Transport to Zanzibar Made Simple
Arranging transport to Zanzibar from mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar is straightforward and well-established. Two primary modes of transport to Zanzibar serve different priorities: flights offer speed: flights offer speed and convenience, ferries provide budget-friendly alternatives.
Understanding your options, planning strategically, and booking appropriately eliminates transportation uncertainty from your trip. This guide covers all logistics details.
To understand the logistics of a two-part trip, see The Complete Guide to Combining Tanzania Safari with Zanzibar Beach Holiday in 2026.
Option 1: Flying (Fastest Transport to Zanzibar)
Flight Routes & Durations
Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar: The most common route. Flight duration 30–45 minutes. Multiple daily departures (2–4 flights per day typically).
Serengeti/Northern Parks to Zanzibar: 1–2 hours flight time depending on routing. Options include direct charters (expensive) or connections via Dar es Salaam (more economical).
Arusha to Zanzibar: 1.5–2 hours via Dar connection. Direct flights rare; most routing goes through Dar.
Practical reality: Most safari itineraries end safari in northern parks (Serengeti, Ngorongoro) or drive to Dar for international departures. From Dar, air transport to Zanzibar is readily available via hourly flights..
Cost Breakdown
Regional carriers (Precision Air, Coastal Aviation, Regional Air):
- $70–$120 per person one-way
- Smaller aircraft (40–100 seats)
- Basic services
- Reliable schedules
International carriers (Ethiopian Airlines via Dar hub, Kenya Airways):
- $100–$200 per person one-way
- Larger aircraft
- Premium in-flight service
- More frequent departures
Group discounts: 6+ passengers often receive 10–20% discounts
Advance booking: 2–3 weeks in advance typically secures 10–20% savings vs. last-minute
Best booking method: Travel agencies in Tanzania (sometimes cheaper than direct booking)
Airlines Operating Transport to Zanzibar
- Precision Air: Most frequent, reliable, recommended
- Coastal Aviation: Second major operator
- Regional Air: Smaller carrier, adequate service
- Air Tanzania: National airline, fewer flights
- Ethiopian Airlines: Hub at Dar, international connections
- Kenya Airways: Via Dar hub
Booking Tips
Online booking: Precision Air, Coastal Aviation websites allow direct booking (payment via credit card or local channels)
Agency booking: Zanzibar travel agencies often have better rates than direct booking
Flexible dates strategy: Shifting travel by 1–2 days sometimes dramatically reduces fares
Round-trip booking: Often cheaper than two one-way tickets
Confirmation critical: Confirm flights 24 hours before departure (especially regional carriers)
Airport procedures: Arrive 2+ hours early for domestic flights (slower processing than international airports)
What to Expect
Aircraft types: Regional airlines use smaller aircraft (Cessna Caravan, turboprops). These are standard, safe, and reliable, just more basic than international jets.
Flight experience: Bumpy turbulence possible over water. Motion sickness medication recommended for queasy travelers. Windows ensure excellent views.
Baggage allowance:
- Standard: 15–20kg checked + 5kg carry-on
- Overweight charges: $2–$5 per kg excess (expensive)
- Soft luggage (duffel bags) easier than rigid suitcases
Baggage delays possible: Regional airports have slower baggage handling. Luggage sometimes delayed 24 hours (rare but possible).
Security screening: Standard but slower than European airports.
Luggage access: Check with airline regarding luggage access after checked—some restrict retrieval.
Pros & Cons of Flying
Pros:
- Speed (30–45 minutes vs. 1–3 hours ferry)
- Convenience (airport-to-airport)
- Reliable schedules
- Multiple daily departures
- Minimal time lost on transport to Zanzibar
Cons:
- Higher cost ($70–$150 vs. $35–$50)
- Limited baggage
- Occasional delays/cancellations
- Early arrival requirements
Best for: Time-pressed travelers, those with rigid schedules, those prioritizing convenience over cost.
Plan your game drives effectively by reading the 5 Best National Parks in Tanzania: The Ultimate Guide.
Option 2: Ferry (Budget Transport to Zanzibar)
Ferry Routes & Durations
Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar:
- Fast ferry: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Slower ferries: 2–3 hours
- Multiple daily departures (4–8 per day typical)
Cost: $35–$50 economy; $75–$150 VIP class (larger seats, upper deck, views)
Booking: Online at ferryoperator websites (guarantees seat) or at port (subject to availability)
Ferry Operators
Sea Link: Most reliable, multiple daily departures, best safety record Azam Marine: Alternative operator, adequate service Precision Ferry Services: Third option, less frequently used Small local operators: Generally not recommended (safety concerns)
Ferry Schedule & Availability
Typical daily schedule:
- Morning departures: 7:00am, 9:00am, 10:00am
- Midday: 12:00pm (sometimes)
- Afternoon/evening: 2:00pm, 4:00pm, 6:00pm+
- Additional departures weekends
Best times:
- 7:00am–10:00am: Calmer seas (best for queasy travelers)
- Afternoon/evening: More crowded, potentially rougher seas
Booking strategy: Book 24 hours in advance online (guarantees seat). Last-minute bookings work but risk overbooking/delays.
