Zanzibar · Tanzania
Jambiani Backpackers Hostel
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Worst reviews
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Cooles Ambiente kann es weiterempfehlen
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.
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
Recent reviews
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.
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...
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.
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
Super Hostel, wirklich zu empfehlen!
Super Hostel, I really recommend it!
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
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!
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!
Absolutely amazing place. Special shoutout to William who's just an incredible host.
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.
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.
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!
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 ⭐️
Ich war sehr zufrieden . Sehr entspanntes Hostel mit tollen Leuten. Sehr nahe zum Paje Beach wo man sehr gut Kite Surfen lernen kann 👍
I was very satisfied. very relaxed Hostel with toll Leuten. very close to Paje Beach where one can learn very good Kite Surfing 👍
Very nice place, walking distance from the beach. Amazing, helpful staff:)
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 🩵
Amazing hostel, amazing people!
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 .
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.
The hostel was incredible! Very chill location, and the staff were very welcoming. The atmosphere was great for meeting new people.
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