Jambiani Backpackers Hostel

Zanzibar · Tanzania

Jambiani Backpackers Hostel

HostelPunk Score
94% AMAZING
Medium confidence 187 reviews
Best in Zanzibar Best in Tanzania 3rd best in Africa
No bed bug reports in 188 analyzed reviews
No incentivized-review patterns detected in 188 analyzed reviews

Tags

Drip perks

🚲 Bicycle Hire

Facilities

🏊 Swimming Pool 👕 Laundry 🅿️ Free Parking 💻 Coworking Space 🅿️ Parking 🍹 Rooftop Bar 🔥 BBQ 🌅 Outdoor Terrace 🌿 Garden 🌆 Rooftop 🍳 Free Breakfast 🍳 Breakfast 🍺 Bar ☕ Cafe ♿ Wheelchair-Accessible Bathrooms
Other facilities (41)
Free WiFi Free Internet Access Free Luggage Storage Bicycle Parking Adaptors Airport Transfers Luggage Storage Fax Service 24 Hour Reception Tours/Travel Desk Currency Exchange Postal Service Housekeeping Internet Café Reception (Limited Hours) Wake-up Calls Internet Access Book Exchange Board Games Foosball Wi-Fi Recycling Bins Towels For Hire Express Check-in / Out Late Check-out Linen Included Air Conditioning Towels Included Reading Light Hair Dryers Charging Plugs Meals Available Tea & Coffee Making Facilities Security Lockers Key Card Access 24 Hour Security CCTV in Common Areas First Aid Kits Massage Common Room Panoramic Views

Prices

Dorms $11 / night
Privates $25 / night

HW prices from today

Unusual phrases

Worst reviews

Italy MALE 31-40 May 10, 2026 2.0/10

One of the worst hostel experiences I’ve had. Unreliable Wi-Fi even after changing rooms, freezing cold showers, uncomfortable beds, spider webs and insects in the bathroom. Breakfast advertised from 8am arrived at 9:15 after I had to message staff, causing me to miss a scheduled activity. No coffee despite “tea & coffee facilities” being advertised online. The whole place felt neglected, disorganised and poorly managed. Left after 1 night despite booking 3. No refund offered.

via Hostelworld
Australia MALE 18-24 Dec 31, 2025 2.0/10

William, the owner, is awesome. The problem is with Mohammed, the manager. He blasts the music loud from 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM, and is rude and belligerent to clients. Additionally, the power grid failed constantly and the backup generators do not connect to the aircon. Expect warm sweaty nights… Finally, do not do partake in hostel-run events. They overcharge for facilitating disappointing activities. And also, the mattress was extremely uncomfortable.

via Hostelworld
Ireland MALE 25-30 Dec 24, 2024 2.0/10

The owner Mohammad comes across as friendly, but has absolutely no respect towards the safety of woman. He made remarks to me that ruined what was amazing experience to start off with. That I will never forgive him for or forget . I’d recommend staying anywhere else in Jambiani or even paje than to stay at his hostel. The comments I don’t even want to write them on this they were that bad. But if anybody would like to know what happened and what was said. My instagram is Darragh_fx.

via Hostelworld
Belgium FEMALE 31-40 Jan 28, 2026 4.0/10

Très chouette hostel. Personnel au top qui est présent et n'hésite pas à aider. Chouette ambiance d'hostel sans que ce soit festif. Seul hic, niveau qualité prix pour la chambre individuelle sans fenêtre.

Translated to English

Very nice hostel. top-notch staff who are present and do not hesitate to help. choosy hostel atmosphere without being festive. only hic, quality level price for the single room without window.

via Hostelworld
France FEMALE 25-30 Oct 29, 2025 6.0/10

I had a nice stay here! Nicely decorated hostel and friendly, helpful staff, the owner is lovely. But I wasn’t satisfied with: the price which to me is excessive; the bed was not fresh nor comfortable; the shower that runs only cold water; the absence of a kitchen to cook my own meal; and the atmosphere. Not many social activity, no space to relax and chill.

