Zanzibar Frequently Asked Questions
The Most Popular Zanzibar Travel FAQs
Zanzibar Frequently Asked Questions, Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions about traveling to Zanzibar on holiday. Get all the answers you need to plan your ultimate budget Zanzibar holiday. For any other questions or more in-depth info, talk to our travel expert Jesca who has been on an affordable Zanzibar holiday and knows all the ropes; simply mail us at info@tanzaniaprivatesafari.com and we will share the details as soon as possible
Is Zanzibar Safe for Travel?
Yes, it is safe to travel to the Zanzibar Islands. This is one of the safest African destinations, even for solo female travelers. The Zanzibar Archipelago is part of Tanzania, which is one of the most stable African countries. Tanzania is ranked as the most peaceful country in East Africa.
The local people are generally welcoming and laid-back. Thanks to the picture-perfect beaches, sunny weather, and rich culture, Zanzibar is a popular tourist destination. Thus, it features all the necessary tourism infrastructure for a comfortable and safe holiday. Many international travelers enjoy their time on the islands so much that they return time and again.
The only annoyance you are likely to encounter in Zanzibar is the Maasai hawkers pushing their wares, sometimes over-zealously. The best way to deal with these persistent salesmen is to firmly decline and not give them attention. If you feel harassed, report the problem to your lodge or tour company so that they can assist.
6 Travel Safety Tips for Zanzibar:
- Dress appropriately and respect Muslim cultural norms.
- Don’t take your valuables to the beach.
- Lock your valuables in the hotel safe when you go out.
- Don’t walk around alone after dark.
- Check with your lodge or trusted locals if there are any crime hotspots at the time of your travels. Certain beaches, like the stretch between Kendwa and Nungwi, are known as hotspots.
- Stay alert in Stone Town to prevent falling prey to pickpockets and bag snatchers.
What are the payment terms?
- We require a 25% deposit within two weeks of your confirmation on the trip…;
- Once we receive the deposit, accommodations will be determined. If changes are needed in terms of accommodations due to availability, I will contact you immediately.
- You will receive by email the invoice for the remaining amount (75%) a few days after deposit;
- The remaining 75% of the total price must be paid no later than 3 weeks before the tour start date.
Can I use ATMs in Tanzania and on Zanzibar?
Yes. Withdrawing Tanzanian Shillings is possible at airports and in larger towns. At our accommodations you can always pay with cash (shillings and US dollars) or credit card. Changing money at our reception is possible; however, the exchange rate is not always favorable. Hence, we advise you to withdraw shillings at the airport or in a larger town. You can always ask the driver to stop at an ATM.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, we recommend that you take out travel insurance with worldwide coverage. In addition, it is possible to purchase an “AMREF Flying Doctors Membership.” Enrollment costs $15 per person (valid for up to 30 days) and can be requested through your travel consultant. This is not a substitute for personal travel insurance, which is recommended for everyone. AMREF Flying Doctors membership should be seen as a valuable addition.
What documents should I bring with me during my trip to Tanzania and/or Zanzibar?
During your trip, you must bring the following documents:
- Passport. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after leaving Tanzania and must contain at least 1 blank visa page.
- Visa. You can request this online, and it will be sent by email. Print out this document and keep it handy.
- Vaccination booklet. The yellow booklet You can get this from the GGD or TravelDoctor, among others. More information about vaccinations
- Medical documents. This does not apply to everyone, only travelers with a medical background.
Can I also buy a local sim card with mobile internet?
Yes, this is possible. For this, however, you have to go to a phone store in the city, and your details will be registered. Your driver/guide can help you buy a local Sim card in the cities (depending on your itinerary).
Will I be picked up from the airport?
Yes, if you have included a transfer in your itinerary, the driver will be waiting for you outside the airport near the exit. The driver will have a sign with your name on it. Look carefully for our driver with the sign and don’t be persuaded by other eager cab drivers.
What is usual to give in terms of tipping?
Tipping is obviously not an obligation but is, of course, greatly appreciated, and it is seen as a token of appreciation. The accommodations in mainland Tanzania during the safari trip all have a tip jar at the reception, which is distributed to all staff. Drivers/guides always hope for a little extra, with $5 to $10 per person per day being somewhat common. For staff at the accommodations on Zanzibar, there is no tip jar, and this is usually given directly. The salary level is quite low, so a few euros is already very much appreciated.
What clothes should I wear on Zanzibar?
Zanzibar is a beautiful island with tropical temperatures. Ideal for whole days in swimwear or breezy tops and shorts. Grease your body well and enjoy the sun’s rays on your skin. Should you go to a local village, Stone Town, or another place where there are also local people, we advise women to cover their shoulders and knees. This can be done with a thin cloth or scarf and is greatly appreciated.
What’s the best time of year to visit?
We believe any time is a good time to visit Zanzibar!
Zanzibar has a tropical climate and is hot and humid all year round – perfect for a beach holiday! (Temperatures range on average from 25-32 degrees Celsius.)
We honestly recommend any month—BUT if you come in April and May, it is the monsoon, and there may be a lot of rain. Many hotels close to do their maintenance and give their staff a well-earned break, but you can get some excellent low-season deals because the island is quieter than usual.
The short rains are in Nov and Dec, although it usually doesn’t rain for long, and it can actually be quite refreshing.
March is the hottest and most humid month; AC and a pool are definitely recommended.
Zanzibar has two windy seasons and they will be different on different sides of the island. The Kusi winds in April and the Kaskazi winds in Nov. and Dec. usher in the rains. The winds are stronger from June to August, which can also be a welcome respite from the heat.
June through Oct and Jan and Feb are seen as the dry seasons.
The busiest and most expensive months are July, August and the festive season (when rates can almost double.)
The mid-season is a lovely time to travel, when Zanzibar is a little quieter and there are some great deals—June, Sept, Oct, Nov, and Dec (until around the 22nd).
Do I need to buy the Zanzibar travel insurance if I have my own?
Yes, it is mandatory to buy travel insurance from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation, which is valid for stays of up to 92 days.
It covers:
- Emergency medical expenses
- 24/7 assistance services
- Personal accidents
- Baggage delay and theft
- Legal expenses
- Personal liabilities
- Repatriation expenses
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