Zanzibar Airport Transfer: How to Get From the Airport to Your Hotel

Zanzibar's only airport, Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ), sits just a few kilometers south of Stone Town. Most international flights arrive in the late morning or afternoon, so you'll usually land in daylight - but it still helps to know your options before you touch down. Pre-booked private transfer The easiest and most predictable option is a private transfer arranged in advance through your hotel or a verified tour operator on this site. A driver waits for you at arrivals with a name board, so there's no negotiating on the spot. This is especially worth arranging if you're travelling with young children, arriving late at night, or heading somewhere further out like Paje or Nungwi (both around 45-90 minutes from the airport depending on traffic and road conditions). Taxi at the airport Official taxis are available right outside arrivals. Prices are not metered, so agree the fare in writing or verbally before getting in - never after. If you're unsure what a fair price looks like for your route, ask your hotel in advance; most are happy to text you a rough guide price. Hotel shuttle Some larger hotels and resorts run their own airport shuttle, either included in your booking or available for a fee. Check with your accommodation directly when you book. A few practical tips - Keep some small USD or TZS cash on hand for the transfer, since card payment isn't always available planeside. - Zanzibar's mandatory travel insurance and visa can both usually be sorted on arrival, but arriving with the eVisa already approved saves time in the queue. - Traffic into Stone Town can back up around the market and port area - budget extra time if you have a same-day onward ferry or flight connection. - If your accommodation is on the east or north coast, ask whether your transfer includes a stop for a bathroom break or snacks - it's a longer ride than it looks on the map. Whichever option you choose, arranging your transfer before you land - even just confirming a taxi price range - removes one of the few stressful moments of an otherwise easy arrival.