Dhow Inn Boutique Hotel is a stylish, minimalist mid-range property in Paje village on Zanzibar’s southeast coast, designed by Italian-Kenyan owners Marc and Josephina as a serene white-walled sanctuary hidden behind a coral rock wall and vivid tropical gardens. The hotel takes its name from the traditional wooden dhow boats that have plied the East African coast for centuries, and the dhow culture runs through its identity — from boat-themed decor touches to the proud on-site sushi restaurant, one of Paje’s only dedicated sushi venues. The minimalist aesthetic of clean whites, soft blues, and crips linen is a conscious departure from the Zanzibari-Arabic style prevalent across most of the island’s accommodation.
Forty-four airy rooms are arranged in thatched, single-storey buildings around three sparkling swimming pools and lush garden courtyards. Standard rooms (approximately 28sqm) and Premium Doubles (approximately 38sqm, with a large sofa) all have AC, ceiling fan, private terrace with daybed, minibar, WiFi, and en-suite shower. The resort’s three restaurant and bar areas — including an alfresco candlelit beach-side dining setting — serve fresh local seafood, international favourites, Zanzibari cuisine, and the signature sushi menu. A first-rate on-site kitesurfing school completes the Paje water sports experience.
Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) is approximately 40km from Paje on Zanzibar’s southeast coast, roughly a 1-hour drive. The property arranges airport transfers. Daily flights connect Zanzibar with Dar es Salaam (approx. 20 min), Nairobi, Kilimanjaro, and Mombasa.
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