Elegant Accommodations Emerson on Hurumzi in Zanzibar City offers a 5-star experience with a terrace, restaurant, and free WiFi in public areas. Guests enjoy sea views, air-conditioning, balconies, and private bathrooms. Comfortable Amenities The hotel provides private check-in and check-out, a 24-hour front desk, concierge service, and daily housekeeping.
Additional features include room service, breakfast in the room, and a paid airport shuttle service. Dining Options A traditional restaurant serves lunch and dinner with continental, à la carte, vegetarian, vegan, and halal breakfast options. Breakfast includes juice, fresh pastries, and fruits.
Prime Location Stone Town Beach is a 3-minute walk away, and Abeid Amani Karume International Airport is 5 mi distant. Scuba diving opportunities enhance the surrounding area.
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8.2/10
V. good
124 Reviews
The authenticity of the hotel was very charming. The staff were super attentive and friendly. Breakfast was great. Location was also great. Hidden gem at the back of the hotel is a really quaint art gallery and worth a visit.
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Good to know
Check-in
from 13:00
Check-out
until 13:00
Pets Policy
Pets are not allowed
Getting around
Rooms Types
Room Details
Deluxe Queen Room
1 Full bed
40m²
Type: Double
Safe
Pay-per-view channels
Hairdryer
Shared bathroom
Free toiletries
DVD player
Toilet
Microwave
Extra long beds (> 6.5 ft)
Sauna
Bidet
Game console - PS3
Landmark view
Additional bathroom
Baby safety gates
Adapted bath
Roll-in shower
Pool with a view
Shallow end
Bottle of water
Streaming service (like Netflix)
Privacy curtain
Window
Open-air bath
Carbon monoxide detector
Carbon monoxide sources
Complimentary afternoon snacks and drinks in the executive lounge
Select dates to see prices
Deluxe Queen Room
1 Full bed
40m²
Has window
Type: Double
Room all facilities
Safe
Pay-per-view channels
Hairdryer
Shared bathroom
Free toiletries
DVD player
Toilet
Microwave
Extra long beds (> 6.5 ft)
Sauna
Bidet
Game console - PS3
Landmark view
Additional bathroom
Baby safety gates
Adapted bath
Roll-in shower
Pool with a view
Shallow end
Bottle of water
Streaming service (like Netflix)
Privacy curtain
Window
Open-air bath
Carbon monoxide detector
Carbon monoxide sources
Complimentary afternoon snacks and drinks in the executive lounge
Room Description:
The spacious double room features air conditioning, a seating area, as well as a private bathroom boasting a bath. Among the room amenities are a wardrobe, a safe deposit box and a sofa as well as city views. The unit has 1 bed.
Room Details
Suite with Balcony
1 Full bed
37m²
Type: Suite
Safe
Pay-per-view channels
Hairdryer
Suit press
Desk
Shared bathroom
Free toiletries
DVD player
Toilet
Microwave
Extra long beds (> 6.5 ft)
Sauna
Bidet
Game console - Xbox 360
Game console - PS3
Landmark view
Additional bathroom
Upper floors accessible by elevator
Baby safety gates
Adapted bath
Roll-in shower
Emergency cord in bathroom
Pool with a view
Shallow end
Bottle of water
Streaming service (like Netflix)
Window
Open-air bath
Carbon monoxide detector
Carbon monoxide sources
Complimentary afternoon snacks and drinks in the executive lounge
Select dates to see prices
Suite with Balcony
1 Full bed
37m²
Has window
Type: Suite
Room all facilities
Safe
Pay-per-view channels
Hairdryer
Suit press
Desk
Shared bathroom
Free toiletries
DVD player
Toilet
Microwave
Extra long beds (> 6.5 ft)
Sauna
Bidet
Game console - Xbox 360
Game console - PS3
Landmark view
Additional bathroom
Upper floors accessible by elevator
Baby safety gates
Adapted bath
Roll-in shower
Emergency cord in bathroom
Pool with a view
Shallow end
Bottle of water
Streaming service (like Netflix)
Window
Open-air bath
Carbon monoxide detector
Carbon monoxide sources
Complimentary afternoon snacks and drinks in the executive lounge
Room Description:
The suite has 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom with a bath and free toiletries. The suite is furnished with a desk and a seating area and features air conditioning, a wardrobe and sea views. The unit has 1 bed.
