Zanzibar

Beach at Zanzibar - Beach at Zanzibar Map of Zanzibar - Map of Zanzibar

Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous archipelago off the coast of Tanzania, consisting of Zanzibar Island (locally, Unguja), Pemba Island, and many smaller islands. Zanzibar island is roughly 90 kilometers long and 30 kilometers wide.

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Cities

Stone Town - GPS: -6.1649444444444, 39.198788888889 – the vibrant and somewhat enchanting capital
Chwaka - GPS: -6.16639, 39.43572 – a small fishing village by the sea
Jambiani - GPS: -6.31666667, 39.55 – fishing village stretching miles along the beach with lots of small hotels and guesthouses
Kendwa - GPS: -5.75375, 39.290611111111 – a small fishing village a couple of miles from Nungwi, a great place for reading on the beach or scuba diving
Kizimkazi - GPS: -6.44888889, 39.47277778 – a small village on the south coast and starting point for dolphin tours
Matemwe - GPS: -5.86666667, 39.35
Nungwi - GPS: -5.726, 39.296 – a popular small resort city on the northern tip of the island
Paje - GPS: -6.26651944, 39.53380833 – a small village on the east coast known for excellent kiteboarding conditions
Uroa Village GPS -6.1,39.4167 – a small fishing village on the east coast, resorts on the northern and southern side

Zanzibar Halal Travel Guide

The island and the surrounding islets are divided into three regions. They are Zanzibar Central/South, Zanzibar North and Zanzibar Urban/West. Zanzibar City, on the central west coast, is the capital and largest city of Zanzibar and the region of Zanzibar Urban/West. The population of Unguja was 984,625 in the census of 2002, with the most concentrated populations located in the Zanzibar Urban region.

The larger and more populated of Zanzibar's two main islands, Unguja is separated from its northern neighbor Pemba by 48 kilometers of open sea. The mainland of Tanzania, which lies to the southwest of Unguja and is separate from it by the Zanzibar Channel, is considerably closer, as is the major Tanzanian mainland port of Dar es Salaam. Smaller islands surround the coast, notably Tumbatu in the northwest, Uzi in the south, and Mnemba Atoll in the northeast. A considerable number of smaller islands and reefs lie off Unguja's southwest coast.

Many of Zanzibar's main centres are on Unguja, and most of the Zanzibari economy is also based here. Other than the capital and the island's major population centres include Mbweni, Mangapwani, Chwaka, and Nungwi. Tourism is a major industry.

History

Zanzibar is rich in history, with numerous archaeological sites dotting the island, most notably at Unguja Ukuu, just to the north of the causeway which links Unguja and Uzi Islands.

The island has been deeply influenced by Arab culture for many centuries, and was part of the Sultanate of Oman starting in 1698. In 1896, Zanzibar was the location of the world's shortest war — they surrendered to the British Army after 38 minutes.

Travel as a Muslim to Zanzibar

Book a Halal Cruise or Boat Tour in Zanzibar

There are many ferries and catamarans that can take you between Dar es Salaam and the Island. Azam Marine,Sea Express, Sea Star, Seagull Kilimanjaro and Sepideh Megaspeed Liners are among the nicest available. Some of these are run by Azam (2 hr, US$35 for non-residents, leaving Dar es Salaam at 07:00, 09:30, 12:30 and 15:45 and returning from Stone Town at 07:00, 09:30, 12:30 and 15:30, check for updates).

Depending on demand, weather and condition of the boats additional ferries may run at different times. Be sure to arrive at the seaport at least 30 minutes in advance to allow for emigration, luggage security checks and to secure a good seat on the boat.

First class is US$5 more expensive than economy and often not worth the money: While there’s good comfortable seating, you’ll stay in a freezing room with the A/C set to 18°C and foreigners are often allowed in first class anyways, since they already pay around 2½ times the local price. If you prefer to stay on the sundeck outside, choose economy.

The quoted US$ price may be more expensive when paid in local currency, so it may be a good idea to exchange money first.

Flying Horse makes the same journey for US$20. However, it will take around 4½ hours. There are also evening departures on a slow night ferry. It runs towards the destination and anchors there until the morning before it enters the port. This has been reported to be a beautiful trip, but security is an issue and close attention to belongings must always be paid.

You may be able to hire a private boat for cheaper, but the trip will take considerably longer and unless you know something about boats, you could be on a vessel that is not equipped for bad weather conditions or an emergency. Remember: you get what you pay for.

While not advisable there are also dhow connections, e.g. to Bagamoyo (4-8 hr, TSh 5,000). Since you’re not arriving through official customs on this route you may need to pay a departure tax of US$5 on exit and face some questionnaires.

