Coastal & Islands

Zanzibar Island

Tanzania

How To Get To Zanzibar

Zanzibar is situated about 35 km off the coast of mainland Tanzania. Travelers can reach the archipelago easily by booking a domestic flight or hopping on the fast ferry.

By Flight

Flying is the most convenient way to reach Zanzibar. The island is served by Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ), located about 8 km south of Stone Town.

There are regular 20-minute flights from Dar es Salaam (DAR), as well as direct flights from safari hubs like Arusha (ARK) and Kilimanjaro (JRO). Direct international flights also arrive from Europe and the Middle East.

Key Airlines:

Air TanzaniaPrecision AirCoastal AviationAuric AirZanAirQatar AirwaysFlydubaiEthiopian AirlinesKenya Airways

By Fast Ferry

If you are starting your journey in Dar es Salaam, you can take a high-speed passenger ferry to Stone Town port.

Azam Marine (Kilimanjaro Fast Ferries) is the primary and recommended operator, running 4 daily departures in each direction. Non-resident tickets cost $35 - $40 USD for economy, and can be booked online or at the ticket offices in Dar es Salaam and Stone Town ports.

Average Travel Duration:1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours

Getting Around the Island

Private Taxis

The most comfortable and safe way to travel around the island. Rides from Zanzibar Airport or Stone Town to Nungwi/Paje cost between $35 and $50 USD. Agree on the price before boarding.

Airport Shuttles / Shared Transfers

Pre-booked shuttles or resort transfers are widely available and cost less than individual private taxis.

Car Rental

Car hire is available but requires an international driving license and a local permit (which the agency can arrange for $10 USD). Driving is on the left side of the road.

Dala-Dalas (Local Minibuses)

The cheapest option, costing about $1-2 USD. However, they are often extremely crowded, slow, and not recommended if you are carrying large luggage.

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