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Mbweni Ruins & Gardens

4.0 star property
Beachfront hotel in Zanzibar Town with spa and outdoor pool

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

Photo gallery for Mbweni Ruins & Gardens

Outdoor pool, sun loungers
On the beach, sun loungers, beach umbrellas, beach towels
Beach bar
Exterior
On the beach, sun loungers, beach umbrellas, beach towels

Reviews

8.6 out of 10

Excellent

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Airport transfer
  • Non-smoking
  • Spa
  • Free parking
  • Air conditioning
Main amenities
  • Daily housekeeping
  • On the beach
  • Restaurant
  • Full-service spa
  • Outdoor pool
  • Breakfast available
  • Free area shuttle
  • Beach umbrellas
  • Beach sun loungers
  • Beach towels
  • Room service
  • In-room childcare
For families
  • In-room childcare (surcharge)
  • Garden
  • Terrace
  • Daily housekeeping
  • Laundry facilities
  • Free self parking
The price is $179
includes taxes & fees
$146 per night
Nov 26 - Nov 27

Room options

Available filters for rooms
Showing 3 of 3 rooms

View all photos for Junior Suite, 1 Bedroom, Non Smoking, Sea View

In-room safe, desk, laptop workspace, free WiFi

Junior Suite, 1 Bedroom, Non Smoking, Sea View

Highlights

Air conditioning
Separate bedroom
Ceiling fan
Private bathroom
Hair dryer
Bidet
Electric kettle
Free bottled water
  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Exclusive Double Room

Exclusive Double Room | In-room safe, desk, laptop workspace, free WiFi

Exclusive Double Room

Highlights

Furnished balcony or patio
Separate sitting area
Air conditioning
Ceiling fan
Hair dryer
Bathrobes
Bidet
Private bathroom
  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Double or Twin Room, 2 Bedrooms

In-room safe, desk, laptop workspace, free WiFi

Double or Twin Room, 2 Bedrooms

Highlights

Air conditioning
Ceiling fan
Private bathroom
Hair dryer
Bidet
Electric kettle
Free bottled water
Daily housekeeping
  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed and 2 Twin Bunk Beds

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includes taxes & fees
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About the neighborhood

Map
Mbweni, Zanzibar Town

What's nearby

  • Slave Market - 8 min drive - 7.0 km
  • Old Fort - 9 min drive - 7.5 km
  • House of Wonders - 9 min drive - 7.2 km
  • Forodhani Gardens - 9 min drive - 7.5 km
  • Nakupenda Beach - 23 min drive - 7.4 km

Getting around

  • Zanzibar Intl. Airport (ZNZ) - 10 min drive
  • Free area shuttle
  • Airport shuttle (surcharge)

Restaurants

  • ‪Jahazi Cafe - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Ccm Social Hall - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Lukmaan - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Zanzibar Coffeehouse - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Fresh Bites - ‬5 min drive

About this property

Mbweni Ruins & Gardens

At Mbweni Ruins & Gardens, you can hit the beach to enjoy the shade from a beach umbrella or relax in a sun lounger, plus windsurfing is nearby. The outdoor pool provides a splash of fun, while guests in the mood for pampering can visit the spa to indulge in massages, facials, and aromatherapy. Offering ocean views, Raintree Restaurant serves international cuisine and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. A snack bar/deli, a terrace, and a garden are other highlights.

Languages

English, Italian, Swahili

At a glance

Hotel size

  • 13 rooms
  • Arranged over 2 floors

Arriving/Leaving

  • Check-in start time: 2 PM; Check-in end time: midnight
  • Late check-in subject to availability
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
  • Check-out time is 11 AM
  • Late check-out subject to availability

Restrictions related to your trip

  • Check COVID-19 restrictions.

Special check-in instructions

  • This property offers transfers from the airport (surcharges may apply); to arrange pick-up, guests must contact the property 24 hours prior to arrival, 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
  • Guests planning to arrive outside of normal check-in hours must contact this property in advance to arrange check-in.

