The Best of Zanzibar: 12 of the Most Popular FAQs about Zanzibar Travel

 Zanzibar is exotic, exciting, and mysterious. Adding Zanzibar Island to an East African safari is popular and easy to do. To help you plan your Zanzibar vacation, here are answers to 12 of the most frequently asked questions about travelling to Zanzibar on holiday. Get all the answers you need to plan your ultimate Zanzibar holiday on a budget.

For any other questions or more in-depth info talk to a travel expert who has been on an affordable Zanzibar holiday and knows the ropes.

Most Popular FAQs about Zanzibar Travel:

1. Is Zanzibar Safe for Travel?
2. When is the best time to go to Zanzibar?
3. How expensive is Zanzibar?
4. Is Zanzibar worth visiting?
5. How many days do you need in Zanzibar?
6. Do I need a visa for Zanzibar?
7. What vaccinations do I need for Zanzibar?
8. Which part of Zanzibar has the best beaches?
9. What's the best way to get to Zanzibar?
10. Should I take malaria tablets for Zanzibar?
11. What is the Zanzibar culture like?
12. Is Zanzibar good for honeymoons?

Nungwi Beach, Zanzibar by Rene Mayorga

1. Is Zanzibar Safe for Travel?

Yes, it is safe to travel to the Zanzibar Islands. This is one of the safest African destinations, even for solo female travellers.

The Zanzibar Archipelago is part of Tanzania, which is one of the most stable African countries. Tanzania is ranked as the most peaceful country in East Africa, in fact.

The local people are generally welcoming and laid-back. Thanks to the picture-perfect beaches, sunny weather, and rich culture Zanzibar is a popular tourist destination. Thus, it features all the necessary tourism infrastructure for a comfortable and safe holiday. Many international travellers enjoy their time on the islands so much that they return time and again.

Zanzibar holiday travel by Samir Luther

However, as World Nomads points out:

With tourism comes opportunities for crimes to make a quick dollar by stealing your stuff. While Tanzania isn‘t as bad as some other African countries, it still pays to be alert and take steps to protect yourself and belongings as you would traveling anywhere else.

That said, the only annoyances you are likely to encounter in Zanzibar are the Papasi and Beach Boys. Particularly evident in tourist-dense areas around Nungwi and Kendwa, the Papasi sell tours, and push their wares, sometimes over-zealously. The best way to deal with these persistent salesmen is to firmly decline and not give them attention. If you feel harassed report the problem to your lodge or tour company so that they can assist. That said, within your resort and on private beaches, this will not be an issue.

6 Travel Safety Tips for Zanzibar:

1. Dress appropriately and respect Muslim cultural norms.
2. Don't take your valuables to the beach.
3. Lock your valuables in the hotel safe when you go out.
4. Don't walk around alone after dark.
5. Check with your lodge or trusted locals if there are any crime hotspots at the time of your travels. Certain beaches, like the stretch between Kendwa and Nungwi, are known as hotspots.
6. Stay alert in Stone Town to prevent falling prey to pick-pockets and bag snatchers.

How Safe is Zanzibar for Solo Female Travelers?

Zanzibar travel safety by Hajo Schatz

When you start searching, the internet is full of solo travellers who have had a great time in Zanzibar. In Nina Zara's post 'Is Zanzibar Safe for Women Traveling Alone?' on Safari Junkie, she says:

if you stay in hotels with security and use common sense, the chances are very low to have a bad experience as a solo female traveler on Zanzibar.

Is it safe to swim in the sea in Zanzibar?

Yes, Zanzibar is very safe for swimming. The Indian Ocean is warm and the waves tend to be small. Zanzibar Island is a popular destination for snorkelling and scuba diving.

Zanzibar snorkelling by Franasois Terrier

Conditions do vary from beach to beach and season to season, but overall many of Zanzibar's beaches are ideal for swimming. Depending on the tides, there can sometimes be seaweed in the water, particularly along the East Coast. You may also encounter sea urchins in the rocky shallows (especially at low tide). Watch where you walk and wear booties (diving boots) to protect your feet against the coral.

Are there sharks in Zanzibar?

