Zanzibar
Travelers Cheat Sheet
- Language: Swahili/English
- Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
- Best Time to Travel: June-October
- Time Zone: EAT (UTC+3)
- International Airport:Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ)
- Popular Cities: Stone Town, Nungwi, and Paje
- Transportation: Taxis, tuk-tuks, ferries, private drivers
Know Before You Go
Accommodations Near Giza
There are many inexpensive, safe hotels that offer incredible views without breaking the budget. My top recommendation is Elite Pyramids Boutique — perfect for a family of four. The rooms are clean and affordable, with excellent pyramid views, a rooftop restaurant, great air conditioning, and a large pool suitable for the whole family.
Accommodations Near Cairo
We stayed at The Kempinski Nile, which was beautiful but a little pricier. If your budget allows, it’s worth it for the luxury and location. For a more budget-friendly option, I recommend staying near the Nile — you can find many safe and comfortable hotels with easy access to restaurants and attractions.
Plugs and Power
Egypt primarily uses Type C and Type F plugs, 220V, 50Hz. A universal plug adapter is recommended for all travelers.
Restaurants
Egypt has an incredible food scene at every price level. Follow Google reviews, and don’t be afraid to try local spots — some of the best Arabic food is very affordable. From street eats to higher-end dining, there’s something for every taste and budget.
Food and Water Safety
When visiting Egypt, it’s best to drink bottled water from reputable brands or sealed sources, and avoid refilling bottles from taps. Many travelers also bring a filtered or purifying water bottle, which is especially convenient for day trips and desert excursions. As for food, Egypt has some of the most flavorful dishes you’ll ever try, but it’s wise to be cautious with anything raw. Avoid eating uncooked fruits or vegetables unless you can peel them yourself, as washing practices may vary. Stick to cooked meals from reputable restaurants or well-reviewed street vendors, and you’ll be able to enjoy Egypt’s incredible cuisine safely.
Health and Vaccines
Before traveling to Egypt, it’s a good idea to make sure your routine vaccinations are up to date and to consider additional ones such as Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, and Tetanus, which are commonly recommended for travelers. While no vaccines are required for entry, being prepared helps ensure a healthy trip. It’s also wise to pack a small travel health kit with essentials like motion sickness tablets, electrolyte packets, antidiarrheal medication, and basic pain relievers, since these items can be harder to find or labeled differently abroad.
Getting To and From Zanzibar: Flight or Ferry
Zanzibar’s main entry point is Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ), which handles international flights from Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and some regional hubs. If you’re already on the mainland in Tanzania, for example in Dar es Salaam (DAR), you can take a very short domestic flight to Zanzibar. Many local airlines operate this route, including Flightlink, Precision Air, Auric Air, ZanAir, and Coastal Aviation.
✈️ Flight time: ~ 20–30 minutes from Dar es Salaam to ZNZ
💵 Typical cost: Roughly US $50–$100 one-way
If you prefer a more scenic journey, you can take a ferry from the mainland port in Dar es Salaam to Stone Town, Zanzibar. Ferries are run by companies such as Azam Marine / Kilimanjaro Fast Ferries.
⛵ Ferry time: Usually 1.5 to 2 hours
💵 Typical cost Roughly US $35–$60 one-way
Pro Tip: Both traveling
Most travelers can obtain a Visa on Arrival at Egyptian airports. Make sure to have cash ready, preferably in clean bills, as this is often required for the visa fee. While credit cards are accepted at many places, it’s always good to carry some Egyptian Pounds for taxis, small shops, or market purchases. ATMs are plentiful and safe to use, and you can withdraw cash with a debit card as needed.
Transportation
What to Wear
Egypt is culturally conservative, so dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees. For sun protection and comfort in the heat
- Apply sunscreen regularly
- Wear a Wide-Brimmed hat
- Choose UPF 50+ shirts or fabrics that help with heat.
If visiting in summer months, plan excursions for the early morning or late evening to avoid peak heat
Money & Shopping
While credit cards are accepted at most hotels, larger restaurants, and tourist shops, it’s still a good idea to carry some Egyptian Pounds for smaller purchases, local markets, and tipping. ATMs are widely available and generally safe to use, making it easy to withdraw cash as needed. Make sure your bills are clean and undamaged — many places won’t accept torn or worn notes. Bargaining is a normal part of shopping in Egypt, especially in bazaars and souvenir stalls, so don’t be afraid to negotiate respectfully. Just remember that some vendors near major attractions can be persistent; having a local guide with you can make the experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Language
While Egyptian Arabic is the main language, many people speak good English, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.
Connectivity and SIM Cards
Staying connected in Egypt is easy and reliable. Major U.S. carriers like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile offer international plans that work well throughout the country, especially in larger cities like Cairo and Luxor. If you prefer a local option, SIM cards from Vodafone, Orange, or Etisalat are affordable and provide fast data coverage. You can purchase one at the airport upon arrival or at authorized shops in town. Wi-Fi is also widely available in hotels and cafés, but having mobile data makes it much easier to navigate, communicate, and share your adventures while exploring.
