Complete Travel Guide
Everything About Zanzibar
Weather, visa, safety, transport, food, culture, beaches — your complete guide to planning the perfect Zanzibar holiday.
Weather & Seasons
Climate Overview
Zanzibar has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round (25-35°C / 77-95°F). The island experiences two distinct rainy seasons and two dry seasons.
Best Time to Visit (June - October)
The long dry season. Clear skies, low humidity, pleasant temperatures around 25-28°C. Perfect for beach holidays, diving, and water sports. This is peak season — book hotels early.
Short Dry Season (January - February)
Hot and dry with temperatures reaching 32-35°C. Great for beach lovers who enjoy the heat. Less crowded than June-October but still excellent conditions.
Long Rains (March - May)
The 'Masika' season brings heavy daily rainfall, especially in April. Many hotels offer significant discounts (30-50% off). Roads can flood. Some smaller hotels close temporarily.
Short Rains (November - December)
The 'Vuli' season brings brief afternoon showers that rarely last long. Still very enjoyable for travel. Good balance of lower prices and decent weather.
Getting There
By Air
Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) receives direct flights from Europe (Amsterdam, Rome, Warsaw seasonally), Middle East (Dubai, Doha, Muscat), and Africa (Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, Addis Ababa). Many European travelers connect through Nairobi or Dar es Salaam.
From Dar es Salaam
Short 20-minute flight or 2-hour fast ferry from Dar es Salaam. Ferries depart multiple times daily from Kivukoni terminal. Book Azam Marine or Kilimanjaro Fast Ferries for the most reliable service.
Airport Transfers
Pre-arranged hotel transfers are the easiest option (30-60 min to east coast). Taxis are available at the airport — negotiate the price before getting in. Expect $30-50 to Jambiani/Bwejuu area.
Visa & Entry Requirements
Visa on Arrival
Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at Zanzibar airport for $50 USD (cash or card). This includes EU, US, UK, Canadian, and Australian citizens. The visa is valid for 30 days.
E-Visa
You can also apply online at visa.immigration.go.tz before travel. Processing takes 5-10 business days. Recommended during peak season to avoid long airport queues.
Passport Requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date. You need at least 2 blank pages. Carry a printed copy of your return flight booking.
Yellow Fever
A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required if you're arriving from an endemic country. It's recommended even if not strictly required for your route.
Currency & Money
Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
The official currency is the Tanzanian Shilling. As of 2025, roughly 2,500 TZS = 1 USD. Hotels and tour operators usually quote prices in USD.
USD Widely Accepted
US Dollars are accepted almost everywhere in tourist areas. Bring newer bills (2006 or later) — older bills are often rejected. Small denominations ($1, $5, $10, $20) are useful for tips and small purchases.
ATMs & Cards
ATMs are available in Stone Town, Nungwi, and some larger towns. CRDB and NMB banks have the most reliable ATMs. Visa is more widely accepted than Mastercard. Always carry some cash as backup.
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. 10% at restaurants is standard. $2-5 per day for hotel staff. $10-20 for tour guides depending on the excursion.
Health & Safety
General Safety
Zanzibar is generally safe for tourists. Petty theft can occur in busy areas — use hotel safes for valuables. Avoid walking alone on deserted beaches at night. Stick to well-lit areas in Stone Town after dark.
Malaria
Zanzibar is in a malaria zone. Consult your doctor about prophylaxis (Malarone or Doxycycline are common). Use insect repellent with DEET, sleep under mosquito nets, and wear long sleeves at dusk.
Water & Food
Drink only bottled or filtered water. Avoid ice in drinks at local restaurants. Street food at Forodhani market is generally safe if freshly cooked. Peel fruits yourself.
Sun Protection
The equatorial sun is intense. Use SPF 50+, reapply frequently, wear a hat, and stay hydrated. Sunburn can happen in as little as 15 minutes, even on cloudy days.
Medical Facilities
Basic medical care is available on the island. For serious conditions, evacuation to Dar es Salaam or Nairobi may be necessary. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended.
Food & Dining
Swahili Cuisine
Zanzibar's food is a delicious blend of African, Arab, Indian, and Portuguese influences. Expect lots of coconut, spices, fresh seafood, and tropical fruits. Rice and ugali (cornmeal) are staple sides.
Must-Try Dishes
Zanzibar pizza (street food crepe), Urojo soup (Zanzibar mix), Octopus curry, Pilau rice, Biryani, Fresh grilled lobster, Mandazi (sweet doughnuts), and Zanzibar coffee with cardamom.
Forodhani Night Market
The famous night market in Stone Town is a must-visit. Open every evening from around 6 PM. Try the Zanzibar pizza, sugarcane juice, grilled seafood, and local snacks. Budget $5-15 for a full meal.
Restaurant Prices
Local restaurants: $3-8 per meal. Mid-range hotel restaurants: $10-25. Fine dining: $25-50+. Fresh fruit juices: $1-3. Beer: $2-4. Cocktails: $5-10.
Culture & Etiquette
Dress Code
Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim. In Stone Town and villages, dress modestly — cover shoulders and knees. On the beach and in hotel areas, swimwear is fine. Always cover up when leaving the beach.
Ramadan
During Ramadan (dates vary yearly), many local restaurants close during the day. Hotels continue serving guests normally. Be respectful — avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours.
Photography
Always ask permission before photographing locals, especially women. Some people may ask for a small tip. Avoid photographing military/government buildings.
Language
Swahili (Kiswahili) is the main language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few Swahili phrases goes a long way: 'Jambo' (hello), 'Asante' (thank you), 'Hakuna matata' (no worries).
Getting Around
Dalla Dalla (Local Buses)
The cheapest way to travel. Minibuses run between major towns for $0.50-1.50. Crowded, no AC, but an authentic local experience. Route 309 runs from Stone Town to Jambiani.
Taxis & Private Transfers
Available everywhere. Always negotiate the price before getting in. Stone Town to Jambiani: $30-40. Stone Town to Nungwi: $25-35. Use your hotel to arrange trusted drivers.
Scooter/Motorbike Rental
Popular option for independent travelers. $15-25 per day. International driving permit technically required. Roads can be unpaved and sandy — drive carefully. Helmets are mandatory.
Car Rental
Available in Stone Town. $40-80 per day depending on vehicle. Roads outside main routes can be challenging. A 4x4 is recommended for the east coast. Drive on the left side.
Best Beaches
Nungwi (North)
The most popular beach with minimal tidal changes. Great for swimming all day. Lively nightlife, many restaurants and bars. Can feel crowded in peak season.
Kendwa (Northwest)
Beautiful wide beach next to Nungwi. Famous for Full Moon parties. Less crowded than Nungwi with equally good swimming conditions.
Jambiani (East)
Long, quiet beach with dramatic tidal changes. Authentic village atmosphere, seaweed farming, local culture. Perfect for travelers seeking tranquility. Home to ZAN HOTELS network.
Bwejuu (East)
Secluded and peaceful. Powdery white sand, fewer tourists. Connected to Paje by a beautiful beach walk. Home to Zan Orient luxury resort.
Paje (East)
Zanzibar's kitesurfing capital. Wide beach with consistent winds. Growing restaurant and bar scene. Popular with younger travelers and water sports enthusiasts.
Matemwe (Northeast)
Quiet and remote. Stunning reef just offshore — excellent snorkeling. Gateway to Mnemba Atoll. Dramatic low tides reveal coral pools.
Ready for your trip?
We'll help you plan the perfect Zanzibar holiday. Free personalized trip plan.
Plan My Trip →