Royal Zanzibar Beach Resort

Anna-Marie Makarova

Unfortunately we got an extremely bad experience. We booked 3 nights in the main season, 1 night was $660. Firstly, upon our arrival, they wanted to send us to another hotel which is three times cheaper because they had some building issue. We just wanted our money back for what we didn’t get. No refund was possible because of arguments like “other people accepted it as well” or “I paid for your other hotel already”. Just unprofessional. After 2 hours of talking us into accepting this, and us not agreeing, we have got a worse room in this hotel. After checking in we understood that the facility is old, outdated, not very clean, the beach is small, not well equipped and full of strangers constantly offering us something to buy. This is unacceptable at a 5* private resort. There is a noise directly in front of our room (probably a construction) is extremely loud, as having a heliport just in front of the door. There are some snacks available in the afternoon that shouldn’t even be sold at a street food stand, for a mango you pay $3 at the snack bar. At the bars sparkling water or Coke Zero not available, everything old, used, and again just not 5 stars. We have got the all-inclusive bracelets but are constantly asked for a room number. If you book a hotel in this price category you expect the service as a whole to be 5stars. Instead, we just feel this was a scam. This would be well worth $250/night.

Lars Kristoffersen

Nice resort with a huge tage of food selection. The staff is really nice and everything seems to be in perfect order. But there are some things that bring it all down. Power outage, telephone don’t work, a/c struggles and no place to put your wet swimwear. Also bring cash, so you don’t get the trip to ATM and 5% for paying your bill.😉 So all and all

lissy pooh

We came yesterday, after booking in advance ... We couldn't go trough the gate on our taxi, we were told that the hotel is closed for the renovation... It's was late evening, we are family with two kids, and after a long flight, we had to look for another hotel by ourselves at 21: 00 . We didn't get any notice and no refund in advance....

Ariel Bresky

You should avoid this hotel at all costs. Aside from being situated on a beautiful beach, it’s unfathomable that this hotel has more than two stars. At the outset, the electricity shuts off every half hour and it literally takes over an hour to receive anything you ask for ranging from a wine opener to contact information for a doctor. Furthermore, despite being called an all inclusive, a majority of all good drinks or dishes at their restaurants are on a “supplemental menu” which costs extra. The food at their sole al carte restaurant was inedible and no one answers the room service line (despite it being an extra charge). When I asked to speak to a manager to address some of my concerns, the front desk simply refused saying “there is none.” Im very disappointed I flew 18 hours to spend my time and money at this place. Knowing what I know now, I would have been glad to pay double the price to stay at another hotel in the area. *** As a follow-up to my previous review, two managers, Kapi and Masemo acknowledged several of my complaints, took the time to have an in-depth conversation, and displayed a genuine desire to rectify the same. They exhibited a clear understanding of the hospitality industry and I only can hope that such understanding is eventually passed on to each employee so this resort can live up to its potential. In the interest of clarity, a majority of the employees are well mannered and kind people; they simply lack knowledge of the nuisances of one would expect at a 5 star hotel.

Bashni Partridge

We want to compliment Nitin, Bar Manager, he ensures every detail is perfect, from the creative cocktails to the professional and friendly service. The atmosphere was incredible, the drinks were top-notch, and the service was flawless. You can tell Nitin is passionate about what he does. Also compliments to Rizal mixologist thank you for excellent service. F&B - The dining experience here has been excellent ! Thank you to Chef Bhakti - the meals were beautifully presented, and the service was impeccable. The entire Food & Beverage team deserves applause for their hard work and attention to detail. The management team - we want to say “Thank you” to Jean and his team we truly appreciate the warmth and professionalism. Also for taking time to meet guests and chat to us. Thank you Jean Many Thanks to all the staff working at Royal Zanzibar Hotel, to name a few Nitin - Bar Manager Bhakti - chef Makinda (delicious chapatis) Martha - check in Abdul Night Duty Manager Kapi, Simba, Prakash, Omari Grace, Cynthia, Doreen Suzanna, Edward, Fred Chef Hartley and Siraji The gardens here are absolutely breathtaking! It’s clear that a lot of care and attention goes into maintaining such a beautiful and peaceful space. Walking through the gardens was a highlight of my stay. The flowers, greenery, and overall design create such a serene and inviting atmosphere. Huge compliments to the landscaping team for their incredible work! Nithaya, Monica, Anet at the Spa The spa is such a peaceful retreat. Everything was so well-organized, and the recommendations for treatments were spot on. From the moment I walked in, I felt welcomed and relaxed. The spa team was professional, friendly, and attentive!