between Dar and Zanzibar ferries, speedboats and charter flights are crossing. The easiest and fastest way are the charters, if you arrive on Dar es Salaam Airport not too late, you can easily book on a charter, which brings you in 20 minutes to Zanzibar (Coastal Air, Precision Airways, Air Express, Air Tanzania and others). Prices range between USD 55 and USD 70 one way.
Speedboats need two hours, they charge USD 35 and the normal ferries between USD 15 (quite uncomfortable, 4-5 hrs) and USD 25 (flying horse, 3 hrs). Departure times changing often and depend on the season. The last ferry is leaving at 4pm (May 2003)
from Arusha/Moshi
from Arusha and Moshi there are daily carriers to Dar. Prices range from USD 20 and 30, depending on company. Please ask in your hotel in Arusha/Moshi for departure times.
There are also scheduled flights from Kilimanjaro airport to Zanzibar.
from elsewhere in the world
Presently, the only scheduled airlines which fly Zanzibar directly is KLM (with Kenya Airways) and Gulf Air (since June 2003). During high season, many charters, mainly from Italy fly Zanzibar directly, flights are booked early.
The cheapest way is to go to Dar es Salaam and then take a charter or a ferry (see above). British Airways, Emirates, South African Airways, Swissair, Air Tanzania, Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines and others offer scheduled flights to Dar.
from Stonetown
It is a half hour drive from the airport and Stonetown to the Menai Bay Beach Bungalows on a good road. Please inform us, if we should organize the transfer for you.
useful hints
GENERAL INFORMATION
The population of Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim with a rich Swahili culture. Because of religious and cultural traditions dress code is important, and men and women should dress appropriately when away from the beach, i.e. covering shoulders and legs too below the knees. Beach wear on the beach is fine, although nude or topless bathing is not tolerated.
When in villages or in Stone Town wearing beach wear would (and does) cause offence. Try to wear loose-fitting, non-transparent clothing when in public.
Zanzibari people are generally very warm, open and hospitable, and your respect for permission before taking photographs or filming local people is appreciated. Do not take photos or film at sensitive government sites including the State House, seaport, airport or military sites. If uncertain, it is always better to ask.
Public consumption of alcohol is not permissible, except in hotels and tourist areas, bars and some restaurants, where it is no problem.
Public displays of affection such as kissing are not customary and generally considered offensive, unless behind closed doors.
Local customs should respected. Mosques are sacred places and there is generally no entry to non-Muslims, unless accompanied by a person of the faith who can show you around except during the times for congregational prayer, which are five times daily.
When offering or accepting things, try and remember to offer and receive with your right hand. This is the hand which should also be used for eating.
CLIMATE
Zanzibar experiences ideal holiday weather for most of the year, with the exception of April and May, which are seasonally subject to short rains. Short showers may occur in November. Best time to visit is from June to December, when it is not very hot.
MONEY MATTERS
The unit of local currency is the Tanzania Shilling (TSh). 1 Euro=1130 Tsh, 1 US$= 1050 Tsh (May, 2003). American dollars in cash or travelers cheque's are acceptable in many places around town. Credit cards are still almost unknown in Zanzibar, and if you do manage to find a place to use them there will usually be a surcharge of at least 10%.
Bartering about prices is common in Zanzibar marketplaces. Hotel, restaurant and tour operator prices are generally non-negotiable.
TIME DIFFERENCE
3 hours ahead of GMT.
ELECTRICITY
Power system is 220-240 volts ac, plugs 13amp usually square pin. But every hotel has adapters you can borough.
PASSPORTS&VISAS
All visitors must have a valid passport and visa to enter Tanzania. Visa fees vary according to the country you originate from. Visas can be obtained from Tanzania Diplomatic Representatives abroad and/or directly at arrival.
HEALTH MATTERS
VACCINATION CERTIFICATE
All visitors traveling to Tanzania should have a valid international certificate of vaccination against Yellow Fever.
Anti-malaria medication is recommended when traveling within East Africa. Anti-malaria tablets are recommended to be taken a few days prior to arrival, during your stay and for a short period after returning home.
Tab water is not drinkable, even for brushing teeth you should use mineral water.
AIRPORT DEPARTURE TAX
Airport departure tax of 20 US$ per person on international flights is to be paid in cash only. In some cases some airlines include the departure tax in their ticket price. Please check with your travel agent.
