Fact File
Originally built in 1912, Jafferji House has now earned a well-deserved reputation as the most luxurious boutique hotel on the island of Zanzibar. Blending colonial style with elegance, sophistication, and charm, it offers a truly distinctive boutique hotel experience. Each guest room has been uniquely styled to provide the utmost in luxury and comfort, allowing guests to indulge in the authentic ambience of Zanzibar.

Upon arrival, you will be captivated by the array of carefully curated antiques showcased against the backdrop of charming woodwork, creating an awe-inspiring entrance that catches the eye of every visitor.

At Jafferji House, tradition and innovation are deeply ingrained in our ethos. We embrace the island’s rich history through our collection of traditional furniture, personally selected and gathered by Javed Jafferji, Zanzibar’s renowned photographer and the proprietor of the hotel. Throughout the property, you will find proud displays of his talented photography, showcasing the beauty and heritage of Zanzibar.

Driven by his passion for the island’s conservation, nature, and history, Javed Jafferji embarked on the ambitious project of transforming his ancestral home into a luxury hotel. The restoration process took over three years to complete, but it was all worth it. Today, Jafferji House stands as a testament to Javed’s vision of offering a truly unique boutique hotel experience in the historical and enchanting Stone Town of Zanzibar.

Javed and his wife Kulsum Jafferji take immense pride in welcoming you into the exquisite ambience of their home. The three meticulously designed courtyards and beautifully decorated suites create a haven in the heart of Stone Town’s bustling streets. As a cherished guest in our noble home, you will be surrounded by comfort and enveloped in supreme luxury, ensuring an unforgettable stay with us.

Discreet Signature Charm
Our purpose at Jafferji House is to meet your needs, handle the details, and reveal our magical historic town to you in a way that only we can. The hotel’s opulent interior instantly whisks you away to a faraway time of the old Zanzibar and its traditional ways of living. Our guests can envisage the splendour of Sultans and the merchants of days gone by, encapsulating themselves in luxury fit for Zanzibar’s very finest. Each piece of furniture, décor artefacts, doors and carvings are genuine antiques collected from all over the world. From Morocco to Afghanistan, and India to Mozambique, each item evokes a blissful sense of the life of the Sultans who ran a trading empire that encompassed the entire Indian Ocean. We have infused this traditional decor with modern frames and imagery that celebrates the beauty of Zanzibar.

Our building holds a rich history that stretches back over 150 years. As you explore the premises, you will catch glimpses of the past through exposed walls, arches, and most notably, the Fatimid-style Coptic architecture arch work that is unique to this structure.

Originally constructed using sandstone, the building’s architectural style has been revered throughout its previous incarnations and its current form as a traditional boutique hotel, once serving as a residence for the Jafferji Family. In 1912, the house was purchased and completed by Walliji Dossaji and his family. Subsequently, it was sold to Karimjee Jivanjee, who later transferred ownership to Javed Jafferji’s grandfather, Hassan Bhai Jafferji, in 1945. Hassan Bhai Jafferji arrived in Zanzibar in the early 1900s from Kutch, Anjaar, a town in India.
The Jafferji family originally worked as merchants in cutlery in India before expanding into the hardware business. Despite limited financial resources, Hassan Bhai Jafferji managed to acquire the property by making installment payments. He always spoke of the honor bestowed upon him in being granted the opportunity to purchase the
building based on trust.

In 1964, following the revolution, many properties were nationalized. Fortunately, the Jafferji family discovered that their home was not included in the list and would remain in their possession.
In 1993, Javed Jafferji established a souvenir boutique shop called the Zanzibar Gallery on the ground floor while continuing to reside in the building with his family until 2008. Motivated by a lifelong dream, Javed embarked on the endeavour of transforming his home into a fully restored luxury boutique hotel. After four years of unwavering dedication and commitment, Jafferji House was born, opening its doors in 2012.
Jafferji House carries a century-long legacy, and its reputation has only grown in prominence since its inception a decade ago. We are honoured to share this extraordinary history with our guests as they experience the magnificence of our establishment.

Facilities & Suites
Indulge in the enchanting ambience of our charming hotel, boasting 10 meticulously designed suites that showcase meticulous attention to detail. Among these, three are our distinguished signature suites, while the remaining seven offer superior accommodations.
Some of our suites provide captivating views of the town’s rooftops and the picturesque scenery of the winding alleys, while others exude a captivating blend of exquisite decor and architectural elegance.
For those seeking the utmost privacy and exclusivity, the option to book the entire hotel is available, catering to the discreet and discerning clientele.

