An Essential Zanzibar Packing List | What to Pack for Zanzibar

What to Pack for Zanzibar

Considering a vacation to Zanzibar but not sure what to bring? Your search ends here!

The Indian Ocean is home to the idyllic tropical island of Zanzibar. Immaculate beaches, lively culture, and a wealth of history are the hallmarks of this island. You might not find the same things you use at home, so be sure to bring everything you need on your vacation.

Keep in mind that the majority of Zanzibaris are Muslims; showing respect for the local culture requires modest clothing.

This Zanzibar packing list will walk you through every item you need for a relaxing vacation. Every part of your journey will be well-planned, so you can relax.

For Entry into Zanzibar

Passport:
Verify that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the date of your trip’s departure and that it has one blank page.

Visa:
Entry to Tanzania requires a visa for the majority of nations. Applying for an e-visa is as easy as checking your eligibility. The standard visa fee is fifty dollars ($50 USD).

Travel Insurance:
I strongly advise getting travel insurance, even if it isn’t required to enter Zanzibar. If you want to travel worry-free, this is the one item you should get. You should verify that your travel insurance includes scuba diving and other adventurous sports in Zanzibar.

Everyday Essentials to Pack for Zanzibar

Medicine:
You may likely already be on malaria medication if you have recently returned from a safari in Tanzania. Before you go to Zanzibar, make sure you and your doctor have discussed the need for any necessary immunisations or anti-malarials.

Remember to include any additional drugs you might require. I remembered to bring along some medication for motion sickness, diarrhoea, and oral rehydration salts, as well as ibuprofen or paracetamol.

Cash + Credit cards
The majority of larger restaurants and hotels accept credit and debit cards. You will need cash to pay for tours, cabs, and souvenirs sold by sellers. Throughout the island, you can readily find ATMs.

Mosquito repellent:
To avoid mosquito-borne illnesses including Chikungunya, dengue fever, and malaria, it is crucial to use and reapply insect repellent. Staying protected against mosquitoes should be your number one concern while visiting Zanzibar due to the island’s warm climate and abundant flora. It was necessary for us to take malaria medications and apply Sawyer Picaridin Insect Repellent Lotion. This is the best mosquito repellent ever because it keeps the pesky insects at bay no matter where I go.

Reef safe sunscreen:
To avoid harming the sensitive marine ecosystem and your skin, use reef safe sunscreen. You should bring a high-SPF sunscreen to Zanzibar because the heat is scorching. Even on a rather cloudy day excursion to Mnemba Island, I managed to get a sunburn.

Sunglasses:
You can’t leave Zanzibar without your trusty shades. Without them, the white beach and crystal pure water can be nearly blinding. The polarised sunglasses will make the water’s blue shades pop even more, so don’t leave home without them!

Wide brim hat:
A wide-brimmed hat, along with sunglasses, is an excellent way to shield your skin and face from the sun’s harmful rays. As an added bonus, it also looks adorable in photographs!

Toiletries:

• Toothbrush & Toothpaste
• Shampoo & Conditioner
• Make up
• After sun lotion or aloe
• Deodorant
• Hairbrush
• Soap and razor
• Contact lenses/solution

What to Wear in Zanzibar

Pack lightweight and breathable clothing to stay comfortable in the warm weather. Semi-modest swimwear and long flowy dresses are ideal for respecting local customs while staying cool.

Linen pants, shorts, and shirts
Any type of linen clothing is perfect for Zanzibar! It will protect you from the sun, but keep you cool and dry.

Long, flowy dresses
Flowy dresses are the perfect outfit to stay cool and comfortable, while being respectful of the local customs.

A light jacket
Even during hotter months, the nights can be a bit breezy.

Sandals
You’ll probably spend a lot of your time in Zanzibar wearing sandals. Make sure they are your most comfortable pair!

Sneakers
If you plan on doing a spice tour, sneakers are a must!

Swimsuits with decent coverage
Due to the fact that Zanzibar is a predominently Muslim country, this trip is not the time to wear your Brazilian bikini (haha). Stick to bikinis with medium coverage or one pieces.

Scarves
The most multi-purpose item for any trip – bringing a scarf is a must!

Rain jacket
Even in dry season, you may still see some rain. Bring a light rain jacket just in case.

Beach Essentials to Pack for Zanzibar

Waterproof/Dry bag
Make sure you have a waterproof bag if you’re taking a boat trip to Mnemba Island, Nakupenda Island, or any of the other surrounding islands. It can also be great to have if you plan on kayaking.

Snorkeling gear
Most of the tours do offer snorkeling gear included with your ticket, but I always bring my own mask and snorkel because I don’t like to share. You can also borrow fins from the boat though – no need to bring those.

Travel quick-dry towel
Some hotels don’t have beach towels you can take, so I highly recommend packing a quick-dry microfiber towel (it’s similar to a yoga towel).

Cover up
Pack a cover up for easy changing after the beach.

Water shoes
I didn’t bring water shoes on my trip to Zanzibar, but I totally wish I did. If you plan to take a dhow boat tour or walk out on the sandbanks at low tide, you will be so grateful to have some water shoes.

Waterproof phone case
Protect your phone from water damage or use a waterproof case to take some underwater photos!