What is the mandatory travel insurance for Zanzibar visitors?

Since 2024 , it is mandatory for all non-resident visitors to Zanzibar to purchase Zanzibar Inbound Travel Insurance which must be purchased here . Travelers are not permitted to enter Zanzibar without it and should purchase it in advance of their trip to avoid queues upon arrival. The cost is $44 per adult and $22 for children aged 3-17 years. Travellers will be asked to show proof of purchase upon arrival. It is strongly recommended to also purchase your own private travel insurance (with medical cover) that will cover you in emergencies.

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.

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.

Aerial view of pristine sandbar island with lush vegetation surrounded by turquoise waters in Mafia Island Marine Park, Tanzania

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Aerial view of pristine sandbar island with lush vegetation surrounded by turquoise waters in Mafia Island Marine Park, Tanzania

Town

Utende

An unspoilt marine haven for divers, snorkellers, and travellers seeking luxury eco-lodges.

Tucked along the tranquil southern coast of Mafia Island, Utende is the gateway to the world-renowned Mafia Island Marine Park — Tanzania’s first protected marine reserve. It’s a paradise for ocean lovers, where crystalline waters meet untouched coral reefs teeming with marine life. Chole Bay diving is the main draw, offering extraordinary visibility and encounters with turtles, rays, reef sharks, and countless tropical fish. From November to March, whale shark tours reveal gentle giants feeding just offshore — a once-in-a-lifetime experience for any wildlife enthusiast. Utende’s collection of sustainable lodges and luxury eco-retreats provide the perfect base for exploring the archipelago while treading lightly on the environment. Solar power, community partnerships, and reef-friendly practices define the area’s approach to conservation. Beyond the sea, travellers can kayak through mangrove channels, visit Chole Island’s historic ruins, or enjoy a dhow cruise at sunset.

Tucked along the tranquil southern coast of Mafia Island, Utende is the gateway to the ...

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Best time to go to Utende

The best time to visit Mafia Island is from October to March, when calm seas and clear skies create ideal conditions for diving, snorkelling, and whale shark encounters. November to February offers the best underwater visibility, making Chole Bay diving and coral reef snorkelling particularly rewarding. From April to June, the green season brings fewer visitors, lush landscapes, and peaceful beaches, though some lodges may close due to rains. July to September remains a lovely time for relaxed, off-grid escapes, with cooler temperatures and quiet charm.