Day trips

Ferry schedules allow you to do the return trip the same day. For instance leave Dar es Salaam at 07:30 and return from Zanzibar on the 15:45 ferry. That leaves plenty of time to explore the Stone Town and the museum and have a nice lunch. The trip is beautiful and lasts about 2 hours. However, if the weather is bad it can take much longer and the trip can be very unpleasant. If you suffer from seasickness you are advised to take some anti-seasickness pills prior to boarding. The on-board personnel hands out free sickness bags at the start of the journey.

Agents and annoyances

Be aware that the "porters" at the Dar ferry terminal will hassle you for money, expect tips for referring you to "the best boat" or guide you to a ticket office that sells tickets at inflated prices. To avoid agents be forceful and head straight towards the ticket office of the ferry you intend to take.

Beware that agents will tell you anything to get you to use a service which pays them commission, and scam you in any way they can. They will say the company kiosk you are heading towards is closed and the ferry runs only later or only goes to mainland destinations (when they do service Zanzibar) and they will say their service is a 90-min ferry (when it actually takes over 2 hours) and they will quote you a price for first class tickets (but issue "e/c" economy tickets and pocket the difference) and they will sell you a return ticket (leaving you to later find out it is actually only valid for return travel with a different, cheaper company and the seller has pocketed the difference). The dock is a zoo -- a prime hangout for pickpockets.

Passport

Although Zanzibar is part of the Union it maintains its own immigration service and you need to have a valid passport to enter, even if you come from mainland Tanzania. This farcically means you must fill out a Tanzania arrival card for your arrival in Stone Town, and a Tanzania departure card when you leave. Also note that immigration in Zanzibar may check your vaccination records for yellow fever.

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Zanzibar

Abeid Amani Karume International Airport IATA Code: ZNZ GPS: -6.222222, 39.225 located on Unguja Island, it is about kilometers 5 south of Zanzibar City Abeid Amani Karume International Airport Abeid Amani Karume International Airport

}} Airlines that fly to Zanzibar are: Regional Air, Precision Air, ZanAir, Coastal Aviation, Tropical Air, Mango, Flydubai, Qatar-Airways, Oman Air, Auric Air, Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, and Fly540.

As of 2022 Precision Air ticket sometimes offer promotional rates as low as US$50 one-way for Flights to Dar es Salaam. Be sure to check the baggage allowance before boarding as most planes are fairly small.

Zanzibar has 2 departure taxes: domestic flights TSh 5,000 (or US$5), and international flights US$30. For almost all cases though, this tax is incorporated into your flight ticket price.

Taxi

There are taxis waiting for passengers when you exit the terminal. Despite having a "list" of prices for the various tourist destinations on the island, prices are negotiable. Although you can arrange a pick up at the airport with your hotel or tour company, even a little negotiating will get you a better price than the inflated one quoted by most hotels]. However, some Stone Town hotels do offer free shuttle service from the airport.

Dala dala

There is a bus stop just outside of the airport gate. The dala dala is mainly used by local residents, and can be very awkward if you have large bags or suitcases, but is managable with a backpack. The buses run along creek road, TSh 200, 20 mins (2022). If traveling from Stone town to the airport look for buses marked Ndege (Airport in Swahili). These can be most convienently caught at the crossroads just south of the market on creek road.

How to get around in Zanzibar

Although taxis are available, you will probably want to walk through Stone Town. After all, most of the alleys are barely wide enough for a bike to pass.

Best way to travel in Zanzibar by a Taxi

Journeying outside Stone Town is most comfortably done with a taxi or a private car. The latter are crucially also taxis with drivers although they don't have the official taxi designation. They may however be a bit cheaper than a cab (10-20%) and your hotel receptionist can likely arrange one for you (the hotel may charge you a hefty commission Airport-Nungwi US$60 - compare below). Be sure to negotiate the price before and know the street price so you don't end up paying an overly high commission instead.

Sample fares include:

Stone Town to Nungwi or Kendwa: 1½ hr, from TSh 60,000
Airport to Nungwi: Tsh 65,000
Nungwi to Kizimkazi: 2 hr, from TSh 80,000
Airport/Stone Town to Paje: 1 hr, from TSh 50,000

By daladala

A network of daladalas, minivans, small buses and sometimes pickup trucks, exist which service all the major villages on the island at a very affordable price (any route on the island should be less than TSh 2,000 per person). The adventurous, armed with a phrase book and map, will experience a wonderful side of Zanzibar life, which all too often is just another photograph to the typical tourist zooming past. It will take you a good 2 hours to get to Nungwi, on the northern tip of the island.