What to Expect on Ferry
Boarding: Arrive 1–1.5 hours before departure for security screening and boarding
Seating options:
- Economy: Below-deck seating, limited views, confined space, $35–$50
- VIP: Upper deck, larger seats, windows, views, more comfort, $75–$150
Experience reality: Ferry journey is genuine ocean crossing. Wind, water spray, and motion create authentic maritime experience.
Seasickness: Common on water crossings. Motion sickness medication strongly recommended (Dramamine, ginger, wristbands all work).
Luggage: Stored below-deck (limited access during crossing). Soft luggage easier than rigid suitcases.
Bathrooms: Available on vessel (adequate, sometimes crowded)
Food/drinks: Limited snacks sold onboard (expensive, mediocre). Bring your own food/drinks.
Duration variability: “1 hour 20 minutes” is ideal; actual journey often extends to 2 hours due to boarding delays, weather, or mechanical issues.
Journey end: Arrival 10–15 minutes before docking (final preparations).
Seasickness Prevention
- Take medication 30 minutes before boarding
- Sit on deck if possible (fresh air helps)
- Focus on distant horizon (fixes inner ear)
- Avoid strong smells and enclosed spaces
- Ginger candies or acupressure wristbands (natural options)
- Empty stomach before journey (light breakfast acceptable)
Pros & Cons of Ferry
Pros:
- Significantly cheaper ($35–$50 vs. $70–$150)
- Larger luggage allowance (20–30kg)
- Multiple daily departures (flexibility)
- Adventure experience (genuine ocean crossing)
- Authentic travel moment
Cons:
- Slower (1–3 hours vs. 30–45 minutes)
- Seasickness risk (weather-dependent)
- Less convenient (port-to-port vs. airport-to-airport)
- Potential delays (weather, mechanical issues)
- Journey unpredictability
Best for: Budget travelers, those with flexible schedules, adventure-oriented travelers, those with larger luggage needs.
Find the perfect beach for your holiday style by checking out the Zanzibar Island Guide: From Stone Town Culture to Beach Relaxation.
Flight vs. Ferry: Transport to Zanzibar Comparison
| Factor | Flight | Ferry |
| Duration | 30–45 min | 1 hr 20 min–3 hours |
| Cost | $70–$150 | $35–$150 |
| Convenience | High (airport-airport) | Medium (port-port) |
| Luggage | Limited (15–20kg) | Generous (20–30kg) |
| Comfort | Good (aircraft seats) | Variable (can be rough) |
| Frequency | 2–4 daily | 4–8 daily |
| Seasickness Risk | None | Moderate–High |
| Best For | Time-pressed, comfort | Budget, flexible, adventurous |
Strategic Recommendations
The Hybrid Approach
Fly one direction, ferry the other. This strategy:
- Optimizes both cost and time
- Experiences both travel modes
- Balances budget and schedule needs
Typical strategy: Fly for your transport to Zanzibar (time-efficient after safari), then ferry back, ferry Zanzibar-to-mainland (budget-conscious return to airport).
Same-Day Connection Planning
Flights to Ferry: Risky and not recommended. Flight delays can cause missed ferry. Plan 4+ hour buffer minimum between activities.
Ferry to Flight: Equally problematic. Ferry delays (weather, mechanical) can cause flight misses. Plan 4+ hour buffer.
Overnight in Dar: Safest strategy for tight connections. One hotel night ($60–$100) prevents stress and missed connections.
Mnemba Island Access
Private boats: Mnemba Island (luxury resort) arranges private boat transfer from Zanzibar’s northeast coast. 15 minutes, included with resort stay.
No standard transport to Zanzibar required for Mnemba (private boat replaces typical transfers).
To see how much you can realistically cover, review the Best Tanzania Itinerary Options: 7, 10, & 14 Day Plans.