Room Details
Superior Double or Twin Room
2 Twin bed
42m²
Type: Twin/Double
Bathtub
Pay-per-view channels
Hairdryer
Suit press
Shared bathroom
Free toiletries
DVD player
Toilet
Microwave
Extra long beds (> 6.5 ft)
Sauna
Bidet
Game console - PS3
Landmark view
Baby safety gates
Adapted bath
Roll-in shower
Emergency cord in bathroom
Pool with a view
Shallow end
Bottle of water
Streaming service (like Netflix)
Window
Open-air bath
Carbon monoxide detector
Carbon monoxide sources
Complimentary afternoon snacks and drinks in the executive lounge
Select dates to see prices
Superior Double or Twin Room
2 Twin bed
42m²
Has window
Type: Twin/Double
Room all facilities
Bathtub
Pay-per-view channels
Hairdryer
Suit press
Shared bathroom
Free toiletries
DVD player
Toilet
Microwave
Extra long beds (> 6.5 ft)
Sauna
Bidet
Game console - PS3
Landmark view
Baby safety gates
Adapted bath
Roll-in shower
Emergency cord in bathroom
Pool with a view
Shallow end
Bottle of water
Streaming service (like Netflix)
Window
Open-air bath
Carbon monoxide detector
Carbon monoxide sources
Complimentary afternoon snacks and drinks in the executive lounge
Room Description:
The spacious twin/double room offers air conditioning, a seating area, a balcony with city views as well as a private bathroom featuring a shower. The unit offers 2 beds.
Room Details
Double Room
1 Full bed
37m²
Type: Double
Safe
Hairdryer
Shared bathroom
Free toiletries
DVD player
Toilet
Microwave
Extra long beds (> 6.5 ft)
Sauna
Oven
Bidet
Game console - PS3
Landmark view
Baby safety gates
Adapted bath
Roll-in shower
Pool with a view
Shallow end
Bottle of water
Streaming service (like Netflix)
Window
Open-air bath
Carbon monoxide detector
Carbon monoxide sources
Complimentary afternoon snacks and drinks in the executive lounge
Select dates to see prices
Double Room
1 Full bed
37m²
Has window
Type: Double
Room all facilities
Safe
Hairdryer
Shared bathroom
Free toiletries
DVD player
Toilet
Microwave
Extra long beds (> 6.5 ft)
Sauna
Oven
Bidet
Game console - PS3
Landmark view
Baby safety gates
Adapted bath
Roll-in shower
Pool with a view
Shallow end
Bottle of water
Streaming service (like Netflix)
Window
Open-air bath
Carbon monoxide detector
Carbon monoxide sources
Complimentary afternoon snacks and drinks in the executive lounge
Room Description:
The spacious double room features air conditioning, a seating area, as well as a private bathroom boasting a bath. The double room provides a sofa and city views. The unit has 1 bed.
Guest Score and Reviews
8.2/10
V. good
124 Reviews
Cleanliness
8.5
Facilities
7.7
Location
8.3
Service
8.3
Sharon
Group Traveler
8.0
The authenticity of the hotel was very charming. The staff were super attentive and friendly. Breakfast was great. Location was also great. Hidden gem at the back of the hotel is a really quaint art gallery and worth a visit.
It was pretty noisy at night however, the World Cup was on so this could just be football fever. The water pressure at times was a little weak. Just a piece of advice- bring your own shower gel (if you don’t like soap)/ shampoo and conditioner as this is not provided.
December 2022
Xolile
Family with young children
8.0
The feeling of stepping back in time. The authentic feel of Arab and Indian influence was spectacular. The room was huge, and I loved the old school beds and window shutters. If you are fussy about modern facilities then this place is not for you. It’s charm is in ability to feel like a time capsule. The rooftop restaurant added to the experience as well, even if you don’t stay at the hotel, try the restaurant. Staff was accommodating as well and always at your service. Allowed us to have a slightly later check out. Besides that, breakfast was standard for a small hotel, everything was well presented and delicious
The steps were so steep, but I understand it’s a function of the age of the building. I do think however the owner should consider putting in an elevator at the reception as there is a space that looks like it could accommodate it. They could style the elevator in an old influence. I think it will help the elderly (like my mum) feel a lot more secure.
