Practical & Tips
Zanzibar Travel Basics: Entry, Visa, Money & Safety
By Haji, your local · updated on 12.07.2026 · 8 min read
Part of our complete Zanzibar travel guideFirst time to Zanzibar? These travel basics answer the most important questions before you take off: Visa and entry, money and payments, SIM card, arrival, and safety. So you can arrive relaxed and focus on the beautiful things.
Entry & Visa
Zanzibar is part of Tanzania – most travelers (including EU citizens) need a visa to enter. The tourist visa usually costs around 50 US$ and is available as an e-visa online in advance or – depending on current regulations – upon arrival. Your passport should be valid for at least six months upon entry. A yellow fever certificate may be required if you are coming from a yellow fever area. Always check the current regulations before your trip (e.g., with the Foreign Office).
Money: Cash is King
The currency used is Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), but US dollars are often accepted for tours and hotels (preferably newer bills). Zanzibar is heavily cash-based: ATMs are available in Stone Town and larger towns, but card payments are not widely accepted. Plan enough cash for food, tips, and the remaining payment of your tours. What to expect is detailed in the Cost Overview.
SIM Card & Internet
A local SIM card (e.g., Airtel, Vodacom, Zantel, Halotel) is cheap and well-covered in tourist areas. You need your passport to register. Resorts usually offer Wi-Fi, but the speed can vary.
Arrival & Getting Around
Most fly with a stopover to Zanzibar Airport (ZNZ). On-site, you can get around by taxis, local Dala-Dala minibuses, or – most comfortably – with a private transfer that we can arrange separately.
Safety & Respect
Zanzibar is considered a relaxed, friendly travel destination. As everywhere, secure your valuables and avoid lonely beach areas at night. Drugs are illegal and severely punished. Tanzania is socially and legally conservative – keep public displays of affection discreet. Current safety advice can be found at the Foreign Office.
Good to Know
- Electricity: UK-type G sockets (three-pin), 230 V – bring an adapter.
- Time: East Africa Time (UTC+3), no daylight saving time.
- Language: Swahili; a lot of English in tourist areas.
- Best travel time: see our dedicated guide – plan weather and prices smartly.
Basics covered? Then let's plan the beautiful part – free and without obligation.
Frequently asked questions
Do you need a visa for Zanzibar?+
Yes. A visa is required for Tanzania (which includes Zanzibar) – for most EU citizens around 50 US$, as an e-visa in advance or depending on regulations upon entry. Check the current regulations before your trip.
Can you pay by card in Zanzibar?+
Only to a limited extent. Zanzibar is heavily cash-based; cards are not widely accepted. Plan enough cash (TZS or US dollars).
Can you get a SIM card locally?+
Yes, local SIM cards are cheap and well-covered in tourist regions. You need your passport to register.
Is Zanzibar safe?+
Zanzibar is considered relaxed and friendly. Usual caution with valuables and avoiding lonely beaches at night is usually sufficient. Current advice is provided by the Foreign Office.