Getting Around: Zanzibar, Tanzania

Getting Around: Zanzibar, Tanzania

Zanzibar is the kind of place that rewrites your definition of paradise — a spice-scented archipelago floating off the Tanzanian coast where turquoise lagoons, crumbling coral-stone alleyways, and some of the warmest hospitality on the planet collide in the most spectacular way. Whether you're island-hopping, haggling in a centuries-old market, or simply watching dhows drift across a blood-orange sunset, this Indian Ocean gem rewards every type of traveller. Here's everything you need to know to plan your trip and move around with confidence.

Overview

Zanzibar, officially known as Unguja, is the main island of the Zanzibar Archipelago and sits roughly 35 kilometres off the coast of mainland Tanzania. It has a population of around one million people and a cultural identity shaped by Arab, Persian, African, and South Asian influences over centuries of trade. The island's capital, Stone Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of East Africa's most atmospheric urban centres, while the northern and eastern coasts are lined with postcard-perfect beaches.

People visit Zanzibar for a huge range of reasons: the diving and snorkelling around Mnemba Atoll is world-class, spice farm tours offer a genuinely immersive cultural experience, and the food scene — fresh seafood grilled on the night market at Forodhani Gardens — is reason enough to book a flight on its own. It's also increasingly popular as a post-safari add-on for travellers who've spent time on the Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater on the mainland.

Essential Information

• Currency: The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the official currency, but US dollars are widely accepted and often preferred for larger transactions. Always carry small-denomination bills.
• Language: Swahili is the primary language. English is spoken in most tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. Learning a few Swahili phrases — Jambo (hello), Asante (thank you) — goes a long way.
• Visa: Most nationalities require a visa, which can be obtained on arrival or via the Tanzania e-visa portal before travel. Expect to pay around $50–$100 USD depending on your nationality.
• Best Time to Visit: The dry seasons (June–October and December–February) offer the best weather. Avoid the long rains of April and May if possible.
• Safety: Zanzibar is generally safe for tourists, though petty theft can occur in Stone Town. Keep valuables secure and be cautious on quiet beaches after dark.
• Dress Code: Zanzibar is a predominantly Muslim island. Dress modestly when visiting Stone Town and local villages — cover shoulders and knees out of respect.

Practical Tips

Getting around the island is a big part of the Zanzibar experience. The most common options are dala-dalas (shared minibuses) which run fixed routes for as little as $0.30–$0.50 USD, making them ideal for budget travellers. Taxis are widely available and should be negotiated in advance — expect to pay around $10–$20 USD for longer journeys between Stone Town and the northern beach towns like Nungwi or Kendwa.

Renting a scooter or motorbike is one of the best ways to explore at your own pace, with daily rental rates typically falling between $15–$25 USD. If you'd rather have a driver, private car hire with a local guide can be arranged for around $40–$60 USD per day and is excellent value for covering more ground. For beach towns, ride-hailing apps like Bolt also work in Stone Town and its immediate surroundings.

For money, ATMs are available in Stone Town but can be unreliable — always withdraw extra cash before heading to the more remote areas of the island. Mobile data SIM cards from Vodacom or Airtel are cheap and easy to pick up at the airport or in town for around $5 USD.

Getting There

Zanzibar is served by Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ), located just a few kilometres south of Stone Town. Several airlines fly direct to Zanzibar from regional East African hubs, with Kenya Airways offering connections through Nairobi (NBO) and Ethiopian Airlines routing through Addis Ababa (ADD). From Europe, expect indirect flights of around 10–14 hours in total travel time, with Oman Air, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines all offering competitive connections.

There is also a high-speed ferry service between Dar es Salaam on the Tanzanian mainland and Stone Town, operated by companies like Azam Marine and Coastal Fast Ferries. The crossing takes approximately two hours and costs around $35–$40 USD each way — a great option if you're combining Zanzibar with time on the mainland.

Accommodation Options

Zanzibar caters to every budget, and choosing where to stay shapes your entire experience of the island.

• Budget ($20–$60/night): Stone Town has a great range of guesthouses and small hotels tucked into its labyrinthine streets. Kiponda Guest House and Karibu Inn are popular choices with travellers seeking character over luxury.
• Mid-Range ($60–$200/night): Boutique hotels along the east coast — particularly around Paje and Jambiani — offer stylish rooms, sea views, and a relaxed atmosphere. Many include breakfast and access to watersports.
• Luxury ($200+/night): The north coast around Nungwi and Kendwa is home to some spectacular high-end resorts. Zuri Zanzibar and Kilindi Zanzibar are standout options, offering private villas, infinity