There’s no daladala service running north to south. Instead you’ll have to go via Stone Town again and change buses there.

By car

Driving by yourself can be dangerous and may not be common place. Roads are sometimes in horrendous condition and all kind of obstacles (sudden bumps, animals, people, etc.) are to be expected at any time. Avoid driving at night if you can. Driving with the upper beams on the whole time is a stupid but unfortunately common training that you shouldn't imitate. It is enough that one person cannot see.

That said a vehicle will give you freedom to explore and may save you a lot of time. Even a one day and one way vehicle hire may make sense, as the vehicle can be delivered to and picked up from your hotels in the morning and evening, e.g. Nungwi to Stone Town (US$30 for a small 4x4 Escudo).

Petrol is priced at TSh 2,210 per liter (November 2022) and gas stations are well distributed on the island. Don't take chance on running out of petrol though.

There are many police checks on the roads. So make sure you have your driving licence and the temporary Zanzibar drivers permit, and the vehicle insurance sticker on the windscreen. Also check that the rental vehicle is roadworthy and the police will wave you through with a kind jambo.

The temporary Zanzibar drivers permit can be obtained from local authorities. However, if you ask your vehicle rental company in advance and they should be able to get it for you and deliver it with the car. They probably need a photocopy of your home driving licence (a photo sent via e-mail should also work). Expect to pay about TSh 16,000 for the licence.

Hotels are happy to arrange a taxi or rental vehicle for you although they might add some (sometimes: a lot) commission to the price.

It has been reported that police invent "offences" to get bribes. One scheme may involve to threaten to go to trial in a couple of days. They may even jump in your vehicle on the grounds that you have to drive them to the police station. However, when they state "How can we sort this out?" Tsh 1,000-5,000 will be enough to forget the "offence".

What to see in Zanzibar

Jozani Forest has excellent nature trails, featuring some very exotic (and large) trees. Even more interesting, though, are the Red Colobus Monkeys that live here. Native to the Island and these monkeys are now nearly extinct. They are very curious and playful and will likely pose for a picture. The entry fee (US$8) includes an optional visit to a beautiful mangrove forest which is highly recommended.
Stone Town

The inner city was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. Blending Moorish, Middle Eastern, Indian, and African traditions and architectures, it is feasible to spend days winding through Stone Town's labyrinthine alleys. That said, a day will give you plenty of insight. The inner city is small and can easily be explored by foot. It is estimated that 85% of the historic building fabric (coral stone) of Stone Town is irredeemably lost. Only very few of the old magnificent buildings shine brightly, i.e. if they have been converted to (boutique) hotels, clubs, or restaurants. Most buildings are in bad shape and the rough sea climate has taken its toll on the structure.
While in Stone Town, you can shop for souvenirs, drink the occasional tea, or visit the few city's historic sites. Be aware that -being close to the equator- even the narrow alleys may offer little shade/protection from the sun. Water is also important and can be purchased in plenty of stores along the way.
The House of Wonders is closed due to reconstruction work (Oct 2014). It carries this name because it was the first house in Stone Town to have electricity, running water, and an elevator.
Former Slave Market (entry fee is TSh 11,500 or USD 5 - this fee includes a guide (June 2018), who you may or may not tip). This is the site of the old Slave Market. The museum only consists of slave chambers (one for 50 men and one for 75 women and children), a memorial, and an Anglican Church built on the site of the tree that served as whipping post. It provides only very limited information on the history of the building or slave trade in Zanzibar. Apart from the slave chambers nothing is left, as a hospital has been built into the old market. However, you can go into the holding chambers in the cellar to see how this wretched piece of history played itself out in small dark dungeon-type cells. The property was purchased by Dr David Livingstone (one of the biggest proponents of the abolishment of slavery) who wanted to turn the grounds into a haven after the atrocities committed there by the Oman Arab and British slave traders.

What to do in Zanzibar

There are a lot of things to do on Zanzibar Island. It just depends on where your interests lie.

