Yes, most international travelers require a visa to enter Zanzibar, which is part of Tanzania. You can apply for a visa on arrival at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) or any border entry point. However, for a smoother entry process, it is recommended to apply for an eVisa online in advance through the official Tanzanian Immigration website.
Zanzibar combines tropical beaches, warm turquoise waters, rich Swahili culture and centuries of history. Visitors experience relaxed island life, vibrant local markets, spice farms, coral reefs and traditional villages — all on one compact island.
Zanzibar can be visited all year round. The dry seasons between June to October and December to February are especially popular due to sunny weather and calm sea conditions. These months are ideal for beach holidays, snorkeling and excursions. The rain season is very peaceful and qiuet and allows to experience the original lifestyle.
Zanzibar offers a wide range of accommodation, from large beachfront resorts and boutique hotels to eco-lodges, guesthouses and private villas. Travelers can choose between lively tourist areas and quiet, relaxing, untouched regions depending on the experience they are looking for.
Yes. Zanzibar makes it easy to combine both. Many travelers stay in quiet coastal villages and visit popular beach towns for dining, watersports and nightlife during the day. This allows them to enjoy entertainment without sacrificing peaceful sleep at night.
From Zanzibar International Airport to the East Coast it usually takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic and final destination. Most travelers use private transfers or taxis for a comfortable arrival.
Yes. Many visitors combine their beach stay on Zanzibar with a safari on the Tanzanian mainland. Flights between Zanzibar and safari regions like Arusha or Dar es Salaam are short and easy to arrange.
Zanzibar is generally regarded as a safe destination for tourists. As with any international trip, travelers should follow common safety guidance and respect local customs and traditions. Hospitality and friendliness toward visitors are deeply rooted in local culture.
Zanzibar attracts a wide variety of travelers: couples, families, solo travelers, honeymooners, digital nomads, wellness guests and adventure seekers. Whether someone is searching for relaxation, nature, culture, water sports or quiet retreats — Zanzibar offers something for each travel style.
Yes. Many hotels and restaurants across Zanzibar are experienced in handling dietary preferences such as vegetarian, vegan or special meal requirements. Informing your accommodation in advance is always recommended.
Distances on Zanzibar are short. Even from very quiet villages like Makunduchi, lively places like Paje or Jambiani are typically reachable within 15 to 25 minutes by car or scooter, making day trips very convenient.
Yes. Many guests choose Zanzibar for extended stays thanks to the relaxed rhythm of life, natural surroundings and growing number of accommodations with reliable internet — especially in quieter coastal regions.
To visit Zanzibar, you must register for the mandatory Travel Insurance.
Yes — but public transportation is limited and different from what you may expect at home. The main form of “public transport” on Zanzibar is privately-run minibuses, locally called Daladala.
Many tourists successfully use taxis for short distances or airport transfers — just use a bit of caution, especially at night or from bus/ferry terminals. It’s recommended to use licensed taxis or taxis recommended by your hotel/guesthouse.
A valid driver’s license from your home country is required. The rental companies require a temporary local driving permit for Zanzibar (which they often can arrange for you).
The official currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). In many tourist-oriented hotels, restaurants and tour operators, foreign currencies (especially United States Dollar (USD)) are also widely accepted — and sometimes even Euro (EUR) or British Pound (GBP) in high-end/touristic places. There are ATMs in major towns and tourist areas — so you should be able to withdraw Tanzanian Shillings if you need cash.
Vaccination proof requirements depend on your travel history. In particular, if you are travelling via or from a country with risk of certain diseases (for example yellow fever), you may need a Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate. Tanzania itself does not require a vaccination.
There are several modern hospitals, which accept common insurances and have modern equipment. Med-Express Hospital in Paje has an international Team and a wide range oder modern equipment.