Zanzibar archipelago Tanzanian bathed by the Indian Ocean, is a paradise destination famous for its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. Composed mainly of the Unguja and of Pemba, It's the ideal place for a tropical escape under the coconut trees.
The archipelago has a fascinating history, particularly evident in the narrow streets of Stone Town. This historic center, listed as a UNESCO, The city's rich blend of Swahili, Arab, Indian and European influences bears witness to its past as a major maritime crossroads.
Nicknamed the “Spice Island” for its clove and nutmeg plantations, Zanzibar offers a rich and varied experience. Between diving in its coral reefs and discovering the endemic monkeys of the Jozani forest, the archipelago promises an absolute change of scenery.
In this article, our agency gives you some recommendations and tips for your trip to Zanzibar.
eVisa for Zanzibar
To begin with, it's important to point out that as a Tanzanian territory.., Zanzibar does not have its own visa. You must apply for a‘Tourist e-Visa for Tanzania, which perfectly covers your arrival and stay in the Zanzibar archipelago.
Click here to apply for your Tanzania eVisa
Here are the documents you will need for your Tanzania visa application:
- Passport - valid for at least 6 months from date of entry into Tanzania
- Traveler photo or selfie on neutral background
- Flight booking - round trip
To enter Zanzibar, you must subscribe to the’Zanzibar Insurance Company (ZIC).
Zanzibar Insurance Company (ZIC)
There Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC) is Zanzibar's state-owned insurance company. Since the October 1, 2024, the Zanzibar government has made mandatory specific travel insurance (« Inbound Travel Insurance »), issued exclusively by ZIC, for all foreign visitors.
Here's everything you need to know about this government insurance :
1. A strict obligation
There's no way around it. Even if you already have excellent personal travel insurance, credit card insurance or international health insurance, these covers do not replace the ZIC cover. You may be refused entry to the country if you fail to present proof of this specific insurance cover on arrival.
2. Rates and validity
Rates are fixed and insurance is valid for a maximum of 92 days (allowing multiple entries during this period) :
- Adults (18 and over) : 44 $ USD
- Children (ages 3 to 17) : 22 $ USD (50 % reduction)
- Babies (under 3) : Free
3. What does ZIC insurance cover?
The government has set up this system to ensure that the local economy does not bear the cost of tourist emergencies. Coverage includes:
- Medical and emergency expenses : Up to 50,000 $ USD for medical emergencies (including epidemics and pandemics).
- Evacuation and repatriation : Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation cover (including in the event of death).
- Travel incidents : Baggage delay (25 $ per hour, up to 200$), or theft/loss/damage of baggage (up to 400 $).
- Civil and legal liability : Personal liability up to 30,000 $USD, and advance of legal fees/bond up to 2,000$ USD.
- Personal accidents : Disability or accidental death on public transport (up to 20,000 $ USD).
Note: ZIC generally does not cover cancellation of your trip before departure, nor certain extreme sports activities. Personal insurance is therefore strongly recommended.
4. How do I subscribe?
To avoid unpleasant surprises, you should do this before you leave, although kiosks are available at your arrival airport.
- Visit the official website set up by the government.
- Fill in the form with your travel information.
- Pay fees online.
- You will receive a document with a QR Code. It is imperative that you keep this document (on your phone and ideally printed out) for presentation to the immigration police on arrival at Zanzibar airport.
English 
Français 
Deutsch 
Italiano 
Español