Let me just start by saying the vibe in Zanzibar is VERY welcoming.
Sometimes when I go on a trip internationally for more than 2 weeks, I'm ready to go home by the time the end of the trip is near. I never really get that feeling of wanting to stay in a place forever before. And I expected the narrative to stay the same on my first solo trip to Zanzibar, Tanzania.
That couldn't be farther from the truth though! My whole perspective changed while being on Zanzibar island, a small island about 2 hours off the coast of Tanzania's mainland. As an African American, there's something special about being on an island, with people who look just like me, thriving in a community and culture that is unfamiliar to me.
The language, the food, the landscape, the social cues, are all different. And despite that I still felt like I belonged. The warmth and friendliness that the Zanzibari people showed me was unmatched. Honestly, it meant so much to me because I was a solo traveling and before my trip, many people warned me of negative stigmas in East Africa about foreign women visiting solo. So, I will share my real experience in Zanzibar with you in this blog post.
Blog Contents
Safety and Solo Travel in Zanzibar
It is very safe in Zanzibar during the day and relatively safe at night. You shouldn't have to worry about any major crimes occurring, however it is always important to follow simple safety rules. Don't wear flashy, expensive jewelry and keep your personal items on you. Also, don't go in areas that you're not familiar with late at night.
There are lots of parties in Zanzibar, especially in the resort areas. These are usually very safe and have security at the door checking tickets for entry. You can find a good variety of parties in Michamvi, Paje, Jambiani, and Bwejuu.
The local culture is very masculine. By that I mean most of the places you frequent during the day like shops, restaurants, and bars, will be mainly staffed by men. Younger women do work, but there are far more male servers than female. Overall, people are very friendly and willing to help you (if they speak english). Try to learn a few Swahili words before you arrive to help you get around easier.
Visa Requirements
If you are a U.S. citizen, you will need to apply for either an ordinary visa or a multiple entry visa. The ordinary visa is ideal for someone who plans to only be on Zanzibar Island and not visit the mainland or vice versa. If you plan to visit both Zanzibar island and the mainland to see attractions like Mount Kilimanjaro, the Ngorongoro Crater, or go on a wildlife safari, you will need a multiple entry visa.
As of September 2023, multiple entry visas cost $100 and ordinary visas cost $50.
You can find everything you need to know about getting a tourist visa in Tanzania in our blog post, "How To Apply For a Tourist Visa: Tanzania & Zanzibar".
Malaria Medication
According to the United States Center for Disease Control and Prevention, "CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Tanzania take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip."
If you are only visiting Zanzibar island, you are in a low risk area for malaria (good news for you!). During my trip to Zanzibar, my doctor recommended that I take doxycycline as a form of malaria prevention. This is an affordable, 1-per-day medication that will help you fight against a malaria infection.
During my trip, multiple locals told me that there are no threats of malaria on Zanzibar island, but I continued my medication just to be sure since that's what the doctor recommended. Make sure you take the advice of your doctor and get malaria medication if you need it. If you plan to go on safari or visit a more rural area of mainland Tanzania, you are more likely to encounter the disease.
Dress Code
Your fashion choices can play a major role in how you experience Tanzania. You might not think it's so important initially, but there are several cultural elements that will make you think twice about what you decide to pack in your suitcase.
Firstly, let's talk modesty. Dressing modestly might sound like a death sentence to someone who comes from a sexually liberated culture like the one we have in the United States. However, Tanzania is an islamic country where majority of the citizens practice Muslim religion.
In Islam, men and women are told to dress simply, modestly and with dignity. Women should cover their shoulders, knees and mid-section. Some women also cover their face, although this is not the most common practice among locals. As a tourist, you should try to follow the islamic dress code to the best of your ability when you're out and about - covered shoulders, knees and mid-section.
When you're on the beach, it is okay to wear your regular swimwear. Make sure you leave your thong bikini or speedo at home and opt in for something more modest like a 1-piece suit or trunks. Don't forget, once you step foot off the beach, you need to cover up. If you need a Tanzania packing checklist, download our free one here!
Exploring the Wildlife
This Tanzanian island offers a lot of outdoor activities. The top activities according to local businesses are wind surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and island safaris. Below are the activities I did that I recommend you try out during your trip! I'm an animal person, so if you are too these options might resonate with you!
Jozani Forest
Home to red monkeys, deer and other animals. You can easily drive through and grab food, souvenirs, and pictures.
Michamvi Sunset Cruise
Catch a beautiful sunset on the calm, gentle waters of the Indian Ocean.
Starfish and Seaweed Farms
Explore the east side of the island during low tide and walk across the ocean floor.
Mnemba Island
Snorkel or scuba dive to see the islands coral reefs and their inhabitants
Baraka Natural Aquarium (above)
Swim with and feed sea turtles in a natural alcove.
What to Eat
The food wasso GOOD in Zanzibar that I created an entirely separate blog post about some of the amazing foods I tried. If you have a gluten intolerance you might have some issues eating here, but you can always substitute bread or ugali for rice.
Where to Stay
I had an amazing stay at a small boutique hotel in Paje, The Garten.
I arrived very late at night and there was a security guard waiting for me on arrival. He allowed me to check in the following morning, and it was a breezy, stress-free stay from there.
The Garten
Paje, Zanzibar, Tanzania
The hotel services included:
Daily turndown service
Complimentary breakfast
24/7 hotel security
Private garden access
Free wifi connection
There are only 2 potential downsides of this hotel:
1. No pool, the beach is a 5-minute walk away.
2. No mosquito net around beds, but they gave me mosquito spray.
I will definitely be staying here again, I had no issues and its a great location.
Transportation
Getting around Zanzibar can be very cheap and reliable. Here are a few options you can consider if you're trying to get from one part of the island to another
Dala Dala - the public bus system, safe option.
Motor - motorcycle or moped, sometimes risky because drivers may not have a license, cheap option but not always available.
Bajaji - small car-like transportation, sometimes risky because drivers may not have a license, cheapest option.
Private Transportation - privately owned cars registered with the government, safest option, most expensive.
If you plan to hire someone for transport to get around, make sure you agree on the price of the ride before getting in. Sometimes drivers will try to charge you extra if you don't agree. It's always best to pay in cash, and in most cases this will be the only option. Unless you book a transport in advance, you will need to pay for your transportation with Tanzanian shillings. I recommend Zanzibar Island Taxi Services for all your transportation and excursion needs!
Nightlife
There are lots of parties in Zanzibar, especially in the resort areas. These are usually very safe and have security at the door checking tickets for entry. You can find a good variety of parties in Michamvi, Paje, Jambiani, and Bwejuu. Some of the best parties are usually close to beach resorts and restaurants.
You shouldn't have to worry about any major crimes occurring, however it is always important to follow simple safety rules. Don't wear super flashy, expensive jewelry and keep your personal items on you. Also, try not to go in areas that you're not familiar with late at night. Visit the area earlier in the day or ask a local about the area, and always drink responsibly! If you're looking for a truly local turn up experience, make sure you buy some Konyagi liquor to start the night right.
I hope this blog helps you have a truly welcoming and fun time in Zanzibar. Is Zanzibar on your travel bucket list? What are some things you want to do if you visit?
Baadaye!
