Health & Safety in Zanzibar
Essential health information and safety tips for a worry-free Zanzibar vacation.
Essential Health Precautions
Malaria
Malaria risk exists in Zanzibar, particularly in rural areas and during the rainy season (March-May, November).
- Consult a travel clinic before departure for anti-malaria medication
- Take the prescribed medication as directed
- Use insect repellent with DEET on exposed skin
- Sleep under mosquito nets (provided by most accommodations)
- Wear long sleeves and pants in the evenings
Yellow Fever
Yellow fever vaccination is recommended for travelers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
- Check if your country requires yellow fever certification
- Get vaccinated at least 10 days before travel
- Carry your vaccination certificate
Other Health Risks
- Dengue fever and chikungunya are present — use insect repellent
- Traveler's diarrhea is common — drink bottled/boiled water
- Sun exposure is intense — use high SPF sunscreen
- Schistosomiasis (bilharzia) can occur in freshwater — avoid swimming in lakes and rivers
Staying Safe in Zanzibar
Stone Town
- Keep valuables secure — petty theft can occur
- Use registered taxis at night
- Avoid walking alone late at night
- Be cautious of persistent beach vendors
- Watch for strong tides and uneven surfaces
Beaches
- Swim in designated areas
- Check for warning flags
- Be aware of strong currents, especially during low tide
- Watch for sea urchins at low tide
- Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral
Water Activities
- Always use life jackets on boat trips
- Choose reputable operators for diving and snorkeling
- Check that equipment is well-maintained
- Listen to safety briefings
- Be honest about your swimming ability
General Safety
- Keep copies of your passport and important documents
- Use hotel safes for valuables
- Carry limited cash
- Use ATMs in secure locations
- Drink bottled or filtered water
- Eat at reputable establishments
- Have travel insurance with medical coverage
Required & Recommended Vaccinations
Recommended
- Hepatitis A
- Typhoid
- Hepatitis B
- Rabies (for extended stays or animal exposure)
Required
- Yellow Fever (if traveling from endemic countries)
- COVID-19 vaccination (check current requirements)
Routine Vaccinations
- Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)
- Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
- Varicella (Chickenpox)
- Polio
- Influenza
Health Questions Answered
Is Zanzibar safe for tourists?
Yes, Zanzibar is generally safe for tourists. Like any destination, take normal precautions: keep valuables secure, use registered taxis at night, and be aware of your surroundings. Stone Town is safe during the day but use taxis after dark.
Do I need malaria tablets?
Yes, malaria risk exists in Zanzibar. Consult your travel clinic or doctor before departure for anti-malaria medication. Also pack insect repellent and sleep under a mosquito net.
What vaccinations do I need?
Recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Hepatitis B. Yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission. Check with your doctor or travel clinic for personalized advice.
Is the water safe to drink?
No, tap water is not safe to drink. Drink bottled or filtered water, and avoid ice cubes made from tap water. Our recommended hotels provide filtered water.
Travel Healthy & Safe
Consult your travel clinic 4-6 weeks before departure for personalized advice. Message us on WhatsApp with your health questions.