Many travelers dream of going to Zanzibar, the exotic spice island off the coast of Tanzania. It has white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and a rich cultural history. If you want to have a relaxing beach vacation, a romantic honeymoon, or a cultural getaway, you need to know how to get to Zanzibar so that your trip goes smoothly and is fun.
This ultimate guide will show you the best ways to get to Zanzibar by air and sea. It will also give you important travel tips, popular routes, visa advice, and information about getting around the island. This guide will help you start your trip off right, whether you’re flying to another country or coming from the mainland of Tanzania.
1. What is Zanzibar and Why Should You Go There?
Zanzibar is a group of islands in the Indian Ocean, about 25 to 50 kilometers off the coast of Tanzania’s east coast. Unguja (often called Zanzibar Island) and Pemba are the two main islands.
Zanzibar is a great place to relax, have fun, and learn about history. It has a Swahili culture, Stone Town, spice farms, and beautiful beaches.
Before you learn how to get to Zanzibar, it’s helpful to know where it is and how close it is to big East African cities like Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Nairobi.
2. Requirements for Entry: Visas and Travel Papers
Make sure you have the right paperwork before you plan your route.
- Visa: Most people who want to go to Tanzania (including Zanzibar) need a visa. You can usually get a single-entry tourist visa online (eVisa) or when you get to the airport or ferry terminal.
- Passport: Must be good for at least six months after you get there.
- Yellow Fever Certificate: Required if you’re coming from a country where yellow fever can spread.
Tip: To find out the most up-to-date entry requirements, contact your local Tanzanian embassy or visit the official immigration website.
3. How to Fly to Zanzibar
Flying is the fastest and easiest way to get to Zanzibar, especially for people coming from other countries or who are short on time.
A. International Flights to Zanzibar
Zanzibar International Airport (Abeid Amani Karume International Airport – IATA: ZNZ) has grown a lot in the last few years and now has direct flights from many major cities around the world.
You can fly directly to Zanzibar from the following places:
- Europe: Istanbul (Turkish Airlines), Rome (Neos Air), Amsterdam (TUI), and Doha (Qatar Airways)
- Middle East: Muscat, Doha, and Dubai
- Africa: Nairobi (Kenya Airways), Addis Ababa (Ethiopian Airlines), and Johannesburg
- Asia: Charter flights sometimes leave India and China, especially during busy tourist seasons
If there aren’t any direct flights from your city of departure, you can connect through major African or Middle Eastern hubs like Nairobi, Addis Ababa, or Doha.
Airlines to Consider:
- Airlines in Qatar
- Airlines in Ethiopia
- Airlines from Turkey
- Kenya Airlines
- Fly Dubai
B. Flights Within Tanzania from the Mainland
If you’re already in Tanzania, it’s quick and cheap to fly from Dar es Salaam, Arusha, or Kilimanjaro to Zanzibar.
- Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar: ~20 minutes
- Arusha to Zanzibar: ~1.5 hours
- Kilimanjaro to Zanzibar: ~2 hours
Common Airlines:
- Air Precision
- Tanzania Air
- Coastal Air
- Auric Air
- ZanAir
- Flightlink
Most of these airlines fly several times a day, especially between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar.
Tip for Travelers: To get the best prices, book early during busy times (June to September and December to January).
4. Taking the Ferry to Zanzibar
Ferries from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar are a popular choice for travelers who want to save money or see beautiful scenery.
A. The Ferry from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar
The ferry is a reliable and popular way to get from the mainland of Tanzania to Zanzibar.
- Port of Departure: Azam Marine Terminal in Dar es Salaam
- Port of Arrival: Zanzibar Port (Stone Town)
Ferry Operators:
- Azam Marine and Kilimanjaro Fast Ferries are the most well-known and widely used
- Zanzibar Fast Ferries is another option, but it has fewer routes
Schedule:
Ferries leave several times a day, usually at:
- 7:00 AM
- 9:30 AM
- 12:30 PM
- 4:00 PM
Duration: About 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours
Types of Tickets:
- Economy Class
- Business Class
- VIP Class
Important: Don’t book with unofficial vendors near the port. You can buy tickets online through the operator’s website or in person at official counters.
Price: It depends on the class and the operator, but it can be anywhere from $35 to $60.
Key Tips:
- Get there at least an hour before you leave.
