Zanzibar

What is the weather like and when is the best time to go?

Zanzibar enjoys a tropical climate with average daytime temperatures of about 27° Celsius/80° Fahrenheit in summer and about 24° C/ 75° F in winter. July to October is one of the best times for travel because the days are dry with low humidity and the temperatures are about 25° C/ 77° F - perfect for the beach. November to March is also a very busy time for Zanzibar.

The short rains in East Africa fall during this period and the weather is hot and humid. Scuba diving (though excellent year round) is also best from December to March. April and May when the long rains fall are the quiet months in Zanzibar. During this time many resorts close, and at others the rates are highly discounted. For more on Zanzibar weather and climate click here.

What is the water temperature in Zanzibar?

The ocean that surrounds Zanzibar is wonderfully warm, averaging about 27° Celsius/ 80° F.

How accessible is Zanzibar?

There are 3 - 4 daily flights from several airports in Kenya and Tanzania, and several direct flights weekly from Johannesburg (in South Africa) to Stone Town (Zanzibar's capital).

What is the best way to get around once we arrive in Zanzibar?

It is best to arrange road transfers prior to travel or through your hotel once you arrive. The taxis, known as "dala dalas” can appear quite intimidating to first time travelers.

What can we expect to pay for accommodation in Zanzibar?

This depends substantially on the season you are traveling in and on the level of luxury and exclusivity you are looking for. In Stone Town, you can expect to pay anything between $70 and $200 per person per night sharing (US Dollars). At the beach resorts you can expect to pay anything between $100 and $500 per person per night sharing (US Dollars). For more on accommodation in Zanzibar click here.

What is normally included in the price of accommodation at the resorts?

Most resorts include breakfast and dinner in the standard price of accommodation, and certain resorts have an option to include lunch as well. Activities and drinks are normally for your own account, though a few resorts offer fully inclusive packages.

Can I bring my children to Zanzibar?

Yes. Zanzibar has several fantastic children friendly resorts.

Is it rude to barter or negotiate prices with vendors at the local market?

No. Bartering and negotiating is quite normal at the local markets in Zanzibar.

What activities does Zanzibar offer?

Most activities in Zanzibar are non-motorised. Water activities that are commonly on offer include sailing, canoeing, fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling and swimming, among others.

Are there any very important cultural or social issues to be aware of before we travel to Zanzibar?

The prevailing religion in Zanzibar is Islam, so it is important when outside the resort to dress conservatively without exposing too much skin. At the hotels or in the beach resorts, bikinis and less conservative clothing are fine.

I heard that you can not swim in Zanzibar when the tide is out. Is this true?

Along the east coast when the tide is out, you can expect to have to walk up to 200 - 300 meters out to reach the sea. The further north one moves up the east coast, the less of an issue this becomes.

What is the local currency and how should we manage carrying our money?

The local currency is the Tanzanian Shilling but US Dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels, but not at many shops and certainly not at the local markets. To see what you can spend your money on click here

What about electricity in Zanzibar?

Electricity in Zanzibar has a voltage of 230. Plugs have 3 flat-pinned prongs and are available to buy in Stone Town.

Is malaria a risk in Zanzibar?

Yes. You will need to consult your doctor about anti-malaria medication.

Is it safe to drink the tap water?

No. It is important to drink purified bottled water.

How can I be certain that my valuables will be safe where we are staying?

Most hotels and lodges will have safes for your valuables, either in your room or at reception. For more on safety in Zanzibar click here.

What is the standard tipping procedure?

Tipping in Zanzibar at hotels and restaurants is entirely at your discretion, based on the level of service you feel that you have received during your trip. For road transfers we recommend a $5 (US Dollar) tip as a guideline.

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