Zanzibar: Trip Preparation & Destination Information

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Zanzibar: Trip Preparation & Destination Information

About Zanzibar

Overview

Zanzibar, an island destination on the east coast of Africa, where the beautiful tropical vegetation meets pristine white sand beaches on the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Zanzibar is uniquely characterized by its multi-cultural roots, including Arab, Indian, European, Chinese, and Persian, which is evident in the distinct and varied architectural styles of its ancient buildings. This distinctive character is also seen in their cuisine, as well as their fabrics, their hand-crafted jewelry, and their furniture. 

 

Capital City: Zanzibar City

Population: 766,000 (2022 est.)

Time Zone: East Africa Time (GMT+3)

Emergency Number: 112 / 114

Outlet: Type D/G

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Packing List

Speak the Language

Language: Swahili is the official language of Tanzania and therefore, Zanzibar.

 

  • Hello - Hello
  • Goodbye - Kwaheri
  • Thank you very much - Asante (sana)
  • Do you speak English? - Unaongea kiingereza?
  • I don't understand - Sielewi
  • How are you? - Habari Yako?
  • I'm fine, thank you - Niko sawa, asante
  • What is your name? - Jina lako nani?
  • My name is ____ - Jina langu ni ____
  • Sorry - Samahani
  • Where is the bathroom? - Bafuni iko wapi?

 

 Google Translate: Download the Google Translate app or click here

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Weather

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Fun Facts


  • Zanzibar is not one island; it’s a group of islands just off the coast of East Africa. There are two large main islands, Pemba and Unguja – the latter is sometimes informally (and incorrectly) referred to as “Zanzibar”. 
  • The shortest war in history was waged in Zanzibar. The Anglo-Zanzibar War between the United Kingdom and the Zanzibar Sultanate took place on 27 August 1896. It lasted between 38 and 45 minutes before a ceasefire was called. 
  • In 1974, Zanzibar was the first of all African countries to introduce color television. Despite being part of the same republic, mainland Tanzania did not introduce television services until 20 years later due to opposition from the country’s president.
  • Zanzibar is popularly called The Spice Islands, due to its main economic activity after tourism being spice exports – mainly cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon and black pepper.

Tipping

Tipping Suggestions: Tips for Guides, drivers and restaurants are not included. Tips provide supplemental income, and, while not mandatory, are greatly appreciated. If the local teams have added to the experience, please reward them.

Guides USD $3-4 per person/per day
Drivers USD $3-4 per person/per day
Restaurants  USD $3-4 per person/per day

 

FAQ

Where can I find information on travel safety? Check out the US Department of State's website for the most up-to-date information on safety while traveling.

 

Is the water safe to drink? The tap water in Zanzibar is chlorinated and local people drink it without problems. However, there are some strains of local E. coli, which may affect foreigners. Therefore, it is better to be safe when traveling across the island and stick to bottled water. Which is widely available across the island.

 

Do I need a Visa? For Visa information, click here. Make sure to also check that your passport isn't expired or about to expire.

 

What about vaccines? For vaccination information, click here.

 

Do you recommend travel insurance? While not required, we highly recommend all travelers get travel insurance for their trip to protect themselves from the unknown! Check out travel insurance options from our partner, worldnomads.com, or from a provider of your choice.

 

How much should I pack? As we will be using shared transfers and spaces throughout our tour we recommend all travelers pack as lightly as possible. Please review our luggage restrictions below.

 

What does public transportation look like? There is no official public transportation in Zanzibar but there are many ways to get around easily and cheaply. Locals use a Dala-Dala, an open-air truck with seats that can be very crowded but cheap. Mini-buses are available; you can get timetables at the hotels.

 

Is Uber or Lyft available?  Uber nor Lyft are available, it's recommended to pre-book taxis online with set rates to ensure fair prices.

 

What about Wifi? Using a prepaid sim card to connect to the internet in Zanzibar is the best, most reliable and cheapest option. Zantel is the most popular internet service provider in Zanzibar and it has the best coverage on the island. You can pick up a sim card upon your arrival at the airport.

 

Malaria: While rare, Malaria does exist in Zanzibar. All hotel beds should come equipped with mosquito nets, which should be let down around the bed. If you are a restless sleeper or move much during the night, it might be good to weigh down the corners. Some hotels may also offer mosquito coils if asked.

Luggage Restrictions

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In partnership with The Cool Effect, 1% of Trova's revenue will be donated to reduce carbon emissions through community-based initiatives around the globe.

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