Zanzibar Holidays: The Spice Island of Dreams

Zanzibar is located on the east coast of Tanzania, East Africa.  Its main port lies approximately 83 kilometres (51.5 mi) north of the port city of Dar es Salaam by ferry.

By Air

• International Flights: Zanzibar’s main airport, Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ), receives direct flights from several international destinations.
• Domestic Flights: You can fly to Zanzibar from major cities such as Dar es Salaam, Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kilimanjaro.

By Sea

• Ferry from Dar es Salaam: The most common sea route is via a ferry from Dar es Salaam. The trip takes about 2-3 hours.

The dry season, from June to October, coincides with the Tanzanian safari high season, making this a popular time to visit the archipelago.  It is not too hot.  December to February offers warmer beach-friendly weather.  Avoid the wet season, from March to May as heavy rains are common.

Local Zanzibaris mainly speak Swahili, the official language of Tanzania.  Some residents also speak English, Italian, French and Arabic.  English is common at tourist establishments.

Yes, in general Zanzibar is safe for tourists, although petty crime does occur.  Stay vigilant and secure your belongings, particularly on the beach.  Avoid walking around alone, especially after dark.  Be cautious if using an ATM.  Respect local customs and dress modestly, especially in Stone Town and rural areas.

With its tropical climate, you’ll want to pack lightweight, breathable clothing.  While swimwear is suitable at the beach, pack modest clothing for exploring.  Sun protection should include sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.  Wear sandals or water shoes at the beach and comfortable walking shoes on excursions.  Pack insect repellent, a basic first-aid kit and prescription medications.  Carry your daily essentials in a small backpack or beach bag, including a smartphone, camera, water bottle, etc.  Don’t forget your travel documents.

Zanzibar’s highlights are its pristine white-sand beaches and clear azure waters.  Equally enchanting is its cultural heritage, as seen in Stone Town.  The island is renowned for its spices, and the Swahili cuisine is a culinary adventure all on its own.  There is a relaxed atmosphere, with friendly locals eager to share their cultural and natural heritage.

To get a good appreciation for Zanzibar’s beaches, marine life, culture and cuisine, you will want to spend at least three days on the archipelago.

The beaches of Zanzibar, especially those at hotels and resorts are a giant playground for kids.  Join guided boat tours and snorkelling at various marine reserves.  Many of the resorts and hotels offer children’s programs.  Visit the Zanzibar Butterfly Centre, Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park or one of the nature sanctuaries.

Yes,  FlashMc Tours can assist in arranging tours that cater to your specific interests, whether you’d like to learn more about the island’s nature, culture, cuisine or history.

Yes, although quality and speed can vary, WiFi and mobile signals are available in most tourist areas like Stone Town.  In remote areas, connectivity may be limited.  We recommend purchasing a local SIM card with a data plan if you need regular internet access.

Visitors to Zanzibar typically spend between $50-$75 per day.  While US dollars are accepted in some tourist locations, it is best to carry the local currency – the Tanzania Shilling (TZS).  Most ATMs only dispense TZS.  Credit card facilities are available, more so in areas frequented by tourists, with Visa and Mastercard being the most widely accepted.

Porters, around $1/bag.  Restaurants and bars – 10% or more of the total bill.  If you would like to tip the general hotel staff, we suggest between $10-$20 per room per day.  While tipping is common practice in Tanzania and Zanzibar, it is not mandatory.

Accommodation in Zanzibar truly caters to all.  From campsites to backpacker hostels, from guesthouses to Airbnb’s, and from rustic beach lodges to high-end resorts, you will find something that caters to your tastes and budget.

• Stone Town – UNESCO World Heritage Site with amazing architecture
• Mnemba Island – World-class diving and snorkelling
• Pemba Island – one of the world’s best dive sites.
• Cheetah’s Rock – Ethical interactive wildlife experience.
• Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park – Home to Zanzibar red colobus monkey (an endangered species found only on Zanzibar) and other wildlife

Yes.  Spend the morning on a walking tour of historic Stone Town followed by a delicious lunch of local seafood.  In the afternoon, visit Cheetah’s Rock for an ethical interactive experience with various species of wildlife.

• Stone Town
• Mtoni Palace Ruins
• Fukuchani Ruins
• Marahubi Palace
• Mangapwani Slave Chamber

Yes.  The landscapes, architecture, wildlife (both on land and in the ocean) and colourful locals all offer much to catch the photographer’s eye.  Please be sure to ask permission before photographing people or their property.

There are numerous guided tours which introduce visitors to the culturally diverse population of past and present Zanzibar.  FlashMc Tours will gladly assist you in choosing those which most interest you.

Speak to us at FlashMc Tours to find out more about visits to various local community encounters in Zanzibar

Zanzibar exemplifies the crossover between African, Arab, Indian and European cultures.  It is tragically connected with the slave trade, a dark period in African history.

As a mark of respect for local culture, please consider the following:

• While swimwear is fine on the beach, as a sign of respect for local customs and beliefs, please wear modest clothing when visiting Stone Town, cultural and religious sites, and rural areas.
• Ask permission before taking photographs of any person.
• Avoid public displays of affection
• Do not eat, drink or smoke on the streets during Ramadan
• Observe and respect local traditions during Ramadan
• Tanzanians emphasize prolonged greetings and handshakes.  It is considered rude to simply get down to business.
• Avoid yes/no questions.
• Do not point your finger at another person.
• Use your right hand to eat, touch or pass items.
• “Jambo” meaning ‘hello’ and other key Swahili phrases go a long way to crossing cultural barriers.
• Remove your shoes before entering a home or religious site.
• Haggling at markets is accepted as normal.