Check what plug is needed for your chargers, we used a plug converter.
December 2022
Services & Facilities
Most popular facilities
24-Hour Front Desk
Free Wi-Fi
Room service available
Room Service
Air Conditioning
More Amenities
Activities & Things to do
Live Entertainment
Temporary Art Galleries
Food & Drinks
Restaurant(s)
Wine/champagne
General
24-Hour Front Desk
Private Check-in/check-out
Sanitation Procedures
Staff Follow All Safety Protocols As Directed By Local Authorities
Free Face Masks
Shared Stationery Such As Printed Menus, Magazines, Pens, And Paper Removed
Physical/social Distancing Guidelines
Linens, Towels And Laundry Washed In Accordance With Local Authority Guidelines
Hand Sanitizer In Guest Accommodation And Key Areas
All Plates, Cutlery, Glasses And Other Tableware Have Been Sanitized
Staff Follow All Safety Protocols As Directed By Local Authorities
Free Face Masks
Shared Stationery Such As Printed Menus, Magazines, Pens, And Paper Removed
Physical/social Distancing Guidelines
Linens, Towels And Laundry Washed In Accordance With Local Authority Guidelines
Hand Sanitizer In Guest Accommodation And Key Areas
All Plates, Cutlery, Glasses And Other Tableware Have Been Sanitized
Media & Technology
Free Wi-Fi
Room Amenities
Room Service Available
Room Service
Air Conditioning
Smoke Alarms
Fire Extinguishers
Balcony/Terrace
Security
24-hour Security
Services and Conveniences
Daily Housekeeping
Cashless Payment Available
Concierge Services
Invoices
Tour Services
Transportation
Airport Shuttle (charges May Apply)
Health Services
Process In Place To Check Health Of Guests
First Aid Kit Available
Access To Health Care Professionals
All Guest Score and Reviews
8.2/10
V. good
124 Reviews
Cleanliness
8.5
Facilities
7.7
Location
8.3
Service
8.3
Sharon
Group Traveler
8.0
The authenticity of the hotel was very charming. The staff were super attentive and friendly. Breakfast was great. Location was also great. Hidden gem at the back of the hotel is a really quaint art gallery and worth a visit.
It was pretty noisy at night however, the World Cup was on so this could just be football fever. The water pressure at times was a little weak. Just a piece of advice- bring your own shower gel (if you don’t like soap)/ shampoo and conditioner as this is not provided.
December 2022
Xolile
Family with young children
8.0
The feeling of stepping back in time. The authentic feel of Arab and Indian influence was spectacular. The room was huge, and I loved the old school beds and window shutters. If you are fussy about modern facilities then this place is not for you. It’s charm is in ability to feel like a time capsule. The rooftop restaurant added to the experience as well, even if you don’t stay at the hotel, try the restaurant. Staff was accommodating as well and always at your service. Allowed us to have a slightly later check out. Besides that, breakfast was standard for a small hotel, everything was well presented and delicious
The steps were so steep, but I understand it’s a function of the age of the building. I do think however the owner should consider putting in an elevator at the reception as there is a space that looks like it could accommodate it. They could style the elevator in an old influence. I think it will help the elderly (like my mum) feel a lot more secure.
Check what plug is needed for your chargers, we used a plug converter.
December 2022
Rob
Family with young children
10.0
Beautiful place, very good atmosphere and extremely nice decorated rooms, interior.
Staff is very friendly.
Right in the centre of Stone Town.
everything was perfectly fine, the only thing is the many stairs in the beautiful old building.
It makes it difficult to stay here for disabled people.
December 2022
Shauna
Couple
10.0
We were kindly offered an upgrade to the 'tour 1' room which has panoramic views of zanzibar from a private tower seating area. Amazing view of the city, and perfect for relaxing and seeing the sunset. Historic building with lots of interesting original features. Breakfast was served in our room at the tower seating area at no extra charge - very nice. Assisted to book us airport transfer and was very smooth.
