Zanzibar
A journey to Zanzibar will take you from a vibrant array of blue ocean waters to old heritage sites such as 'Stone Town' of which the name says it all. Home to approximately 54 species of mammals of which 23 are bats, the island of Zanzibar lies just off the coast of mainland Tanzania in the Indian Ocean. Historically a separate nation, it has a distinct culture and relaxed atmosphere. With its white beaches, clear blue waters, national parks, and historic towns, Zanzibar is a popular tourist destination in its own right.
1
national parks
1 heritage sites
50 km2 of protected wildlife areas
Getting There
Being an island, Zanzibar is only accessible from air or boat. All airports in Tanzania offer flights to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (formerly known as Zanzibar International Airport).
Alternatively, there are regular flights from Moi International Airport in Mombasa or from Kenya’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi.
Ferries operate daily between 04:00 and 12:00; the trip takes up to two hours from Dar es Salaam.
Abeid Amani Karume Int (ZNZ)
Zanzibar Airport has non-stop passenger flights scheduled to 26 destinations in 15 countries.
The only intercontinental flights operating from Abeid Amani Karume Airport (ZNZ) are between Zanzibar and Europe and between Zanzibar and the Middle-East
Please note that there are no direct services between Zanzibar and the United States, Canada, Southern America, Central America, the Caribbean, Southern Asia, China, Japan, Eastern Asia, South-Eastern Asia, Central Asia or Oceania.
TANZANIA
ZANZIBAR
Abeid Amani Karume Int
Stone Town
home to
population
1.304 million +
birds
+/- 47 species
Stone Town is located on the western coast of Unguja, the main island of the Zanzibar Archipelago. It is a city of prominent historical and artistic importance. Its architecture, mostly dating back to the 19th century, reflects the diverse influences underlying the Swahili culture. Therefore, in 2000 the town was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
mammals
+/-54 species
plants
+/- 100 species, of which many are considered medicinal
WHY ZANZIBAR
BEACHES
FOOD AND DRINK
CULTURE
STONE TOWN
frequently asked
Money & Spending
The currency of Tanzania/Zanzibar is the Tanzanian Shilling, we however suggest that travellers to use US Dollars cash only. Please note that any US Dollar notes dated 2006 and below are not accepted throughout Tanzania/Zanzibar. There are transaction fees on credit cards and traveller's cheques (although these are accepted throughout most establishments). ATMs are found throughout the major towns and cities in Tanzania/Zanzibar.
Tipping
Bring small US Dollar denomination notes. A 10% tip is customary in restaurants, bars, lodge staff and guides for good service, make sure that a service charge hasn't been added onto your bill beforehand.
questions
Best Time to Travel
The best months to enjoy the sun and the sea of Zanzibar are July, August and September
Climate
The best time to visit Zanzibar and other islands is Spring, between June and October, the temperature is cool and dry. The area has two prominent rainy seasons, April to May and again in November to December. We would recommend sticking to non rainy seasons to get the best experience.
What to Pack
In June to August (Winter) : Pack light clothes, a Jersey or sweatshirt for the late evenings and don’t forget the sunscreen and swimming gear! It’s always a benefit to bring your own snorkelling gear regardless of season.
December to February (Summer): Pack an umbrella or raincoat, loose fitting clothes that are wearable in the hot humid climate, jersey or sweatshirt for the evenings and obviously your sunscreen.
Flights & Getting Around
Traveling to Zanzibar is easy. The island is accessible by sea or via international flights directly to Zanzibar International Airport, or with a change in mainland Tanzania. Zanzibar Airport has non-stop passenger flights scheduled to 26 destinations in 15 countries. On the island, transfers are recommended which your hotel can provide. Otherwise taxis are readily available throughout.
Visa & Passport Requirements
Zanzibar shares the same visa policy as the rest of Tanzania. Travelers of certain nationalities can enter the country without a visa, while others will either have to obtain an eVisa or a paper visa. There is no eVisa specifically for Zanzibar, but nationals of many countries can obtain a Tanzania eVisa. This permits the holder to visit all parts of Tanzania, including Zanzibar.Certain countries and territories can visit Zanzibar (and the rest of Tanzania) for up to 3 months without a visa, please get in contact with one of our safari specialists for up to date information on this matter.
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