There are reef sharks in Zanzibar which are harmless. Then at Mafia Island, you can swim with whale sharks. These sharks are endangered and safe to swim and dive with. Lastly, great white sharks are occasionally spotted in the deep waters but there have been no shark attacks recorded in Zanzibar.

Is Stone Town safe at night?

Erring on the side of caution, the answer is no. Muggings and robberies do happen, especially in dark alleys at night. So, don't walk around by yourself at night.

Only take registered taxis or taxis recommended by trusted locals, your hotel or B&B, and friends. Alternatively, you can arrange an escort, to walk with you, at some hotels and restaurants.

Stone Town travel safety by R Boed

The same rules apply in most major cities across the globe. Don't wear flashy jewellery, or keep your valuables on you. Keep your wits about you and don't divulge where you are staying freely. During the day you should be fine walking around on your own, but keep your eyes open.

2. When is the best time to visit Zanzibar?

The best time to visit Zanzibar is from mid-winter to spring or in mid-summer (southern hemisphere timing). These are Zanzibar's dry seasons. The long dry season is over winter and spring and the short dry season is in mid-summer. 

Zanzibar Island reef by Rod Waddington

Remember this is a tropical region which means the cooler temperatures of winter are still warm. So, you'll still enjoy pleasant beach weather.

What is the best month to visit Zanzibar?

June to September or October are the best months to visit Zanzibar Islands. This is when you're most likely to get clear blue skies and balmy temperatures. This is also the best Tanzania safari season, making it an ideal time for a bush and beach break. If you struggle with heat and humidity then the sunny winter-to-spring dry season is the best time to visit Zanzibar.

Zanzibar beach walk by Jorge Cancela

Mid-December, January, and February are also ideal months to visit Zanzibar. These months fall in the short dry season which offers the best weather for sun-worshippers who like hot weather. During these months you're likely to experience clear skies, little if any rain, and high temperatures. In early December you may still get some rain, usually in the form of intermittent afternoon rain showers. By mid-December, the afternoon rain showers are less frequent but the holiday crowds haven't arrived yet. Thus mid-December is an excellent time for a summer holiday in Zanzibar, without the masses.

If you are planning your Zanzibar holiday for November to February then it is best to stay on the southwest coastlines, because the prevailing monsoons come from the northeast. For Zanzibar holidays during the southwest monsoon season (June to October) head to the northeast coastline.

Best time for scuba diving in Zanzibar

July to August and February to April are the best times to go scuba diving on Zanzibar Islands. April is, however, the rainiest month, so think twice about visiting then.

The worst time to go to Zanzibar Island

Avoid travelling to Zanzibar Island during the two rainy seasons–November and March to May. This is when NOT to visit Zanzibar.

The main rainy season is from mid-March to May. The rains usually peak in April, so avoid visiting this month. Also known as the long rains this season entails tropical downpours in the afternoons. These showers can be heavy on any of the islands in the Archipelago. The humidity is also high and the average temperatures climb to the mid-30°s Celsius.

Zanzibar rainy season by Mathias Apitz

The short rains usually fall from November to early December and are less intense than the long rains. In the years when the short rains arrive on time, it dries up from mid-to-late December to February and then starts again in March.

What's Zanzibar's weather like?

The Zanzibar Archipelago is a tropical island destination. It is a sunny and warm place–perfect for beach holidays and outdoor activities.

Zanzibar local riding a bike

Temperatures vary with geographic location and altitude, but the islands are generally hot and sunny. Except of course in the monsoon seasons of March to May and November when it is windy and rainy.

3. How expensive is Zanzibar?

People often ask us if a Zanzibar holiday is expensive. The simple answer is no. You can definitely visit Zanzibar Island on a budget. Zanzibar has an excellent array of both accommodation and activities and as a result, it is possible to arrange any budget Zanzibar holiday.

Nungwi beach, Zanzibar by Hege

International flights to Tanzania are likely to be the single biggest expense of a trip to the Zanzibar Islands. The best way to save money on your Zanzibar Island holiday is to keep an eye out for flight specials to Tanzania and even direct flight deals to Zanzibar, direct.

From Dar es Salaam on the mainland of Tanzania, you can then take the affordable ferry or fly to Stone Town on Zanzibar's main island, Unguja.

How much do Zanzibari holidays cost?