Baggage Considerations for Transport to Zanzibar Methods
Luggage Weight & Size
Flights:
- Checked: 15–20kg limit (strict)
- Carry-on: 5kg typically
- Excess: $2–$5 per kg (expensive for overweight)
- Soft luggage (duffel) preferred over rigid suitcases
Ferries:
- Checked: 20–30kg allowance
- Soft luggage essential (rigid suitcases difficult to store)
- Waterproof bags recommended
Recommendations:
- Primary luggage: 1 large soft duffel bag (50–60L capacity)
- Secondary: 1 day pack/backpack (20–30L)
- Rationale: Soft luggage easier across all transport modes, day pack provides during-activity flexibility
Essential Items in Carry-On (Not Checked)
- Passport and visas
- Medications (prescribed + over-the-counter)
- Electronics (camera, laptop, chargers)
- Valuables (jewelry, cash, cards)
- Change of clothes (luggage delay contingency)
- Toiletries (for first night if luggage delayed)
Safari Packing Strategy
Typical packing approach:
- Main bag: Checked luggage (stays at lodge during safari)
- Day pack: Camera, binoculars, water, sunscreen, hat (with you during drives)
- Toiletries: Split between main bag and day pack
This minimizes weight on flights while ensuring necessities accessible. To ensure you book the right level of comfort, consult the Best Tanzania Lodges & Zanzibar Hotels: Luxury to Budget Guide 2025-2026.
Booking Strategies for Transport to Zanzibar
Sequential Booking Approach
- Book flights first (fixed dates: Dar departure, specific flights)
- Then book ferry as backup option (flexible dates help)
- Have contingency plan for delays
Rationale: Flight schedules are fixed; ferries offer more flexibility for adjustments.
Combo Booking
True “combo packages” (flight + ferry as single booking) are rare. Most travelers book separately:
- Flight via Precision Air website
- Ferry via Sea Link website
- Manage separately
Travel agency alternative: Some Tanzanian travel agencies offer combo bookings (sometimes cheaper than direct), especially for groups.
Timing Between Connections
Conservative buffer: 4+ hours minimum between different modes of transport to Zanzibar
Example schedule:
- Safari ends 10:00am
- Driver transfers to Dar airport (2 hours)
- Arrive 12:00pm, check in
- Flight departs 2:30pm, arrives Zanzibar 3:15pm
- Hotel check-in by 4:00pm
Contingency: 2-hour flight delay doesn’t affect ferry/next day plans.
Visa, Health & Documentation
Tanzania Visa
Requirement: Required for most nationalities (Swiss included)
Options:
- On arrival: Apply at Kilimanjaro Airport, 5–10 minute processing, $50–$125 (varies by nationality)
- In advance: Apply at Tanzanian embassy before travel (takes 1–2 weeks, same cost)
Recommendation: On-arrival visa acceptable; no advance preparation needed for Swiss citizens.
Multiple entries: Standard visa typically single-entry. Specify if multiple entries needed (unlikely for most itineraries).
Yellow Fever Vaccination
Requirement: Proof of vaccination required for entry
Timing: Get vaccination 10 days before travel (becomes valid)
Validity: Lifelong (changes to 30 years in 2024, currently lifetime)
Cost: €30–$50 at Swiss travel clinics
Where: Travel clinic or vaccination center (not regular doctors)
Malaria Prevention
High risk: Tanzania (including Zanzibar) has malaria
Prophylaxis recommended: Consult doctor 4–6 weeks before travel
Options:
- Atovaquone-proguanil (Malarone): Once daily, start 1–2 days before, continue 7 days after
- Doxycycline: Once daily, start 1–2 days before, continue 4 weeks after
- Mefloquine (Lariam): Once weekly, start 2–3 weeks before, continue 4 weeks after
Most travelers choose: Malarone (convenient once-daily dosing, fewer side effects)
Not required: Malaria prophylaxis technically optional (not mandated) but strongly recommended
Additional Vaccinations
Recommended (not required):
- Typhoid (if water/food exposure concern)
- Hepatitis A/B
- Routine vaccinations (tetanus, MMR, etc.)
Consult doctor 4–6 weeks before travel for personalized recommendations.
