Getting Around the Island
Zanzibar’s main island, Unguja, is roughly 85 kilometres long and 30 kilometres wide. No destination is more than two hours from any other, but how you choose to travel makes a big difference to your comfort, budget, and experience.
Taxis
Taxis are the most convenient way to travel between towns and to the airport. They are not metered, so **always agree on a price before getting in**. As a rough guide, a taxi from the airport to Stone Town costs around $15–20, Stone Town to Nungwi is $30–40, and Stone Town to Paje is $35–45. Your hotel can usually arrange a taxi at a fair rate. Taxis in Zanzibar are typically white with green number plates. It is perfectly safe to flag one down, but having your hotel call one ensures a more reliable vehicle.
Dalla-Dallas (Local Minibuses)
For budget travellers, dalla-dallas are the backbone of local transport. These brightly decorated minibuses run fixed routes between major towns, departing when full rather than on a schedule. A ride from Stone Town to Nungwi costs around $2–3 and takes about ninety minutes. They are crowded, loud, and driven with enthusiasm—but they are also a quintessential East African experience. The main hub is the dalla-dalla stand near Darajani Market in Stone Town.
Scooter and Motorbike Hire
Renting a scooter gives you maximum freedom to explore at your own pace. Expect to pay $15–25 per day, and always insist on a helmet (not all rental shops offer them without being asked). An international driving licence is technically required, though enforcement is inconsistent. Roads outside Stone Town are generally good, but watch for sand patches, potholes, and wandering livestock. Driving is on the left.
Private Drivers and Transfers
If you want comfort without the hassle of self-driving, hiring a private driver for the day is surprisingly affordable—typically $50–80 depending on the distance. Your driver doubles as a guide, pointing out landmarks and making unscheduled stops at viewpoints and roadside fruit stalls. Most hotels and tour operators can arrange this. It is the best option for families and anyone with limited time who wants to cover multiple destinations in a day.
Bicycles
In the beach towns of Paje, Jambiani, and Matemwe, renting a bicycle is a delightful way to explore the coast and surrounding villages. Rates are around $5–10 per day. The flat terrain makes cycling easy, though midday heat can be intense—plan rides for early morning or late afternoon.
Tips for Getting Around Safely
- Agree on all taxi and transfer prices before departing
- Carry small denominations of Tanzanian shillings for dalla-dalla fares
- Avoid driving at night—roads are poorly lit and pedestrians walk on the roadside
- If renting a scooter, take photos of any existing damage before you leave
- Keep valuables out of sight when using public transport