Where is Zanzibar? How to Get to Zanzibar from Tanzania
Every year, 1.4 billion people travel all over the world. Around 400,000 visitors head to the beautiful island of Zanzibar.
If you’ve spent some time in Tanzania, then it’s likely that you are ready to explore Zanzibar too!
This magnificent country has a lot to offer. But, you may be wondering where is Zanzibar? Well, buckle up! There are only two ways to get from Tanzania to the island of Zanzibar.
Are you wondering where Zanzibar is and how do you get there? We will show you how in this article.
Where (and What) is Zanzibar?
This island is located on the Swahili Coast and is next to Tanzania. There are only two ways in which you can reach Zanzibar from Tanzania which we will explore.
Zanzibar is home to more than 1.3 million people. This island is known for having some of the best beaches in the entire world. (This explains why tourism is on the rise!)
You can expect heat and sunshine year-round on this island due to how close it is to the equator. It also boasts 12 hour days and 12 hour nights.
A brilliant way to enjoy Tanzania is by going on safari for a week and then relaxing on a beach in Zanzibar for another week!
How to Get to Zanzibar from Tanzania
If you’re wondering how to get to Zanzibar, the answer is, you only have two options!
So, it’s worth perusing which is right for you so that you can book your choice in advance and save some money.
1. Take the Ferry to Zanzibar
In order to take the ferry, you need to head to Dar es Salaam which is in the east of Tanzania.
It takes between two and three hours to travel from this major city to Zanzibar by ferry. During this time, you can sit back, enjoy the view, and relax!
Luckily, this option is also very easy to arrange. All you need to do is go online and book tickets either with Fast Ferries or Azam Marine Coastal Ferries. (It’s a good idea to look up reviews online to figure out which is right for you.)
You’ll then take the ferry from downtown Dar es Salaam to Stone Town in Zanzibar which will welcome you with friendly locals, beautiful beaches, and delicious food.
The earliest you can get a ferry from Tanzania to Zanzibar is 7 am. The latest ferry leaves port at 3:45 pm. In between time, ferries run at 9:30 am and 12:30 pm.
However, it’s worth checking the time table before you plan to set sail. Although there are other ferry companies available, stick to the most well known and reviewed for safety purposes.
How to Choose Your Seat
You can book tickets on the ferry websites. This is the safest option and ensures you’re avoiding scammers in Dar es Salaam. However, you need to make sure that you are at the port early in order to pick up your tickets.
Are you a backpacker looking for the cheapest ticket possible, or is this a holiday that you want to splurge on?
If the latter is the case, then you should certainly choose the VIP ticket which will get you a very comfortable chair on the top deck. You’ll also be kept cool thanks to air conditioning. This fare will cost up to $50 but is worth it for a little comfort!
If you buy Premium and First class, you will pay around $40. The only difference between tickets is how far in advance you book!
These decks are crowded and you may not be able to sit down for the entire crossing. This is not recommended for those who get seasick or are elderly.
Finally, you can choose an economy ticket. Surprisingly, this may be the best option for those who get seasick as you’re sat on the outside deck. It will cost around $35.
2. Fly from Tanzania to Zanzibar
Zanzibar has an international airport and flights regularly land from all over Tanzania.
(If you’re not in Tanzania, you can fly in from many other places all over the world too. Check Skyscanner to find out whether you can fly from your hometown!)
You’ll find that flights from Tanzania will cost upwards of $100 USD but shouldn’t be much more expensive than this depending on the time of year you fly.
Once you land in Zanzibar, it’s easy to locate a taxi which will take you to your hotel. However, it’s worth asking your hotel in advance whether they offer a pickup service.
If they don’t, find out how much it usually costs to travel from the airport to your hotel to make sure you’re not being ripped off.
How to Choose Which is Right For You
Are you someone who regularly feels travel sick? Then the ferry is simply not the right choice. Rough seas make for a very bumpy journey.
Furthermore, you should be aware that pickpockets are rife on the ferries. This still happens on planes but security is usually tighter.
If you are a backpacker, taking the ferry is usually a much cheaper option. However, if you keep your eye out then you may find a cheap flight.
If you’re concerned about climate change, it’s likely that taking the ferry is a more environmentally friendly option.
Still Wondering “Where is Zanzibar”? Visit to Find Out!
After this article, you should certainly have your answer to “where is Zanzibar”? But, if you’re still wondering what it’s like, there is only one solution.
Your next holiday should be in Zanzibar! You certainly won’t regret sipping cocktails next to the ocean with a view of a stunning sunset.
But, before you head over to this wonderful island, check out this article about the cultural history of the Maasai people.