Upendo House Stone Town: A Chic Retreat in the Heart of Zanzibar
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Located in the historical UNESCO World Heritage city of Stone Town, Upendo House Zanzibar is an eight-room, adults-only luxury boutique hotel offering chic vibes and a unique take on Zanzibar’s rich history and culture. Opened in early 2020, this fully restored property combines contemporary style with traditional touches, making it a perfect escape for those seeking elegance and relaxation.
Whether you’re visiting for a romantic getaway or a solo adventure, Upendo House delivers an unforgettable experience. Here’s everything you need to know about this stylish retreat.
How to Get to Upendo House
Upendo House is centrally located in Stone Town, making it easily accessible from Zanzibar’s Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ). The hotel is about a 15-minute drive from the airport, and taxis are readily available at the airport when you arrive. If you’re arriving by ferry, the hotel is a short 10-minute walk from the port.
Rooms at Upendo House
wallpaper by South African brand Cara Saven. Rooms are air-conditioned and include king-sized beds, private bathrooms, a coffee maker, and a minibar.
When booking, you can choose between two standout options:
- Private Terrace Room: These offer stunning views of Stone Town, perfect for soaking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
- Soaking Tub Room: This is a quieter choice for light sleepers, ideal if you need some peaceful downtime after exploring.
The hotel’s central location near the night market is a bonus, but Stone Town can be lively well into the night. If you’re a light sleeper, I would choose the soaking tub room for a little extra peace and quiet!
Resort Amenities
Rooftop Infinity Pool: Lounge on the sundeck or take a dip in the infinity pool while gazing over all that Stone Town has to offer. Cocktail service is available from The Fifth Bar to keep you hydrated!
Healing Earth Spa: Treat yourself to massages, facials, and unique treatments like a warm African Potato balm head massage. The spa also offers body wraps and hand and foot treatments for ultimate relaxation.
Duka In Town: This trendy fashion boutique on the first floor features resort wear, accessories, and locally made gifts, perfect for a chic souvenir or vacation wardrobe upgrade.
Dining
The Fifth Restaurant: The Fifth Restaurant is the culinary highlight of Upendo House. Its rooftop location provides a stunning setting for meals, with panoramic views of Stone Town’s skyline and the Indian Ocean. The menu offers a blend of Mediterranean, Indian, and Swahili flavors, showcasing the best of Zanzibar’s fresh local ingredients.
The Fifth Bar: One floor above the restaurant, you’ll find a poolside bar and infinity pool overlooking Stone Town. The bar offers an extensive drink menu, and you can even create your own cocktail by choosing your preferred liquor, fruits, and spices. Whether you prefer your drink refreshing, sweet, or spicy, the bartenders are happy to craft something tailored to your taste.
Let’s Go on Safari!
Price
A stay at Upendo House starts at approximately $200 per night, depending on the room type and season. While it’s on the higher end for Stone Town accommodations, the combination of style, location, and amenities makes it worth the splurge.
Final Thoughts
Upendo means “love” in Swahili, and it’s easy to see why guests fall in love with this property—I definitely did! From its chic interiors and luxurious amenities to its prime location in the heart of Stone Town, Upendo House offers an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and modern sophistication.
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Lori Barbely
Hi, I’m Lori. But you can call me Lors. I’m a middle-aged New Jersey-born gal, currently based in Orlando, Florida. My background is in editorial travel photography and writing and I've been to more than 30 countries. I’m obsessed with tropical locales and my favorite city is Tokyo. Have camera, will travel! I’m a Disney adult, Lord of the Rings fan, certified crazy cat lady, and sushi addict! I hope this blog inspires your wanderlust. Feel free to follow me on Instagram for snippets of daily life on and off the road.