Spice tour - Zanzibar Island, a.k.a. and the Spice Island, was an important stop in the Spice Trade centuries ago. Today, it is one of the few places in the world where saffron is produced, and many other Middle Eastern/Asian spices (cardamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, etc.) are grown here. Several companies take you on a tour which winds you around the island, showing you how cinnamon, jack fruit, kukurma or anise (licorice) are grown; letting you sample some of the exotic fruit grown on the island; and allowing you to tour the beautiful plantations. In Stone Town be wary of booking and paying directly on the street, in which case the tout might just take your money (from US$10) without a booking. Another common scam is for a tout to follow you into (or give you directions to) the office, in which case the tour price will increase by US$5, with you paying the commission. If you have a vehicle you can drive to the Kizimbani area yourself, where spice tours are offered. Again, depending on your bargaining skills you may be able to get it for Tsh 22,500 (two persons) plus the tips (TSh 6,000). On the tips: you will be expected to tip the guy that climbs up the coconut tree singing a song (yes, it is that touristy) and the guy that does the fruit tasting and the guy brading stuff from palm leaves while you walk around, and of course your guide. Usually TSh 1,000-2,000 should be fine. While you have never asked, nor were made aware of this entourage, this is how their scheme works. Given the nature of this even more people may show up during your tour and may expect tips.

East Beaches - The seemingly endless beaches near Paje or Jambiani are very popular among travellers. The sand is brilliant white, and the warm waters of the Indian Ocean are a deep teal.

Kendwa|Kendwa Beach - on the North Western coast, some kilometers south of Nungwi - With a beautiful sand beach, here you can swim during low and high tide, which is not always feasible on the East side of the island. Just beware of the Sea Urchins that give a powerful sting if stepped upon during low tide. Kendwa offers lots of beach restaurants serving everything from pizza to local curries. Kendwa Beach is also known for the Full Moon Party, arranged Saturdays just before or after a full moon. While not as big or extreme as those arranged in Thailand and the parties on Zanzibar attract quite a large group of people, especially when the full moon coincides with public holidays in Europe and North America (i.e. Easter and Christmas).

Scuba diving and snorkelling - Snorkel boat trip with equipment from US$35 per boat Cristal clear water and beautiful reefs make Zanzibar a great place for underwater activities. Unfortunately, in some areas reefs are in poor condition and fish populations are low.

Dolphin tour - boat trip with snorkel equipment from US$40 per boat This intense (but not necessarily moral) tour starts in Kizimkazi on the south tip of the island and includes snorkelling and chasing dolphins. Tours can be arranged from Stone Town to the village, a few hours boat tour that, local lunch, nap on the beach and an optional tour to Jozani Forest (see above). The full tours leaves town at 8AM and comeback at 5PM - a complete day of fun and a very memorable experience, especially for the dolphins. Dolphin tour in Zanzibar - Tourists in boat are chasing dolphins in the India Ocean near Zanzibar

Ride on a local's dhow - These traditional boats make for a wonderful sunset cruise.

Sit and stare at the water for hours on end.

Zanzibar Butterfly Centre | GPS: Located near to Jozani National Park Opening Hours: 9AM - 5PM US$5 per person The Zanzibar Butterfly Centre is a community development project and tourist destination just down the road from Jozani Forest. Revenue from admissions is used to pay farmers in the village sustainably farming butterflies. This genuine little project really makes a real difference to the farmers' income and provides a wonderful experience for visitors as they can see spectacular local species flying close at hand in a beautiful tropical garden.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Zanzibar

Zanzibar currency is the Tanzania#Money|Tanzanian shilling (Tsh). On the beaches, US dollars and shillings are accepted, but at US dollars receive much less than the official exchange rate. Best would be to trade some of your dollars or euros for shillings, and use that to buy food. If you buy curios with dollars and euros you will get a better deal, since the hawkers are more prone to bargaining when buying with foreign currency. You get a better exchange rate on $50 and $100 notes, than on $20 and $10 notes. There are four ATMs on the island, all in Stone Town. A store that accepts credit card payment is a rarity. Don't rely totally on your bank card. Take extra cash.

Stone Town is a one-stop-souvenir-shopping for the traveller. You can find beautiful textiles, handmade jewelry, intricate wood or stone carvings, spices, knick-knacks, etc.

Buy a cookbook and spices. Take the trip home with you! Beware that many of the vendors sell fake saffron (appears waxy like a shredded red crayon).

Barclays bank has a Visa Card/Mastercard ATMs at Zanzibar Main Karume Road Stone Town and Darajani.

Muslim Friendly Food & Restaurants in Zanzibar

Zanzibar cuisine offers a much greater variety than the mainland one. While the usual affordable eating stalls cater the same ubiquitous chapati, Rice, chips and Ugali dishes, esp. in Stone Town a lot of great food can be found.

