How many days to visit Zanzibar? +
Seven days is the ideal format: 2 nights in Stone Town for history and culture, then 4 to 5 nights on a beach (Nungwi in the north, Paje in the southeast depending on profile). Ten days leave room for Mnemba diving, Jozani forest and Pemba to disconnect. Five days work as a short combo: 1 night Stone Town and 4 nights beach.
Which is the best coast in Zanzibar? +
The north (Nungwi, Kendwa) stays swimmable all day and packs the bars, restaurants and resorts: ideal for a first stay. The southeast (Paje, Jambiani) recedes hundreds of meters at low tide, perfect for kitesurfing and a quieter vibe. The east coast at Matemwe and Kiwengwa serves as a base for Mnemba trips.
Do you have to pay a tourist tax in Zanzibar? +
Yes, since 2024 a $44 tourism levy per person is mandatory for every foreign visitor. Pay online on the official portal before departure, keep the confirmation, checks possible at ZNZ airport or port. It adds to the standard Tanzania visa (e-visa $50 or visa on arrival $50).
Is it better to fly or take the ferry to Zanzibar? +
Direct flights (Doha, Istanbul, Addis Ababa then ZNZ) remain simplest for a beach-only trip. The ferry from Dar es Salaam ($35-50, 1h30 to 2h on Azam Marine or Coastal Fast Ferries) makes sense if you combine a Serengeti or Ngorongoro safari before the island.
Is Zanzibar safe for travelers? +
Yes overall. Covered clothing outside the beach and resort (Zanzibar is 99% Muslim), no flashy jewelry in Stone Town at night, pre-booked airport transfers. Ramadan shifts restaurant hours and local mood, check dates before booking.
Do you need a visa for Zanzibar? +
Yes for French and most EU travelers: Tanzania visa required (e-visa $50 or visa on arrival $50 at ZNZ/JRO/DAR, valid 90 days). See our [Tanzania visa guide](/en/destinations/tanzania/practical/visa-tanzania/) for the step-by-step procedure and the Zanzibar-specific $44 tourism levy.
