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Al-Minar Hotel

3.5 star property
Zanzibar Town hotel in Stone Town with a full-service spa and free breakfast
VIP Access

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your current months are December, 2024 and January, 2025.
December 2024
January 2025

Photo gallery for Al-Minar Hotel

Exterior
Lunch, dinner served; international cuisine, alfresco dining
21-inch flat-screen TV with cable channels, TV
Standard Twin Room | 1 bedroom, premium bedding, memory foam beds, in-room safe
Lobby

Reviews

8.6 out of 10

Excellent

Popular amenities

  • Spa
  • Breakfast included
  • Room service
  • 24/7 front desk
  • Air conditioning
  • Housekeeping

Explore the area

Map
Plot 96 Shangani, Zanzibar Town
  • Mbweni Ruins
    1 min walk
  • Shangani Beach
    3 min walk
  • Nakupenda Beach
    3 min walk
  • Zanzibar (ZNZ-Zanzibar Intl.)
    19 min drive
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Room options

View all photos for Family Room

Family Room | 1 bedroom, premium bedding, memory foam beds, in-room safe

Family Room

  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Double Bed and 2 Twin Beds

View all photos for Standard Double Room

Standard Double Room | 1 bedroom, premium bedding, memory foam beds, in-room safe

Standard Double Room

  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Double Bed

View all photos for Standard Twin Room

Standard Twin Room | 1 bedroom, premium bedding, memory foam beds, in-room safe

Standard Twin Room

  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Twin Bed

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About the neighborhood

Zanzibar Town

Located in Stone Town, Al-Minar Hotel is next to Mbweni Ruins and People's Palace Museum. This 22-room, 3.5-star hotel welcomes guests with conveniences like free breakfast, a restaurant, and a full-service spa.

What's nearby

  • Shangani Beach - 3 min walk
  • Old Fort - 3 min walk
  • Forodhani Gardens - 4 min walk
  • Slave Market - 9 min walk
  • Zanzibar Ferry Terminal - 13 min walk

Getting around

  • Zanzibar Intl. Airport (ZNZ) - 19 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Cape Town Fish Market - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Passing Show Hotel - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪Meeting Point Cafe - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Lukmaan - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Livingstone Beach Restaurant - ‬2 min walk

About this property

Al-Minar Hotel

Zanzibar Town hotel in Stone Town with a full-service spa and free breakfast
Al-Minar Hotel offers a full-service spa, a computer station, and express check-in. For transportation, you can make use of an airport shuttle (available 24 hours) for USD 20 per vehicle one-way, as well as an airport shuttle. The 24-hour front desk has staff standing by to help with securing valuables, tours or tickets, and dry cleaning/laundry. Other amenities at this spa hotel include express check-out, free newspapers, and a terrace.
21-inch flat-screen TVs come with cable channels. Memory foam beds sport premium bedding and bathrooms offer rainfall showers and free toiletries. Dining areas, refrigerators, and coffee makers are also standard.
The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.
The onsite spa has couples treatment room(s). Services include massages and facials. The spa is open daily.

Languages

English, French, German, Hindi, Spanish, Swahili

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: WiFi
  • In-room WiFi speed: 25+ Mbps

Parking and transportation

  • Offsite parking available (USD 3 per night)
  • 24-hour roundtrip airport shuttle on request for a surcharge

Food and drink

  • Free full breakfast available daily 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM
  • A coffee shop/cafe
  • A restaurant
  • Snack bar/deli

Restaurants on site

  • Terrace Restaurant

Things to do

  • Bicycle rentals
  • Full-service spa
  • TV in common areas

Family friendly

  • Babysitting (surcharge)
  • In-room refrigerator
  • Laundry facilities
  • Separate bedroom
  • Separate in-room dining area
  • Snack bar/deli
  • Soundproofed rooms

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Free newspapers in lobby
  • Hair salon
  • Laundry facilities
  • Luggage storage
  • Safe at front desk

Guest services

  • Concierge services
  • Dry cleaning/laundry service
  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Tour and ticket assistance

