The Seyyida Hotel

The Seyyida Hotel is located in the heart of the alleyways of Stonetown. This is a prime location for those looking for an authentic experience in Zanzibar, those who want to wander the alleyways and see the real charm and quirkiness of the city. Behind the hotel is the Forodhani Gardens, which is the hub of local street food and drink- especially fresh seafood- in the evenings.

The waterfront position allows easy access to cruises and boat trips where dolphins, green turtles and rays are commonly observed, with offshore reefs offering chances to see reef sharks and, in the right season, migrating humpback whales. Snorkelling and diving excursions reveal bright coral formations, while longer outings can reach channels where manta rays glide through. Sunset sailings often provide gentle wildlife viewing close to the harbour.

However, a few limitations are worth noting: the central setting can feel busy, and the limited outdoor areas may disappoint travellers seeking gardens, quiet lounging spaces or direct beach access.

The hotel is a three-storey building with rooms, suites and family units on each floor. On the top floor is The Lulu Rooftop lounge and restaurant, renowned for its views over Zanzibar’s rooftops and the Indian Ocean.

With special dishes, traditional recipes and drinks made to order, the restaurant is the perfect place to take in the views of the historical city and its picturesque harbour. The Seyyida Hotel also has a spa for guests to use, with a wide range of relaxing health and beauty treatments available.

Do see our new The Seyyida Hotel Picture Gallery further down this page.

It has 17 elegant and spacious rooms with exquisite hand carved furniture in the traditional Swahili style. There are a range of room types to accommodate all, including family suites, balcony seaview suites, deluxe mezzanines and standard deluxe rooms with views of either sea, street or courtyard views. The rooms are all en-suite, with have king size beds, satellite TV, air conditioning and WiFi.

Do see Best Safaris & Holidays on this page.

Please call us in the UK on the usual +44 1525 840 149 or email info@theafricaspecialists.com to check availability, best prices and what adventures you have in mind. We can plan and arrange it all for you and have been for over 20 years!