January 2023
Thomas
Solo Traveler
8.0
Extremely quirky property, full of authentic charm. Breakfast in the private turret that was part of the room was particularly authentic, with great views over almost all of central Stone Town. The friendly staff who were always engaging and helpful.
The hotel has done a reasonable job trying to squeeze some modern comforts into a really old building but, even so, the water supply was definitely temperamental at times, as was the Internet. But when you're trying to get away from it and experience a different world these things are part of the charm.
February 2023
Lise
Couple
8.0
Breakfast was excellent. Consisted of a large plate of fruit and eggs. The room had lots of character with a comfortable bed. Great restaurant with a prix fixed menu. Right in the middle of old town.
We were in the blue room. We thought we had selected a room with a shower, but there was no shower only a shower wand. The room was right across the street from a bar and you can hear the loud party every night. That is not the hotels fault, but travellers should be aware.
February 2023
Siert
Couple
10.0
Hurumzi on Emerson is a very nice and authentic hotel, with exceptionally friendly and helpful staff!! We felt very much at ease and welcome, and they go the extra mile to help their guests. I forgot my iPad in the room and they arranged for it to be transported back home quickly and at very low cost. One other thing: the diner at the rooftop is highly recommended!
March 2023
Gaynor
Family with young children
9.0
The staff went above and beyond...from the manager, Aisha to the wait staff such as Haaj, Salt and all the others!
I love the history and preservation of the building. The community feel of the area was rich and authentic, we were in the midst of a local Zanzibar community!
The relaxing rooftop restaurant....as well as the breakfast, lunch and dinner!
Even though we were accompanied by a local, I did not like not knowing before hand that we would be walking through dark lanes late at night to get to the hotel (upon my arrival).
The hotel is historic and has no elevator so there is a great deal of climbing stairs!
March 2023
Olga
Couple
10.0
The location is great. Minutes of walking from/to the port and other locations within Stone Town. The property is amazing. If you like to stay in extraordinary hotels - this one is for you. The levels don't correlate to each other, if you want to get to the roof top restaurant, it is somewhat of the Alise in Wonderland adventure.
Nothing disliked. One of my favorite hotels so far.
March 2023
Edward
Couple
8.0
Excellent location in the heart of Stone Town which means it is only accesible by foot but only a few minutes walk from the taxi stop.
Wonderfully characterful, esoteric step back into a Omani feel of yesteryear and very attentive service.
Very comfortable.
Responsive staff; we found out afterwards that there had been a payment problem with our CC (a compbination of their fault and ours) and it was sorted with no fuss or quibble.
Breakfast, prepared fresh and to order in a cramped inner upper floor courtyard that was charming
Street noise can be a problem (we listened to a football match courtesy of a nearby bar), but it was quiet by about 1030
The bathfoom is in keeping with the rest of the hotel, i.e. old and characterful, so we had an odd shaped bath and no shower curtain, but it was all clean and it worked. There selection of soaps was a nice touch
The period feel may not be to everyone's taste; it feels genuinely old, complete with steep wooden staircases, walkwayws and confuing layaout (which is part of the charm), rather than a modern hotel reflecting traditinal characteristics.
You could book the rooftop restaurant for a sunset experience, but could not just enjoy a drink/sundowrners on the roof.
April 2023
Lukas
Solo Traveler
10.0
An absolutely mesmerizing place, taken out of 1001 nights, but thereby staying very authentic and simply the perfect start to my journey on this beautiful island! The staff is very accommodating, super friendly and the food is the best I have tasted in all of Zanzibar, what a special hotel :) having lunch & diner on the cosy roof top terrace with that view, while all the muezzin start singing in the background - it felt like going back in time. The rooms have different themes, both of mine were exceptional and just looked spot on.
Fantastic work everyone, also the friendly city historian who took me to various places of interest and was not shy to really engage and share his views, what I really appreciated.