Forodhani Gardens - GPS: -6.16074, 39.18873 Opening Hours: opens in the late afternoon

Forodhani Gardens is a nightly affair by the water. It is not to be missed place to eat Halal in Zanzibar. It starts at around 5PM and gets busy after the sun sets. If you are not scared of local food and then this place is definitely worth a visit. A large open space with many food stalls and local food. Here you can also get the famous Zanzibar pizza, something like a savory crèpe, filled with beef, eggs and salad in the default version.
It is possibly the cheapest food you will find on the island, and value for money too. Ranging from crab claws, calamari Steaks to plain old chips done in big woks. You are well advised to try the local sugar cane juice.
A few prices as of Oct 2014 - depending on your bargaining skills you may be able to get lower prices: Zanzibar beef pizza (TSh 3000 - delicious!), small sugar cane juice (TSh 1000), shrimp on a stick (TSh 5000), octopus (whole) on a stick (TSh 6000), small beef on a stick (TSh 300 - usually three or four are bought at a time and dipped into a hot Sauce before finally barbecued), Chicken massala on a stick (Tsh 3000).
Some consider the market to be overrated -- the food quality can be mixed and food stands will advertise their Vegetarian food. The twilight atmosphere, however, makes for a nice setting to have a affordable meal.

Nearly all beach hotels also include restaurants with typical western cuisine at varying degrees of quality. Mains usually start around Tsh 10,000.

While predominantly a Muslim community, small bars can be found everywhere in Zanzibar.

The sugar cane juice and fresh coconut milk that are mainly available in Stone Town are not to be missed.
Try the ginger organic juice (tangawizi, also available on the mainland) which is not a but a soda with a spicy ginger flavor.

Beach bars on the beaches will supply you with good local organic juice and cocktails. You must try a Dawa-cocktail!

The Old Dispensary has a basic "top storey" bar which offers nice views on the harbour and beaches (local Cola: TSh 4000). Despite its location it is off the beaten track and you may find yourself with a few local residents and a band sipping at quite some height.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Zanzibar

Zanzibar - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Zanzibar, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Zanzibar. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Zanzibar and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Zanzibar. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Zanzibar. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations inZanzibar: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Zanzibar.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Zanzibar: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Zanzibar, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Zanzibar.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Zanzibar, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Zanzibar, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Zanzibar and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Zanzibar, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Zanzibar, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Zanzibar without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Zanzibar is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Zanzibar.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Zanzibar is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Zanzibar, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Zanzibar Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Zanzibar

eHalal Group Zanzibar is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Zanzibar. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Zanzibar.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Zanzibar ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Zanzibar. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Zanzibar, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Zanzibar are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at realestate@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

Zanzibar does not offer much of affordable accommodation. The cheapest hotels in Stone Town start from TSh 25,000 for a double, and normal budget hotel prices range TSh 45,000 to 90,000 and that's during the low season, where several hotels stay closed due to lack of clients. The quoted prices are after bargaining: low-season is a good time to do so and not having your bags with you when doing so, will also give you a boost.

Accommodation at the beaches is often more expensive, with the cheapest options starting at TSh 50,000. See the individual articles for hotel listings: Stone Town, Jambiani, Kendwa, Kilombero, Kizimkazi, Matemwe, Nungwi, Paje.

Local Customs in Zanzibar

Ramadan 2025 in Zanzibar

Ramadan concludes with the festival of Eid al-Fitr, which may last several days, usually three in most countries.

The next Ramadan shall be from Friday, 28 February 2025 to Saturday, 29 March 2025

The next Eid al-Adha shall be on Friday, 6 June 2025

The next day of Raʾs al-Sana shall be on Thursday, 26 June 2025

The next day for Mawlid al-Nabī shall be on Monday, 16 September 2024

Zanzibar is largely a Muslim community. Although they are used to Western ways, you should try to be respectful. This means:

Women and men should make an effort to cover their legs and arms (being in a bikini on the resort beach is fine though).
It is regarded as disrespectful to show public affection.
Be discreet when drinking alcohol.
During Ramadan -- the month of fasting -- travellers should avoid eating and drinking publicly during the daytime. Also, be sure not to smoke in front of people, nor chew gum, and it is polite to avoid talking about the nice lunch you had.

Cope

In the tourist areas around the waterfront, Kenyatta Road and Shangani Road, you will be beset by all manner of papasi, agents and others wanting to offer you taxis, spice tours, music, gifts, etc. A polite but firm No, thanks usually doesn't do the trick, and can get exhausting. Best thing to do here is to keep walking and wander into the more residential alleys where you won't be disturbed.

News & References Zanzibar

Explore more Halal friendly Destinations from Zanzibar

Pemba Island|Pemba and the quieter island is a short flight or ferry ride away.
Dar es Salaam and the largest city in Tanzania is well connected by air and by ferry. See #By_boat|Get in by boat for details on the ferry.
Arusha and the gateway to the northern safari circuit can be visited by direct connecting Flights from Zanzibar or by a more than 12-hr bus trip from Dar es Salaam.