ZANZIBAR GUIDE

LOCATION:
Zanzibar, correctly known as Unguja, is the common name given to the largest and most populated island of the three islands just off the coast of mainland Tanzania on the Indian Ocean. The other two islands that form the Zanzibar archipelago are Pemba to the North and Mafia to the South. The main island is situated just below the equator. It benefits from a rich history having been for centuries the key trading post for East Africa and beautiful landscape and beaches.
Time Zone GMT + 3

OFFICIL LANGUAGE
Citizens speak Kiswahili. The official language is English, but the knowledge of the English is rather poor by the Zanzibari. Only well-educated persons know some English.
CURRENCY
The local currency is the Tanzanian Shilling. It fluctuates considerably against the US Dollar. It is not available internationally,so visitors are advised to bring a sensible mix of hard currency and cash. These are easily changed into local currency in Bureaux de Change or Banks. US Dollars are recommended for the best rates of exchange. There is not an active currency black market in Zanzibar. You can use credit cards at larger establishments - Visa and MasterCard are the most widely accepted - but remember that they are subject to 5-15% commission and to a bad exchange rate. In and around Stonetown, there are several ATM machines where you withdraw cash by Maestro, Master or Visa cards.
RELIGION
Islam is the dominant religion of Zanzibar although there are also followers of Christianity and Hinduism. Although the Zanzibari are not very rigid in their beliefs, as a matter of respect for local customs, we recommend that women cover their shoulders when in Stone Town and avoid over provocative dress as this is frowned upon. We are also not in favor of nude or topless bathing in any but the most secluded of locations. The mosques of Zanzibar are off limits to both non-Muslim men and women alike. There are both Anglican and Catholic Churches in Stone Town and Sunday services have a strong local flavor with excellent choirs. Services can be an uplifting experience for believers and non-believers alike.

CLIMATE
The climate of Zanzibar is determined by the Monsoon winds which blow from the North East from November to February and from the South West from April to September. The beginning of each new season brings rains. The heavy rains run from late April to early June and this is not a good time to visit Zanzibar. The light rains are in November but usually are brief outbursts between large stretches of sunshine. The hottest season is January and February but there is usually a refreshing sea breeze and Zanzibar is rarely overpoweringly hot. Daytime temperatures usually vary between 26 and 28 degrees centigrade.
HEALTH PRECAUTIONS
Given that Zanzibar is blessed almost all year around with a cool breeze, one can forget that one is in the tropics. Be careful with the sun and use a strong protection in the first days of your stay. Zanzibar is a malaria area, as are most tropical destinations in the world, and you should take advice from your doctor at home regarding what malaria tablets to take. It is also a good idea to bring a mosquito repellent for use in the evenings. All hotels should provide mosquito nets. In the evenings, you best wear light colored clothes which cover your arms and legs.If you follow the above precautions you reduce the possibility of catching malaria to a minimum. The symptoms of flu are very similar to those of malaria and, in the first 4 weeks after your return to Europe, should you have flu symptoms, inform your Doctor that you have been in the tropics.
On the island are some private hospitals with quiet reliable doctors. Medicines are available in the many pharmacies in Stone town.

There are no legally required vaccinations for Zanzibar or Tanzania and as from April 2001 visitors heading off to Tanzania are no longer required to provide mandatory certification for yellow fever before entry into the country. If you have a previous stay in a country where yellow fever is required, you may be required to show your certificate.
Visas and Entry Requirements
All visitors require a passport, valid for a period of at least six months from the date of their departure.
Visitors can obtain visas arriving at Zanzibar International Airport. The visa varies between nationality; for most Europeans it is Usd 50, please check this with us prior to your departure as rates periodically change.
Other points in Tanzania currently offering visa on entry are Dar Es Salaam and Kilimanjaro International Airports.
Electricity
220 - 240 V AC, 50 Hz. Traditionally British wiring has been used in Zanzibar and three pin UK style plugs are the norm. Some of the more recent hotels, have been wired for continental plugs. Those coming from continental Europe should bring an adaptor or change the plug on arrival, visitors from the USA will need a transformer and an adaptor. There are occasional power cuts in Zanzibar but the situation has improved recently. In addition those using expensive electrical equipment need to be aware that there are occasional power surges which can damage electrical equipment although this is unusual and most modern equipment is designed to protect from this.
Most hotels have generator to cover the power cut periods.
GETTING ARROUND
Taxis and minibuses are available from good tour operators and can also be found at most major arrival points and around town. Local buses (known as dala-dala's) span the entire island. Vehicle hire is a possibility - but remember to bring an International Driver's Permit and request a road permit, available at the Malindi Traffic Police Head-Quarters in Stone Town. We recommend that you hire a car with a driver rather than drive yourselves. Road signs are almost non-existant and your driver's time will cost you little. If you negotiate well it will cost you no more than a hire car to hire a vehicle with a driver. All our hotel and house staff can recommend good honest reliable drivers who are also a wealth of information and great fun to be with.