I will certainly come again and hope that everything will stay exactly as is! Asante Sana ??☀️
April 2023
Martyna
Couple
8.0
Very helpful, kind staff! Amazing views from the rooftop
A bit boring breakfast, very simple, not much choice
April 2023
P
Solo Traveler
9.0
Very good location. Superb decor and interior
April 2023
Marie-anne
Couple
8.0
The staff is amazing. The atmosphere of the hotel is pleasant.
April 2023
Paula
Couple
4.0
Great location to explore Stone Town. Lovely old building. Nice staff.
This is a beautiful historic building that is in a very poor state of repair, completely unloved. The stairs to all rooms are extremely steep and would be impossible for anyone with even the slightest mobility issue. There was no hairdryer in the room, no kettle or any way of having a cup of tea or coffee in the hotel. All of this would be fine if we weren’t paying four star prices for two star standards.
April 2023
Shelly
Solo Traveler
9.0
The building and the rooms are very beautiful. And the staff are very friendly and helpful.
The bathroom would have been much better for me if the shower head could hang properly. And I had a problem with mosquitoes
May 2023
Koenraad
Family with young children
7.0
The setting of the hotel is very nice, rooms are spacious and offer all comfort (pillows however too thick and cannot be used to sleep). The staff is friendly (at times too friendly) and make the stay wonderful.
The breakfast is just perfect. The coffee is just excellent.
pillows are too thick and impossible to be used for sleeping.
May 2023
Lucy
Couple
10.0
The location is excellent and the general feel of the hotel is lovely - so perfect for a stay in Stone Town .
The breakfast could maybe be improved a little .
Maybe the breakfast
June 2023
Tom
Couple
10.0
fantastic room and hotel building. our room had its own roof area. :-)
June 2023
Helen
Couple
10.0
The staff were kind, lovely and helpful at every point of the the way. It was extremely clean. The roof top area was so nice.
The steep stairs would be a deterrent if mobility was an issue.
June 2023
Mirvat
Couple
10.0
EVERYTHING WAS PERFECT
July 2023
Johnjo
Couple
9.0
Sunset dinner on the roof was excellent. Service in general was also top notch, lots of help from reception. Loved the selection of toiletries (toothpaste, cotton's buds, etc.) in the bathroom.
Breakfast was only OK. Bathroom needed better shower head - though there was plenty of hot water, which is rare on the island.
July 2023
Maureen
Couple
10.0
An exotic hotel right in Stonetown. This is an ancient building and the operators are doing an amazing job at hosting guests wanting local flavour.
There are a lot of steep stairs to reach the rooms.
August 2023
Demetra
Couple
8.0
The architecture of the. building is fantastic! The way the decadence of the old building is combined with the renovation and the decoration is very successful! The room was more than comfortable and very well decorated with old zanIbarian objects! The people were also very polite and tried to help! The breakfast very good! The restaurant on the roof garden amazing and there was a group of very good musicians who played traditional Zanzibarian music!
We have been waiting for a taxi that supposed to be arranged from the hotel to find us in the airport but they have forgotten us. The same with our reservation in the restaurant but in both cases the problems have been solved later. The room had some few technical problems but some of them have been fixed as long as we were there.
August 2023
Natalia
Couple
10.0
One of the most beautiful hotels I've ever seen! The staff were friendly and very helpful from transfers to ensuring we had an amazing honeymoon. The rooftop dinner with traditional music was a real highlight of our stay.
We will definitely stay here again if we are in Stonetown.
August 2023
Jenny
Group Traveler
9.0
Great location. Friendly and welcoming staff
Rooms very dark but understandable due to the the traditional feel to the place
August 2023
Ekaterina
Couple
6.0
This is a historic property which is kept to the time
Although historiс,it should be maintained better, especially the situation with black mold everywhere
August 2023
Bashaer
Couple
1.0
Location is perfect near the beach and Fordhani
- Breakfast was awful .. no options available and its a set menu which is eggs, fruits, some bread and little honey and avocado juice.. very disappointing. Also, the rooms were built in a way that doesn’t have a safety .. I slipped in a small step that I didnt see because of the darkness of the room and the color of the step was the same color of the floor so I didnt see it. I broke my foot. The dinner in the roof top was not enough for 2 people despite the high price and doesn’t contain drinks. The steps are a lot and big ones which makes the place not safe at all. Staff are nice though
September 2023
Kay
Solo Traveler
9.0
Fabulous hotel!
