Flying to Zanzibar: Airport Tips & Transfers
What to Expect at Arrival and How to Get to Your Beach Easily
Planning a trip to Zanzibar? Whether you’re arriving from mainland Tanzania or flying internationally, knowing what to expect at Zanzibar Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) can make your journey smoother. From airport tips to transfer options, here’s how to land stress-free and start enjoying paradise right away.
At Mandari Travel Zanzibar, we provide private transfers, local advice, and custom arrivals support to make your trip easy from touchdown to toes-in-the-sand.
What to Know About Zanzibar Airport (ZNZ)
Zanzibar International Airport is the island’s main entry point, located just 5 km (about 15 minutes) from Stone Town and 1–1.5 hours from popular beach towns like Paje, Nungwi, and Kendwa.
International Flights
You can fly directly into Zanzibar from major cities such as:
- Doha (Qatar Airways)
- Dubai (FlyDubai)
- Istanbul (Turkish Airlines)
- Nairobi or Addis Ababa (Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines)
Many travelers also connect through Dar es Salaam or Arusha before flying to Zanzibar.
Arrival Tips
- Visas: Most travelers can get a visa on arrival ($50 USD for most nationalities). Be sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months.
- Customs: You may be asked to show return flight tickets or hotel bookings.
- Cash & SIM cards: ATMs and mobile SIM vendors are available at the airport, but it’s often quicker and cheaper to set these up in town.
- Luggage: Luggage claims can be slow ,patience goes a long way!
Transfer Options from Zanzibar Airport
1. Private Transfers (Recommended)
Mandari Travel offers safe, air-conditioned private transfers to all major destinations on the island, from Stone Town to remote beaches.
Why choose us:
- No haggling with taxi drivers
- Professional drivers who know the island well
- Option to stop for snacks, ATMs, or sightseeing en route
2. Shared Shuttles
Budget-friendly, but less convenient if you’re carrying lots of luggage or arriving late. These are not always reliable or available at odd hours.
3. Local Taxis or Bajaj (Tuk Tuks)
Available outside the terminal but be ready to negotiate prices, and some drivers may not speak English or know your exact destination.
Approximate Transfer Times from ZNZ Airport
- Stone Town – 15 minutes
- Paje/Jambiani – 1 hour 15 minutes
- Nungwi/Kendwa – 1 hour 30–45 minutes
- Kiwengwa – 1 hour
- Michamvi – 1 hour 20 minutes
Book Your Arrival Transfer with Mandari Travel
Avoid delays, confusion, or inflated taxi fares ,we’ll greet you at the airport with a smile and a sign, and take you straight to your hotel or villa.
📞 Call/WhatsApp: +255 752 213 715
Email: [email protected]
Request Your Arrival Transfer or Travel Quote
Fill out the form below to schedule your airport pickup or receive a full Zanzibar travel itinerary, including hotels, activities, and transfers.
