Traveling to Zanzibar
Things To Know Before You Travel
Aside from deciding which beaches to visit and which excursions you want to go on, there are other essential elements of planning your trip to Zanzibar. Before you even book a flight, it’s best to do some research and make sure you know what you’re dealing with. Here are some important things to know before traveling to Zanzibar.
Do You Need A Visa When Traveling To Zanzibar?
If you’re going to Zanzibar/Tanzania as a tourist, you may need a visa. The only exception is if you’re a citizen of the following countries:
All visitors are required to have a valid passport for the duration of their stay. Travelers may obtain visas at Zanzibar International Airport. Other points in Tanzania that currently offer visa upon entry are Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro International Airports. It is advisable to check with your nearest Tanzanian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate prior to traveling.
Which Airlines Fly To Zanzibar
*This list is not exhaustive, up to date as of February 2020*
General Guidelines Whilst In Zanzibar
Ensure you do not offend the values of the local people or harm the environment. Zanzibaris are generally friendly and hospitable, and they will typically not express being offended. However, we ask that guests be aware and respectful of cultural norms, and please do not ignore them.
- Loud or aggressive behavior, drunkenness, foul language and disrespect, especially towards older people, will cause offence.
- Zanzibaris are predominantly Muslim, be aware of your actions to ensure that they do not offend, especially during the holy month of Ramadan.
- You should dress modestly, women should avoid wearing shorts and sleeveless tops away from tourist resorts.
- Homosexuality is illegal in Tanzania (including Zanzibar) and is not tolerated in Tanzania’s conservative society.
- Carry identification (a copy of your passport and visa/permit) at all times.
- Tanzania (including Zanzibar) has strict laws regarding drug use and those found in possession will be fined. There are severe penalties, including prison sentences, for drug trafficking.
- As of 1 June 2019, plastic bags are banned for environmental reasons. Airline passengers will be asked to surrender plastic bags on arrival.
- When diving or snorkelling, please avoid collecting shells from Zanzibar’s many coral reefs. This kills entire reefs, and the devastating effects of collecting shells can be seen in higher traffic areas of East African coast.
- Zanzibar is an amazingly picturesque place. If you want to take photographs of that include other people, please ask their permission first out of courtesy.
- Life on the island is slow everything is “polepole” Swahili for slow so plan accordingly things may not happen how you expect them to.
- Make sure you carry cash there are limited number of cash points, USD is widely accepted on the island.