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Germany MALE 25-30 Apr 15, 2024 6.0/10

The location is not bad but also not good. The way to the beach is very short. But too other things like restaurants and the closest city, it takes a while by foot. I had a single room with ac. But it smelled kinda damp and everything went damp that you stored insight. Because the room had no windows for fresh air. Also I had a couple of insects that visited me. They can get in everywhere. The hostel itself I enjoyed and the staff was very friendly. But it was also under construction.

via Hostelworld
England FEMALE 25-30 Jun 13, 2023 6.0/10

this was a strange experience because we were the only guests as its off peak. they are normally closed but didnt block bookings so be aware.

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Germany FEMALE 31-40 Mar 22, 2023 6.0/10

Cooles Ambiente kann es weiterempfehlen

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Luxembourg MALE 31-40 Dec 1, 2025 8.0/10

Jambiani backpackers hostel is a beautiful place to chill and meet people all around the world. A little paradise in Zanzibar with lovely staff, a stunning pool and a peaceful vibe you don’t want to leave anymore.

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United Arab Emirates MALE 31-40 Nov 28, 2025 8.0/10

Incredible experience to be honest. Mohammed was taking care of everything for us and also was one of the best hosts Location is good for it being in Jambiani, 5 mnts walk to the beach. 2 mnts walk to main street to get Boda boda or tuktuk to the rest of the beaches. Would recommend 100% I got the private room and it was incredible, clean and decent size

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Recent reviews

Italy MALE 31-40 May 10, 2026 Atm 20%

One of the worst hostel experiences I’ve had. Unreliable Wi-Fi even after changing rooms, freezing cold showers, uncomfortable beds, spider webs and insects in the bathroom. Breakfast advertised from 8am arrived at 9:15 after I had to message staff, causing me to miss a scheduled activity. No coffee despite “tea & coffee facilities” being advertised online. The whole place felt neglected, disorganised and poorly managed. Left after 1 night despite booking 3. No refund offered.

via Hostelworld
Uruguay FEMALE 25-30 Apr 14, 2026 Atm 100%

Great hostel. Great vibes. I went during low season but still enjoyed my stay. William was so helpful with everything. I love the location, it’s beautiful and away from the busyness of Paje but only a 6min tuktuk away (1000tzs!). Very close to the beach, where they helped me set up activities right there. Very good breakfast. Rooms are good with working AC. Bathrooms are outside but were clean. The facilities were great and everyone was very welcoming. I really had a great time. Would come ba...

via Hostelworld
Denmark FEMALE 18-24 Apr 10, 2026 Atm 100%

I had a really lovely stay here! The place was clean and comfortable. It’s a great spot if you’re looking for something peaceful but still not far from the center. The beach is also within walking distance. The owners and manager were incredibly kind and helpful! I stayed during low season, but they really went above and beyond to make sure we had a great stay and created a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Overall, I felt very well taken care of and would definitely recommend staying here.

via Hostelworld
Germany FEMALE 31-40 Mar 28, 2026 Atm 100%

This hostel is one of the best I've ever been to! nice chilled vibe, amazing pool with bar, very clean, the host and the stuff are amazing 😎 it felt like a home away from home for me. Just go there and enjoy the paradise 🌴🥭🍌 everyday vitamin bomb breakfast included 😍 and they really help with everything, can organise you food delivery, drivers everywhere and always know where's the spot for the night. the amazing beach is only 3 minutes walk away. will come back

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Germany MALE 18-24 Mar 27, 2026 Atm 100%

Super Hostel, wirklich zu empfehlen!