Required at check-in

  • Credit card, debit card, or cash deposit required for incidental charges
  • Government-issued photo ID may be required
  • Minimum check-in age is 18

Children

  • No cribs (infant beds)

Pets

  • Pets not allowed
  • Service animals welcome

Internet

  • Free WiFi in public areas
  • Free WiFi in rooms

Parking

  • Free onsite self parking

Transfers

  • Airport shuttle (available 24 hours)*

Offsite

  • Free area shuttle within 6 km

Other information

  • Smoke-free property

Property amenities

Food and drink

  • Buffet breakfast (surcharge) each morning 7:30 AM–10:30 AM
  • Restaurant
  • Private dining
  • Private picnics
  • Room service (limited hours)
  • Snack bar/deli

Traveling with children

  • Free local shuttle
  • Childcare in room (surcharge)

What to do

  • On the beach
  • Windsurfing nearby

Services

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Concierge services
  • Tour/ticket assistance
  • Dry cleaning/laundry services
  • Hair salon
  • Luggage storage
  • Wedding services
  • Multilingual staff
  • Beach sun loungers
  • Beach towels
  • Beach umbrellas
  • Pool loungers
  • Romance packages

Facilities

  • 10 buildings/towers
  • Built in 1994
  • Safe-deposit box at front desk
  • Garden
  • Terrace
  • Mosquito nets
  • An outdoor pool
  • Full-service spa
  • Massage/treatment rooms
  • Banquet hall

Accessibility

  • Well-lit path to entrance

Room amenities

Home comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Ceiling fan
  • Electric kettle
  • Slippers

Sleep well

  • Bed sheets provided

What to enjoy

  • In-room massage

Freshen up

  • Bidet
  • Soap and shampoo
  • Hair dryer
  • Towels
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Toilet paper

Stay connected

  • Desk
  • Free WiFi
  • Phone
  • Electrical adapters/chargers

Food and drink

  • Free bottled water

More

  • Daily housekeeping
  • In-room safe
  • Access via exterior corridors

Special features

Spa

The onsite spa has 2 treatment rooms including rooms for couples. Services include facials, body scrubs, body treatments, and manicures and pedicures. A variety of treatment therapies are provided, including aromatherapy and Ayurvedic.

Dining

Raintree Restaurant - Overlooking the ocean, this restaurant specializes in international cuisine and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Mangrove Bar - This bar overlooks the ocean.
Sundowner Bar - Onsite bar.

Fees & policies

Mandatory fees

You'll be asked to pay the following charges by the property at check-in or check-out. Fees may include applicable taxes:
  • A tax is imposed by the city: TZS 13616.40 per person, per night

Optional extras

  • Buffet breakfast is offered for an extra charge of approximately TZS 35000 for adults and TZS 23000 for children
  • Airport shuttle service is offered for an extra charge of TZS 35000 per vehicle (one-way, maximum occupancy 4)
  • Late check-out can be arranged for an extra charge of TZS 128000 (subject to availability)
  • Credit card charges are subject to an extra charge

Renovations and closures

The property is closed between June 1 and June 17.

Children & extra beds

  • In-room babysitting is available for an extra charge
  • Rollaway beds are available for TZS 23000.0 per day
  • Airport shuttle for children between the ages of 7 and 16 costs TZS 33300.00 (one-way)

Pool, spa, & gym (if applicable)

  • Reservations are required for massage services and can be made by contacting the property before arrival at the number on the booking confirmation

Policies

This property does not have elevators.
This property accepts credit cards. Cash is not accepted.
This property affirms that it follows the cleaning and disinfection practices of Commitment to Clean (Marriott).
Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property. The policies listed are provided by the property.

Also known as

Mbweni
Mbweni Hotel Zanzibar
Mbweni Ruins
Mbweni Ruins Hotel
Mbweni Ruins Zanzibar
Mbweni Zanzibar
Ruins Hotel
Zanzibar Mbweni
Zanzibar Mbweni Ruins Hotel
Protea Hotel Mbweni Ruins
Protea Mbweni Ruins Zanzibar
Protea Mbweni Ruins
Mbweni Ruins & Gardens Hotel
Protea Hotel Zanzibar Mbweni Ruins
Mbweni Ruins & Gardens Zanzibar Town
Mbweni Ruins & Gardens Hotel Zanzibar Town
Jungle Paradise Beach Resort Spa Mbweni Ruins
Protea Hotel by Marriott Zanzibar Mbweni Ruins

