Zanzibar Island Tanzania Travel Guide
Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ), located about 5 kilometers (3 miles) south of Stone Town, is Zanzibar's main airport.
Flight frequency and prices vary by season. ZNZ Airport offers basic but functional services.
Most common transfer option. Agree on fare before starting. Stone Town: USD 8-12. Nungwi: USD 24-40. Paje: USD 20-32.
Many hotels offer pick-up services. Often at a fixed rate, for convenience and peace of mind.
Cheapest option, but not direct from airport. Not recommended with luggage. Requires walking to main road.
Zanzibar Island has no land borders. All arrivals are by air or sea.
The island's infrastructure does not include a railway network.
Conventional long-distance buses do not operate. Dala-dalas (shared minibuses) serve as the main public transport.
Ferries are a popular and economical way to travel between mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar.
Several departures daily. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.
Zanzibar Port in Stone Town also serves as a port of call for international cruise lines.
For international flights, arrive 2-3 hours before departure. For domestic/ferries, arrive 1 hour before.
No separate departure tax for international flights; usually included in ticket price. Small taxes might apply for domestic or ferries.
Zanzibar Island has no land borders, nor does it feature extensive land-based public transportation systems in the conventional sense. Travel between the island and mainland Tanzania is exclusively by air or sea.
Exploring Zanzibar on foot or by bicycle offers unique perspectives, especially in certain areas.
Approximately 15-20 minutes by taxi.
Approximately 1-1.5 hours by taxi.
Approximately 1 hour by taxi.
Consider pre-booking your airport transfer through your accommodation for a smooth arrival and avoiding fare negotiations after a long journey.
