Is Zanzibar safe to visit?
Is Zanzibar safe for solo female travellers?

Those were the first two terms I typed in Google when I started planning my Zanzibar holiday.

If you are wondering the same thing, you are in the right place. I traveled solo to Spice Island and spent almost 2 weeks in Zanzibar, Tanzania. 

Zanzibar, with its dreamy beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history, is a dream tropical island destination for many travelers. But Is it safe in Zanzibar? Is Nungwi safe? Continue reading to find out.

⁉️ If you have been wondering “In which part of Zanzibar did Anja feel the least safe?”, you will find the answer hidden in the blog.

Is Zanzibar safe to visit

More and more people visit Zanzibar each year. It is one of the most budget-friendly tropical islands, compared to Seychelles or Barbados. The best time to visit Zanzibar coincides with the summer holidays in Europe, making it an attractive exotic holiday destination.

When planning a trip to Zanzibar, learning about safety concerns, like crime in Zanzibar and Zanzibar safety for tourists, particularly for solo travelers, is paramount.

I planned my own Zanzibar Itinerary, stayed on the best Zanzibar beaches, and visited Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Therefore, I feel confident to help answer the question, “Is it safe to travel to Zanzibar?” 

Below, you will find information and tips to follow and make your stay in Zanzibar safe.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Zanzibar is considered safe to visit, with low levels of violent crime reported. Take common-sense precautions and stay aware of your surroundings.
• Travelers should remain alert, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots, to avoid petty theft and opportunistic crimes.
• Respecting local customs, cultural traditions and dressing modestly will contribute to a safer and more enjoyable experience.
• It’s advised to not swim or walk in villages alone at night, especially when traveling solo.
• Stay informed about potential natural hazards, mosquito diseases, health and hygiene considerations. 

Disclosure: This is Zanzibar safe to visit article may contain affiliate links. If you click it and buy something you like, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you! Read more in Disclaimer.

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1. Things to know before visiting Zanzibar

Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous island in Africa just off the coast of Tanzania in the Indian Ocean.

Before you start planning Zanzibar itinerary, have a look at the most important aspect, when you consider any international travel:

• POLITICAL SITUATION
  The political situation is stable, with Zanzibar having its own government within the United Republic of Tanzania, with a president and a House of Representatives. Crime rates are relatively low, but petty theft can occur, especially in tourist areas, so keep your valuables secure.
  

• CLIMATE AND WEATHER
  The weather in Zanzibar can be hot and humid, with two main seasons: dry from June to October and a rainy season from November to May. The best time to visit Zanzibar is during the dry season when you can enjoy sunny days, calm ocean and clear skies.
  

• MAIN RELIGION
  The majority of the population is Muslim. Respect their culture and dress appropriately. This means dressing modestly when outside the hotel grounds. Avoid wearing short dresses and don’t show affection publicly, like kissing, holding hands or hugging.
  

• TRAVEL HEALTH
  Travelers should be cautious about possible tropical diseases, like malaria and yellow fever, and take all the mosquito bite prevention measures.
  
  
  • VACCINATIONS
    Besides Yellow fever, and even with exceptions, there are no obligatory vaccinations for Tanzania and Zanzibar. There are recommended ones: hepatitis A and B, typhoid, cholera, rabies, meningitis, tetanus … but consult your doctor before getting a shot.
    
    
  • YELLOW FEVER VACCINATION
    If you’re flying in from places without a Yellow Fever risk (Europe, USA, Australia etc.) you shouldn’t need a Yellow Fever certificate. BUT If you are transiting through a country with a risk of Yellow Fever (Kenya, Ethiopia) for more than 12 hours – sometimes even less, you might need one. You can see the countries with the risk of yellow fever (YF) here.
    
    
  • MOSQUITO DISEASES – MALARIA
    The risk of getting malaria in Zanzibar is low. Malaria can be a concern if going on a Tanzania safari. To be on the safe side, follow mosquito bite prevention measures:
    – ensure your accommodation has mosquito nets (most hotels in Zanzibar have them);
    – use an insect repellent with 20%-30% DEET or 20% Picaridin;
    – wear neutral-colored (beige, light grey) clothing and long sleeves at dusk and at night;
    – apply sunscreen first followed by the repellent (preferably 20 minutes later).

• FOOD and DRINK
  Always eat freshly prepared hot food, to avoid any stomach issues. Tap water is not safe to drink so stay hydrated with bottled water. Avoid ice in your drinks and consume fruit that can be peeled.
  

