Kisiwa House

Kisiwa House (Kisiwa means ‘island’ in Swahili) is a luxurious boutique hotel in Stone Town, noted for its elegant sophistication and gracious Swahili hospitality. History, drama and mystique are all waiting to be discovered and enjoyed by you in this charming old mansion!

Kisiwa House is superbly located on a quiet street in the heart of historical Stone Town, a UNESCO "World Heritage Site", within easy walking distance of famous landmarks, museums, antique shops and restaurants.

Accommodation

Set in a fresh Swahili style, the luxurious and spacious rooms are like gems in a tranquil setting. The plush interiors with sleek clean lines speak of sophistication, while the lustrous colours and textiles whisper relaxation and romance.

Choose from the sumptuous Burdani deluxe rooms, Malkia Junior suites or Sulaima Senior suites.

Each of the rooms are named after aromatic flowers found on the island, and all come with the following amenities:

• Flat-screen TV
• Satellite television
• Wireless Internet
• Air-conditioning
• Personal safe
• Telephone
• Mini-bar
• Tea & coffee-making facilities
• Hairdryer
• En-suite bathroom
• Toiletries
  
  

Restaurant

Entering the Kisiwa House restaurant Darini is like stepping into a past of refinement and indulgence. Its fine décor, soft lighting and antique fixtures are specifically designed to create a warm and relaxed ambiance. Darini is a unique restaurant featuring both traditional and continental specialties inspired by the island’s aromatic spices and flavours... all revealing a fascinating cuisine. Tantalize your palate with the Chef’s true Zanzibar Delights while enjoying a breathtaking view of Stone Town and the Indian Ocean.

Courtyard

The Courtyard Lounge is a hidden retreat in a perfect setting for those just wanting to unwind. It is a symphony of water sounds, greenery and enchanting traditional taarab music in the heart of the town. Linger over a freshly brewed coffee and indulge in the delights of a traditional Zanzibar tea, accompanied by a selection of freshly baked pastries in Stone Town’s first Tea Lounge!

A Short History of Kisiwa House

Kisiwa House was constructed in 1840 by Nassor ibn Abdullah Al Barwani, a rich and influential Omani merchant. The property was one of the first buildings in Stonetown, and was built during the reign of the greatest 19th-century sultan of Oman, Said ibn Sultan, who made Zanzibar his main place of residence in 1837.

Kisiwa House has been in the same family for generations, and was only recently renovated into a luxury boutique hotel. The impressive wooden staircase and the brass-studded door date back to its construction some 170 years ago. Faithfully restored and lavishly embellished with a private collection of antique furniture, brass fixtures, Persian rugs and original photographs. The interior design concept is a fusion of authenticity and opulence that reflects the very essence of Zanzibar history.

Sulaima bint Salim Al Barwani was one the most emblematic owners of Kisiwa house. A woman of strong character, she was one of the wealthiest people in Zanzibar at the turn of the 20th century. In her later years, Sulaima lived on the top floor of the building - leaving the rest of the house to her children and their respective families. They then started calling her "Bibi wa Darini" meaning ‘rooftop grand mother’. Today, Kisiwa House belongs to her great grandson.