Zanzibar Travel Tips — 20 Things to Know Before You Go

Planning your first trip to Zanzibar? Here are 20 essential things to know from our local team in Paje — the practical knowledge that makes the difference between a good trip and a truly extraordinary one.

Visas and Entry

1. Most nationalities need a Tanzania visa Citizens of most European countries, USA, Canada and Australia can obtain a tourist visa on arrival at Zanzibar airport or in advance through the Tanzania e-visa portal (eservices.immigration.go.tz). The fee is typically $50-100 USD. Check the current requirements for your nationality before travelling.

2. Yellow fever certificate may be required If you are travelling from a country with yellow fever risk you will need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. Check the current list of affected countries before your trip.

3. Your passport needs at least 6 months validity Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates.

Money and Currency

4. USD is king The US Dollar is widely accepted alongside the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). Most tour operators, hotels and higher-end restaurants price in USD. Bring crisp clean USD notes — older worn or marked notes are sometimes refused.

5. ATMs exist but are unreliable ATMs are available in Stone Town and Nungwi but can run out of cash or be out of service. Do not rely on ATMs as your only cash source. Bring sufficient USD cash for your entire trip.

6. Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and restaurants but not everywhere Many smaller guesthouses, local restaurants and market vendors are cash only. Always carry some cash.

Getting Around

7. Dala dala — the local minibus The cheapest way to get around Zanzibar is the dala dala — a minibus that runs fixed routes across the island for very little money. It is an authentic and fun experience but crowded and slow. Perfect for budget travellers with time.

8. Taxis and tuk-tuks — always agree the price first There are no meters in Zanzibar taxis. Always agree the price before getting in. Ask your hotel what a fair price should be for your journey before negotiating.

9. Renting a scooter or bicycle A popular option on the east coast. Scooters and bicycles can be rented by the day in Paje and Jambiani. An excellent way to explore the coast at your own pace.

Health

10. Take malaria prevention seriously Zanzibar has malaria. Consult your doctor at least 4-6 weeks before travel to get antimalarial medication. Use DEET insect repellent — especially at dawn and dusk.

11. Drink bottled water only Tap water in Zanzibar is not safe to drink. Always use bottled water including for brushing teeth. Bottled water is cheap and available everywhere.

12. Get travel insurance Comprehensive travel insurance including medical evacuation cover is essential. Medical facilities on Zanzibar are limited and serious conditions require evacuation to Dar es Salaam or further.

Culture and Customs

13. Dress modestly away from the beach Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim. Cover shoulders and knees when visiting Stone Town, villages, markets and mosques. This is not just polite — it significantly improves how you are received and your overall experience.

14. Ask before photographing people Always ask permission before photographing local people. Most are happy to say yes — but asking shows respect and often leads to much better portraits.

15. Bargaining is normal in markets In local markets and with street vendors bargaining is expected and part of the culture. Start at 50% of the asking price and negotiate politely. In shops with fixed prices displayed, prices are not usually negotiable.

16. Tipping is appreciated Tipping is not mandatory but is warmly appreciated. For tour guides $5-10 per person per day is standard. For restaurants 10% is appropriate. Always tip in cash directly to the person — not through a card machine.

Practical Tips

17. Get a local SIM card Zantel, Vodacom and Airtel all sell SIM cards at the airport and in Stone Town for very little money. A local SIM with data is far cheaper than international roaming and gives you reliable connectivity.

18. The plug type is British type G Tanzania uses British-style three-pin plugs. Bring a universal travel adapter.

19. Plastic bags are banned Tanzania has a nationwide ban on plastic bags. Do not bring plastic bags into the country — they can be confiscated at the airport. Bring a reusable tote bag instead.

20. Embrace pole pole Zanzibar operates on its own sense of time. Things move slowly, deliberately and peacefully here. Fighting this will only frustrate you. Embracing it will give you one of the most relaxing and restorative experiences of your life.

Pole pole — slowly slowly — is not inefficiency. It is wisdom. The island has been here for millennia. It will wait for you.

Any questions about visiting Zanzibar? Our team at HuShop in Paje are here to help. Contact us on WhatsApp at +255 688 686 983 — tunafurahi kukusaidia. We are happy to help.