What to bring
In hotels and resorts and their private beaches, you may bring any kind of clothing you like. Some hotels and resorts will have more formal dinner dress requirements.
As Zanzibar is a close knit island community with a population that is 99 percent Muslim, it is advised to bring clothing that is culturally appropriate especially in Stonetown and village areas.
Suggested culturally appropriate clothing can be described as follows:
For women
- Long, flowing skirts that reach at least mid-calf length
- Shirts with sleeves, no plunging necklines, and covers the midriff and back when seated
- No clothing that is transparent or see-through
For men
- Shorts or pants that are at least knee length
- No clothing that is transparent or see-through
It is strongly recommended that you bring your preference of insect or mosquito repellent. Especially in the early morning and evenings, mosquitoes can be present. Some flies and ticks can also be a nuisance depending on the geographical location.
It is highly recommended that you bring your preferred form of sun protection. This can include SPF30 or higher sunblock, hats, sunglasses, and thin long-sleeve shirts and pants. Because Tanzania is close to the equator, UV rays are strong.
Yes, you will be able to charge your electronics at all hotels and resorts. Be advised that standard voltage here is 240V, so you may need to bring a converter for electronics that take a lower voltage.
Money and tipping questions
If you choose to participate in activities in Zanzibar, it is best to ask hotel concierge what is the going rate for tipping tour guides. Tipping culture for guides is very strong in Zanzibar, so do be aware that there often is an expectation for guiding services.
| Group of 1 – 3 persons | Group of 4-6 persons | Group of 7-10 persons | |||||||
| Standard | Select | Luxury | Standard | Select | Luxury | Standard | Select | Luxury | |
| Mountain guide | 25 | 30 | 35 | 25 | 30 | 35 | 25 | 30 | 35 |
| Porter | 5 | 6 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
| Camp Chef | 10 | 12 | 15 | 15 | 20 | 25 | 20 | 25 | 30 |
| Driver | 10 | 15 | 20 | 15 | 20 | 25 | 20 | 25 | 30 |
| All figures are in USD per day per staff | |||||||||
Typically in Tanzania you do not need to tip at restaurants or hotel staff. However if you are impressed with the services, tips are appreciated.
In Stonetown, ATMs and bureau du change are widely available. You can also change common currency, such as US Dollars or Euro, with most hotel receptions.
Outside of Stonetown, ATMs and bureau du changes are not typically available. Please be aware as you make your plans for Zanzibar.
Phone and wifi
In most populated areas of Zanzibar you will be able to make and receive phone calls on your mobile phone if you have service to the local network. Remote beaches however may have weaker or no cellular service.
You can get access to the local cellular network either though purchasing a local pre-paid SIM card, or through an international roaming plan from your home cellular network.
Outside of major hotels, restaurants, and resorts, wifi service will not be available.
To access the internet while in Zanzibar, you will need to have access to the local cellular network and data. This can be done through either purchasing a pre-paid local SIM card and selecting a data plan option, or through your roaming data options from your home cellular network carrier.
Safety
Zanzibar is a very safe and peaceful place with welcoming people. It is safe to walk around Stonetown, however, it is strongly advised to exercise necessary precautions and do not flash expensive valuables.
Stonetown also has very winding and narrow streets, so be ready to get lost a little bit, it is part of the fun. If you do get lost, simply walk into a nearby store and ask for directions. Shopkeepers are always ready to help.
Zanzibar is a peaceful place with welcoming people. It is advised that you ask your hotel reception first for directions and any advice before embarking on a longer walk.
You can certainly take walks along the beach and to nearby villages. Do make sure you are dressed appropriately as villages are conservative areas.
Also be aware of significant tide changes. This is important as beach routes often can be impassable during high tide.
Zanzibar’s malaria prevalence is close to 1%. This means your risk of malaria is very low. However, it is still advisable that you consult with you physician about malaria prophylaxis options.
If your questions have not been answered in our FAQs, please feel free to reach out to us directly at travel@miselesafaris.com. We are happy to help you during your travel preparations!