Each of our suites offers a luxurious 5-star experience, featuring the following amenities:
• Flat-screen televisions
• Moroccan-styled cemented baths
• Handcrafted wooden beds exude timeless elegance
• Plush linen, towels, and pillows for ultimate comfort
• Complimentary Wi-Fi access
• Digitally controlled in-room air conditioning for personalized comfort
• Complimentary mineral water for your convenience
• Hairdryer for your grooming needs
• Zuri Rituals toiletries, indulging your senses with luxurious bath essentials
• In-room safe deposit boxes for secure storage of your valuables
• Umbrella available from reception during the rainy season, ensuring your comfort in any weather

Discover the perfect blend of heritage and luxury in the heart of Stone Town. For more information and bookings, please visit our website at www.jafferjihouse.net

HISTORICAL STORIES ON OUR SUITES

Maasai Signature Suite (1st floor)
Maasai is the largest tribe found in East Africa, famous for their dress code and stretching their earlobes, they are always fond of gathering together for their jumping dance. In the past, the Maasai and the wildlife simply lived together in peace. The beautifully decorated ensuite bathroom has been dedicated to the beauty of the Maasai culture.
With an open window view of stone town alleys, this suite manages to capture stone town’s beautiful street life. Besides this, the red bathrooms representing traditional Maasai clothing gives the room its luxurious nature while simultaneously giving the room a homely feel.
The suite offers a blend of luxury, comfort, and cultural immersion. It allows guests to experience the beauty of Maasai culture while enjoying the vibrant surroundings of Stone Town.

African Queen Superior Suite (1st floor)
Black women are African queens, with natural beauty and the strength to face challenges with confidence along with wisdom. We do not apologise for embracing our culture and acknowledging our history. This room is dedicated to African women – the women of Tanzania and Zanzibar. This large room is adorned with a double bed and a single bed, and has a street view, emphasising Zanzibar’s street life. This along with its grand ruby bathroom gives the guest an unforgettable stay. The suite offers a luxurious and comfortable environment while celebrating the beauty, strength, and cultural heritage of African women.

Livingstone Signature Suite ( 1st floor)
Dr David Livingstone – pioneer, missionary and explorer, born in Scotland and died “lost” in Zambia, gave an inspirational speech at Cambridge in England which led ultimately to the end of the slave trade around the globe. His legacy had a huge impact on the history of Zanzibar. The style in this suite with the colonial furniture of his time makes an ideal double room with a spacious open bathroom. The room is furnished with a study and a lounging area perfect for relaxing.

Mercury Superior Suite (1st Floor)
One of the world’s most dazzling rock stars, Freddie Mercury was born just a short distance away from Jafferji House. Born into a middle-class family of Persian descent, Freddie Mercury spent the first years of his life in Stone Town before being sent off to Panchgani, a state in India, for his education and later moved to London, England for the remaining years of his rock-star life.
This grand suite’s spacious elegance gives you an erotic sense of its name. The entrance to this room is a traditional Zanzibari antique door adorned with brass fittings that were used centuries ago. This room has double beds and a single bed, one on the ground level and one on the top, making it the perfect place for two people to stay. In addition to this, there is an old baobab tree that goes through the room adding a Zanzibari atmosphere to the room.

Adnan’s Superior Suite (1st floor)
This suite is styled with grace and brings out the memories of Adnan Abbas (nephew of Javed Jafferji) who enjoyed an impressive life in Karachi, Pakistan where he lived for over twenty years. Narrating the classic contemporary Pakistani style and elegance shines through ornamented gold and woodwork furniture. Javed sought to give this suite a unique sensation through photographs from the private collection of his visits to Pakistan.
This room is located along a teakwood corridor which has a view of the hotel courtyard. Furnished with a double and single bed, this spacious room is bound to give you a relaxing stay. The interesting colour scheme of this room is what captures the attention of the guest, the blue hues scattered along the bedroom walls and red shades in the bathroom along with its intricate ceiling bring out a beautiful contrast.