Staff could not do enough to help you!
Beautiful rooms, great breakfast, rooftop dinner and entertainment is great value for money as is the sister hotel restaurant secret garden.
I would recommend everyone to stay here provided they can climb the stairs!
Bags of character and brilliant location.
That I had to leave!!
September 2023
Katherine-mary
Couple
10.0
Magical and authentic interiors in the heart of of Stone Village. You feel transported. The staff was warm , genuine and helpful.
Perhaps breakfast could have a bit more variety.
September 2023
Ryan
Couple
10.0
Friendly staff, always helpful. Beautiful decor.
Nothing
September 2023
Luiza
Couple
10.0
Beautiful and very full of character hotel. We loved it there! Makes you feel like a ? ?
October 2023
Gabriele
Couple
9.0
Just great location with wonderful traditional furniture. It feels like 100 years in the past! Very friendly staff!
October 2023
Remy
Couple
5.0
Great staff! Great location at the heart of the old town
It must have been a magnificent place 20-30 years ago but it is in desperate need of a major upgrade.
December 2023
Mary
Solo Traveler
10.0
It’s a very interesting place, utilizing an old property and repurposing the space. Unusual accommodation in a good and unique way.
The stairs can be a challenge, but good railings make them work.
January 2024
Julie
Couple
10.0
Great location for sight-seeing in Stone Town. Beautiful building with aged grandeur and decor. Very attentive and welcoming staff. Fabulous rooftop where we enjoyed evening dinner (unfortunately no amazing sunset as cloudy) and lunch.
Dinner a bit expensive (US$ 40) compared to lunch (US$ 10-15) but paying for sunset experience in the evening. Food excellent on both occasions though so if on a budget I would go lunch.
Be warned - lots of steps!
January 2024
Lennert
Solo Traveler
9.0
Stylish historic design and feel
Bathroom design little less nice, Shower head positioned too low
January 2024
David
Couple
9.0
Loads of character and charm.
All of the stairs to get to the room and restaurant.
February 2024
Marianne
Solo Traveler
6.0
Location was off main road and on a little street in stone Town. You get the authentic Stone Town experience.
Not value for money compared to other hotels; breakfast and room cleanliness was not as expected.
April 2024
Christine
Family with young children
7.0
The property is located in the heart of Stone Town. Easy walking distance everywhere. The staff are exceptional all were very helpful. They have a lovely terrace restaurant and serve a really nice traditional meal. The rooms are very large and comfortable.
Noise from the street and the pigeons at 530am. Building could use some maintenance.
July 2024
SandyC2018
Solo Traveler
8.0
I was staying in the Rose room of this stately home steeped in history and with character. The room in Arabian style was very spacious and airy. I particularly liked the cool breeze coming through windows of the bathroom! Both lunch and dinner at the rooftop restaurant were very good. The dinner (a five-course tasting menu) at the rooftop restaurant was a memorable experience - excellent food, music from a women's band and great views of Stonetown and the sea. I also enjoyed the guided walk and the spice tour arranged by the hotel. Thank you for the wonderful hospitality, comfortable room and great food!
July 2024
Amanda
Couple
10.0
It was unique
Nothing
August 2024
Beth
Group Traveler
10.0
Amazing decor. Beautiful old hotel. Incredible breakfast and roof top restaurant absolute stunning with best views. Very atmospheric and central location.
Nothing
August 2024
cynthia
Couple
10.0
Absolutely everything!! The decor, the rooms,
The restaurant, the location, and especially the fantastic staff.
Nothing!
August 2024
Paolo
Family with young children
6.0
Location and historical background
The property is in serious need of restoration
August 2024
Giulia
Couple
10.0
Everything was amazing. We were increadibly happy with our stay. From the staff, to the room to the food. We loved it, everybody put so much effort in making this special occasion even more memorable
September 2024
Hugh
Couple
8.0
Ample breakfast in an outdoor location - could be inside in case of rain: fruit, bread, cooked breakfast, pancakes.