• LANGUAGE
  English and Swahili are the official languages. While English is widely spoken and understood, learning some basic Swahili phrases will improve your experience and show respect for the local culture.
  

2. Stay safe in Zanzibar with trusted Zanzibar travel resources

Do you want to stay safe during your Zanzibar trip?

They use the trusted Zanzibar travel resources for planning your trip. This is a collection of travel resources you will need, for fun and safe travel to the islands in the Zanzibar archipelago. They include transportation, accommodation, travel insurance, and WiFi.

BEST and SAFEST PLACES TO STAY IN ZANZIBAR:
• The Loop Beach Resort in Jambiani – right on the beach with a private pool, great for families.
• Z Hotel in Nungwi – top location overlooking the Indian Ocean, great for couples.
• Makofi Guest House in Nungwi – top communal area, perfect for solo travelers.
• Zanzibar Coffee House in Stone Town – great location and rooftop terrace, perfect for families.
• Shoki Shoki House in Stone Town – best-rated area in Stone Town, for couples and solo travelers.

SAFE AND FUN ACTIVITIES and TOURS IN ZANZIBAR:
• Stone Town walking tour – my absolute favorite and the one I recommend to everyone.
• Prison Island – my second favorite Zanzibar tour, and you see tortoises.
• Spice tour – it is very informative, even though it can feel touristic at a time.
• Sunset dhow tour – to try something local and unique.
• Transparent kayak photoshoot in Kendwa – for dreamy photos from a tropical island.

3. What is the crime rate in Zanzibar

Is Zanzibar worth visiting? Will I feel safe enough to explore?
Zanzibar crime rate is moderate, with a crime index of 57.27, based on the data provided by Numbeo.

Numbeo ranks countries and cities on a scale crime rate scale in five categories: 
• 0 – 20 or very low
• 20 – 40 or low 
• 40 – 60 or moderate
• 60 – 80 or high 
• 80 – 100  or very high

Zanzibar falls in the middle of the scale. According to their data, crime has increased in the past 3 years, and the highest ratings fall into categories of robbery, things stolen from the car, vandalism, theft, and bribery.

The overall safety index for Zanzibar is at 42.73. The index for walking alone during the day is high at 62.86 and only moderate at 40.86 for walking alone at night.

With a moderate crime rate, Zanzibar is worth visiting. Find how safe is Zanzibar for tourists and travel safety tips for Zanzibar below.

4. How safe is Zanzibar for different traveler groups

Now that you are familiar with what to expect when visiting Zanzibar, let’s think about who is going. Are you going to Zanzibar alone, with your family, or with friends?

Every type of traveler has different stuff to think about.

There is a significant difference between male and female solo travelers or between families with babies and the ones with school kids. Between pregnant woman and the one who is not.

Below you will find how safe is Zanzibar for different types of travelers. And after that, you will find some practical safety tips when in Zanzibar.

4.1. Is Zanzibar safe for tourists?

Yes, Zanzibar is safe for tourists.

Spice Island relies on tourism and has safety measures in place to ensure tourists’ safety. Most of the tourists that visit Zanzibar have a safe and enjoyable trip. Be advised to take precautions, as petty theft can occur in tourist areas. Keep your valuables secure and respect local customs and traditions by dressing modestly.

4.2. Is Zanzibar safe for females?

The short answer is yes.

Zanzibar is safe for female travelers. Female travelers should avoid wearing short dresses. They should be dressed modestly, in loose (not fitted) clothes. They should not walk alone at night and should be aware of their surroundings.

4.3. Is Zanzibar safe for solo female travellers?

Zanzibar is safe for solo female travelers.

To minimize the risk of anything happening, follow common safety Zanzibar precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, dress in loose clothes, use trusted transportation and go on tours with well-known tour operators. Stay in trusted hotels and let the staff know about your plans if anything should happen.

4.4. Is Zanzibar safe for families?

Yes, Zanzibar is safe for families.

There are many family-friendly hotels and resorts on the island. It is important to stay alert, keep an eye on children in crowded places, take common-sense precautions, and don’t walk alone at night.

4.5. Is Zanzibar safe for LGBT?

Like with the rest of Tanzania travel, Zanzibar could be challenging for LGBT travelers due to cultural beliefs and strict laws. Homosexuality is illegal in both, Tanzania and Zanzibar.

When in public, you should not show any affection to a person of the same sex. No kissing, hugging, or holding hands. Showing affection to a person of the same sex is punishable by law from 5 to 30 years in prison.