Travel Insurance
Recommended: Not mandatory but highly advisable
Coverage includes:
- Flight delays/cancellations
- Medical emergencies
- Trip interruption
- Luggage delay/loss
Cost: €30–$60 for 2-week coverage
Providers: Allianz, ERV, ELVIA (Swiss companies), or international providers
Ground Transportation: Connecting Your Transport to Zanzibar
Dar es Salaam Airport
Location: 15km south of Dar city center
Transport options:
- Taxi: $10–$15, 30–45 min drive
- Uber: Available in Dar, cheaper than taxis
- Arranged transfer: Through hotel or safari operator ($15–$25, pre-arranged)
Recommendation: Arrange transfer through accommodation or safari operator (predictable, safe, no language barrier)
Airport time: Arrive 2+ hours before domestic flight (slower processing)
Dar es Salaam Ferry Port
Location: Central Dar, near Old Fort
Transport from airport:
- Taxi: $10–$20, 30–45 min
- Uber: Available
- Arranged transfer: Through ferry operator or hotel
From hotel: Walk-able if hotel in Stone Town area; 10–15 min walk otherwise
Port procedures: Arrive 1–1.5 hours before departure (security, boarding, luggage)
Pickpocketing warning: Ports are busy; watch valuables carefully
Kilimanjaro International Airport
Location: 50km south of Arusha
Transport to/from airport:
- Taxi: $15–$25, 1 hour drive
- Arranged transfer: Through hotel or safari operator ($20–$30)
Recommendation: Arrange transfer in advance; early departures (6:00am–7:00am flights) common
Zanzibar Airport to Hotels
Zanzibar Airport (Fasi)
Location: 8km north of Zanzibar (Stone Town)
Transport options:
- Taxi: $10–$20, 20–30 min drive
- Arranged resort pickup: Usually $15–$25, included with some packages
- Uber: Available in Zanzibar
Hotel coordination: Most beach resorts arrange airport pickup (often included, or $15–$30 additional)
Recommendation: Coordinate with resort in advance; ensures smooth arrival.
Plan your excursions around peak visibility and wildlife movement with Tanzania Activity Planning by Season: When to Snorkel, Dive, Safari, and Explore.
Contingency Planning & Emergency Contacts
Flight Delays/Cancellations
Common causes: Weather, mechanical issues, crew scheduling
Your recourse:
- Regional airline rebooking: Usually within hours (frequent departures)
- Hotel costs: Usually airline responsibility (if >2 hour delay)
- Keep receipts for any expenses
Contact: Airline customer service (have booking reference ready)
Ferry Delays/Cancellations
Common causes: Rough seas, mechanical issues (rare but possible)
Your recourse:
- Rescheduling to next ferry (usually same day, later departure)
- Refund if cancellation (rare)
- Keep receipts for any overnight hotel costs
No compensation mandate (unlike EU aviation regulations)
Luggage Loss/Delay
Regional airline luggage: Sometimes delayed 24 hours (slow handling)
Your recourse:
- Report immediately at airport
- Get written incident report
- Contact airline within 24 hours
- File claim with documentation
Traveler tip: Change of clothes in day pack prevents emergency
Missed Connection
Flight to ferry: 4+ hour buffer prevents this
Ferry to flight: Similarly, 4+ hour buffer
If missed: Rebook on next available flight/ferry (additional cost)
Emergency Contacts
- Tanzanian Emergency: 112 (police), 114 (fire/ambulance)
- Swiss Embassy, Dar: [contact information provided by Swiss authorities]
- Travel insurance: Call 24-hour number on policy
- Airline customer service: Number on booking confirmation
To understand the logistics of a two-part trip, see The Complete Guide to Combining Tanzania Safari with Zanzibar Beach Holiday in 2026.
FAQ
1. Can I fly one-way and ferry the other?
Yes, ideal strategy. Fly Dar→Zanzibar (efficient after safari), ferry Zanzibar→Dar (budget return). Balances cost and time optimization.
2. What happens if my flight is delayed and I miss my ferry?
With 4+ hour buffer, not an issue. If delays cause misses (rare), rebook on next ferry (usually same day, later departure). Airlines typically rebook without additional charge.
3. Is the ferry safe?
Yes. Sea Link (major operator) has strong safety record. Vessel regularly inspected, captains experienced. Maritime accidents extremely rare. Seasickness ≠ safety concern (uncomfortable, not dangerous).
4. How much luggage is allowed on each mode of transport to Zanzibar?
Flights: 15–20kg checked + 5kg carry-on. Ferries: 20–30kg (more generous). Soft luggage works better on both.
5. What’s the best time of day to fly/ferry?
Flights: Timing doesn’t matter (schedule-dependent). Early flights often most reliable (fewer delays accumulating).
Ferries: 7:00am–10:00am departures best (calmer seas, fewer seasickness issues). Afternoon/evening sailings rougher, more crowded.
Ready to Plan Your Transport to Zanzibar?
Transportation logistics done wrong causes stress. Done right, they’re seamless transitions between safari adventure and beach relaxation.
Zamani Voyage handles all transportation logistics: flights, ferries, documentation, timing, contingencies.
👉 Book a consultation call — We’ll arrange your complete transportation strategy, manage bookings, and ensure seamless transfers.
