Zanzibar

Zanzibar is part of the Republic of Tanzania. Also known as “The Spice Islands”, Zanzibar was once a separate state with a long trading history with the Arab World. It united with Tanzania (then known as Tanganyika) in 1964. The capital of Zanzibar is Zanzibar City located on the island of Unguja and its old quarter, Stone Town, is a World Heritage Site.

Zanzibar Fact: Freddie Mercury, lead singer of Queen was born in Stone Town, Zanzibar

Photos: Some of the images used on our various Zanzibar pages have been provided by Breezes Beach Club & Spa, Zanzibar

Location

The Zanzibar Archipelago is located in the Indian Ocean, 25-50km off the coast of Africa. There are many small islands and two larger ones. Unguja (the main island, informally referred to as "Zanzibar"), and Pemba. Zanzibar was once a separate state with a long trading history within the Arab world; it united with Tanganyika to form Tanzania in 1964 and still enjoys a high degree of autonomy within the union. The capital of Zanzibar, located on the island of Unguja, is Zanzibar City, and its old quarter, known as Stone Town, is a World Heritage Site.

Resorts

Zanzibar is well known for its luxury tourist resorts and hotels on Unguja, Pemba and Mafia Island. It is also possible to stay in historic Stone Town which attracts visitors with its fascinating labyrinth of narrow streets. The whole island is accessible from any of the hotels so it doesn't really matter where you stay. Take a look at our Zanzibar excursions pages to see a sample of what awaits you in Zanzibar.

Currency

The local currency in Zanzibar is the Tanzanian Shilling. It fluctuates considerably and is difficult to obtain internationally so travelers are advised to take a sensible mix of cash and travelers cheques. Credit cards can be used at larger establishments but commission charges are high.

Visas

All British passport holders require a visa to travel to Tanzania and you should obtain one prior to travelling from your nearest Tanzanian diplomatic mission.

It is possible to obtain a tourist visa for a single entry at the main ports of entry to Tanzania but this is subject to the fulfilment of all immigration requirements. If you will require a multiple entry visa you will need to arrange this through a Tanzanian diplomatic mission before your arrival in Tanzania. Otherwise you will have to buy a single entry visa each time you enter the country.

Full details and requirements can be discussed when you make your travel enquiry. Please remember, travelers are solely responsible for ensuring they have all the correct travel documents in place for their trip.

Power

Zanzibar uses 220/240 volt AC and sockets are usually the same 3 square pins as are used in the UK. However, plugs even within the same hotel can vary so take a multi-adaptor to be on the safe side. Be aware that the power supply in Zanzibar can be unreliable although most hotels have back-up generators.