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.

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Reviews

  • Kisiwa House

    Beautiful stay at Kisiwa House. From the moment we arrived the hospitality was warm and attentive and make you feel at home. They gave us welcome drinks as they prepared our keys and told us of the history of the hotel. The room was impeccable, we stayed in the larger suite with a roll top bath. The decor was lovely and the room was spotlessly clean and they have... Read this review

    Climber54829506580, November 2026

  • Kisiwa House

    Wonderful and Comfortable Stay. I had a wonderful stay at this hotel. The building was beautiful, and the rooms were spacious, comfortable, and well maintained. I really enjoyed my experience. The hotel offered a pleasant environment, and I felt comfortable throughout my stay I would definitely recommend this hotel to anyone looking for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. I would be happy to come back again.

    Hanoosh A, October 2026

  • Kisiwa on the beach

    A Slice of Paradise – Serenity, Service, and Soul. Our group had the pleasure of staying at Kisiwa on the Beach – Luxury Villas and Spa for four nights, and it was nothing short of wonderful. From the moment you step into the environment, a sense of serenity washes over you—it's tranquil, spa-like, and instantly calming. The General Manager, Julious, personally welcomed us and introduced us to his team.... Read this review

    C B, October 2026

  • Kisiwa on the Beach

    A Honeymoon Beyond Our Dreams – A True Piece of Paradise! 🤍🌴. Words cannot describe how magical our honeymoon experience was! 🤍 From the very first moment, we felt like we had stepped into paradise. Every little detail was beautiful, the atmosphere was breathtaking, and the hospitality was beyond anything we could have imagined. What truly made our stay unforgettable was the incredible staff. Their kindness, warm smiles, genuine... Read this review

    May A, October 2026