On a tight budget, you can spend as little as US$ 45 to US$ 50 per day on a Zanzibar holiday. That's a cost estimate based on simple, no-frills accommodation in shared dorms and basic beach huts, and meals at local eateries.

Travel blogger, Lauren, from Never Ending Footsteps spent an average of $51,53 US$ per day on her Zanzibar holiday in 2017. That excludes her return flights from London to Tanzania ($491) and Dar es Salaam to Stone Town ($80). Lauren's $51,53 daily budget included local transport, food, accommodation, travel insurance, a guidebook, and a total of $176 on activities/ entry fees at attractions. Some pretty impressive budgeting!

Stone Town streets, Zanzibar by Rod Waddington

On a less frugal budget plan for US$ 50 to US$ 100 per day. That's a more middle-of-the-road holiday budget at mid-range establishments. Based on Budget Your Trip data from actual travelers a one-week Zanzibar holiday for two people costs an average of US$ 748, about US$ 107 per day for two, which is around US$ 53 each.

Based on the daily average expenditure of previous visitors Zanzibar holiday expenses are as follows:

• US$ 17 on meals per day
• US$ 12 on local transport per day
• US$ 51 on hotel accommodation per couple per night

Essentially "Zanzibar is one of those destinations that can fit into any budget!" as the seasoned traveler, Wandering Earl put it.

Is food expensive in Zanzibar?

No, you can eat cheaply in Zanzibar. On a tight budget, you can spend as little as about US$ 6 per day on meals. A mid-range estimate for daily food costs is US$ 17 per person. You will also need to budget for bottled water, around US$ 0.85 per day.

Stone Town market, Zanzibar by David Berkowitz

You can buy cheap food at the fruit markets and small bakeries for breakfast and lunch.

For dinners visit the night market in Forodhani Gardens (Stone Town) to pick up fresh seafood at excellent prices. Darajani Market is another good dinner option for affordable meals.

Forodhani Gardens, Zanzibar by David Berkowitz

According to Numbeo and Hiker's Bay, local beer will cost about US$ 2.40 (for a 0.5l draught), while an imported beer is around US$ 4.40, a cappuccino is US$ 2.40, and an inexpensive restaurant meal will cost around US$ 6.

4. Is Zanzibar worth visiting?

Of course, yes! Zanzibar Island is a bucket-list African destination for excellent reasons.

Zanzibar holiday packages by Vaughan McShane

For an in-depth look at some of Zanzibar’s attractions here are 12 of the Best Reasons to visit Zanzibar Island.

Are the Zanzibar beaches good?

Yes, Zanzibar is a fantastic beach holiday destination. It is also an excellent value-for-money destination with lots of character and rich history. The culture is colourful and interesting. The old architecture is unique and the beaches are beautiful.

Stone Town World Heritage Site by world wide

Zanzibar also offers authentic experiences like spice tours and cooking classes, and unusual adventures like swimming with whale sharks, which make it an unforgettable island holiday spot.

5. How many days do you need in Zanzibar?

Seven days at the least. How long you need for a fulfilling Zanzibar holiday depends on what you want to do, but we recommend at least a week.

The Zanzibar Archipelago is surprisingly large and diverse. It consists of two main islands and numerous smaller islets, together covering an area of about 2,462 km² / 951 mi². The main island of Unguja is 85 km / 53 miles long and 39 km / 24 miles wide, covering about 1,464 km² / 565 mi². The second-largest island, Pemba is 67 km / 42 miles long and 22 km / 14 miles across. Across these islands, there is loads to do and see.

Spice plantation, Zanzibar Island by David Berkowitz

If all you have planned is to lie on the beach and relax, then a few days at a resort should suffice. However, to really get to know Zanzibar, there is an abundance of activities to suit all tastes. From spice plantation tours and cultural excursions, to island hopping eco-tours, diving in marine reserves, getting up close to endangered tortoises, as well as trips to forest reserves to spot rare colobus monkeys, Zanzibar is a treat to explore.

6. What are the Zanzibar visa requirements?

Zanzibar is a part of Tanzania, and thus the entry requirements and visas are the same for both destinations. US and UK citizens need tourist visas. These can be obtained on arrival in Tanzania but both the American and British governments encourage travellers to apply for an e-visa before travelling. The cost of a single-entry tourist visa is US$ 50 and US$ 100 for US citizens which gives them a 12-month multiple entry visa. The multiple-entry visa costs US$100.

