There are two different Emerson Hotels you can visit. For us, they are the top two historically and culturally significant accommodation options in Zanzibar and by far the most authentic hotel in Stone Town.
We spent 5 nights in Stone Town and couldn’t have asked for a better positioned home base. They offer the best views, are close to some of our favourite shops and coffee houses and most importantly, they are extremely close to the main night market – so convenient!!
Emerson on Hurumzi
The ancient Emerson on Hurumzi was once the home of Mr Tharia Topan – one of the wealthiest men in the Swahili Empire.
This hotel has so many courtyards, hidden tree swings and lush bridges to wander through. Every rounded archway, Persian lamp shade and overreaching palm just adds to the vibe of this beautiful building!
We stayed in the room named ‘North Room‘. This dreamy open plan room is separated from its balcony by just a few wooden slats, allowing in a much needed cool breeze throughout the room.
It looks straight out over Stone Town and on to passing traditional Dhows, sailing across the Indian Ocean below. We spotted a few of the room’s decor in some of the antique shops around Stone Town – including stunning vintage copper lights that were originally used in the old trading Ships that passed through the island.
North Room 
Rose Room 
The Highest Tea House in Stone Town
We couldn’t recommend a better place to watch the sunset over Stone Town, than up here in the tea house. This is one of the most highly spoken of restaurants in the whole town.
The menu includes Zanzibar cuisine fused with oriental Persian and Omani influences. The dinner is a set 3 course menu at $40 per person (2019). This may be a bit pricey if you’re on a budget, but what a treat! We were on a budget at the time so we compromised and rather went for lunch where we shared an unbelievable platter. *Book your spot early
Emerson Spice
This boutique hotel is a restored nineteenth-century Merchant’s house – how amazing. It offers eleven rooms, each with their own personal theme (much like Emerson on Hurumzi).
We stayed in the room named ‘Camille’, which we LOVED!! Think gold satin curtains, high ceilings, water-coloured walls and a romantic 4 poster bed.
Camille Room 
Emerson Secret Garden Restaurant
This restaurant on the ground floor is set amongst a lush garden growing between the old walls and ruins. They often have live music playing, from the Dhow Countries Music Academy. Just another way that they celebrate and support the beautiful culture of Zanzibar.
Emerson Spice Rooftop Teahouse
Dine at Emerson Spice Teahouse for traditional Swahili cuisine with views that overlook Stone Town. As you look down at your colourful platter you can hear the calls to prayer echoing up from the narrow streets below.
They are known for their sunset experience with a five course ‘Taste Safari’ Degustation Menu, prepared by local Zanzibari Chefs.
Authentic Zanzibar
We really, REALLY, appreciated how authentic this hotel was. Not only are these buildings restored heritage homes, but every detail is linked back to supporting a local startup or craftsman from the island. They used the spices, culture, colour and energy found within the town to inspire their designs and service approach.
From the bathroom soaps which are made from a women-run business on the island, to the painting in each room sourced from local artists, all the way to the menu style, live music and staff uniforms selected.
Every moment that we spent inside this hotel, we were unmistakably in STONE TOWN. That is a rare feeling to experience from within a luxury hotel. Oh how we long to return!
View more of our top Zanzibar experiences.
