Travel Tips
Zanzibar General Information
Business Hours
- Government organizations office hours are from 07h30-15h30 Monday to Friday.
- NB: On Friday there is a short break due to prayers(12h00-14h00).
- Banks open from 08h00-16h00 Monday to Friday, and half day on Saturday 08h00-13h00. Closed on Sunday.
- Bureau de change open from 08h00-18h00 Monday to Saturday.
- Most shops open from 08h30-18h30.
Visa Requirements
- Zanzibar is part of the United Republic of Tanzania.
Visa is required while visiting Zanzibar.
- Valid passports are required for entry into Zanzibar.
- Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six (6) months after your departure from Zanzibar.
- European passport holders do require visas.
Climate
- Zanzibar enjoys an equatorial climate with heavy rainfall from March to end May.
- November to March is generally the hot and humid time of the year with temperatures often climbing above 30°C. Rainfall is limited to short bursts.
- April to June is the monsoon period characterized by torrential rainfall.
- July to October is probably the most pleasant time to visit Zanzibar. The temperatures average 25°C and there is little rain
Health
- Before undertaking any travel all clients are encouraged to consult with their GP and/or local travel practitioner for the most up-to-date health information on the destinations they are travelling to.
- Visitors to Zanzibar are required to have a Yellow Fever inoculation and present the certificate when entering the country. Alternatively a certificate of exemption from a travel clinic must be presented.
- Visitors to Zanzibar are encouraged to take Malaria prophylactics. We suggest clients consult with their nearest travel clinic for detailed information and advice on precautions
Dressing
- 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.
NB: Topless or Nude sunbathing is strictly prohibited in Zanzibar.
Drinking Water
- We recommend you to use bottle mineral water always during your stay in Zanzibar.
Languages.
- The official language is Swahili, or Kiswahili. English and Arabic are also spoken.
Security.
- As said precaution is better than cure, we recommend you not to carry large sums of money or put on expensive jewellery during your holiday.
- All valuables belongings should be kept on the safe deposit boxes at the resort.
Time Zone
- Zanzibar is 3 hours ahead of the GMT and does not observe daylight saving time.
Electricity
- The voltage in Zanzibar is 220-240v so some appliances might need a converter. Plugs sockets require the three -pronged British plugs but there are some that are wired to accept the two pronged European kind.
- We recommend you to best take a universal travel adaptor so that you can use all available electrical sockets.