European, Canadian, and Australian travellers all need tourist visas for Tanzania, also applicable to Zanzibar, while South African citizens do not need visas to visit Zanzibar Islands.

NOTE:

• Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous part of the United Republic of Tanzania. Therefore, you do not need to obtain separate visas for mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar Islands.
• When travelling to Zanzibar Islands ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months from your date of departure from Zanzibar.
• This information was accurate at the time of publishing, but visa requirements and costs are subject to change so please check the Tanzania Immigration website for the latest visa information, or check with your local travel agent.

7. Do I need vaccinations for Zanzibar, and which shots are recommended?

Yes, certain vaccinations are recommended for Tanzania and Zanzibar. The National Travel Health Network and Center (NaTHNaC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommend the following vaccinations for Tanzania and Zanzibar:

• hepatitis (A and B)
• typhoid
• cholera
• yellow fever*
• rabies
• meningitis
• tetanus

*Proof of a yellow fever vaccination is required if you are travelling from a country where yellow fever is present.

In addition to this, while Zanzibar is not a high-risk malaria destination, Tanzania is. Therefore, if you are combining a Tanzania safari with a Zanzibar beach break, it is recommended that you have malaria prophylactics which are both accessible and effective.

These are the recommended shots for travel to Zanzibar Island, but they are only general guidelines. We strongly advise that you consult with a travel clinic or your doctor when planning your holiday to Zanzibar to ensure that you get the shots that you need.

8. Which part of Zanzibar has the best beaches?

When planning Zanzibar holidays people often ask what part of Zanzibar is best to visit. What they really want to know is where the best Zanzibar beaches are...

Kendwa Beach, Zanzibar Island by TravelingOtter

The beaches along the northeastern coast of Zanzibar Island (Unguja) are the best for swimming, and diving, and easy to access. They are, however, the most popular Zanzibar beaches with the highest concentration of resorts, people, and tourist trappings.

Two of the finest beaches are in the far north of Unguja Island, Nungwi and Kendwa. The coastline in this area boasts powdery white sand and clear azure waters. There are also plenty of accommodation options here, especially in and around Nungwi.

Nungwi beach accommodation by Jorge Cancela

The coral reef that shelters the east coast of Unguja from the open ocean, makes it ideal for swimming. The waves are gentle, the water clear and the tidal fluctuations less dramatic than on the south and west coasts. The reef is also ideal for snorkelling and scuba diving.

Pongwe Beach is very protected by an offshore reef making it arguably the best swimming spot around.

Pongwe, Zanzibar beaches by Zander Martineau

For a more remote and deserted beach experience in Zanzibar, head south. Bwejuu and Paje are two of the best beaches on the southeast coast and Kizimkazi Beach, known for its dolphins, is an authentic spot on the southwest coast.

9. How to get to Zanzibar?

There are two ways to get to the tropical islands of Zanzibar–by ferry or plane.

You can fly to the main island of Unguja (often referred to as Zanzibar Island) and to Pemba Island. Most of the flights to Zanzibar are from Dar es Salaam, on the coast of Tanzania, to Stone Town on Unguja. It's a short 15-minute flight. There are also direct flights from the Seronera Valley in the Serengeti.

There are also a handful of international flights from destinations outside of Tanzania, including Doha, Nairobi, and Johannesburg. If you're travelling from the UK, Europe or the USA your best option is to fly to Dar es Salaam or Nairobi in Kenya. These cities are the two major travel hubs of East Africa, with many international flight routes. From Dar es Salaam or Nairobi, there are regular flights to Zanzibar.

Ferry terminal in Stone Town, Zanzibar by David Stanley

The cheapest way to get to Zanzibar is to take a ferry from Dar es Salaam. But, you don't always save that much by taking a ferry instead of a cheap flight from Dar. It depends on the ferry (some of the more modern ferries are quite expensive) and the flight specials available for your travel dates.

