Prepare for your Zanzibar honeymoon with essential travel tips on entry requirements, currency, customs, and safety. This guide helps couples enjoy a smooth, stress-free arrival and romantic first day on the island.
Planning your dream honeymoon is exciting—but navigating the practical side of travel can be overwhelming if you’re not prepared. From visa requirements and vaccination guidance to understanding local currency and customs, a little knowledge goes a long way toward creating a seamless, romantic experience in Zanzibar.
This guide covers the must-know travel tips for couples heading to the island, so you can skip the stress and go straight to enjoying your first barefoot walk on the beach. We’ll help you handle airport logistics, know what to expect at customs, and even how to dress respectfully while exploring towns and markets.
Pair this with our Ultimate Zanzibar Honeymoon Guide to map out where to stay and what to do once you’ve landed.
Want to explore together like a local? Check out how to get around Zanzibar as a couple. Curious about timing your trip right? Zanzibar Honeymoon Weather breaks down the best months for romance and relaxation. And if you’re trying to balance comfort with efficiency, don’t miss common honeymoon packing mistakes to avoid.
When it comes to honeymooning in Zanzibar, the right prep sets the tone for everything that follows.
Smooth Travel Is the First Act of Romance
Your honeymoon should be magical—not filled with last-minute surprises at immigration or awkward moments in local markets. Zanzibar is an exotic, welcoming, and romantic destination, but it pays to be informed. From tailored itineraries and climate-smart packing to understanding local culture and travel insurance, this guide helps honeymooners plan wisely, communicate clearly, and experience the best of the island.
Visa & Entry Requirements
- Most travelers (including from the US, UK, EU, Australia) need a tourist visa for Zanzibar/Tanzania.
- You can apply online in advance >>> CLICK HERE
- Cost: $50 USD for most countries / $100 USD for US citizens
- Bring a printed copy of your visa approval and proof of return flight
Tip: Apply at least 2 weeks ahead and double-check the name and passport number for accuracy.
Vaccines, Health & Travel Insurance
- Yellow fever vaccination required if arriving from countries with risk (including layovers over 12 hours)
- Recommended: Typhoid, Hepatitis A, Tetanus
- Zanzibar is low-risk for malaria, but pack repellent with DEET and consider antimalarials
- Purchase travel insurance with emergency medical coverage and trip protection
Health Tip: Confirm your hotel has mosquito nets and bottled water; bring a mini medical kit with essentials.
Currency, Exchange & Tipping Etiquette
- Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) — 1 USD ≈ 2,500 TZS
- Credit cards are accepted at upscale resorts; cash is king for transport, markets, tips
- Tipping: 5–10% at restaurants; $5–10/day for drivers or hotel staff is appreciated
- Exchange at trusted bureaus in Stone Town; avoid poor rates at airports or unofficial vendors
💡 Finance Tip: Bring small USD bills for smoother exchanges and tips, and ask if resort prices include VAT/service.
Local Culture & Dress Code for Couples
- Zanzibar is a Muslim-majority island—respect is key to a warm welcome
- Swimwear is fine on the beach, but cover shoulders and knees in towns and villages
- Avoid PDA in public spaces; affectionate gestures are best saved for the resort
- Learn a few Swahili phrases: Jambo (hello), Asante sana (thank you very much), Pole pole (slowly, take it easy)
💡 Etiquette Tip: Dress modestly when visiting cultural sites or on day trips—bring a light scarf or wrap.
Phones, Connectivity & Navigation
- Local SIM cards (Vodacom, Airtel, Halotel) cost $5–$10 with affordable data packages
- eSIM services like Airalo also work well for short-term use
- Wi-Fi is common but can be slow—download offline maps and key translation tools in advance
- WhatsApp is the preferred app for contacting drivers, guides, and even hotels
💡 Connectivity Tip: Buy a SIM at the airport kiosk upon arrival—it saves time and ensures instant access.
Weather, Packing & Climate Readiness
- Best times: June–October (cool, dry) or January–February (sunny, short rains)
- Rainy season: March–May—some tours pause and roads may flood
- Pack breathable clothes, reef-safe sunscreen, sandals, modest coverups, and a light rain jacket
- Don’t forget: power adapter (UK plug), flashlight, insect spray, and copies of your passport
- Read more about Zanzibar weather here.
💡 Packing Tip: Split essentials across both suitcases in case one is delayed, and carry on a swimsuit for instant beach time.
Safety, Scams & Smart Navigation
- Zanzibar is generally safe, especially at resorts and main tourist areas
- Watch for petty theft—use hotel safes, avoid flashing valuables
- Confirm all transport (ferries, airport taxis) in advance and verify credentials
- Be cautious of street hustlers offering unlicensed tours or excursions
💡 Street Smart Tip: Ask your resort for vetted guides and recommended routes; avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
Booking, Budgeting & Itinerary Flow
- Pre-book at least 2–3 key activities (e.g., dhow cruise, Mnemba snorkeling, Stone Town tour)
- Leave buffer days to relax—don’t over-plan
- Balance splurges (sunset dinner, spa day) with low-cost gems (local cafés, beach walks)
- Download a honeymoon planning app or shared Google calendar for itinerary tracking
💡 Itinerary Tip: Book romantic activities (like private boat rides) early—they fill fast in high season.
Start Smart, Travel Light, Love Deeply
Zanzibar is a paradise made for honeymooners—but paradise is better when you’re prepared. With the right mindset, cultural respect, and smart packing, your trip will be smooth, scenic, and unforgettable. Focus on shared moments, stay present, and let this romantic island do the rest.
➡️ For curated resorts, beach guides, and bespoke honeymoon itineraries, explore our full Zanzibar Honeymoon Guide.