Frequently asked questions

Is Mbweni Ruins & Gardens currently open?
The property is closed between June 1 and June 17.
Does Mbweni Ruins & Gardens offer free cancellation for a full refund?
Yes, Mbweni Ruins & Gardens does have fully refundable room rates available to book on our site. If you’ve booked a fully refundable room rate, this can be cancelled up to a few days before check-in depending on the property's cancellation policy. Just make sure to check this property's cancellation policy for the exact terms and conditions.
Is there a pool at Mbweni Ruins & Gardens?
Yes, there's an outdoor pool.
Are pets allowed at Mbweni Ruins & Gardens?
Sorry, pets aren't allowed, but service animals are welcome.
Is parking offered on site at Mbweni Ruins & Gardens?
Yes, there's free self parking.
Is airport shuttle service offered by Mbweni Ruins & Gardens?
Yes, an airport shuttle is available. The charge is TZS 35000 per vehicle one-way.
What are the check-in and check-out times at Mbweni Ruins & Gardens?
Check-in start time: 2 PM; Check-in end time: midnight. Check-out time is 11 AM. Late check-out is available for a charge of TZS 128000 (subject to availability).
What is there to do at Mbweni Ruins & Gardens and nearby?
Have fun during the warmer months with activities nearby such as windsurfing. Indulge in a treatment at the spa and enjoy a swim in the outdoor pool. Mbweni Ruins & Gardens also has a garden.
Are there restaurants at or near Mbweni Ruins & Gardens?
Yes, Raintree Restaurant offers international cuisine and ocean views.

Reviews

8.6

Excellent

8.8/10

Cleanliness

9.0/10

Staff & service

7.8/10

Amenities

8.2/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.2/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

8/10 Very Good

great beach
The hotel is in a very nice jungle area, it fitted us as we wanted to stay near stonetown/airport for the night but did not like the places in the city - this one certinantly has that resort feeeling - beach right out the resort, beautfull sunset etc..its not your typical luxary resort.
Oren, 2-night trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review

10/10 Exceptional

Historic setting of a beach-side property located away from the city centre. The extremely personable and enthusiastic new Manager has an attitude, qualities and resume that deserve to make this hotel a major success.
Neil, 5-night trip with friends
Verified Expedia guest review

10/10 Exceptional

Jean Paul, 1-night trip
Verified Wotif guest review

2/10 Poor

This facility is completely inaccessible to persons with walking disabilities.
Anthony, 4-night family trip
Verified Expedia guest review

6/10 Good

Staff is not properly trained to serve international customers. All the rest is fine, but quality of service could improve a lot in terms of food and drinks. I also think stuff should manage a good level of English, which was lacking.
Italo, 2-night trip
Verified Expedia guest review

10/10 Exceptional

Good choice close to airport
The staff were friendly and very helpful. The rooms were beautiful and comfortable with interesting wood furniture. Overall, nice, clean and enjoyable. Massage was great. More sophisticated and relaxed than Stone Town and close to the airport. The restaurant is good but prepare for taking it pole, pole.
Elizabeth, 1-night trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review

8/10 Very Good

Deograsias, 2-night trip
Verified Expedia guest review

8/10 Very Good

Good
Bradley, 3-night romance trip
Verified Expedia guest review

10/10 Exceptional

z, 3-night trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review

6/10 Good

Manirakiza, 1-night trip
Verified Expedia guest review

10/10 Exceptional

We only stayed one night but it was so relaxing and lovely.
Jane, 1-night romance trip
Verified Orbitz guest review

6/10 Good

Great staff
GREAT staff. Room was shockingly damp, musty, spotted and worn. We could not understand how Marriott could be affiliated with this hotel.
Sofia, 1-night family trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review

10/10 Exceptional

A gem in Zanzibar
The grounds are beautiful and the location excellent. When our flight from Arusha was diverted and we arrived at night without our luggage, the night manager sent robes, slippers and a dental kits to our room. The restaurant stayed open late so we could get a bite to eat and a much appreciated glass of wine. The next day the front desk was helpful in contacting the airline to track our lost luggage which finally arrived by 1 pm. Shuttle to Stone Town is helpful. While the rooms show a little wear wear and tear, overall the hotel is well cared for. Despite the flight and luggage issue we enjoyed relaxing and exploring Zanzibar after our 12 day safari.
Susan, 4-night trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review

10/10 Exceptional

a relaxed hide-away from the bustle of Stone Town
a relaxed hotel with very helpful and friendly staff
sonja, 3-night trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review

10/10 Exceptional

What a terrific Hotel off the beaten path but with transportation to Stone Town. The staff was incredible and most helpful in ironing out tours for us and providing excellent service in the restaurant. Every need was looked after and the included breakfast was diverse and delicious.. The hotel is on the water and the breeze (so important in Zanzibar) keep conditions pleasant. It was both a great place to relax and "chill" (if one can use that word in Zanzibar) and a a base for tours of the area. No hesitation recommending this one!
5-night romance trip
Verified Expedia guest review

