Zanzibar

Zanzibar is an insular semi-autonomous region of Tanzania, located in the Indian Ocean. It mainly consists of many small islands and two large ones; Unguja and Pemba Island, the capital being Zanzibar City located of the island of Unguja. Zanzibar is accessible via ports and an international airport. Zanzibar is famously known for its White pristine sandy beaches with clear waters, its historical center ‘stone Town’ a world heritage site, raffia, and its spice industry which produces; Cinnamon, Cloves, Nut mug & Black pepper.

Zanzibar has a rich culture and history which has been mainly influenced by the Africans, Persians, and Arabs. Zanzibar offers a vast diverse of wildlife ant natural attractions such as; Zanzibar red colobus, Papilio demodocus, dolpine, Zanzibar leopard, African palm civets,pemba flying fox and many more.

Attractions Found in Zanzibar;

• Jozani Forest
• Mangrove Swamp
• Pemba Island
• Unguja Island
• Stone Town
• Kendwa Beach
• Slave Market
• Nungwi village
• Spice Islands
• Ruins
• Dolphine Marine
• Prison Island
• Cheetahs rock
• The Rock restaurant

Important Information guests should know before travelling to Zanzibar:

1. The "ZIC" Mandatory Insurance (Crucial)

As of late 2024 and continuing through 2026, all foreign visitors to Zanzibar are required to purchase Mandatory Inbound Travel Insurance from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC).

• Cost: USD 44 per person.

• Validity: Covers up to 92 days.

• Note: This is required even if you already have international travel insurance. You must purchase it before you arrive via the official visitzanzibar.go.tz portal. You will receive a QR code that immigration will scan upon arrival.

2. Entry Requirements & Visas

• Yellow Fever Certificate: Since you are coming from Kenya (an endemic country), you must show proof of Yellow Fever vaccination. Immigration is very strict about this for travelers arriving from East African neighbors.

• Tanzania Visa: Zanzibar is part of Tanzania but semi-autonomous. If you have a Kenyan passport, you are visa-exempt. If you are a non-resident, the visa is USD 50 (USD 100 for US citizens).

  • Tip: Apply for the e-visa in advance to avoid long "Visa on Arrival" queues at the Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ).

3. January 2026 Weather & Sea Conditions

January is the "Short Dry Season" in Zanzibar.

• Temperature: It is very hot ($30$–$33$°C) and humid. Ensure your hotel has AC.

• Ocean: The sea is calm and crystal clear ($28$°C water), making it the absolute best time for snorkeling at Mnemba Atoll or diving.

• The Kaskazi Wind: A steady north-east monsoon wind blows this time of year, which is perfect for kitesurfing in Paje.

4. Cultural Etiquette (The "Stone Town" Rule)

Zanzibar is a conservative Muslim society. While swimwear is fine on the beach:

• Modesty: When walking through Stone Town or local villages, both men and women must cover their shoulders and knees.

• Public Affection: Keep public displays of affection to a minimum in public areas to respect local customs.

5. Local Logistics

• Currency: While USD is widely accepted in hotels, use Tanzanian Shillings (TZS) for local markets and small restaurants for better rates. Ensure any USD bills you bring are printed after 2006, as older notes are often rejected.

• Transport: Taxis are plentiful but expensive. For a more authentic (and crowded) experience, try a Dala-dala (minibus). For airport transfers, it is best to book with your hotel in advance