LGBT travelers should exercise discretion and be mindful of local customs and sensitivities, by not showing any public displays of affection, especially in Stone Town, the historic center of Zanzibar city, and outside of the hotel.

4.6. Is Zanzibar safe for American tourists?

Yes, Zanzibar is safe for American tourists.

Tourists coming from the United States are no more in danger than any other nationality. Travelers should take all standard safety precautions, dress modestly, stay in trusted hotels, use reputable transportation and tour providers, respect local customs, and avoid walking alone at night.

If you are still concerned about your safety in Zanzibar but want to travel there anyway, there are some ways to avoid that risk. Below are Zanzibar travel safety tips to prepare you for possible inconveniences on your Zanzibar holiday.

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5. Useful Zanzibar safety tips

5.1. Don’t drink tap water

Tap water in Zanzibar is not safe to drink.

It is advised to only use tap water for showering and washing hands. Brushing your teeth with tap water, can potentially be fine, but I would suggest using bottled water to avoid any health problems.

Bottled water is available at hotels, restaurants, stores and street sellers. Some hotels, like New Teddy’s on the Beach, offer unlimited refills of drinking water into your water bottle, to reduce plastic waste.

5.2. Stick to using guarded ATMs inside banks

Use guarded ATMs in public areas and the ones inside banks.

Most ATMs in Zanzibar are located in Stone Town and around the airport. If you have to use it, stick to the ones inside banks. They usually have a door and a guard.

After your withdrawal, bring the cash to your accommodations and keep it in a safe.

5.3. Always have cash on hand

Cash is (still) king in Zanzibar.

If possible try to exchange money to Tanzanian Shillings at the Airport or in Stone Town.

While some hotels and restaurants accept Credit cards, you will need cash to pay in local shops, for taxis and tours. Also the fees for paying with a card can be high.

There are a few ATMs in Zanzibar. Most of them are located in Stone Town, around the airport and some in Paje and Nungwi. ATMs in Zanzibar do run out of money quickly and when possible, withdraw the largest amount around ($140).

5.4. Only carry the cash you need

Avoid carrying large sums of money when exploring Zanzibar.

Only carry the amount of money you’ll need for the day’s expenses, and leave unnecessary items locked securely in your accommodation.

Count the money you are given after any purchase and keep small bills on you.

Carry a dummy wallet and have it tucked away in many areas. Don’t flash large bills around in busy areas and markets, but only show the amount you have when bargaining.

⁉️ “In which part of Zanzibar did Anja feel the least safe?” It was at night and in Kendwa, when going to a Full moon party (with a group).

5.5. Don’t travel without travel insurance

When traveling, having travel insurance is a must.

It can come in handy if you get sick, if an airline loses your luggage, or if you need to change your itinerary. One of the girls in my hotel got a heat stroke in Zanzibar and medical assistance had to come to her hotel room.

Medical expenses are never cheap, so it is good to know that travel insurance has your back. Have a look at Safety Wing, which covers people from all over the world, while outside their home country.

In case of emergency contact your health insurance or dial 112. Main hospital in Zanzibar is Mnazi Mmoja Hospital in Stone Town. North Valley Hospital Zanzibar in Kendwa is a private hospital that provides a wide range of diagnostic treatments for Tourists.

5.6. Dress according to local customs

Majority of the population in Zanzibar practices Islam, so dress appropriately at all times.

When outside a hotel and when visiting religious places, dress comparable to locals. Cover your shoulders and knees. Don’t show cleavage and have your midsection covered (no crop-tops). Clothing should be loose. Leave clothes that are too tight, too fitting and see though at home. 

But can you wear a bikini in Zanzibar? Yes, you are allowed to wear a swimsuit in hotel/resort and on a beach. Avoid walking in swimsuits outside of your accommodation and in villages.

5.7. Don’t carry or use illegal drugs

Possession of drugs will get you fined or even sent to prison.

Zanzibar and Tanzania have strict drug laws. Even the possession of a small amount of marijuana can put you in prison. And prisons in that part of the world tend to be dirty and overcrowded.

5.8. Handover all plastic bags

Plastic bags are banned in Tanzania and Zanzibar.

Bringing, using, and selling plastic bags can get you a hefty fine and some prison time. If you happen to have them in your luggage, hand them over when asked.

This ban was introduced in 2019 and aims to fight against pollution, preserve ecosystems, and protect wildlife by reducing the use of non-biodegradable materials.

Exception to the ban are plastic bags for medical waste ‘ziplock’ bags for airline security procedures.

5.9. Agree on a price before getting into a taxi

Agree on a taxi rate BEFORE you get in the car.