Business services

  • Computer station

Outdoors

  • Terrace

Full-service spa

  • Couples treatment rooms
  • Facials
  • Massage
  • Spa open daily

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Low-height counter and sink
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Wheelchair accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk

More

  • Designated smoking areas
  • Traditional architecture

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Memory foam mattress
  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer (on request)
  • Private bathroom
  • Rainfall showerhead
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 21-inch flat-screen TV with cable channels

Food and drink

  • 24-hour room service
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Free bottled water
  • Refrigerator
  • Separate dining area

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Ceiling fan
  • Desk
  • Desk chair
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Safe
  • Soundproofed rooms

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: noon; Check-in end time: anytime
Contactless check-in available
Express check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 15

Check-out

Check-out before 11 AM
Contactless check-out available
Late check-out subject to availability
A late check-out fee will be charged
Express check-out available

Special check-in instructions

This property offers transfers from the airport (surcharges may apply); guests must contact the property with arrival details before travel, using the contact information on the booking confirmation
Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival
For more details, please contact the property using the information on the booking confirmation

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets

Children and extra beds

  • One child 7 years old or younger stays free when using existing bedding
  • Rollaway/extra beds are available for USD 20.0 per night

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

You'll be asked to pay these charges at the property:

  • A tax is imposed by the city: USD 4.00 per person, per night

These are all of the charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Airport shuttle fee: USD 20 per vehicle (one-way)
  • Nearby parking fee: USD 3 per night (328 ft away)
  • Late check-out is available for a fee (subject to availability)
  • Rollaway bed fee: USD 20.0 per night

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a security system, and a first aid kit
  • Check-in: noon—-anytime
  • Check-out: 11 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 15
The front desk is open 24 hours a day, and checking in and out are easy with express services. For convenient arrivals and departures, you can take advantage of the airport shuttle (available 24 hours).

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards. Cash is not accepted. 
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a security system, and a first aid kit.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed in guestrooms.
  • There are no elevators.

Property is also known as

Al-Minar
Al-Minar Hotel
Al-Minar Hotel Zanzibar Town
Al-Minar Zanzibar Town
Al Minar Hotel
Al-Minar Hotel Hotel
Al-Minar Hotel Zanzibar Town
Al-Minar Hotel Hotel Zanzibar Town

Frequently asked questions

Is free cancellation available at Al-Minar Hotel?

Al-Minar Hotel provides free cancellation on select room rates. For more details, take a look at the cancellation policy on Orbitz.

What is there to do within easy reach of Al-Minar Hotel?

This hotel is situated in Stone Town, just steps from Shangani Beach and Nakupenda Beach, and within a short walk of Old Fort. You'll also find House of Wonders and Forodhani Gardens less than a mile away.

Is parking available on site at Al-Minar Hotel?

No, this hotel doesn't offer parking.

Is a spa located at Al-Minar Hotel?

There is a full-service spa available for guests to enjoy and services include couples treatments and massages.

Does Al-Minar Hotel include a casino?

No, Al-Minar Hotel doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at Al-Minar Hotel?

No, there is no indoor pool at this hotel.

What will couples enjoy most about a stay at Al-Minar Hotel?

Amenities that appeal to couples at this hotel include a memory foam mattress, around-the-clock room service, and a rainfall showerhead.

Are there hot tubs at Al-Minar Hotel?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this hotel.

Does Al-Minar Hotel feature a restaurant that includes a breakfast menu?

Yes, Al-Minar Hotel serves free full breakfasts at Terrace Restaurant each morning.

Does Al-Minar Hotel allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets aren't allowed at Al-Minar Hotel.

Are there connecting rooms at Al-Minar Hotel?

No, this hotel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

What is the closest airport to Al-Minar Hotel?

The closest major airport to Al-Minar Hotel is Zanzibar Intl. Airport (ZNZ), which is 4.7 mi away (19 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Al-Minar Hotel?

No, there aren't any guestrooms with balconies at Al-Minar Hotel.

