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

    5 stars. An incredible hotel! The staff is very friendly and ready to answer what you need.I recommand the Kisiwa HouseVery clean, the food is very good!It is located in the center of many activities, near the beach and very close to many restaurants and shops.

    Ranim A, January 2025

  • Kisiwa House

    Historic hotel in centre of Stone town. Had a great one night stay.Hotel is excellent and the staff very pleasant and extremely attentive.The building is interesting with many unique features and furnishings.Great air con - welcome after a very hot day and night.Lovely breakfast on the rooftop terrace.

    Don H, January 2025

  • Kisiwa on the beach

    Confidential hotel by the beach 🏝Family hotel on a great beautiful beach. A dream beach... yet we have travelled a lot... the cleanliness of the hotel is also impeccable. The quality and diversity of the food is also to be commended.The staff is very friendly and caring.Khalfan (Alphonse pour les intimates) is a magician, at the restaurant Bembe... during breakfasts, lunches... it will brighten your stay. With him everything... Read this review

    Pixyland89550, December 2024

  • Kisiwa on the Beach

    Great ambience, great customer service, paradise in Paje. Our stay at Kisiwa on the Beach in Paje, Zanzibar, was absolutely magical! When we arrived we were warmly welcomed with a glass of cold Hibiscus juice after a long drive from the Airport to the resort. The rooms were spacious, and very clean.Waking up to the sounds of the birds and having breakfast/lunch/dinner by the sea was just breathtaking. Not... Read this review

    Sylvia M, December 2024