The Out of Africa Superior Suite (1st floor)
This room roars “Africa” – A large spacious room which is named after the famous film of the same name. Impeccable African art is carefully and tastefully selected to meet the name of this suite whilst focusing on luxury and supreme comfort.A room like no other, with original African masks and artefacts from all over Africa. It also has views of the hotel gardens from the balcony outside. A magnificent room to stay in if it’s your first time visiting Zanzibar. Discover the perfect harmony of luxury and African inspiration within this remarkable suite, where the spirit of Africa comes alive.

Stanley Signature Suite (2nd floor)
Henry Morton Stanley was sent to Africa to find the supposedly lost Dr David Livingstone. Upon meeting Livingstone, Stanley tried to hide his enthusiasm and uttered his famous greeting: “Doctor Livingstone, I presume!” He travelled from Zanzibar all the way up to the mouth of the Nile. His experiences filled many books and articles that made him a legend. Henry Stanley was considered one of the most effective and greatest European explorers of his day. The sophisticated colonial décor will satisfy you from every corner of this suite.
The room is adorned with a ruby red open bathroom, decorated with a towering archway along with a Moroccan bath. This room is guaranteed to provide you with a wonderful stay.

Princess Salme Superior Suite (2nd floor)
Welcome to the Princess Salme Superior Suite, located on the second floor of our esteemed hotel. This suite pays homage to the intriguing life of Sayyida Salme, born on August 30, 1844, and the daughter of Sultan Said and Jilfidan. Immerse yourself in the rich history as you relax amidst the grand and luxurious furniture sourced from Zanzibar, adorned with exquisite Arabic calligraphy. The room exudes an air of regality, with sultan fittings and beautifully designed décor that captures the essence of a deserving princess.
Step into a sanctuary of tranquillity, where shades of royal blue grace the walls, enveloping you in a serene ambience. The grand ruby red bathrooms feature a Moroccan bathtub, adding a touch of opulence to your experience. Sayyida Salme’s story, filled with longing and resilience, echoes through the room, inviting you to delve into the secrets and mysteries of her life. As you reside in the Princess Salme Superior Suite, may you feel a connection to the past and a sense of royal splendour that befits a princess. This room has got an extra bed for children to accommodate.

Kamasutra Superior Suite (2nd floor)
Welcome to the Kamasutra Superior Suite, located on our hotel’s second floor. Inspired by desire, pleasure, and love, this suite offers an indulgent experience.
Immerse yourself in opulence with rich purple hues and captivating artwork. The suite exudes antique charm and luxury, with delicate beadwork and sumptuous décor.
The open-style bathroom, adorned with intricate beadwork, combines romantic elegance and luxury. Ideal for couples, the suite features open showers for a sensual retreat.
Experience ultimate comfort and privacy in this luxurious space. The Kamasutra Superior Suite intertwines desire, pleasure, and comfort, providing an unforgettable experience for our esteemed guests.

Jafferji’s Sultan Suite (2nd Floor)
Experience the grandeur of Jafferji’s Sultan Suite, located on the second floor of our prestigious hotel. Inspired by the Sultans of Zanzibar, this suite offers an unforgettable stay.
Surrounded by rich woodwork and adorned with soft fabrics, the suite exudes opulence and elegance. Antique furniture adds a touch of grandeur and history to the space.
The separate lounge and bedroom provide ample relaxation space. From the beautifully decorated lounge, enjoy stunning views of historical Stone Town and the turquoise Indian Ocean.
Indulge in the ultra-luxurious features of the suite, including the open-air aspect and twin showers. As you shower, take in the mesmerizing sunset and the graceful dhows sailing by. Dedicated to our family name, Jafferji’s Sultan Suite offers a personalized and serene experience. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of this suite and create unforgettable memories in an ambience befitting a Sultan.

Experience the legacy of authentic Bohra cuisine at the panoramic rooftop of Jafferji House
Bohra cuisine is a fusion of Arabic, Swahili, Middle Eastern, and Gujarati cooking styles, with a focus on traditional recipes, techniques, and ingredients. The Dawoodi Bohras originated in Yemen and are now widely spread across the globe. The early settlement of Bohras in the Indian city of Surat has led to major Gujarati influences in the cuisine. Around 200 years ago, they came to Zanzibar in dhows with the monsoon winds, and their food and culinary traditions continue till now.

