Getting Around Zanzibar Island. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation - Dala-dalas

Dala-dalas are shared minibuses, often converted pickup trucks or small vans. They serve as the main mode of public transportation across Zanzibar. These vehicles follow fixed routes but operate informally, stopping anywhere to pick up or drop off passengers.

They are usually crowded, with people sometimes standing or sitting on benches on the outside. No official route maps exist; routes are identified by numbers or destination names displayed on the vehicle.

Details

Important Hubs: Main stations in Stone Town are Darajani (near the central market) and near the ferry port.
Fares: Very low, typically TZS 500-2,000 for short distances. Longer routes to beaches are TZS 2,000-5,000.
Hours: Generally operate from early morning (6 AM) until late evening (8-9 PM). Less frequent after dark.
Usage: Depart when full; waiting times vary. Keep small denominations for fares.

Crowded Experience

Be prepared for crowded conditions and frequent stops. This is part of the local experience.

Local Assistance

Ask locals or accommodation staff for the correct Dala-dala number or route.

Valuables Security

Keep valuables secure and out of sight to prevent pickpocketing in crowded conditions.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi Operations

Identification: Usually white or yellow license plates.
Hailing: On the street, at designated stands, or through hotels.
Negotiation: Always agree on the fare BEFORE starting. Meters are not used.

Fare & Safety

Typical Fares: Negotiable, usually TZS 5,000-15,000 for short rides in Stone Town.
Payment: Usually cash (TZS or USD).
Ride-Sharing: Uber/Bolt are not widely operational or reliable on Zanzibar.

Safety Considerations

Taxis

Generally safe, especially arranged by hotels. Confirm fare beforehand.

Dala-dalas

Generally safe, but pickpocketing can occur in crowded conditions. Secure valuables.

Airport Taxis

Readily available. Pre-arranging with your hotel is hassle-free.

Walking Alone

Avoid poorly lit or deserted areas at night, especially in Stone Town or secluded beaches.

Rental Options

Renting a car or scooter is an option, but it comes with specific requirements and considerations. Bicycle rentals are for local exploration.

Car Rental

Requirements: International Driving Permit (IDP) and national driving license.
Temporary Zanzibar driving permit (approx. USD 10), usually arranged by rental company.
Cost: Basic 4x4 or small car approximately USD 25-50 per day (excluding fuel).
Considerations: Roads can be challenging with potholes. Driving is on the left side. Local driving can be aggressive.

Motorcycle & Scooter Rental

Availability: In Stone Town and popular beach areas.
Requirements: IDP, temporary Zanzibar permit, and valid national motorcycle license.
Cost: Scooter approximately USD 15-30 per day.
Safety: Helmets are often mandatory but can be of poor quality. Road conditions are dangerous for inexperienced riders.

Walking & Cycling

Stone Town: Best explored on foot. Narrow, winding alleys are pedestrian-friendly.
Beach Areas: Excellent for walking along the coastline, especially at low tide.
Guided Tours: Highly recommended for Stone Town to understand history and navigate.

Bicycle Rentals: Available from some hotels and small shops in beach towns.
Safety: Limited dedicated infrastructure. Be cautious cycling on main roads due to traffic.
No-Go Areas: Avoid walking alone in poorly lit or deserted areas at night.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

No formal hop-on-hop-off services. Tour operators arrange transfers using mini-buses or private cars for excursions.

Boat Taxis

Dhows/local boats are common for inter-island transfers to nearby islets like Prison Island or Nakupenda Sandbank, or for snorkeling/diving trips.

Accessibility

Zanzibar generally lacks infrastructure for travelers with mobility challenges. Prior planning and specialized tour operators may be needed.

Local Driving Laws & Conditions

Driving Regulations

Driving is on the left side of the road.
Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
Local driving styles can be aggressive and unpredictable.
Unexpected pedestrians, cyclists, and animals may share the road.

Road Conditions & Parking

Road conditions vary. Main roads are paved but can have potholes and unmarked speed bumps.
Secondary roads are often unpaved, dusty, and rough, especially after rain.
Parking in Stone Town's narrow alleys is limited; paid areas exist on the outskirts.
In beach areas, parking is generally easier near hotels or in designated spots.

Local Transport refinements

Dala-dala Pace

Dala-dalas are economical but slow due to frequent stops and waiting for full capacity.

Authentic & Affordable

Taxi Negotiation

Bargaining for taxi fares is expected; agree on the price before starting the journey.

Fixed Price Clarity

Scooter Caution

Scooters offer flexibility but come with high safety risks due to road conditions and traffic.

High Risk, High Reward

Inter-Island Travel

Dhows & Local Boats

Common for transfers to nearby islets (e.g., Prison Island, Nakupenda Sandbank).
Used for snorkeling and diving trips to areas like Blue Lagoon or Mnemba Atoll.
Can be hired privately or joined on shared tours.

Traditional Ngalawas

These are traditional outrigger canoes.
Sometimes used by local fishermen for short transfers or tours.
Offers an unique, authentic local travel experience.

Important Considerations

Driving on the left side of the road.
Roads have varying conditions, including potholes and unpaved sections.
Local driving styles can be chaotic and aggressive.
Pedestrians and animals may be on the road unexpectedly.

Self-driving is not recommended for inexperienced drivers in developing countries.
Taxis or pre-arranged transfers are safer and less stressful alternatives.
Zanzibar lacks extensive infrastructure for travelers with mobility challenges.
Walking alone in dimly lit or deserted areas at night is not advisable.

Local Navigation Insights

Plan your movements to maximize your experience.

Optimizing Dala-dala Use

Understand that routes are fixed but stops are informal; hail anywhere along the route.
Engage with locals for directions; they are usually willing to assist.
Be patient for departures as Dala-dalas wait until they are full.
Have small denominations ready for cash payments to the conductor.

Maximizing Taxi Convenience

Always negotiate and confirm the fare with the driver before starting the journey.
Clarify your destination explicitly to avoid misunderstandings.
Ask your hotel to arrange taxis for reliability, especially for airport transfers.
Keep digital and physical copies of your accommodation address for easy reference.

Stone Town Wander

The historical alleys are best explored on foot, allowing for discovery of hidden gems.

Safe Practices for Self-Driving

Pre-Trip Checks

Obtain your International Driving Permit and the temporary Zanzibar permit.
Inspect your rental vehicle thoroughly before accepting it.
Understand your insurance coverage and any limitations.

On-Road Behavior

Drive defensively and be prepared for sudden stops.
Stay alert for pedestrians, cyclists, and animals on the road.
Avoid driving at night in less populated areas due to poor lighting.

Final Transport Advice

While self-driving offers freedom, the challenges of local road conditions and traffic suggest that relying on taxis or pre-arranged transfers might reduce stress for many visitors.

For short distances, walking and Dala-dalas provide authentic local experiences at minimal cost.

Getting Around Zanzibar Island