Al-Minar Hotel Reviews

Reviews

8.6

Excellent

Rating 10 - Excellent. 124 out of 274 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 109 out of 274 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 28 out of 274 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 8 out of 274 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 5 out of 274 reviews" "

8.8/10

Cleanliness

9.2/10

Staff & service

8.2/10

Amenities

8.2/10

Property conditions & facilities

8.4/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

8/10 Good

Rembrand

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
No nonsense hotel with good service
We enjoyed our 2 night stay at Al Minar. Good value for money, located close to all the 5 star hotels, but this one is affordable. Especially the family room which fitted us nicely.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

6/10 Okay

Zororai

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Cleanliness
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Carol A

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Al

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Location is excellent. Manager is great. Facilty requires upgrades.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Daniel

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Excellent management and customer services
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2022

6/10 Okay

Verified traveler

Traveled with group
Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Room comfort
Overview for a 9 days stay at the hotel.
Friendly staff ,green energy for water heating systems ,flexibility with prices to help a client who wishes to extent their stay,great rooftop breakfast restaurant,safe location,ease of available assisted information on tours of the island. The beddings &rooms were smelling damp most times with indications of repeated beddings and towels or lack of proper air at ion.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Daniel

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Awesome location and staff.
Al Minar feels like my home-away-from-home after 7 times to Zanzibar (I run a nonprofit working on the mainland). Very cozy rooms in an incredible Shangani location surrounding by high-rent luxury hotels that cost many times as much. Staff is wonderful and service excellent, steps away from beach and great dining options.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Mary

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Lovely!
I had a lovely stay at Al-Minar. It is off the main road, but easy to find, unlike some hotels in the labyrinth of historic Stonetown.The room (while a bit on the small side) was beautifully decorated, with a very comfortable bed and a good shower. I loved having a mini-fridge and kettle in my room to make my own coffee! Breakfast was excellent, and all the staff were OUTSTANDING! Welcoming, helpful, and friendly. Highly recommended.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Daniel

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Al Minar has been my favorite stay in Zanzibar for 5 trips since 2015. Great service, location, and comfortable rooms. Good rooftop breakfast cooked to order. Very inviting and cordial staff.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2021

8/10 Good

Dorian

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Nice hotel with friendly helpful staff. Very good breakfast with a nice rooftop view to match. I had a pleasant stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2021

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Nice & helpful staff, great breakfast, clean room. Very pleasant stay overall!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2021

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Great location, friendly and helpful staff. Breakfast was plentiful and tasty. Good budget choice for Stone town.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2021

8/10 Good

Alexander D

Stayed 1 night in Jan 2021

8/10 Good

OWEN

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2021

8/10 Good

Bakenam

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2020

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2020

10/10 Excellent

SM, US

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Staff was EXTREMELY friendly and super helpful!! My original tour to Prison Island was abruptly cancelled without notice one day. So I asked the front desk if they knew of any tour guides. They immediately hooked me up with a great guide and matched the price of my original tour. Facilities were good. My only issue was that the hot water only lasted for a few minutes (didn’t go straight to cold though), but it was already so hot outside that lukewarm water actually felt pretty nice.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2020

8/10 Good

Tshepo

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
A well spent stay
It was a pleasant experience Very friendly staff Juma and Sebastian.....bery helpful guys
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2020

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2020

10/10 Excellent

Daniel

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Affordable gem in an upscale hotel area
Always an awesome choice for location, service, and room quality, this was my 4th stay and probably not my last.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2020

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Nice, clean comfortable place to stay in Stone Town for business.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2019

8/10 Good

Ana

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Great Place near everything at Stone Town
Amazing...just need to replace worn out towels
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2019

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Very nice hotel, right in Stonetown! Easy walking distance to Forodhani Gardens, to the OneOcean dive center, to the ocean, all around Stonetown! Very friendly, helpful staff.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2019

10/10 Excellent

Douglas

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
A Brilliant and reasonable Hotel in Zanmzibar
I have stayed in hundreds of hotels around the world, and this one stands out as special. A boutique-sized hotek, I was greeted by the manager, the room was excellent, then decor was classic Arabian Nights, the location st Shangani is sublime. An absolute recommendation.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2019