Zanzibar Island Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Local SIM Cards

Vodacom, Tigo, Airtel, and Zantel are major providers. Vodacom often has good coverage.

Acquiring a SIM

Purchase SIM cards at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) or official stores.
Your passport is a registration item for SIM purchase.
SIM cards are inexpensive, with data bundles around TZS 20,000-30,000 (USD 8-12).

Internet Access

Most hotels, guesthouses, and resorts provide Wi-Fi, often without charge.

Wi-Fi & Connectivity

Wi-Fi quality can vary, from reliable to intermittent.
A local SIM with data ensures consistent connectivity outside accommodation.
Consider Airalo for eSIM or Solis Wi-Fi for portable internet.

Language Barriers

Swahili and English are official languages. English is widespread in tourism.

Communication Overview

English is widely spoken by guides, hotels, and taxi drivers.
Learning basic Swahili phrases gains local appreciation and aids interaction.
Consider Rosetta Stone for language learning before your trip.

Important Phrases

A few Swahili phrases can make a difference in your interactions.

Useful Swahili Terms

Jambo! (JAHM-boh): Hello!
Habari? (hah-BAH-ree): How are you?
Asante (sana). (ah-SAHN-teh SAH-nah): Thank you (very much).

Communication Options

Staying Connected

The main post office in Stone Town is generally reliable for sending postcards.
Many cafes in Stone Town and beach areas offer Wi-Fi access.
For consistent connectivity, a local SIM with a data bundle is a prime option.
Having a few Swahili phrases ready will open doors to local interactions.

More Phrases

Karibu (sana). (kah-REE-boo SAH-nah): Welcome (very much); also "You're welcome."
Ndiyo. (n-DEE-yoh): Yes.
Hapana. (hah-PAH-nah): No.
Pole pole. (POH-leh POH-leh): Slowly, slowly.

Communication Advice

Local SIM cards offer consistent mobile internet. Learn basic Swahili for richer interactions.

Business Hours & Schedules

Zanzibar's business hours vary by type of establishment.

Government & Banks

Typically Monday-Friday, 9 AM to 4 PM. Some banks open Saturday mornings.

Shops Stone Town

Around 9 AM to 6 PM. Some close for lunch or on Fridays. Tourist shops may extend hours.

Markets Darajani

Open from early morning until late afternoon, busiest in the morning.

Banking Hours

Banks operate Monday-Friday, from 9 AM to 4 PM. Some Saturday morning hours may exist.

ATM Availability

ATMs are available 24/7 in Stone Town and major beach towns.
Seek out ATMs from CRDB Bank, NMB Bank, or Stanbic Bank.
Carrying some local currency is always a fine idea.

Holidays & Seasons

Public and religious holidays can alter business operations.

Impact on Services

Islamic holidays (Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha) dates vary yearly, with potential closures.
During low season (April-May), some businesses may close for renovations or operate with limited services.
Peak season sees most businesses operating at full capacity.

Operating Hours Overview

General Business Hours

Standard working days are Monday to Friday.
Plan your visits considering Friday prayer times for local shops.
Tourist restaurants align with lunch and dinner times.

Holiday Considerations

Zanzibar observes Tanzanian public holidays.
Lunar calendar dictates specific Islamic holiday dates.
Christian holidays are also observed on the island.

Planning Ahead

Awareness of local business hours and holidays aids in smooth travel planning.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Interacting respectfully with locals and their traditions makes your trip a richer experience.

Greeting Customs

Greetings are important. Always greet someone before asking questions or conducting business.

Common Greetings

"Jambo" (Hello) or "Mambo" (How are you? - informal) are common.
Handshakes are common, especially between men. Women may shake if initiated.
"Bwana" (Mr.) or "Bi" (Mrs./Ms.) before a name, or with "Jambo Bwana," conveys respect.

Appropriate Attire

Dress modestly, especially in Stone Town and villages; shoulders and knees should stay covered.

Dressing Guidelines

In Stone Town & villages, modest attire (covered shoulders/knees) shows respect.
Swimwear suits resort grounds or private beaches; cover up in public.
At mosques, remove shoes, and women cover their heads; dress very modestly.

Dining & Tipping

Use your right hand if no cutlery. Wait for seating in formal restaurants.

Dining Customs

When eating, use your right hand if no cutlery is offered.
In formal restaurants, wait to be guided to your seat.
Tipping guidelines are available in Section 2.3 for more information.

Photography

Always seek permission before photographing individuals, especially women and children.

Photography Guidelines

A polite "Naomba picha?" (May I take a photo?) works wonders.
Always respect a "no."
Do not photograph military sites, police stations, or airports.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

General Advice

Avoid excessive public displays of affection outside tourist areas.
Avoid public alcohol consumption in non-designated areas, especially during holidays.
Avoid negative discussions about religion or politics.

Bargaining & Social

Bargaining is part of the culture; do it respectfully and with a smile.
Homosexuality is illegal in Tanzania; public displays of same-sex affection are not tolerated.
LGBTQ+ travelers should exercise extreme discretion and avoid any public displays of affection.

Gender Considerations

Women Travelers

Zanzibar is a conservative society with traditional gender roles.
Women may experience some unwanted attention if dressed immodestly.
Modest dress is a way to respect local norms.

General Interaction

Embrace "Pole Pole" (slowly, slowly), which reflects the island's pace.
A polite demeanor is always appreciated in interactions.
If unsure, observe local customs and follow suit.

Cultural Respect

Adhering to local etiquette opens doors to a , more authentic experience in Zanzibar.

Accessibility Information

Zanzibar's infrastructure may present challenges for travelers with mobility needs.

Mobility Infrastructure

Infrastructure for mobility challenges is generally underdeveloped.

Challenges

Stone Town's narrow, uneven, cobbled alleys largely pose a challenge for wheelchairs.
Public transportation (Dala-dalas) does not offer accessible options.
Many hotels, specifically older ones, lack ramps or elevators.

Accessible Attractions

Some newer, higher-end resorts might feature accessible rooms and facilities.

Opportunities

Private taxis can be arranged for transport, though vehicles may not be modified.
Beaches may be accessible in certain areas, but water access could be a challenge.
Confirm accessibility directly with chosen accommodations.

Visual or Hearing Impairments

Dedicated services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are limited.

Support Options

Assistance animals may encounter entry restrictions due to local regulations.
Local guides can assist in navigation and information delivery.
Clear communication with guides about specific needs is wise.

Accessibility Resources

Direct local resources or organizations providing detailed accessibility information are scarce.

Information Channels

Consult with specialized accessible travel agencies.
Online forums may offer specific advice from other travelers with similar needs.
Direct contact with hotels for accessibility queries is always best.

Accessibility Guidance

Thorough pre-trip research and direct communication with service providers can shape an accessible journey.

Zanzibar Island Travel Tips