Make
the most of your trip with these essential Zanzibar travel do’s and
don’ts. Learn key etiquette, safety advice, and local customs to
help you explore Tanzania’s Spice Island respectfully and travel
with confidence.
• Greet with “Jambo” or “As-Salaam-Alaikum”. Warm greetings are highly valued in Swahili culture.
• Dress modestly outside beach resorts. Cover shoulders and knees when walking through towns and villages.
• Respect Islamic customs. Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim, so be mindful of prayer times and cultural norms.
• Remove shoes before entering homes or certain cultural buildings. Follow local cues.
• Carry small cash. Markets, taxis, and local eateries rarely accept cards.
• Ask permission before photographing locals. Especially women and elders.
• Try Swahili cuisine. Biryani, urojo soup, and fresh seafood at Forodhani Gardens are local favourites.
• Learn basic Swahili phrases. “Asante” (thank you) and “Karibu” (welcome) are appreciated.
• Explore beyond resorts. Stone Town, spice farms, and villages offer real cultural insight.
• Support community-run tours and artisans. Buying locally made crafts benefits island livelihoods.
• Wear swimwear or revealing clothing in towns. This is culturally inappropriate outside beaches and resorts.
• Show public affection. Kissing or hugging in public is considered disrespectful.
• Bring alcohol into public spaces. Drink only in licensed venues or hotels.
• Photograph police, military, or government buildings. This is prohibited.
• Eat, drink, or smoke publicly during Ramadan daylight hours. Be discreet and respectful.
• Touch someone’s head. It is considered intrusive in Swahili culture.
• Bargain aggressively. Negotiation should be friendly and relaxed.
• Drink tap water. Always use bottled or filtered water.
• Walk deserted beaches at night. Stick to populated, well-lit areas.
• Rush island life. Zanzibar runs at a slower, relaxed pace.
• Zanzibar blends African, Arab, and Indian influences. Architecture, food, and customs reflect this mix.
• Friday is the holy day. Expect midday closures and a slower pace.
• Pause during the call to prayer. It’s polite to lower voices briefly.
• Use your right hand. For eating, greeting, and giving items.
• Hospitality is generous. Accepting drinks or offers shows appreciation.
• Dress like locals. Women in towns dress conservatively — follow their lead.
• “Pole pole” reflects island life. Patience is admired.
• Spice culture matters. Cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg are central to identity.
• Respect elders. Greet them first whenever possible.
• Communal harmony is valued. Loud or disruptive behaviour is discouraged.
• Use official or hotel-arranged taxis. Agree fares before departure.
• Buy a local SIM card. Improves island-wide connectivity.
• Avoid tap water everywhere. Including for brushing teeth.
• Use mosquito repellent. Especially at dusk; seasonal dengue and malaria risks exist.
• Dress properly in Stone Town. Light, breathable clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
• Carry a torch. Some Stone Town alleys are poorly lit at night.
• Book tours with licensed guides. Avoid unregistered operators.
• Expect humidity. Linen and cotton clothing work best.
• Wear water shoes. Coral and sea urchins are common.
• Carry small notes. Useful for tipping guides, drivers, and porters.
• Visit Prison Island early. Calmer waters and fewer crowds.
• Take a sunset dhow cruise. One of Zanzibar’s most iconic experiences.
• Eat at Forodhani Gardens at night. Seafood and Zanzibar pizza are highlights.
• Explore Stone Town in the morning. Cooler and less crowded.
• Buy spices directly from farms. Fresher and more aromatic.
• Choose quieter beaches. Matemwe and Pongwe are calmer than Nungwi.
• Join a Swahili cooking class. Learn spice techniques and local flavours.
• Visit Jozani Forest early. Best chance to see red colobus monkeys.
• Check sea conditions for ferries. Local crossings can be slow.
• Embrace island rhythm. Zanzibar rewards patience and openness.
• Emergency number: 112 (police, fire, ambulance).
• Avoid walking alone after dark. Especially in Stone Town backstreets.
• Respect marine life. Do not touch coral or sea turtles.
• Drug laws are strict. Severe penalties apply.
• Alcohol is limited publicly. Mostly available in hotels.
• Secure valuables. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
• Verify boat operators. Unlicensed tours can be unsafe.
• Follow beach safety flags. Strong currents exist.
• Dress modestly during religious periods. Fines may apply.
• Avoid political gatherings. Demonstrations can be unpredictable.
• English is common. Swahili greetings still build instant rapport.
• Smile and stay polite. Warmth is essential in local interactions.
• Avoid sarcasm. Clear, direct communication works best.
• Greet before browsing shops. Courtesy matters.
• Use respectful gestures. Avoid pointing with fingers.
• Women may not shake hands. Wait for them to initiate.
• WhatsApp is widely used. For bookings and coordination.
• Allow conversational pauses. Silence is comfortable.
• Be patient. Island time is relaxed, not rushed.
• Compliment crafts and food sincerely. Local pride is strong.