How to Get to Zanzibar: Flights, Ferries, and Travel Tips

Getting to Zanzibar isn’t as tricky as you might think, whether you’re flying directly or taking the scenic ferry route from mainland Tanzania. This spice island paradise welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, and there are several ways to reach its pristine beaches and historic Stone Town.

Your Zanzibar Transportation Options

Best ways to reach Zanzibar:

• By air: Fly directly to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ)
• By sea: Take a ferry from Dar es Salaam to Stone Town
• Combined: Fly to Dar es Salaam, then ferry to Zanzibar
• Flight time: 1.5-8 hours depending on connections
• Ferry time: 2-4 hours from Dar es Salaam

Flying to Zanzibar: Your Main Gateway

Direct International Flights

Zanzibar’s international airport handles flights from several countries. The most common routes include:

• Europe: Turkey, Dubai, Kenya, and seasonal charters from Italy, Germany, and the UK
• Africa: Nairobi, Addis Ababa, and Johannesburg
• Middle East: Dubai and Doha

Major airlines serving Zanzibar include Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, Turkish Airlines, Emirates, and Qatar Airways.

Connecting Through Dar es Salaam

Many travelers fly into Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam first. From there, you have two options:

1. Domestic flight: Quick 20-minute hop to Zanzibar (around $80-150)
2. Ferry connection: More scenic but longer journey

Precision Air and Coastal Aviation operate regular domestic flights between the mainland and Zanzibar.

Best Time to Visit and Book

Zanzibar welcomed 736,755 visitors in 2024, showing a 15.4% increase from the previous year, making it increasingly popular (source).Peak seasons mean higher prices and more crowds.

Peak season (July-September, December-January):

• Higher flight and ferry prices
• More tourists
• Better weather conditions

Shoulder season (March-May, October-November):

• Better deals on transportation
• Fewer crowds
• Some rain but still pleasant

If you just stated planning your stay in Zanzibar, read our guide about best time to visit Zanzibar.

Transportation Costs Breakdown

Flight Costs

• International direct flights: $400-1,200 depending on origin and season
• Dar es Salaam connection: $200-800 international + $80-150 domestic
• Regional flights: $150-400 from East African cities

Ferry and Bus Combinations

• Bus Dar es Salaam to Kivukoni: $1-3
• Ferry tickets: $20-70 depending on class and company
• Total budget option: $25-80 from Dar es Salaam

You can diver deeper into travel cost, be reading our guide about cost of travel in Zanzibar.

Airport and Port Information

Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ)

• Located 5km from Stone Town
• Taxi to city center: $10-15
• Dalla dalla (local bus): $0.50
• Car rental available on-site

Stone Town Port Facilities

• Walking distance to most hotels in Stone Town
• Taxis available for beach resorts ($15-40)
• Money exchange services available

Travel Documents You’ll Need

• Passport: Valid for at least 6 months
• Visa: Required for most nationalities ($50-100, available online or on arrival), read our detailed visa information
• Yellow fever certificate: If arriving from affected countries
• Travel insurance: Highly recommended

Money and Payment Tips

• Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) and US Dollars widely accepted
• ATMs: Available in Stone Town and major tourist areas
• Credit cards: Accepted at hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for local transport

Getting Around Once You Arrive

From Airport/Port to Your Hotel

• Stone Town: Walking distance from port, $10-15 taxi from airport
• Beach resorts: $15-40 taxi ride depending on location
• Dalla dalla: Cheapest option at $0.50-1 but can be crowded

Local Transportation Options

• Taxis: Negotiate price beforehand ($5-20 for most trips)
• Dalla dalla: Local buses, very cheap but basic
• Rental cars/scooters: Available but roads can be challenging
• Hotel transfers: Many resorts offer pickup services

Travel Insurance and Health Considerations

Health prep:

• Malaria prevention recommended
• No special vaccinations required (except yellow fever from affected areas)
• Travel insurance recommended for medical coverage and trip cancellation

Safety notes:

• Zanzibar is generally safe for tourists
• Stone Town can get crowded, watch for pickpockets
• Ocean activities carry normal water sport risks

Learn more about safety and read our guide about is Zanzibar Safe for Tourists.

Packing Essentials for Your Journey

For the flight/ferry:

• Comfortable clothes for long travel
• Light jacket for air conditioning
• Entertainment and snacks
• Power bank and charging cables

General packing tips:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing
• Strong sunscreen (SPF 30+)
• Mosquito repellent
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Beach gear

If you come to Zanzibar to get married, don’t miss our guide on what to pack for your Zanzibar destination wedding.

Alternative Routes and Hidden Gems

Via Kenya

Some travelers find better flight deals routing through Nairobi. Kenya Airways offers good connections, and you can even add a Kenya safari to your trip.

Island Hopping

Consider visiting Pemba Island too. Ferries run between Zanzibar and Pemba, giving you a chance to see both islands.

Overland Adventures

The most budget-friendly option involves flying to Dar es Salaam, taking local buses to the ferry terminal, and then the ferry to Zanzibar. It’s longer but gives you a real taste of Tanzanian travel culture.

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Getting to Zanzibar has never been easier, with multiple transportation options fitting every budget and travel style. Whether you choose the quick flight or the scenic ferry ride, you’ll soon be walking the spice-scented streets of Stone Town or relaxing on world-class beaches. The journey itself becomes part of your Zanzibar adventure. We highly recommend to read also our ultimate Zanzibar Travel Guide.

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Learn more about Zanzibar:

• Zanzibar Visa Requirements
• Jambiani Beach: Zanzibar’s Idyllic Wedding Destination
• Zanzibar Wedding Packages
• What language is spoken in Zanzibar?