4/10 Fair

Mosquito heaven
My hotel room smelled damp. There weren't enough surfaces to put anything on so my open suitcase ended up on the floor. I didn't realise until 3 days later that the air conditioning unit has been dripping onto my suitcase which now had a puddle under it. There were a lot of biting insects inside and outside and a large dead cockroach under the bed. The hotel staff made a big deal of spraying insecticide in the room every evening but it's not great breathing in a lot of insecticide so waiting outside for a bit helps. Unfortunately I had to wait outside with the swarms of mosquitoes that the insecticide was supposed to be protecting me against. There was a large mosquito net spread over my huge bed which was great. However it would be even more helpful if they got rid of the pond with stagnant water just a few metres from my bedroom door ( I was on the ground floor ). The pond was presumably a breeding ground for those mosquitoes. Another point is that breakfast and dinner was in the outside restaurant, I was still trying to fend off the mosquitoes there. It would be nice if they could clean my room and squirt insecticide around it while I was in the restaurant rather than when I was in my room. The restaurant food was nice. The large amount of cats in the outdoor restaurant provided the entertainment - a least 2 cats sat under every table, hissing and spitting at each other while we ate. The redeeming feature of this hotel was the proximity to the beach and the sea.
Lisa, 3-night trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review

10/10 Exceptional

A small hotel (14 rooms) with amazing historic atmosphere, set in the ruins of a 19th century school for freed slaves. The place is serene. The beach is scenic, swimmable when the tide is not too low, and kept very clean by the hotel. It is a very unique place for those who want peace, quiet and relaxation. It is a bit remote from Stone Town, but they do run a free shuttle. The staff are super friendly and efficient.
Deborah, 4-night trip
Verified Expedia guest review

8/10 Very Good

I like that it was part of the Mwendi Ruins. I liked the staff very much - each of them were terrific! I did not like that the pictures the Marriott uses for the rooms is not up to date. Thus what I thought we booked was not what we received. It was still fine however not as lovely as I had wished for. The staff explained that the room I booked was under construction. This is Marriott's responsibility to have a current website.
June, 3-night romance trip
Verified Expedia guest review

8/10 Very Good

Beautiful settings, beach was lovely, quiet and peaceful. Very kind staff
Shellbie, 3-night trip
Verified Expedia guest review

6/10 Good

3-night trip
Verified Expedia guest review

10/10 Exceptional

I loved that the hotel is actually set in the Mbweni Ruins. Beach is easily accessible. The staff were friendly, attentive and provided excellent customer service
Emma_BW, 3-night family trip
Verified Expedia guest review

10/10 Exceptional

Very good hotel and very good staff very friendly
Mahmoud, 1-night family trip
Verified Expedia guest review

10/10 Exceptional

A perfectly peaceful haven
This is a beautiful property. It's not your standard Marriott experience but if you're looking for a clean, calm relaxed haven away from the hustle and bustle set in beautiful tropical gardens just 10 minutes from Stonetown, with friendly, efficient staff then this is for you. The room was clean and comfortable, the private balcony overlooking the water was perfect. The food and the staff in the restaurant were OUTSTANDING. As it is such a small resort, the service is very personal - the staff remembered all our preferences - even to keeping our 'favourite' table for us The sunset view over the ocean was picture postcard superb. We used the hotel drivers and shuttle service - very efficient. The grounds are beautiful and the ruins interesting. The only down side is if you have any mobility issues, the steeply sloping site and stairs everywhere may be an issue for you. We can't recommend this resort and it's staff highly enough.
Jenisse, 4-night romance trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review

10/10 Exceptional

Built right in the ruins! Beautiful garden and amazing beach and pier. Friendly staff and overall wonderful experience
1-night trip
Verified Expedia guest review

10/10 Exceptional

I loved the setting, right on the water. They have a fantastic deck and pier, perfect for watching the sun set. Restaurant sits in water, too. Great staff. Food is mostly excellent but could be better at times, depends on who is in kitchen but mostly just great. Nothing to complain about. My husband travels a lot, as do I, and this is our favorite hotel!!
1-night romance trip
Verified CheapTickets guest review

General property information

Travelers Say
"The restaurant stayed open late so we could get a bite to eat and a much appreciated glass of wine."
Check-In Time
2:00 PM
Check-Out Time
11:00 AM
Star Rating
4.0