- Bring your passport with you because you’ll have to go through a security and ID check.
- The seas can be rough; medicine for motion sickness might help.
5. The Best Way to Get There: A Comparison of Flights and Ferries
| Feature | Flying to Zanzibar | Ferry from Dar es Salaam |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | 20 to 90 minutes + check-in | About 2 hours |
| Comfort | Fast and comfortable | Can be hard in bad weather |
| Price | $50 to $120 or more | $35–$60 |
| Scenic Value | Aerial views of the coast | Views of ocean and islands |
| Convenience | To airport near resorts | Arrives in center of Stone Town |
In conclusion: Flights are better for short trips or long distances. Ferries are a cheaper way to get around that feels more like home.
6. How to Get Around Zanzibar After You Get There
After you know how to get to Zanzibar, the next step is to figure out how to get around once you’re there.
A. From Zanzibar Airport (ZNZ)
- Private Transfers: Many resorts offer free or paid shuttle services.
- Taxis: You can get them outside the terminal, but you should always agree on the price first.
- Rent a Car: With or without a driver. You will need a permit to drive in other countries.
- Ride-Sharing Apps: Not always available (for example, Bolt only works sometimes).
B. From the Ferry Terminal (Stone Town)
- Taxis: Easy to find near the terminal.
- Dala-dalas: Local minibuses that are cheap but not very tourist-friendly.
- Private Transportation: Reserve ahead of time through your hotel or a nearby travel agency.
Tip: If you want to explore the countryside, a 4WD vehicle might be helpful because roads can be rough.
7. What Is the Best Time of Year to Go to Zanzibar?
It’s just as important to know when to go to Zanzibar as it is to know how to get there.
Best Time to Visit:
- June to October: Cool and dry, great for beaches and exploring
- December to February: Hot and dry, a popular time to travel for the holidays
Rainy Seasons:
- Long rains: March to May
- Short rains: November
In the rainy months, ferry rides may not be as pleasant because of rough seas, and some flights may be late.
8. Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling to Zanzibar
Q1: Do I have to go through Dar es Salaam to get to Zanzibar?
A: No. Dar es Salaam is a common place to start, but you can also fly directly from Nairobi, Addis Ababa, or even other countries to Zanzibar.
Q2: Is it safe to ride the ferry?
A: Yes, especially with companies you can trust, like Azam Marine. Stay with licensed operators who are on time.
Q3: How far in advance should I buy my ticket?
A: For flights, book 1–2 months in advance. Usually, 1 to 3 days ahead is enough for ferries, but not during peak season.
Q4: Is there a road or bridge to Zanzibar?
A: No. There is only one way to get to Zanzibar: by air or sea.
Q5: Is it okay to bring my car to Zanzibar?
A: Yes, but it’s hard and costs a lot of money. It’s easier to rent in your area.
9. Tips for a Smooth Trip to Zanzibar
- Pack Smart but Light: Especially if you fly with domestic airlines that have weight limits.
- Currency: You can pay for tickets and taxis with Tanzanian shillings or US dollars.
- Stay Up to Date: Read ferry schedules and travel warnings often.
- Keep Copies: Make sure you have both digital and paper copies of your passport and travel insurance.
- Be Ready for Delays: Because of the weather and the state of the roads. Make sure to leave some time in your schedule.
10. Traveling to Zanzibar in a Way That Is Good for the Environment and People
Think about how your travel choices affect Zanzibar when you look into how to get there.
- If you can, fly directly. This cuts down on your carbon footprint.
- Pick Reliable Transportation Companies: Don’t use operators who are overbooked or not official.
- Support Local Businesses: Your tourism dollars can help communities, from taxi drivers to ferry companies.
In Conclusion: The Best Way to Get to Zanzibar
Knowing how to get to Zanzibar makes sure your trip goes off without a hitch. You have a lot of reliable options for getting there, whether you choose a quick flight or a scenic ferry ride. Each method has its own pros and cons, and some are better for certain types of travelers and budgets.
Pick the route that fits your travel plans, goals, and comfort level. The island’s charm, hospitality, and natural beauty will make every minute of the trip worth it once you get there.
Last piece of advice: Save or bookmark this guide. The routes and suggestions here are always good, so they will help you plan your trip to Zanzibar for years to come!
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