How to get around Zanzibar City and travel from Dar es Salaam

Getting Around Zanzibar City

Walking is essential in Stone Town. The historic core is an intricate maze of alleys where cars cannot enter, making foot travel the only way to explore.

Private taxis suit airport transfers, late-night travel, and trips across the island. Taxis are unmetered, so agree on the fare before getting in.

Dala dalas (shared minibuses) depart from Darajani market to outer areas. They offer the lowest fares for solo travelers with light luggage, but they lack fixed schedules and depart only when full.

Bajajis (three-wheeled auto-rickshaws) operate on paved peripheral roads outside the pedestrian core for fast, short trips.

Transit Passes and Payment

There are no transit cards, multi-day passes, or app-based tickets. Local transport is cash only. Carry small bills in local currency, as drivers rarely make change. Ferry tickets must be bought at authorized port offices with a passport.

Arriving from Dar es Salaam (DAR)

• Connecting flight: A short domestic flight from DAR to Zanzibar Airport, then a taxi into town. Highest cost band, lowest effort, fastest travel time.
• Taxi and ferry: A road taxi from DAR to the ferry port, then a passenger ferry to Stone Town. Moderate cost band, but involves traffic and luggage handling at busy ports.

Practical Travel Advice

• Luggage: Cobblestones make rolling bags difficult. Dala dalas have no luggage storage, making taxis necessary for large bags.
• Operating hours: Dala dalas cease running shortly after sunset. Private taxis are mandatory for evening transit.
• Accessibility: High stone curbs, steps, and narrow passages make the historic area largely inaccessible to wheelchairs.