Transferring to East, North and South Zanzibar in the Zanzibar Archipelago – What You Need to Know

Located off the coast of Tanzania, the beautiful group of islands known as the Zanzibar Archipelago has been gaining popularity in recent years as an exciting and unique destination for tourists from around the world. Along with great attractions like pristine beaches, vivid culture and incredible cuisine, the islands are home to three unique destinations – East, North and South Zanzibar – each offering up its own unique experience. One of the most important considerations when travelling to Zanzibar is locating and understanding how to transfer from the airport to East, North and South Zanzibar.

To get started, it’s important to note that the main airport servicing the Zanzibar Archipelago is the Abeid Amani Karume International Airport in Zanzibar Town. All of the larger commercial flights will land here, and it is this airport to which you should plan to arrive when visiting East, North amd South Zanzibar.

Airport Transfer Options

When you arrive at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, you have a few options to transfer between islands. The best way to transfer is by ferry, a reasonably-priced option that generally runs on a regular schedule and is highly reliable. However, if you’re looking for quicker travel times, you can also rent a speedboat, a potentially more expensive choice but one that may be preferable if you’re short on time.

Ferry

Ferry travel is likely your best bet for transferring between East, North, and South Zanzibar. Ferries between these destinations generally depart from the Dalla Dalla Bus Station in Stonetown and run on a fairly steady schedule throughout the day.

Note that ferries between these destinations depart from two different ports: some depart from Fumba Port in Fumba while others depart from Mbweni Port near Stonetown. You can check ferry schedules between these ports at zzar.co/ferry-schedules/, a website regularly updated with current information.

Ferry rides require tickets purchased upfront at a ticket office. Prices vary based on destination but are usually reasonably priced per person and directly depend on the destination and class chosen. Generally speaking, tickets tend to be more expensive during holidays and heavily-travelled times.

Speedboat

Speedboats are also available to transfer between islands, but as these are generally more expensive than ferries and travelers often book these for convenience instead of necessity and pricing depends on availability. Details about trips can be found at ports in Stonetown, Fumba and Mbweni where tickets can also be purchased.

Getting Around Your Destination on Zanzibar island

Once you’ve arrived at your chosen destination – either East, North or South Zanzibar – getting around the island and from one neighborhood to the next is fairly easy. In all three areas, public transport is primarily in the form of both large vehicles like buses known as Dalla Dalla, as well as smaller versions known as Tuk Tuks; it’s not uncommon for these small taxis to negotiate a fixed price for rides around the island for visitors. Note that visitors who want to explore East, North or South Zanzibar with more local insight (and avoid haggling) can sign up for an organized tour or even hire a personal driver to get around as well as gain additional insight into Zanzibar culture.

Conclusion

Exploring the stunning beauty of East, North and South Zanzibar in the Zanzibar Archipelago is a must-do for travelers who love cultural experiences and who appreciate a slower-paced vacation away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Transferring from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport is relatively easy; ferries tend to offer budget-friendly prices while speedboats offer faster travel times, though they’re more expensive. Once you get to your destination, getting around should also be easy with both shared taxis (Dalla Dalla and Tuk Tuks) providing transportation across the islands.
Make sure your visit goes smoothly by planning out your transfer from the airport in advance – and if you’re feeling adventurous, why not book an organized tour or hire a personal driver for your entire stay? That way you can experience East, North and South Zanzibar in all its glory. Why not book your private tour here now?

An Insider’s Guide to Zanzibar: Beyond the Tourist Traps

Zanzibar, the city of spices and white sandy beaches, is located off the coast of Tanzania. It’s a melting pot of diverse cultures, intertwined with a fascinating history dating back centuries. If you’re planning a trip to this exotic destination, here’s an insider’s guide to exploring the real Zanzibar.

Local Attractions: Discovering Hidden Gems

While foraying into Stone Town is a must for its cultural and historical significance, the hidden gems of Zanzibar still remain undiscovered. Head to the quaint village of Makunduchi on the south coast to witness the mesmerizing way the locals fish with the traditional tools of Bwejuu village. The Mnarani Marine Turtles Conservation Pond in Nungwi is an excellent place to witness baby turtles hatching from their eggs and to swim with them in a safe environment. Discover the charm of Kidichi Persian Baths, which date back to the late 19th century and are truly one of a kind.

Dining Spots: Savoring Local Cuisine

If you’re visiting Zanzibar, you cannot miss out on the delicious seafood. Head to Lukmaan’s in Stone Town for an authentic, filling feast. Savor freshly made Zanzibari pizzas or head to the Forodhani Gardens food market to sample the “Zanzibar Mix,” a combination of grilled seafood, samosas, and coconut milk soup. Try Panduu’s Café in Paje, which serves delectable Zanzibari food such as octopus curry and fish tagine.

Cultural Experiences: Uncovering Hidden Traditions

Visit the village of Kizimkazi to witness a traditional Zanzibari wedding ceremony, or witness the nightly Swahili drumming and dancing in Daraja la Miungu. Take part in a spice tour and learn about the various exotic spices that Zanzibar is known for, such as cloves, cinnamon, and vanilla. Witness the various festivals celebrated here, such as the Mwaka Kogwa Festival, the annual New Year festival of southern Zanzibar.

Local History: Fascinating Stories from the Past

In 1873, Dr. David Livingstone passed away in the village of Chitambo, Zambia. His heart, however, was buried in Marjani, Zanzibar and his body was taken back to Westminster Abbey. The Old Fort of Zanzibar, built in the 17th century, is a haunting reminder of the colonial rule over the island. The Christ Church Cathedral, which was built on the former site of the slave market, holds a powerful story of the dark past of Zanzibar.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Making Memorable Moments

Head to Chake Chake for its weekly donkey races or go scuba diving and snorkeling in the pristine waters around Pemba Island. Rent a bike and explore the plantations and sea cliffs of Jambiani or Kizimkazi. Spend an evening watching the sunset over the Mkunguni Palace Ruins, a former palace built by Sultan Said Majid, one of the most powerful rulers of Zanzibar.

In conclusion, Zanzibar has something for everyone, and there’s no better way to explore it than to dive into its local experiences. These hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path suggestions will make your trip an unforgettable experience. So, pack your bags and visit this enchanting destination where ancient traditions meet the modern world.