The idyllic East African island of Zanzibar is set to extend a warm welcome to the Hyatt family with the opening of Park Hyatt Zanzibar in March 2015.

Setting precedent as the first Hyatt hotel in Zanzibar, Park Hyatt Zanzibar will reflect the intimate and understated elegance of the Park Hyatt brand while embracing the rich culture, heritage and historical significance of the hotel’s location.

Park Hyatt Zanzibar will sit on the beachfront in Stone Town, the historical centre of the city and a designated UNESCO Heritage site.

As the cultural heart of Zanzibar, little has changed in Stone Town over the last 200 years.

The town’s unique blend of Arabic and African cultural influences originate from the 19th century when Zanzibar Island served as a centre for the trade of spices.

During this period, Zanzibar, also known as the Spice Island, was the most important trading hub along the east coast of Africa.

Today, the streets of Stone Town are filled with rich aromas of spices, perfumes and local handcrafts.

Park Hyatt Zanzibar will be housed in two buildings, one of them Mambo Msiige, a UNESCO heritage building, steeped in history, grace and mystique with roots dating back to the 17th century.

Mambo Msiige is a typical Zanzibari mansion and an architectural gem, featuring intricate carvings and centered around a peaceful courtyard.

The name alone, meaning “not to be copied or imitated,” embraces true uniqueness.

The new and purposefully built Zamani Residence of the hotel connects to Mambo Msiige, blending old history and contemporary charm with architecture that embraces Swahili culture with a blend of Arab, Persian, Indian and European elements.

“We are delighted to be bringing the Park Hyatt brand to the culturally and historically rich island of Zanzibar, and in particular, to be housing the hotel within Mambo Msiige, a building of such extraordinary significance,” said Marcela Herrendoerfer, general manager of Park Hyatt Zanzibar. 

“The Park Hyatt brand is committed to creating rare, intimate and unforgettable experiences and we look forward to opening our doors and welcoming guests to deliver those experiences.”

Park Hyatt Zanzibar will provide the ultimate haven amongst Stone Town’s labyrinth of winding alleys, bustling markets, mosques and famed Zanzibari doors, featuring magnificent ornate wooden carvings.

The town’s key attractions will be easily accessible by foot from the hotel’s ideal location including Forodhani Gardens, the Old Fort, the Old Dispensary, the Peace Memorial Museum, the Palace Museum and the House of Wonders.