Guide To zanzibar

An archipelago located in the Indian Ocean, Zanzibar is a destination unseen and unheard of from most. However, because of the remoteness the island carries, which is admirable in cases, it can also became difficult finding answers on what to do before you visit.

Since this was my first time visiting Africa, I had a lot of questions: Do I need shots and what type; do I need a visa and where should I get purchase one from—online or when I arrive; is it safe as a woman; should I exchange money or is a credit card acceptable. The list was endless, yet the answers were scarce.

So, here's what I found to be true when it came down to pre- and post- travel.

08 Things to know before you go

01 Visa

A visa is required when traveling to Zanzibar, which you can purchase online before your trip (do 30+ days in advance), or, at the Zanzibar. airport. The cost will be USD 100.

02 Language

The official language is Swahili, Arabic, and English--English is commonly used throughout the island since the natives are trying to promote their tourism.

03 Transportation

This part is imperative to know--there are no Ubers or LYFTS in Zanzibar, only dala dalas and taxis. A dala dala is how the locals get around but aren't always the best when you're a traveler because of time, yet it is notably cheaper. As for taxis, they are everywhere and will be with you throughout the whole day, so there's no need to worry in that case--for example if you're leaving from Paje beach to Stone Town for the day, they will wait for you in the exact spot you left them and take you back when you're ready for 50 USD.

04 currency

Currency is Tanzanian shillings. Before your visit, be sure to exchange money at the airport because finding a bank/exchange office will be difficult, and cash will be your friend here on the island. However, credit cards can be used at restaurants in Stone Town, but be cautious when traveling around the island since many things are purchased in shillings, like transportation and souvenirs, plus the ATM’s are known to run out of money.

05 weather

Tropical year-round. The warmest period is from October - March, expected highs are 88/91°F (31/33 °C) with high humidity and a slight breeze. March - May is known as the “long rain” season, with a peak in April of 15.2 inches of rain, but in total, April and May experience the most with strong downpours and floods. And, May to August, is a little cooler with highs around 84°F (29°C).

06 Accommodation

There are Hotels (mainly in Stone Town), Airbnb’s, and Hostels. In Stone Town, you have a mix of all three options, whether you’re with your family, a group, or alone. In Paje, you have Hostels and a few Airbnb’s, but hostels are a great option when wanting to meet friends or if you’re alone because it’s a bit more remote and has a lot of like-minded people who want to meet other travelers.

07 Culture

Zanzibar follows an Islamic culture, which may or may not come off as a surprise. The cuisine offers options for many with their fresh catch seafood, meats, and vegetarian options. And, unusual as it was to me, almost 90 percent of meals served come with fries/chips. As for apparel, on the Paje side is casual due to its beach town vibe, so bikinis and cover up are acceptable, but in Stone town, be prepared to dress in appropriate street attire, like shorts, shirts, dresses, etc.

08 Airlines/Airports

Spend money on your airlines (choose Emirates) and look at the layovers times! There is nothing worse than spending 10+ hours on a flight with zero legroom, terrible service, and no outlets or TV's; been there done that. Now for airports, the airport in Zanzibar and Dar Es Salaams don't have WiFi, so don't believe the signs. A few things to know in Dar Es Salaam, you have to wait outside till you're allowed to check-in, so keep that in mind when looking for tickets because it's not the safest area also.