Ella's Swahili House

Historic 5-Bedroom Villa in Bagamoyo Old Town

Ella’s Swahili House, is a beautifully restored five-bedroom standalone villa located in the heart of Bagamoyo Old Town. Rich in history and architectural heritage, this remarkable home offers guests a rare opportunity to stay inside a living piece of coastal East African history while enjoying modern comfort, privacy, and space.

A House with 180 Years of History

Known historically as Mtumwa Mwinchea’s House, this extraordinary residence was originally built around 1840 by an Omani Arab trader who owned coconut plantations in both Zanzibar and Bagamoyo. this five bedroom villa has retained many of the features of traditional Swahili design: a spacious roof-top verandah; Zanzibar beds and high beamed ceilings. 

Traditional Swahili Architecture & Restoration

Ella’s Swahili House has been restored with deep respect for Swahili architectural principles, including: Thick coral rag walls that naturally regulate temperature, High ceilings for airflow and ventilation, Carved wooden doors and traditional detailing, Internal courtyard-style garden flow, Wide verandas and a generous first-floor balcony. The restoration preserved the home’s historical layout while reinforcing structural integrity using traditional materials and techniques. The result is an authentic Swahili coastal residence that feels both timeless and welcoming.

Spacious 5-Bedroom Layout

This standalone villa comfortably accommodates families and groups of up to 10 guests across five thoughtfully arranged bedrooms. The layout includes two spacious master ensuite bedrooms offering privacy and generous space, one additional double-bed bedroom, and two single-bed bedrooms with shared bathroom access. In addition, the house features two separate indoor lounges one downstairs and one upstairs each furnished with a sofa bed that can be used if required, providing flexible sleeping arrangements for larger groups while maintaining comfort and space throughout the home. 

The highlight of Ella’s Swahili House is its lush private garden, a tranquil green space that reflects the traditional inner-courtyard style of historic coastal homes. Shaded seating areas and mature plants create a peaceful retreat within the historic town while upstairs, the expansive first-floor balcony overlooks the garden and surrounding Old Town streets and is only 5 mins walk from the beach, the market and a few lovely restaurants. 

Book your stay at Ella’s Swahili House today and secure your place in one of Bagamoyo Old Town’s most historic homes. 

Kingfisher and Butterfly Apartments 

Your party isn't quite big enough to fill Ella's Swahili House? No problem! 

If you’d love to experience the charm, history, and architecture of this beautifully restored heritage home but don’t require the full five-bedroom layout, we offer flexible options within the same property.

Butterfly Apartment

You can rent the ground floor as a private two-bedroom home, known as Butterfly Apartment ideal for smaller families or couples who want garden terrace access, privacy, and the authentic Swahili atmosphere in a more intimate setting. 

Kingfisher Apartment 

Or you could rent Kingfisher house a spacious three-bedroom layout combining the ground and first floor. This option offers expanded living space, balcony access, and the same historic character, perfect for mid-sized groups who want room to spread ou without booking the entire villa. Both apartments feature private access and secured parking, ensuring comfort, convenience, and independence while still enjoying the beauty and heritage of Ella’s Swahili House.

Contact us today to enquire about availability for Butterfly or Kingfisher Apartments and find the perfect fit for your stay.