Arriving in Zanzibar: Entry Rules and Practical Tips

Zanzibar is the perfect way to finish a Tanzania safari or Kilimanjaro climb. Many guests fly in directly from the mainland, while others arrive on international flights or by ferry from Dar es Salaam.

Zanzibar is part of the United Republic of Tanzania but has its own semi-autonomous government, and a few entry rules apply specifically to the islands. Here is what to know before you go.

Visas and passports

Your Tanzanian visa covers Zanzibar, so there is no separate Zanzibar visa. If you are flying straight to Zanzibar from abroad, apply for your Tanzania e-visa through the official portal at visa.immigration.go.tz as normal.

Even if you arrive from mainland Tanzania, keep your passport with you. Zanzibar officials check passports on arrival at the airport and the ferry terminal, so do not pack it away in your checked luggage.

Mandatory inbound travel insurance

Since October 2024, Zanzibar has required visitors to hold its own mandatory inbound travel insurance. This applies in addition to any personal travel insurance you already have. Arrange it before you travel, keep the confirmation on your phone and carry a printed copy.

Coverage details and fees are set by the Zanzibar authorities and may be updated, so check the current rules through official Zanzibar government channels or ask us when planning your trip.

Arriving by air or ferry

International and domestic flights land at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, a short drive from Stone Town. Transfers to beach areas on the north and east coasts take longer, often an hour or more.

Ferries from Dar es Salaam arrive at the port in Stone Town. The terminal can be busy, with porters offering to carry bags. Agree any fee first, or politely decline and keep your belongings close.

Whichever way you arrive, expect to show your passport and possibly your insurance confirmation. If your travel history includes a yellow fever risk country, such as Kenya, keep your yellow fever certificate with your passport too. Arriving with all three documents in one pouch makes the process quick and stress-free, and leaves more time for the beach.

Respecting local customs

Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim, and visitors are expected to dress modestly in towns and villages.

• Cover shoulders and knees in Stone Town and village areas.
• Keep swimwear for the beach and your hotel.
• Ask before photographing people.
• During Ramadan, avoid eating or drinking openly in public during daylight.
• Public displays of affection are best kept discreet.

Practical arrival tips

Bring clean, recent US dollar notes as well as some Tanzanian shillings, because cards are not accepted everywhere outside the larger hotels. Remember that plastic carrier bags are banned in Tanzania, including Zanzibar.

If you are arriving after a safari, keep your bag light, as domestic flight luggage limits are often lower than international ones. Confirm your hotel transfer in advance, especially for evening arrivals.

Zanzibar's sun is strong year-round, so keep sunscreen, a hat and water in your hand luggage for the transfer. If you are arriving during the long rains, roughly March to May, check that your chosen hotel is open, as some properties close or reduce services in the quieter season.