Welcoming Intrepid Wanderers Home for Generations

Welcome to Kisiwa House, a timeless sanctuary where history meets elegance. Built in 1840 by the affluent Omani merchant Nassor ibn Abdullah Al Barwani, this estate is one of Stone Town's earliest treasures, embodying Zanzibar’s rich heritage.

As you step inside, you’ll discover intricate, original features like the wooden staircase, brass-studded door and exquisite antiques that beautifully blend Arabic and Swahili design.

Notably, the top-floor sanctuary once served as the home of Sulaima bint Salim Al Barwani, affectionately known as “Bibi wa Darini” (Rooftop Grandmother). Her legacy continues through her great-great-great-grandson, the current owner, whose vision preserves the home’s history for future generations.

As one of the oldest heritage hotels in Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kisiwa House reflects a rich cultural legacy central to our mission. Alongside our beachfront retreat, Kisiwa on the Beach, we cultivate a spirit of family and lasting connections with all who visit. We look forward to welcoming you to experience our stories and the enduring beauty of Kisiwa House.

Discover Stone Town and Paje

Reviews

  • Kisiwa House

    Short but super stay A brief stopover in Stone Town before heading to the beach. We couldn’t have chosen better. Warm welcome including a Hisbiscus juice and cold towel. Room was large and well equipped. Shower was superb. Breakfast included a comprehensive selection of items and just perfect. Lovely tips on where to explore for our few hours. Every member of staff was smiley and helpful.Fully Recommend for your... Read this review

    Tracey S, November 2024

  • Kisiwa House

    Great place, even greater staff We spent part of our honeymoon in Stone Town and we chose Kisiwa House for this period. The hotel is well located, the room is very clean, with good A/C, the bathroom is very spacious with brand new showers. Overall the stay was great. The highlight though is the staff - the receptionists and waiters are just incredible. We had such a joy talking... Read this review

    Leonardo Tomadon, November 2024

  • Kisiwa on the beach

    Amazing place, highly recommended. A Perfect Slice of Paradise Our stay at Kisiwa on the Beach in Paje, Zanzibar, was absolutely magical! From the moment we arrived, we were warmly welcomed by the friendly staff who went above and beyond to make our stay unforgettable. The rooms were spacious, immaculately clean, and beautifully designed, blending modern comfort with traditional Zanzibari touches. Waking up to the sound of the ocean... Read this review

    Wissam N, November 2024

  • Kisiwa on the Beach

    Amazing hotel on the beach Wow! From the moment we arrived for our 8 day stay we felt at home. We were met by Julius the GM who introduced us to his team and welcomed us to Kisiwa. Our villa was gorgeous and decorated with flowers. The pool area and hotel grounds were amazing. The beach was gorgeous and when it was low tide you could walk out towards... Read this review

    Camper714700, November 2024