Vaccination certificates must be produced on arrival in Zanzibar. Without a certificate of vaccination against Yellow Fever you may be refused entry. Visitors should take precautions with regard to malaria, a blood-borne parasite which is transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes are more prevalent at dusk and during the evening. Preventative tactics include using anti-malarial prophylactics as recommended by your doctor. Cover your arms, wear light coloured clothing and use insect repellent, e.g. Lemongrass oil or citronella. Most hotels in Zanzibar offer mosquito nets in their rooms. Early diagnosis assists in more effective treatment. If treated early malaria is not dangerous, but left untreated malaria kills. If you have any suspicious symptoms, e.g. fever, vomiting, diarrhea, aching joints and headache, we urge you to get your blood checked or seek medical advice.

Hospitals and Pharmacies:

DR MEHTA’S HOSPITAL: TEL ZNZ 230194 or 0741 612889, Vuga St., opp High Court

DR MARIO’S CLINIC, TEL ZNZ 233113 or 0742 750040 Tiger House, Vuga St., behind Majestic Cinema

MNAZI MOJA GENERAL HOSPITAL, TEL ZNZ 231072

Shamsu & Sons Pharmacy, TEL 232641 Darajani, near to the fruit and vegetable market.

Crime of any sort is rare in Zanzibar, but unfortunately alongside the recent growth of tourism, local people have noticed proportionate rises in criminal activity, including theft and drug use. As in any part of the world, take care when walking, especially at night and please be careful with expensive items such as handbags and cameras. Theft from hotel rooms is unusual. Most hotels have a safe, where valuables can be stored.

When walking in Stone Town please be aware of traffic. Even some of the narrowest streets are in fact public roads. There are no cars but motorbikes and bicycles move fast so keep close to the side of the street and be ready to make way for local traffic. Possession and use of illegal drugs is not tolerated in Zanzibar. Legal penalties, even for cannabis, include lengthy prison sentences and fines. In spite of international media reports about political occurrences, the day to day social atmosphere in Zanzibar is calm.

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 to below the knees. Beachwear on the beach is fine, although nude or topless bathing is not tolerated. When in villages or in Stone Town wearing beach wear may cause offence to local people. Try to wear loose-fitting, non-transparent clothing when in public.

Zanzibar 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 be 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.

There is one land line telephone company, the Tanzania Telecommunications Company (TTCL). There are four mobile telephone companies in operation: MOBITEL (0741 100), TRITEL (0742 700200) and ZANTEL (0747 400100) and VODACOM (0744). There are now many local internet cafés offering the use of international telephone, fax and internet services. For international calls prefix the country code with 00. Zanzibar is 3 hours ahead of GMT. The power system is 220-240 volts ac, plugs 13amp usually square pin.

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.

Airport departure tax 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.