What time zone is Zanzibar?

Local time is GMT +3, which is used in East Africa in general as well. Same time zone as Eastern Europe.

  What is the climate in Zanzibar?

Zanzibar sits on the warm Indian Ocean, 6 degrees from the equator. The climate is reasonable with a constant temperature of 21–33 degrees Celsius. However, this is subject to the seasonal northeast monsoon winds, blowing day and night from November to March (the Zanzibar summer). The temperature is then about 26–34 degrees Celsius with humidity. The southwest monsoon winds blow from the beginning of June to mid-October (the Zanzibar winter). Then the temperature is about 21–29 degrees Celsius. The rainy season is from April to the end of May, although you can expect showers any time throughout the year.

  Do I need a visa to visit Zanzibar and Tanzania?

Visitors from most countries require a visa to enter Zanzibar and Tanzania, and your passport should be valid for six months onwards. Single-entry tourist visas can be applied for at Tanzanian embassies, Tanzanian High Commissions, and at the Tanzanian borders (airports and in some cases when crossing by land).

Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous state within Tanzania, so although you don’t need a separate visa to enter, you will need to show your passport on arrival. Visitors flying directly to Zanzibar can purchase a visa on arrival at the airport. Don’t forget your yellow fever vaccination certificate.

If you get your visa at the airport, you’ll need to pay by credit card.

  What medication should I take when travelling to Zanzibar?

Check with your doctor before traveling. Visitors are required to show a yellow fever certificate before entering Zanzibar if they come from yellow fever risk-countries.

Malaria is not as common in Zanzibar as it is in mainland Tanzania, but prevention medicine is recommended. Cover up after sunset and use mosquito repellent on exposed skin. Sleep with a mosquito net or in an insect-free room.

HIV is a threat! Protection should be used.

Drink bottled or well-boiled water and make sure the seal is unbroken.

Remember that medical facilities are limited in Zanzibar. Visitors are advised to have comprehensive insurance to cover the unlikely event of a serious accident. There are many hospitals in Tanzania that accept international insurance cards.

  Which currency can I use in Zanzibar?

The local currency in Zanzibar is the Tanzanian Shilling (TSh). US dollar bank notes are also widely accepted as payment throughout the island. Traveler’s cheques can be exchanged at banks, bureau de change, and some hotels.

  Which credit cards work in Zanzibar?

Credit cards such as Visa and MasterCard are accepted at large establishments. There are many ATMs in Zanzibar Town that can be used with Visa, Visa Electron, and MasterCard. You may need to try different banks before you find the one that works with your card. American Express works in Zanzibar, but not at as many ATMs.

  What should I pack for a Zanzibar holiday?

Clothes should be light, loose, washable, and preferably made from natural fabrics. Rubber flip-flops or sandals are good for wandering around villages and towns, but a sturdy pair of walking shoes will be needed for sightseeing or walking through the forest. The tropical sun in Zanzibar is very strong, especially at midday. Sunscreen with high SPF and hats are recommended. You should also pack sunglasses and a flashlight (the electricity is not completely reliable).