Zanzibar Travel Advice

Important Health Advice

Yellow Fever: You do not need a yellow fever vaccine unless you are coming from a country where yellow fever is a risk or have been in transit for more than 12 hours in such a country.
Malaria: Zanzibar is a malaria risk area. It is strongly recommended to take malaria prevention measures like medication and mosquito nets.
Avoid April: April usually has the most rain and wettest weather, so it is not an ideal month to visit.

Cultural Tips

Zanzibar is mostly Muslim and conservative. Dress modestly and behave respectfully, especially women.
Always ask permission before taking photos of local people.
During Ramadan, many restaurants and services close, so it's best to check dates before planning your trip.

Travel Around Zanzibar

Zanzibar’s main airport is Zanzibar International Airport in Stone Town, with flights from cities like Nairobi and Dar es Salaam.
You can take flights from Zanzibar to nearby islands like Pemba and Mafia.
To get to smaller islands like Mnemba or Chumbe, boat transfers are available.
Renting motorbikes or scooters is a fun way to explore, but Stone Town streets are best explored on foot.

Entry & Visa Notes (additional info)

Many travelers require a visa to enter Zanzibar, which can often be obtained online before arrival or on arrival itself.
Travel insurance is mandatory for entry and can be purchased online before your trip.
Keep your passport valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.
Covid-19 restrictions have mostly been lifted, but it's good to have vaccination proof just in case.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to the most common questions about this tour.

Do you need malaria tablets for Zanzibar?

Yes, Zanzibar is considered a malaria risk area, so it’s strongly recommended to take preventive measures. Travelers should consult their doctor about suitable malaria tablets before the trip. In addition to medication, using mosquito repellent and sleeping under mosquito nets can further reduce your risk.

Do you need a yellow fever vaccine to visit Zanzibar?

You only need a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you’re traveling from or have transited through a country where yellow fever is a risk. Travelers arriving directly from non-risk countries do not require it. However, carrying proof of vaccination can be helpful if you’ve had a long layover in a risk area.

When is the best time to visit Zanzibar?

The best time to visit Zanzibar is during the dry seasons, typically from June to October and from December to March. April is usually the wettest month with heavy rains, making it less ideal for beach activities or island exploration. Planning your trip outside the rainy period ensures better weather and more enjoyable travel experiences.

What cultural customs should travelers respect in Zanzibar?

Zanzibar has a predominantly Muslim and conservative culture, so modest dress and respectful behavior are important. Women, in particular, should avoid wearing revealing clothing, especially outside of resorts. It’s also polite to ask permission before photographing locals and to be mindful of customs during Ramadan when many services close during the day.

How can I get around Zanzibar and nearby islands?

Zanzibar is well connected by air, with Zanzibar International Airport in Stone Town serving flights from major cities like Nairobi and Dar es Salaam. You can also fly to nearby islands such as Pemba and Mafia, while smaller islands like Mnemba or Chumbe are accessible by boat. Within the island, travelers often rent motorbikes or scooters, though Stone Town’s narrow streets are best explored on foot.