Frequently asked questions

Mambo and its forums are to help you to find out everything you need before you come to visit Zanzibar - but sometimes before you ask a question on here it might be worth checking if the answer is already here.

Health advice, for example, is provided here

Mambo also offers a guide for travelling with children and for woman travellers.

Other frequently asked questions are addressed here:

Do I need a visa to come to Zanzibar, Pemba or Mafia?

Most countries do require a visa to visit these islands, all of which are legally part of the United Republic of Tanzania. You can organise this visa in advance from the Tanzanian Embassy or High Commission in your country if you are a cautious traveller, but getting a visa on arrival at Tanzanian airports is normally a straightforward process if you want to minimise the pre-holiday running around.

Is Zanzibar safe?

Yes, Zanzibar is relatively very safe, with a lower crime rate than many Western countries. The usual travel rules apply, though. Don't flash cash or gadgets and use a healthy sense of judgement moving around at night on your own - if you have company you should be fine. In terms of terrorism risk, there have been no incidents here - check your own government website to check if there are any current security alerts, but Zanzibar predominantly enjoys a very tolerant Islamic culture.

How should I pay for everything?

There are a wide number of ATMs in Stone Town, but cash is much harder to obtain in the coastal areas of Zanzibar, Pemba and Mafia. If you are staying in a big hotel they may take credit cards, but this isn't always an option so do check in advance. Travellers' cheques are accepted in few places, so the best option is to bring US dollars or Euros or to rely on the cash machines in town but make sure you are well stocked with money before venturing far.