The F/B manager, Roger, was very accommodating for my husband´s no-fat diet and we enjoyed the dinner in the rooftop restaurant with great views at sunset. The staff were all very friendly.
There are a LOT of steps, no lift. OK, as despite being 70+ we are fit, but c. 45 from lobby to the Blue room and about the same up to the roof terrace. Noisy at night on our side from music and loud voices, until c. 23.30, and some construction noise during the day. Large bedroom with sitting area. The bed had been enlarged to about a double by putting a slightly larger frame on top of the original, which creaked a bit. Hair from previous occupants remained on the bathroom floor during our two-day stay... dusty ironwork part of the charm!
September 2024
Adam
Solo Traveler
10.0
A lovely unique hotel - ideally placed in the middle of Stonetown. The staff were wonderful - attentive and considerate. The cooking was excellent.
October 2024
Van
Solo Traveler
8.0
The property is beautiful with old world charm and quirks. Great location and the staff are fantastic!
The bed was a little hard. The food was great but a little expensive.
October 2024
Danai
Couple
7.0
The building is beautiful with a traditional feel. We had a room with a balcony which was very nice. Staff were very accommodating and the dinner on the rooftop was lovely. Great location also.
Minor points but the bathroom/shower is part of the room and not fully curtained off, which was a surprise. Although it was quiet during the night, construction and bell noises started very early in the day (not the hotel's fault but worth mentioning). Overall the experience felt a tiny bit too expensive for what you get.
November 2024
Hilary
Couple
7.0
It was traditional.
The stairs!
November 2024
Karina
Couple
5.0
The location and the design on the hotel.
The hotel is in need of good maintenance. Not just the rooms themselves but furniture and accessories that you find in the room. Everything also needs a good clean.
December 2024
Suzanne
Couple
10.0
Beautiful, one of a kind, living history.
December 2024
Mohammed
Group Traveler
5.0
The location is convenient for those looking for accommodation in Stone Town. The staff are very friendly and welcoming.
There is no door for the bathroom. There are unpleasant odors. The lighting in the room is poor. Amenities are incomplete. The towels are worn out. The stairs are exhausting and unsafe. During dinner at the rooftop restaurant, we were not allowed to sit in the corner, even though the area with Swahili seating was empty, and the waiter probably hadn’t changed his socks in a month.
January 2025
Michael
Couple
8.0
The restaurant with the rooftop and lovely sunset view with live music. The location and history of the building is fascinating. The rooms are spacious.
Breakfast could be improved and the floor in the bedroom could be cleaner.
January 2025
Sarah
Couple
8.0
Good staff
Great big room
Drainage and smell
February 2025
Dragomir
Solo Traveler
9.0
Great location - very close (5 mins) to the Forodhani which seemed to me to be the heart of Stone Town. Very helpful staff. Good facilities - comfy rooms, and a great rooftop terrace for dinner, drinks and a show (recommended).
March 2025
Grace
Solo Traveler
10.0
Great service. All the team are ready to help at anytime. From booking day trips to getting laundry done, everything was handled. The dinner at the rooftop is a must try experience. It was amazing. The breakfast is also really great!
A lot of stairs (good exercise though)!
April 2025
Benedetta
Business Traveler
10.0
Emerson’s is always the ideal hotel to stay in Stone Town to really feel like you have stepped back in time. The hotel is so charming and the team amazing. Thank you!
April 2025
JAVIERA
Couple
8.0
The rooftop
Bed it was hard and the noise around
June 2025
Ricardo
Group Traveler
10.0
Great character… fantastic staff
June 2025
Lisa
Couple
8.0
A beautiful unique property in the heart of Stone Town
We were on the top floor and the stairs were an absolute killer! We were not told renovations were going on
July 2025
Emily
Solo Traveler
8.0
Loved the architecture and room!
Little hard to find at first .
July 2025
Sandra
Solo Traveler
10.0
Breakfast was delicious and satisfying.
August 2025
Margaret
Couple
6.0
The staff are lovely and very helpful
It had its charm being a heritage building
It needs some updating to make it a bit more comfortable. The bed was very hard! And the street noise kept us awake one night… but the rooms are right on the street and it’s busy.
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