×Everything useful before and during your stay, entry requirements, what to pack, where to stay, how to move around the island and when to come.
Last updated · September 2026Zanzibar is part of Tanzania, so Tanzanian entry rules apply. Visa requirements depend on your nationality. The standard Ordinary Visa is currently USD 50 and valid for up to 90 days; U.S. passport holders travelling for tourism use the Multiple Visa.
Zanzibar's inbound travel insurance is mandatory for foreign visitors, even if you already have another travel or medical policy. Current official cost: USD 44 per adult and USD 22 per child. Fees can change.
There is no single vaccine rule that applies to every traveller: requirements can depend on where you are arriving from or have transited. Keep routine vaccinations up to date and ask a travel clinic about recommended vaccines and malaria prevention for your personal itinerary.
Yellow-fever documentation can depend on your country of origin or transit. Check the latest official requirements before departure.
Tanzania restricts plastic carrier bags. Specific exceptions exist, including some packaging and zip-lock bags used for toiletries.
Choose the coast according to the holiday you actually want, not just the hotel.
The easiest option for airport transfers, dinners, excursions and nights out. Agree on the price before leaving when using an independent taxi.
A good choice if you want independence and plan to explore different parts of the island. Zanzibar drives on the left. Make sure the rental provider arranges/checks the locally required driving documentation.
Convenient for shorter distances. Wear a helmet and be particularly careful at night: road lighting can be limited and you may encounter pedestrians, bicycles, animals and uneven road surfaces.
For an island adventure or a different way to explore, see the quad options already available through Essence Zanzibar.
There is no single perfect month. Choose according to the kind of trip you want.
Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim. Beachwear is normal at beaches and resorts, but in villages and Stone Town choose more respectful clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Ask before photographing people.
Do not simply arrive and fly a drone. TCAA requires permits and registration for drone operations; non-residents should arrange the required import, registration and operations approvals before travelling.
In a serious emergency, contact the appropriate local emergency service, your hotel/host and your travel insurer. Keep your passport details and insurance documents accessible.
Emergency services and contact numbers can change. Essence assistance is a travel-help contact and does not replace police, ambulance, medical or consular services.
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