Perfect central location, really gorgeous and thoughtfully restored building, efficient and helpful staff, good a/c, terrific roof top with amazing 360 rooftop views and lovely food. Overall terrific value. I would definitely stay again.

Only two small things: the so-called “plunge pool” was more a 2’ deep paddle pool or jacuzzi, or even water feature, and should really be advertised as that, rather than a pool. Also, the wifi is only in the reception and rooftop areas, not the rooms. Apparently this is quite standard, and I adjusted to this fast, but it would be good to know in advance. But for these things I would’ve given the hotel full marks.

Beautiful house and lovely decor! The ambience and the view from the rooftop is amazing. Breakfast was okay, there is room for improvement. Facilities were decent for an independent hotel.

The bathroom door was a big problem, ironically, this was the third location in Zanzibar where we had issues with the bathroom door! In this case, it got stuck and i could not come out. Finally, it needed some brute force to open the door! Rest were all fine. We could not open the windows since there was construction work going on next door, but cannot fault the hotel for this discomfort

We loved this hotel, which was our first stop in Zanzibar. It has a lot of character and the staff were friendly and helpful. The bedroom and bathroom were large and really nicely decorated. The roof terrace has amazing views (unfortunately luring many tourists during the day), comfy seating in and out of the sun, a dipping pool, and restaurant that serves delicious food. Also, it is a great location for exploring Stone Town, with close access to the road/ taxis.

Wifi was not perfect, but this was an issue everywhere we went to Zanzibar, so I don't think specific to this hotel.

What a gem! I will always remember staying at this historic "house" with a stellar view. Great breakfast, friendly staff who made us feel welcome, and a wonderful atmosphere. Sitting on the terrace overlooking Stone Town with a coffee or beer in hand - there was nothing better! The room was comfortable and spacious. Staff helped us organize an outing.

Wifi was just OK, and only in common areas. A/C worked well enough, but didn't quite cool down the whole room. Room could use a desk or table (something to put our stuff on or sit at).

The water in the swimming pool was quite dirty... it should be change. No way to go in there!

Staff were so friendly, good food in the restaurant. Breakfast was nice and view from rooftop lovely. Amazing building, big room. They organised a good guide for our walking tour and nice driver to our next hotel.

It was fine for us, but may be a bit tricky for some people to find on foot. Pool was very small, and we didn't use it as it's right next to the restaurant with lots of tour groups coming and going all day to see the building/view.

Booked my last night here after travelling Tanzania and Zanzibar for a number of weeks. It was a delight! The bed was huge and very comfortable, the staff were so accommodating and nothing was too much trouble. I felt like it was a home from home very quickly and as I visited in the low season they even allowed a late checkout so I could make use of the room before flying home. The roof top is a lovely place to enjoy breakfast or an evening drink. I would stay again, without hesitation and recommend to others!

It was all perfect.

Beautiful Hotel in old House in the middle of the city. Highly recommendable - Fantastic view! Perfect sunset location!

All good, restaurant is also good, but not top notch, especially breakfast bread rolls are a bit dry. Coffee machine was broken, so there was no real coffee, only powder which was a downer. Coffee machine needs to be fixed urgently :) This does not outweigh at all the overall quality and beauty of the hotel and the beautiful view from the roof terrace.

Great service (special thanks to Mwinyi at the reception, who helped with great advice), beautiful building and decorations, comfortable rooms, amazing view from the rooftop, location in the midst of a labyrinth was lovely. We travelled with a baby and the staff at the kitchen were super helpful. Btw the coconut curry is to die for!

The pool is as big as a shoebox

Swahili House is perfectly located near the center of Stone Town. We found the service excellent and the facilities first-rate. We visited in hot season and the air conditioning worked fine. You are a short walk to virtually all parts of Stone City. The upstairs terrace / bar area has a fantastic view of the city and very good drinks (go during happy hour). Breakfast is decent but nothing special. Please note that your taxi will not be able to drive directly to Swahili House. A good choice for a drop-off / pick-up point is the NBC ATM in front of Train's House (an old building fronting on a major road). The walk from drop-off to Swahili House will take about 5 minutes through some winding alleys. Swahili House can be difficult to find when you return from exploring Stone Town. Everyone on the street is very nice and if you say, " Mambo, iko wapi Swahili House" anyone you ask (particularly the kids) will be happy to point out which tiny street you need to take.

Breakfast could be better. Wifi is hit or miss but that seems to be a problem everywhere in Zanzibar. Bring a GSM data plan if staying connected is important to you. Actually, you should probably have one anyway so you can use Google Maps (amazingly accurate given the maze of tiny streets) to help you navigate.