Do I need a visa to visit Zanzibar?

Most travellers (including from the EU, UK, and US) can get a visa on arrival or apply online for an e-visa. Always check current requirements before travel.

Is there malaria in Zanzibar?

Yes, Zanzibar is a malaria zone. Consult a doctor about anti-malarials. Use mosquito repellent and sleep under a net.

Is Zanzibar a good honeymoon destination?

Yes, Zanzibar is a fantastic honeymoon destination in Africa. It's romantic, exotic, and full of boutique and luxury stays. Many lodges offer honeymoon packages and private beach experiences.

Is health insurance mandatory for visitors to Zanzibar?

Yes. Since October 1, 2024 , all non-resident visitors must have Inbound Travel Insurance purchased through the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC)

What currency is used in Zanzibar and can I use credit cards?

The Tanzanian Shilling is the local currency. USD is widely accepted. Luxury hotels and restaurants accept credit cards, but smaller vendors may not.

How do I get to Zanzibar?

You can fly directly to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) or take a high-speed ferry from Dar es Salaam. Flights are faster and more convenient, especially from safari hubs or international cities.

Country

Zanzibar

An island of spice markets, UNESCO history, and some of the best beaches in the Indian Ocean.

Zanzibar is the jewel of the Swahili Coast, a tropical escape that blends history, culture, and some of the best beaches in East Africa. Part of the Zanzibar archipelago, alongside Pemba Island and Mafia Island, it’s an easy flight from the mainland or a short hop from Dar es Salaam airport, making it the ideal extension to a Tanzania safari and beach holiday. The island’s coastline is lined with long stretches of Indian Ocean beaches. On the east, Zanzibar beaches like Paje, Jambiani, and Bwejuu are known for lagoons and water sports, while the north (Nungwi and Kendwa) offers wide sandy bays and vibrant nightlife. Many visitors opt for Zanzibar honeymoon packages in Tanzania, featuring stays at luxury resorts or intimate boutique hotels that take full advantage of the island’s stunning white sand and turquoise waters. Inland, Zanzibar reveals another side of its character. Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a maze of alleys, spice markets, and historic architecture reflecting centuries of Spice Island trade. Guided Stone Town walking tours and visits to spice farms connect travellers with the island’s Swahili, Arab, and colonial heritage. Whether you’re here for culture, relaxation, or diving into turquoise waters, Zanzibar is the perfect bookend to a Tanzania itinerary.

Zanzibar is the jewel of the Swahili Coast, a tropical escape that blends history, culture, ...

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Best time to go to Zanzibar

The best time to visit Zanzibar is during the dry seasons (June–October and December–February), when the skies are clear, the sea is calm, and the island's best beaches are at their most inviting. These months are also perfect for Stone Town walking tours, spice farm visits, and combining a safari with beach time. The green seasons (March–May and November) bring heavier rains and humidity, but also lush scenery, lower rates, and fewer visitors. For travellers planning Zanzibar honeymoon packages in Tanzania, the dry months guarantee the best beach weather, while the wet months appeal to those seeking a quieter, more affordable island escape.

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Because of the easy way we communicated with our Viatu expert, it felt like planning our holidays with a friend. It made it really flexible and perfectly suitable for our needs. The accommodations that he suggested were just wonderful and a perfect mix of everything we needed.

Nicole