Question 1

Do Indians need a visa to visit Zanzibar?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Indian passport holders require a Tanzania tourist visa, which is available as a Visa on Arrival at Zanzibar's Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ). The fee is USD 50 (~₹4,200) for single entry. Alternatively, apply for an e-Visa online at tanzaniaimmigration.go.tz before travel.

Question 2

How do you get to Zanzibar from India?

Accepted Answer

There are no direct flights from India to Zanzibar. The two main routes are via Dar es Salaam (DAR) on Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, or Air Tanzania — total journey time around 10–13 hours — or via Nairobi (NBO) with a connection to ZNZ. Return fares from Bangalore typically cost ₹35,000–55,000.

Question 3

How much does a Zanzibar trip cost from India?

Accepted Answer

A 7-night Zanzibar trip for a couple costs ₹80,000–1,20,000 on a budget (guesthouses, local food), ₹1,20,000–1,80,000 for mid-range beach resorts, and ₹2,00,000+ for luxury properties on Nungwi or Kendwa. Flights from India are the biggest cost component — ₹35,000–55,000 return per person.

Question 4

What is the best time to visit Zanzibar from India?

Accepted Answer

June to October is the best season — dry, sunny, and ideal for diving, snorkelling, and beach days. Temperatures stay around 27–30°C. December to February is a secondary dry window. Avoid March–May (long rains) and November (short rains) when beach activities are limited.

Question 5

What are the top things to do in Zanzibar?

Accepted Answer

The top experiences are: Stone Town UNESCO heritage walk and Forodhani night market; Nungwi and Kendwa beach days (most beautiful beaches); a Spice Farm Tour (cloves, cinnamon, vanilla grown here); Mnemba Atoll snorkelling and diving (one of Africa's best reefs); Jozani Forest for the rare Red Colobus monkey; and Prison Island for giant Aldabra tortoises.

Question 6

What currency is used in Zanzibar?

Accepted Answer

The official currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), but US Dollars are widely accepted at hotels, resorts, and tourist activities. Carry USD cash from India — you'll get the best exchange at authorised money changers in Stone Town. Carry TZS shillings for local markets and street food.