Not many taxis have a meter, so it is essential to agree on a taxi rate before you start the journey. Otherwise, you might get taken advantage of “white tourists” by being overcharged. While it is not dangerous to be overcharged, the argument that might arise could be.

Before going into a taxi, ask your hotel, locals, and shops how much they would pay for the same route to get the approximate cost. Then ask the driver and negotiate for the rate that will both make you happy.

5.10. Avoid touching people in public

Don’t show affection publicly, like kissing, holding hands, or hugging.

Public displays of affection are frowned upon in Zanzibar and Tanzania. Touching people of same and opposing sex in public may upset some people, especially in congested areas and Stone Town.

Same-sex relationships are illegal. Thus LGBT+ travelers should not show affection to their partners in public areas, because doing so could get you arrested or imprisoned.

5.11. Don’t walk alone after dark

Avoid walking around at night, especially when traveling solo.

If you have to leave the hotel after sunset, stay in well-lit areas and consider walking in groups. Do not wander around the streets and villages alone. Don’t travel at night, and if must, consider using taxis or trusted hotel transportation.

There have been some safety warnings in Paje and Matemwe Beach after dark. I was also advised to always travel in groups when and if attending the Fool Moon Party in Kendwa. Plus be extra cautious when bringing your phone to the party.

5.12. Be wary of pickpocketing and snatch-and-grab

Always know where you have your wallet and phone.

Use caution when handling your money or when giving your phone to strangers to take your photos. If it doesn’t feel right, do not do it!

Avoid carrying a wallet or phone in your pockets. Close your backpack after every use or maybe opt for a cross-body purse. As already mentioned, carry a dummy wallet with a small amount of cash.

During my Stone Town walking tour, I was advised to be especially careful of pickpocketers at Darajani Market in Stone Town.

5.13. Store your valuables

Avoid wearing flashy jewelry and valuables in public.

Leave your passport, credit cards, and jewelry in your room safe. Stick to the small amount of cash you will need for the day. If you bring your phone to the beach, consider a waterproof case so you can carry it with you all the time.

5.14. Only use trusted tour operators

If something is too good to be true, it’s usually more expensive.

For most people in Zanzibar tourism and tourists are the main source of income. And visiting a new place, without doing any research makes you an easy target.

I’m all about supporting locals but sometimes, especially when traveling solo, going on a tour alone can be sketchy. That is why – when going solo – I book my tours with GetYourGuide or via Viator. They have many tour options and can decide between private tours or joining other travelers and meeting new friends.

5.15. Choose your accommodation wisely

Book well-rated hotels, close to tourist areas.

Always try to stick to places that are close to the main road and main tourist areas. You can stay in one of Jambiani beach hotels or find one of the best places to stay in Stone Town.

Now, I know some are fans of holiday rentals, but when I travel solo, I always opt for a hotel or resort. They are close to attractions, they can help me with organizing transport and possible tours. Plus I feel safer in a place with a reception.

6. Is Zanzibar safe to visit? Final thoughts

Is Zanzibar safe to visit? The short answer is yes.

Tanzania with Zanzibar island is perhaps one of the safest countries in East Africa for solo female travelers. So, travel safety in Zanzibar should be a concern, while still keeping safety tips in mind, when traveling to this African island.

Zanzibar is a safe destination for solo travelers. It is a budget-friendly tropical island, compared to Barbados or Seychelles, where it is easy to meet other people.

However, like any other place in the world, it’s important to follow travel advisories and exercise caution. Be careful of your things. Don’t walk alone at night. Always use reputable tours and avoid wearing short dresses to minimize any chance of sexual assault.

I was using all the above-mentioned safety precautions and felt safe. I think Zanzibar is a great destination for solo female travelers. I’ve also met other female travelers, who came to Zanzibar from Tanzania safari, some came from Gorilla trekking, and one who traveled to Zanzibar from Mount Kilimanjaro National Park.

Regarding safety, Zanzibar deserves a spot on your Tropical island bucket list.

Safe travels,
Anja

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❥ About Anja On Adventure

Anja On Adventure is a travel blog, a collection of insider tips and information on destinations, that I visited as a solo female traveler, tour guide, teacher, yacht stewardess, and Survivor challenge tester.

Anja, is a thirty-something adventure-seeking, sun chasing, beach hopping, gin-loving, tropics enthusiast with a creative mind and sarcastic spirit, who loves coconut and mango but doesn’t like chocolate and sweets. I am passionate about all things travel, maps, and puzzles. Click here to learn more About me.