What to take to Zanzibar: 10 travel tips for first timers (+packing list)

In this article you'll find all the useful information you need for your first trip to Zanzibar. This includes a packing list, information about weather and seasons in Zanzibar, how to dress appropriately and which local attractions are the best if you are short of time. These insights come to you first-hand from our last trip to Zanzibar. You're welcome.

Zanzibar is an island where less is more. When the water is so turquoise that it looks photoshopped, or you just can't wipe that smile off your face every time you share a 'Jambo!' with a local, then you know you are closer to understanding the meaning of life.

Here are some important tips for traveling to Zanzibar:

1. You can get your visa at a Tanzanian consulate prior to arriving, or receive it at any of the following border points:

Dar es Salaam International Airport
Zanzibar International Airport
Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA)
Namanga Entry Point (Tanzania-Kenya boarder point)

You can find detailed visa information here. The visa fee depends on your nationality. 


Zanzibar | © 203Challenges.com

2. Consider the seasons before you plan your trip to Zanzibar:

The dry season or 'winter' in Zanzibar is from June to October – the weather is sunny and dry, and the temperature hovers around 25ºC (77ºF)
The peak rainy season (with long rain storms) – from March to May
The lesser rainy season (with shorter rain storms) – from November to December or the beginning of January
The short dry season or 'summer' in Zanzibar – January to March

3. What clothes to take to Zanzibar: Take light clothes, but remember to pack long sleeves and trousers/skirts. These are a good idea because Zanzibar is a Muslim state, and you should take care to dress modestly. Another option is to get a large shawl (or kanga as it's called Zanzibar) to cover your shoulders or wrap around your waist.

4. Every hotel on the island offers more or less the same tours to the best attractions in Zanzibar. If you're traveling in a group of more than three people (or if you can make friends with other people in your hotel), feel free to negotiate with your tour operator to get a cheaper price.


Zanzibar | © 203Challenges.com