The Zanzibar archipelago is located less than 40 km from mainland Tanganyika with which it forms the United Republic of Tanzania. Mainland Tanzania is very religiously diverse, while Zanzibar is 95% Muslim and its inhabitants do not consider themselves Tanzanians. Portuguese, Arab, Indian and British influences formed a very interesting mix of culture, cuisine and architecture. Zanzibar’s rich history is an additional reason to visit this Paradise Island. 

Zanzibar comprises three main islands of Unguja (commonly called Zanzibar), Pemba and Mafia, as well as about forty small islands. The archipelago of Zanzibar is located in the southern hemisphere, 6˚ below the equator. 

A day in Zanzibar lasts around 12 hours. The sun rises here and sets at about the same time all year round (sunrise – approx. 6:00 am, sunset – approx. 6:15 pm).

– Holidays in Zanzibar should not be planned during the large rainy season characterized by heavy rainfall, often lasting several days. This period lasts roughly from April to mid-June.
– The period from July to October is the most pleasant time to come. Temperatures averaged 27 ° C and there is little rainfall
– November is the so-called little rainy season. Rainfall is limited to brief showers, followed by the sun quickly
– The period from December to March is the hottest time of the year. Then it is summer in Zanzibar, and daytime temperatures can reach up to 35 ° C. 

If you are flying direct from Europe, no vaccinations are required. However, vaccinations against tetanus, typhoid fever, diphtheria, viral hepatitis (viral hepatitis) are recommended – as for any further journey. If you have a transfer in Africa longer than 6 hours (e.g. in Nairobi), you must be vaccinated against yellow fever and have a vaccination confirmation in the so-called yellow booklet.

Malaria is virtually non-existent in Zanzibar. Most doctors recommend preventive measures, eg Malarone – in Zanzibar there is no need to use them. When in doubt, you can have a malaria test in Zanzibar and use the anti-malaria drugs available here.

During your stay in Zanzibar, we recommend using anti-mosquito agents – preferably those with a high percentage of the so-called DEET (eg MUGGA). Local remedies are also very effective, we especially recommend Medisoft lotion available in any local store.

In local shops and bars, it is best to pay in the local currency (Tanzanian Shilling – TSH). If the prices are in dollars, it is better to pay in dollars. The conversion rate is unfavorable (usually $ 1 = 2000 TSH). The highest denomination is the 10,000 TSH banknote (which is slightly less than $ 5).

It is best to bring US dollars to Zanzibar. The best exchange rate is at the exchange offices in Stone Town, you can exchange them at the airport, but find the exchange office in the parking lot (not in a hall), which offers a more favorable exchange rate – the current exchange rate is around 2300 TSH for $ 1. Note: Dollar bills older than 2009 are not accepted in Zanzibar.

Payment by card is possible in most large hotels and parts of restaurants. It should be remembered that a commission from 3.5 to 5% is always added. There are also several ATMs in Stone Town, Nungwi and  Paje. The accepted cards are mainly MasterCard and Visa.

In Zanzibar, the climate all year round is very similar and warm. It is enough to pack swimwear, dresses, t-shirts and shorts in the suitcase. It is worth taking with you airy, e.g. linen shirts that will protect against the sun, for ladies we recommend a pareo. As footwear, flip-flops and sandals. Most hotels in Zanzibar do not have strict dress code requirements for dinner.

Water shoes – useful during many trips (eg Safari Blue) and walks on the reef at low tide.

Filters with a high UV factor – the sun in Zanzibar is very strong and tans even in the shade. For children or people with very fair skin, we recommend taking special protective clothing with a UV filter. It is also worth stocking up on Panthenol – it can be useful.

A hat and sunglasses with a UV filter – the sun can also be felt by the eyes.

Mosquito repellent – preferably with a lot of DEET (e.g. Mugga)

When shopping in souvenir shops, remember that shells cannot be taken out of Zanzibar!

So what is worth buying?

Spices – Zanzibar is famous for its spices, you can buy them individually or in a set. It is also worth buying spice mixes, e.g. various types of masala mixes. Fragrance soaps.

Kangi is a patterned, colorful garment worn by women in Zanzibar. In the souvenir shops you can buy beautiful pareos or dresses.

Maasai bead jewelry – you can buy it on the beach and in souvenir shops.

Tanzanite jewelry – quite expensive, but beautiful and unique.

Wooden masks – in various sizes and shapes. The genuine ebony ones available at antique stores often cost over $ 100.

Bao game – usually very nicely carved. Available in various sizes, depending on the possibilities of the “luggage”.

Tinga, Tinga – pictures in a specific Zanzibari style, easy to transport, rolled up.