quality rooms, and excellent service.
Beyond the standard, the resort provides a remarkable underwater room experience, setting it apart from traditional accommodations.
The food quality meets expectations, enhancing the overall stay. The secluded location adds a touch of tranquility, making it an exceptional choice for those seeking a peaceful escape.
The Manta Resort caters to adventurous souls and those looking for an extraordinary underwater experience.
Top resorts like these are the reason why Zanzibar is one of the best islands in Africa.
Standout Features
Unique design and quality rooms.
Excellent service for a remarkable stay.
Exceptional underwater room experience.
A secluded location that adds tranquility to the escape.
Ideal For
Adventurous souls seeking a unique underwater experience.
Travelers looking for a tranquil and secluded retreat.
Individuals desiring a touch of luxury off the beaten path
15. Gecko Nature Lodge
Found on Pemba Island, the green island, Gecko Nature Lodge offers a series of large airy bungalows.
Originally designed to accommodate divers, the lodge has evolved into a comfortable resting place for scuba divers, snorkelers, birders, sea kayakers, and those seeking African adventure or relaxation.
The upgraded bar, pool, restaurant, and expanded deck provide ample space for guests to unwind. Secret hideaways with hammocks and daybeds offer privacy and serenity.
Home to SWAHILI DIVERS, East Africa's first dive center, the lodge caters to diving enthusiasts with offerings like NITROX, day and night dives, teck dives, and more.
Gecko Nature Lodge is 100% owner-managed, ensuring a personal touch. Excursions include sandbank tours, kayaking through mangroves, sunset cruises, deep-sea fishing, and forest tours, among others.
On land, visits to ruins, spice farms, markets, and essential oils distilleries are arranged.
Gecko Nature Lodge is the only provider of kayak rentals on the island, making it an ideal choice if you’re seeking diving experiences on Pemba Island.
Standout Features
Large airy bungalows for comfort.
Upgraded facilities including a bar, pool, and restaurant.
Exciting dive center with various diving specialties.
Diverse excursions both on water and on the island.
Ideal For
Scuba divers, birders, and sea kayakers.
Adventure seekers and those looking for a relaxed retreat.
Individuals interested in exploring both underwater and on-land experiences on Pemba Island.
Final Thoughts
There you have it, the rundown on the best resorts in Zanzibar, from high-end luxury to budget-friendly options.
We’ve found you the perfect resort for every activity; snorkeling, beach lounging, exploring Stone Town's history, spice farm tours, scuba diving, safari, or forest tours.
There's something for every need and every budget.
And finally, if you fancy diving adventures or a cozy stay on Pemba Island, check out Swahili Divers Center and book a relaxing stay at Gecko Nature Lodge – your gateway to affordable comfort and exciting underwater experiences.
We hope this list helps you make an informed decision about your next vacation to Zanzibar. Enjoy your stay!