Jafferji House Roof Top brings a carefully curated selection of this exclusive, recherché cuisine. The Bohra Kitchen was founded by Javed Jafferji & Zarina Jafferji. Javed is the director of Jafferji House. He has a passion for the island’s conservation, nature, and history, which led him to restore his ancestral home into a luxury boutique hotel. Zarina has a passion for promoting Bohra food and preserving lost traditions in the face of modern and fast food. Her travels have made her an expert in traditional and fusion food, and her cooking and teaching inspire others. She is also the author of the cookery book, Taste of Zanzibar, which is published in various languages.

The meal in Bohra cuisine is served on a large, round steel plate called Thaal, which can accommodate eight people. The round shape of the Thaal holds significance too, as each person who sits around it is equidistant from the food that is placed in the centre. Eating with one’s hands from a single plate is similarly symbolic of kinship and community. The tradition continues and is a part of this when in Zanzibar.

Every Bohra meal commences with a time-honored ritual of taking a grain of salt, believed to cleanse the palate and bestow various health benefits. The Bohra community’s culinary traditions differ from the conventional norm in that they begin with desserts rather than conclude with them. Dessert is usually followed by a grand savory dish such as almond chicken, and the initial rounds of food are served with an alternation of sweet and savory dishes. The Bohra meal culminates in an elaborate rice dish, such as Biryani or another traditional rice preparation. Finally, a pinch of salt and a cool mouth freshener is served to conclude the meal on a light note.

At the Jafferji House Rooftop in the heart of Zanzibar Stone Town, you can eat home-cooked Bohra Food from a Thaal and experience unique tastes and fusion flavours. You can also take in the stunning views of the Old Fort and the Anglican Church with a 360-degree panoramic view of Stone Town.

Bohras believe in the saying, “Many hands are a blessing,” which encourages eating in company. The Thaal is a symbol of unity, equality, and sharing, and it is considered more than just authentic dishes; it is a gastronomical odyssey into the heritage and traditions of a unique culture. All are encouraged to partake in this tradition. Bookings are necessary. Please contact us to make a reservation.

Experience Swahili Delights Cooking Lessons
Cooking Classes in the Heart of Zanzibar at Jafferji House Immerse yourself in the art of Swahili cooking at Jafferji House, where we offer captivating lessons that unveil the secrets of Zanzibar’s rich culinary heritage. Join our passionate local chef for an authentic and immersive “home-style” experience in the heart of Zanzibar.

Our Swahili cookery lessons provide a unique opportunity to explore the flavors, ingredients, and techniques of Swahili cuisine. Discover the harmonious fusion of African, Arabic, and Indian influences, as we delve into the use of aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and locally sourced ingredients that bring these dishes to life.

To create a mouthwatering Swahili lunch that truly captures the essence of the cuisine, we will be using the following ingredients:

Green bananas: Experience the versatility of green bananas, a staple in East African cuisine. Delight in their tender texture as they are seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices.

Cassava: Uncover the wonders of cassava, a root vegetable cherished in Swahili cooking. Learn to prepare it in various ways – boiled, mashed, or fried – and discover how it complements stews and side dishes.

Chapati: Master the art of making chapati, the beloved unleavened bread that graces tables across East Africa. Revel in its golden-brown perfection, achieved through skillful cooking on a hot griddle.

Zanzibar Pilau: Indulge in the fragrant allure of Zanzibar pilau, a specialty of the Zanzibar archipelago. Learn to prepare this aromatic rice dish using basmati rice, an exquisite blend of spices such as cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, and cumin, and a choice of meat like chicken or beef.

Chicken Curry: Delight in the flavors of Swahili cuisine with a tantalizing chicken Curry. Discover the art of creating a rich and aromatic curry sauce infused with spices, onions, garlic, ginger, tomatoes, and coconut milk.
Throughout the lessons, you will not only learn to prepare these delightful dishes but also delve into the history and origins of Swahili cuisine. Explore traditional cooking techniques and gain insights into the medicinal uses and properties of local herbs and spices.

Our hands-on approach ensures you have ample learning and practice time, allowing you to hone your skills and embrace the vibrant flavors of Zanzibar. Take home valuable knowledge and techniques that will empower you to recreate these culinary wonders in your own kitchen.
Embark on a sensory-filled culinary journey that will leave you with lasting memories of Zanzibar’s enchanting flavors. Join us at Jafferji House & Spa for our Swahili cooking classes and savor the authentic taste of this captivating island.