Practical Guide

Zanzibar

Entry & Visa

EU citizens require a visa for Zanzibar (Tanzania). Available on arrival or in advance via the e-Visa portal. Bring a passport with at least 6 months validity and proof of yellow-fever vaccination if arriving from an at-risk country.

Money

Tanzanian shilling (TZS) is the official currency. USD is widely accepted in hotels and tour operators. ATMs are common in Stone Town; less so on the coast. Cards work, but cash is king for markets and dala-dalas.

Connectivity

Local SIMs (Airtel, Zantel) are affordable and easy to acquire on arrival. eSIM options also work — see the Travel Tools page.

Getting Around

Taxis between Stone Town and the eastern beaches (Paje, Jambiani) take 60–90 minutes and cost ~50,000 TZS. Dala-dalas are cheap and slow. Renting a scooter requires a Tanzanian permit — easier to hire a driver for a day.

Photography Notes

Drones require a permit from the TCAA. Photographing people, especially in markets, should always begin with a polite ask. Stone Town's narrow alleys reward early-morning light; the beaches reward sunrise.