Zanzibar Tanzania Travel Tips

Zanzibar Travel & Cultural Etiquette Tips

Dress Modestly

  • Cover your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect, especially when visiting mosques or rural areas.
  • Avoid revealing clothing, especially for women, to avoid attracting unwanted attention.

Respect Local Customs

  • Remove your shoes before entering a mosque or someone’s home.
  • Use your right hand when eating or giving/receiving something, as the left hand is considered unclean.
  • Avoid public displays of affection, as they are generally frowned upon in Zanzibar.

Interact with Locals

  • Greet locals with a handshake or a gentle hug, but avoid kissing on the cheek.
  • Learn some basic Swahili phrases like “jambo” (hello), “asante” (thank you), and “habari gani” (how are you?).
  • Be respectful of local elders and show deference to them.

Beach Etiquette

  • Dress modestly at the beach, especially in front of locals.
  • Avoid playing loud music or engaging in rowdy behavior that may disturb others.
  • Be mindful of your surroundings and keep the beach clean.

Haggling & Shopping

  • Expect to haggle when shopping at markets, but do so respectfully and with a smile.
  • Be prepared to walk away if you’re not happy with the price – it’s often an effective way to negotiate.
  • Support local artisans by buying their handmade products.

Food & Drink

  • Try local dishes like urojo (a spicy soup), nyama choma (grilled meat), and madafu (coconut rice).
  • Avoid eating in front of others without offering them food, as it’s considered impolite.
  • Be prepared for limited dining options outside of Stone Town.

Photography

  • Always ask permission before taking someone’s photo, especially in rural areas.
  • Avoid taking photos of military personnel, government buildings, or airports.
  • Be respectful when taking photos of locals and their daily activities.

Environmental Awareness

  • Respect Zanzibar’s beautiful environment by not littering and recycling when possible.
  • Avoid touching or standing on coral reefs when snorkeling or diving.
  • Support eco-friendly tour operators and accommodations.

Safety Precautions

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas like markets.
  • Keep valuables secure and consider using a money belt or hotel safe.
  • Avoid traveling alone at night and use licensed taxis or reputable drivers.

By following these travel and cultural etiquette tips, you’ll be able to respectfully navigate Zanzibar’s unique culture and have a more enjoyable and enriching experience.