Translated to English

Super Hostel, I really recommend it!

via Hostelworld
Morocco MALE 25-30 Mar 21, 2026 Atm 80%

My stay in Zanzibar couldn’t be better ! Had amazing time in that place that mixes between social and chill ! Mohamed and William would be there for all your needs to make your stay comfortable! Would definitely come back

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Germany FEMALE 25-30 Feb 27, 2026 Atm 100%

JUST GO! I extended my stay and came back again. Starting the day with a great breakfast followed by hanging out in the pool and getting the best iced coffee served! Ending the night with amazing chats and a ton of laughter! They are doing absolutely everything to make your stay memorable! Transfers, food delivery, day trips,laundry, life questions.. they have all the answers! Big looooove for JBH!

via Hostelworld
Netherlands FEMALE 25-30 Feb 17, 2026 Atm 100%

What a wonderful and lovely place this is! You receive a warm welcome, and the facilities are excellent. William and Mohammed are genuinely nice owners who are happy to think along with you and arrange everything for you! As a solo traveler, this is a great place to meet people! We had a truly wonderful week! I hope to return here in the future!

via Hostelworld
Netherlands MALE 31-40 Feb 17, 2026 Atm 100%

Absolutely amazing place. Special shoutout to William who's just an incredible host.

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Belgium FEMALE 31-40 Jan 28, 2026 Atm 100%

Très chouette hostel. Personnel au top qui est présent et n'hésite pas à aider. Chouette ambiance d'hostel sans que ce soit festif. Seul hic, niveau qualité prix pour la chambre individuelle sans fenêtre.

Translated to English

Very nice hostel. top-notch staff who are present and do not hesitate to help. choosy hostel atmosphere without being festive. only hic, quality level price for the single room without window.

via Hostelworld
USA MALE 25-30 Jan 21, 2026 Atm 100%

This has been one of my favorite hostels I’ve ever stayed at! It’s the perfect place to chill and enjoy your time on Zanzibar! Muhammad and William are amazing hosts and ensure you are well taken care of. Can’t recommend it enough!

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Sweden FEMALE 25-30 Jan 19, 2026 Atm 100%

Just fire! Mohammed and William are the most welcoming managers you could imagine. Chill, homey vibe, just what I wanted. Went out of their way to help out with whatever issue I had. Will miss this place ⭐️

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Germany MALE 25-30 Jan 17, 2026 Atm 100%

Ich war sehr zufrieden . Sehr entspanntes Hostel mit tollen Leuten. Sehr nahe zum Paje Beach wo man sehr gut Kite Surfen lernen kann 👍

Translated to English

I was very satisfied. very relaxed Hostel with toll Leuten. very close to Paje Beach where one can learn very good Kite Surfing 👍

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Denmark FEMALE 18-24 Jan 16, 2026 Atm 100%

Very nice place, walking distance from the beach. Amazing, helpful staff:)

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USA FEMALE 31-40 Jan 10, 2026 Atm 100%

As someone who is experiencing her first time out of her home country, this is the best place God could have led me to. The owners are the chillest and most accommodating people I’ve met. They are always available for your needs. Highly suggest even if you only have a night, you’re guaranteed to make the best memories 🩵

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Finland FEMALE 25-30 Jan 9, 2026 Atm 100%

Amazing hostel, amazing people!

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Denmark FEMALE 18-24 Jan 7, 2026 Atm 100%

I had a great stay at JBHThe hostel has a really nice balance between social and chill — easy to meet people, but still relaxed enough to rest and enjoy the vibe. The WiFi is good and reliable, which is a big plus, especially if you need to work or stay connected. The AC is an extra bonus and makes a huge difference after hot beach days. Overall, it feels welcoming, comfortable, and like a little home away from home. I’d definitely recommend it .

via Hostelworld
Australia MALE 18-24 Dec 31, 2025 Atm 60%

William, the owner, is awesome. The problem is with Mohammed, the manager. He blasts the music loud from 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM, and is rude and belligerent to clients. Additionally, the power grid failed constantly and the backup generators do not connect to the aircon. Expect warm sweaty nights… Finally, do not do partake in hostel-run events. They overcharge for facilitating disappointing activities. And also, the mattress was extremely uncomfortable.

via Hostelworld
England MALE 18-24 Dec 30, 2025 Atm 100%

The hostel was incredible! Very chill location, and the staff were very welcoming. The atmosphere was great for meeting new people.

via Hostelworld
Sweden FEMALE 25-30 Dec 23, 2025 Atm 100%

I’m so happy I chose this hostel! Really nice vibe, great owners, great food/breakfast, nice pool with a bar! I cancelled my flight and extended my stay here