Map

Old DispensaryvsHouse of Wonders (Beit-el-Ajaib)

Both House of Wonders and Old Dispensary are rated very highly by professional travelers. Overall, House of Wonders scores significantly better than Old Dispensary. House of Wonders is ranked #1 in Zanzibar with recommendations from 4 sources like Michelin Guide, Lonely Planet and Afar Magazine.

Old Dispensary
8/10
Malindi Rd, Stone Town, Zanzibar City, Tanzania
From $0/night
Fodor's Fodor's
"With intricately carved wood balconies that make it resemble a wedding cake, this former dispensary shines again after being renovated by community groups." Full review
Lonely Planet Lonely Planet
"With its peppermint-green latticework balconies and sculpted clock tower, the most attractive landmark on the waterfront is this late-19th-century charitable dispensary." Full review
House of Wonders (Beit-el-Ajaib)
9/10
Mizingani Rd, Stone Town, Tanzania
From $0/night
Afar Magazine Afar Magazine
"If you step off the ferry in Stone Town and don't know anything about Zanzibar, the House of Wonders (or Beit al-Ajab, as it's also known) has you covered." Full review
Michelin Guide Michelin Guide
2 Stars
"A ceremonial palace built in 1883, the iconic House of Wonders was the first of Stone Town to have electricity and a lift." Full review
Fodor's Fodor's
"Known as the House of Wonders because it was the first building in Zanzibar to use electric lights, this four-story palace is still one of the largest buildings in the city." Full review
Lonely Planet Lonely Planet
"Built for ceremonial chutzpah by Sultan Barghash in 1883, the 'House of Wonders' rises in impressive tiers of slender steel pillars and balconies overlooking the Forodhani Gardens." Full review

© Tripexpert Inc.