With its austere stairwells and utilitarian furniture (including inventory numbers) the Archipelago has the air of a government rest house – which it was – but now it's privately run and the best hotel in town. Rooms are clean and tidy with fridge, TV and tea-/coffee-making facilities, while staff are friendly and efficient.
The restaurant (open to non-guests) has plain decor but serves excellent Swahili food (mains around Tsh15,000). You can also eat under sail-like sunshades beside the swimming pool (also open to non-guests buying food and drinks).