FAQs
Question
What are the COVID-19 restrictions in Zanzibar?
Answer
All passengers arriving in Tanzania will be required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate upon arrival. The test should be taken within 72 hours of arrival into Tanzania. All passengers travelling to Tanzania must complete an online Traveller’s Surveillance Form. This form must be submitted no more than 24 hours before arrival (https://afyamsafiri.moh.go.tz/). All passengers entering Tanzania will be subjected to enhanced screening for COVID-19 including a mandatory rapid test. The cost for rapid testing is 25 USD per traveller which must be paid in cash on arrival. The Government of Tanzania is also implementing temperature scanning for all international passengers arriving into Tanzania. This is obviously subject to change so please stay up to date using either of the following websites: https://www.emirates.com/english/help/covid-19/travel-requirements-by-destination/#81336 https://www.moh.go.tz/en/announcements
Question
Where can I get a COVID-19 test for my return trip?
Answer
1. Register for the test at www.zanzibarcovidtesting.co.tz 2. Fill in: Type of test required, Test date, Date and Time of departure 3. Test date should be 48-72 hours prior to your departure 4. Choose a hospital – the closest to Jambiani is the MAKUNDUCHI COVID-19 CENTER 5. Select preferred time - those of your flying out on the evening of the 4th will need to go for a test as early as possible on the morning of the wedding (2nd), the centre opens at 8am 6. Fill in all your details and upload your passport 7. If available, pay online (recommended), or on spot in cash or credit card 8. On the day - bring your passport or a copy of your passport - registration reference number (received after registration) - wear a face mask 9. The certificate will be provided in the system online at the pre-selected date If that all sounds too much like hard work, you can also book mobile testing through the app so they'll come to you! Mobile testing is $120, in-centre testing is $80.
Question
Yellow Fever - Do I need a vaccination?
Answer
There is no Yellow Fever on Zanzibar, however the requirements for Yellow Fever vaccination changes from time to time so although it is not required for travelers from places where Yellow Fever is not endemic at the moment, this may change and you should check with your local health authority before travelling. If, however, you are coming from an area where Yellow Fever is endemic, eg from Kenya, you probably will be asked to show your vaccination certificate. This includes layovers of 12 hours or more. If you do not have the correct certificate you will need to be vaccinated at the airport prior to entry into Zanzibar. In our opinion, it's better to be safe than sorry and to have the vaccination. Make sure you bring the vaccination certificate book with you!
Question
How much does it cost to travel to Zanzibar?
Answer
There is a wide range of accommodation on Zanzibar and as such there is something to suit every budget and desired level of luxury. According to www.budgetyourtrip.com the average daily price for traveling in Zanzibar is $46, the average price of meals in Zanzibar for one day is $15 and the average price of a hotel in Zanzibar for a couple is $44. With regards to flights, cost will obviously vary depending on where you’re traveling from. We recommend SkyScanner because they can find the best deals across all of the airlines.
Question
Is malaria a risk on Zanzibar?
Answer
Yes. You will need to consult your doctor about anti-malaria medication. Check with your local health authority for any vaccination requirements.
Question
Is Zanzibar Safe?
Answer
Zanzibar is predominantly very safe, however exercise caution just like anywhere and Book your tours through registered tour operators only.
Question
Are there any cultural issues to be aware of?
Answer
The prevailing religion in Zanzibar is Islam, so it is important when outside the resort to dress conservatively without exposing too much skin. At the hotels or in the beach resorts, bikinis and less conservative clothing are fine.
Question
What is the local currency and how should we manage our money?
Answer
The local currency is the Tanzanian Shilling but US Dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels, but not at many shops and certainly not at the local markets. Be prepared to pay a surcharge between 5% - 10% if paying by credit card.
Question
What about electricity in Zanzibar?
Answer
Electricity on Zanzibar is 220-240V AC, 50 Hz. Plugs have 3 flat-pinned prongs (UK type) and adaptors are available to buy in Stonetown.
Question
Can I bring my mobile phone to Zanzibar?
Answer
Tanzania in general has excellent mobile phone coverage, well extended onto Zanzibar as well. Please check with your home based network provider for international roaming and data coverage.
Question
I heard that you cannot swim in Zanzibar when the tide is out. Is this true?
Answer
Along the east coast when the tide is out, you can expect to have to walk 200 - 300 meters out to reach the sea. This becomes less of an issue the further north you go.
Question
What is the water temperature in Zanzibar?
Answer
The Indian Ocean which surrounds Zanzibar is wonderfully warm all year around, averaging about 27° C/ 80° F.
Question
Is it safe to drink the tap water?
Answer
No. It is important to drink purified bottled water - please ensure you’re using glass bottles where possible!
Question
How can I be certain that me and my valuables will be safe while we're in Zanzibar?
Answer
When you’re travelling anywhere in the world, you are advised to be careful with belongings. The following article has some great general tips for staying safe while you're traveling: https://expertvagabond.com/travel-safety-tips/
Question
What's the Dress Code?
Answer
This is a barefoot, beach dresses and board shorts kind of a wedding - wear whatever you feel most comfortable in… and make sure you bring something to swim in for later on!
Question
Can we bring our kids?
Answer
We love your kids—we really do. But we want our wedding to be your night off!
Question
What about gifts?
Answer
Your presence is our present! You'll have traveled a long way to celebrate with us, please don't feel any obligation to get us anything!