First Time in Zanzibar? Everything You Need to Know

First Time in Zanzibar: Visas, Health & Everything You Need to Know

Zanzibar is semi-autonomous within Tanzania — it has its own president, its own customs, and a culture distinct from the mainland. The island is predominantly Muslim, the architecture is Arab-Swahili, and the pace of life follows the tides and the call to prayer. Understanding these basics before you arrive makes the difference between a smooth trip and a frustrating one.

This guide covers the practical essentials — visas, transport, health precautions, cultural expectations, and the things that trip up first-time visitors.

Visa on Arrival

Most nationalities can obtain a single-entry visa on arrival at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) or at the Zanzibar ferry terminal. The fee is $50 for most passports, payable in US dollars (cash, clean bills, 2009 series or newer). Some nationalities pay $25 (certain African Union countries) or $100 (US citizens for a multiple-entry visa).

The visa process takes 15-45 minutes depending on queue length. Bring one passport-sized photo, though many travellers report not being asked for one. An e-visa is available through the Tanzanian immigration portal (visa.immigration.go.tz) — it costs $50-55 including processing and takes 3-10 business days. The e-visa speeds up the arrival process significantly, especially during peak season.

Getting to Zanzibar

Zanzibar receives direct flights from Dar es Salaam (20 minutes, multiple daily), Nairobi (1.5 hours), Doha (Qatar Airways), and seasonal European charters. The cheapest route is flying to Dar es Salaam and taking the ferry. Precision Air, Coastal Aviation, and Auric Air operate the Dar-Zanzibar hop from $50-80 one way.

The ferry from Dar es Salaam to Stone Town takes 2 hours and costs $35-40 for economy class. Azam Marine operates the most reliable service with four departures daily. Buy tickets at the terminal on the day of travel or book online. The crossing can be rough — take motion sickness tablets if you are susceptible. The ferry terminal in Stone Town is a 5-minute walk from most guesthouses.

Malaria & Health Precautions

Zanzibar is in a malaria zone. The risk is lower than mainland Tanzania but still present, particularly during the rainy seasons (March-May and November-December). Consult your doctor about antimalarial prophylaxis before travelling. Malarone (atovaquone/proguanil) and doxycycline are the most commonly prescribed options. Begin the course before arrival per your doctor's instructions.

Use mosquito repellent containing DEET (20-30%) at dawn and dusk. Sleep under a mosquito net — most guesthouses provide them, but check before booking. Dengue fever is also present and transmitted by daytime-biting mosquitoes. There is no prophylaxis for dengue — repellent is your only defence.

The nearest hospital with international-standard care is in Dar es Salaam. Mnazi Mmoja Hospital in Stone Town handles emergencies but is under-resourced. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is essential — not optional. Pharmacies in Stone Town stock basic medications, but bring a personal supply of anything you rely on regularly.

Ramadan Impact

Zanzibar is approximately 95% Muslim. During Ramadan (dates shift annually — check the Islamic calendar for your travel dates), many restaurants close during daylight hours. The Forodhani night market may operate on reduced hours. Some local eateries stop serving until iftar (the evening meal breaking the fast).

Tourist restaurants and hotel restaurants remain open throughout Ramadan. You will not go hungry, but options narrow significantly during the day. Eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours is considered deeply disrespectful during Ramadan. Eat in your guesthouse or in enclosed restaurant spaces. The upside: Ramadan evenings are festive and the iftar food at local restaurants is exceptional.

Dress Code & Cultural Sensitivity

Stone Town is a conservative Muslim community. Both men and women should cover shoulders and knees when walking through town. This is not enforced by law, but it is a matter of basic respect for the local culture. Swimwear is for the beach only — never walk through Stone Town streets in a bikini or shirtless.

On the tourist beaches (Nungwi, Kendwa, Paje), Western beachwear is accepted. On less-touristed beaches and in villages, more modest swimwear is appreciated. When visiting mosques (most are closed to non-Muslims), women should also cover their hair. Public displays of affection are frowned upon throughout the island.

Money & Bargaining

The Tanzanian shilling (TZS) is the official currency. The exchange rate is approximately TZS 2,500 per US dollar. US dollars are widely accepted for accommodation, tours, and transport — in fact, many businesses prefer dollars. Carry a mix of both currencies. Small denominations ($1, $5, $10) are more useful than large bills.

Bargaining is a way of life at markets, with taxi drivers, and with tour operators. It is not rude — it is expected and often enjoyed by both parties. Start at 40-50% of the asking price and negotiate from there. Be friendly, take your time, and be willing to walk away. Fixed prices apply at restaurants, established shops, supermarkets, and for dala dala fares.

ATMs are available in Stone Town but can be unreliable. Carry enough cash to last 2-3 days in case machines are empty or offline. NBC and CRDB bank ATMs are the most dependable. Credit cards work at upscale hotels and some tour operators — nowhere else. This is a cash economy.

Getting Around the Island

Dala dalas (shared minibuses) connect Stone Town to all major destinations. They depart from the terminal near Darajani market and cost TZS 500-5,000 ($0.20-2) depending on distance. They are slow, crowded, and the cheapest option by far. Private taxis cost 10-20 times more but are faster and air-conditioned.

Scooter rental is available for $15-25 per day in Stone Town and beach areas. An international driving permit is technically required. Drive on the left. Road conditions range from good (main Stone Town to Nungwi highway) to poor (rural roads, especially after rain). Wear a helmet — enforcement is sporadic but head injuries are the biggest risk to tourists on the island.

Safety

Zanzibar is generally safe for tourists. Violent crime is rare but petty theft occurs — keep valuables secure, especially on crowded beaches and in markets. Do not walk through Stone Town's unlit alleys alone after midnight. Use a torch (flashlight) at night — street lighting is minimal in the old town.

Swimming safety requires awareness. Rip currents exist on some east coast beaches. Jellyfish are seasonal (usually January-March). Sea urchins are present on reef areas — wear water shoes when wading at low tide. If renting a boat for snorkeling, verify that it has life jackets and a functioning engine before departing.

When to Visit

The best months are June through October — dry season, with warm temperatures (25-30°C), minimal rain, and clear skies. December through February is also good — hot (30-35°C) with occasional showers. The long rains fall March through May — heavy daily downpours, high humidity, and some roads become impassable. Short rains in November bring afternoon showers but are manageable.

Peak tourist season is July-August and December-January. Prices rise 20-40% and popular guesthouses fill up. The shoulder months (June, September, October) offer the best combination of good weather, lower prices, and fewer crowds.

Zanzibar rewards visitors who arrive informed and respectful. Cover up in Stone Town, carry cash in small bills, take your antimalarials, and learn three words of Swahili — "jambo" (hello), "asante" (thank you), and "pole pole" (slowly slowly). The island runs on pole pole time. Adjust your expectations accordingly.