interesting facts about Zanzibar
Capital: Stone Town
Local Currency: The Tanzanian Shilling, however, US$ and Euros are widely accepted.
Electricity: 220 volts with UK plugs; we recommend to take a adapter with you
Religion: Predominantly Muslim (~98%).
Climate: Between September and April the average temperature is 26ºC – 32ºC, and it cools down between May and August, when the average temperature is 25ºC – 28ºC.
Time Zone: 3 hours ahead of GMT.
ATM machines: Available in Stone Town, Paje and Nungwi. Traveller cheques are not common.
Important Information
Either prior to your arrival or when you arrive at the airport, you will need to purchase a single entry visa for US $50, which is valid for 90 days.
Zanzibar International Airport is 8 kilometres from the capital, Stone Town. Taxis are available, however, transfers from the airport or harbour can also be arranged by us, and the price depends on the distance to your destination. Please contact us for more information.
Local public transportation consists of minibus share taxis, and they are known as 'Dalla Dalla'. Most of them leave for Stone Town from Darajani Market.
Medical Facilities are found in Stone Town and in most of the villages.
Yellow fever vaccination is required for all travellers from yellow fever endemic countries/regions. All individuals in transit for twelve (12) hours or more and/or who leave the immediate airport vicinity in a yellow fever endemic area are required to show proof of vaccination upon arrival in any port of debarkations. Direct arrivals from non-endemic countries in Europe and North America are not required to show the certificate.
Dar es Salaam, the economic capital of Tanzania is 60 km southwest from Stone Town and can be reached by either a small airplane, ferry or boat.
Culture and LivingZanzibar is predominantly Muslim, so dress conservatively and you will get on well with the locals. The women are rarely seen during the day, however, just before sunset they gather on the beach, dressed head to toe in colourful clothes. As the fishermen boats come to shore and they pull their nets in, catch a glimpse of the women as they race to the sea to fill their buckets with the catch of the day! Showing respect is especially important in rural areas of Zanzibar. If you pass by some locals sitting under a tree, greet them with “Jambo” and watch their faces light up! Local culture dictates that the person passing by should be the first one to greet.
For more infomation check this 45 minutes Video from National Geographics about Zanzibar:
Zanzibar is an island located off the coast of Tanzania in East Africa.
It is known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and diverse cultural heritage.
Zanzibar was a major center of the spice trade and is home to many historic sites, including the Old Stone Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The island is also famous for its stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and diving.
Visitors to Zanzibar can also enjoy exploring the local markets, sampling the local cuisine, and learning about the unique blend of African, Arab, and Indian cultures that make up Zanzibar's heritage.
In addition, Zanzibar is surrounded by lush tropical forests and offers a variety of outdoor activities such as kayaking, hiking, and wildlife watching.