10. Should I take malaria tablets for Zanzibar?

Not necessarily. Tanzania is a high-risk malaria destination and if you are on safari on the Tanzanian mainland, then yes, you need to get malaria medication. Zanzibar, as reported by the WHO in 2022, has a less than 1% prevalence of the disease. This means that technically, you do not need to take malaria medication when visiting Zanzibar.

However, many Zanzibar holidays include visiting iconic safari destinations like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, and thus travellers need to be prepared and malaria prophylactics are recommended.

Ask your local travel clinic or doctor for advice on how to prevent contracting malaria while travelling in Tanzania. There are a number of effective anti-malaria prophylaxes to choose from these days. Some anti-malaria treatments need to be started before you travel so check in with a medical professional in advance.

Find out more in Malaria Made Simple.

11. What is the culture of Zanzibar like?

The Zanzibari people are descendants of Africa, Arabia, India, Persia, and the Comoros Islands. The main religion in Zanzibar is Islam. Over 90% of the population is Muslim with a small minority of Christians, Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs.

Zanzibar culture by Mussi Katz

Swahili and Arabic influences are evident throughout the islands, especially at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Stone Town. The unique blend of African, Arabic and European historical influences has shaped Zanzibar's intriguing contemporary cultural and architectural landscape. Remnants of Zanzibar's sinister past, as the main slave-trading port in East Africa between the 17th and 19th Centuries, also remain.

Stone Town Slave Trading by Son of Groucho

Can I drink alcohol in Zanzibar?

Islam prohibits the consumption of alcohol for devotees, but as a visitor, yes, you can drink alcohol. It is important to be culturally sensitive in Zanzibar, be discreet, drink in the appropriate places, and respect the local Muslim culture. Having a few drinks is fine. Going overboard, and being drunk in public is not advisable as it can land you into trouble, it is better to moderate your intake.

Tourist and ex-pat restaurants, upmarket hotels, and resorts are all geared toward the tastes of travellers and serve alcohol. There are even a few bars and stores that sell booze. Always avoid drunken behaviour, don't carry alcohol around openly in public, and definitely do not drink in public places.

Can I wear shorts in Zanzibar?

Zanzibar’s dress code for tourists can be split into resort, beach, and hotel wear, and public attire. You can wear shorts at the beach and at your resort or hotel. It's acceptable to wear bikinis and swimwear at the beach.

Kendwa beach, Zanzibar Island by TravelingOtter

In other places, it is better to dress more conservatively. Shorts should preferably be loose-fitting, three-quarter pants that end below the knee. Ladies should avoid wearing short shorts in public.

Walking around shirtless is not culturally acceptable, even for blokes. For women, wearing mini-skirts and skimpy outfits is sure to cause offence. Be particularly mindful when visiting Stone Town and mosques, where your torso and shoulders need to be covered too.

12. Is a Zanzibar honeymoon recommended?

Yes, oh yes! Zanzibar Island is one of the world's best honeymoon destinations. The authentic charm and picture-perfect beaches of Zanzibar make it a very popular romantic getaway.

Zanzibar beach sunset by Vaughan McShane

The combination of picturesque tropical beaches, sunny weather, and secluded resorts provide an ideal setting for lovebirds to relax and get away from it all. Add to that Zanzibar's laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals and you get the ideal honeymoon setting.

Part of the charm of this island paradise is that couples can choose to be as active or idle as they want. Hammocks, gentle walks, lazy swims, soothing massages, and sunset sundowners await, as do island hopping boat trips, snorkelling and diving excursions, spice tours, cultural experiences, and eco-adventures.

Zanzibar island boat by Vaughan McShane

Zanzibar Holiday Packages & Travel Advice

These high-quality Zanzibar Holiday Packages offer excellent value for money:

• 5 Day Zanzibar Package - Adventure Tour
• 6-Day Zanzibar Honeymoon Package
• 8-Day Zanzibar Holiday Package

View all of our budget Zanzibar Packages that visit Zanzibar, Tanzania, and other African destinations in combination.

Zanzibar holidays by Samir Luther

For help planning your Zanzibar vacation on a budget, contact African Budget Safaris. Our friendly travel experts are here to answer any and all of your questions.

We look forward to welcoming you to Africa one day soon!

Stone Town, Zanzibar Island, girls by Irene

Please Note: We receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.