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Zanzibar Airport Transfers & Getting Around the Island

Most travelers visiting Zanzibar arrive at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, located just outside Stone Town.

From there, many visitors continue to beach destinations such as Nungwi, Kendwa, Paje, Jambiani, or Matemwe, which are typically 1–1.5 hours from the airport.

Transportation in Zanzibar usually happens in three stages of your trip:

  1. Airport transfer when you arrive

  2. Moving around the island during your stay

  3. Return transfer to the airport when departing

Below is a complete guide to the best transport options in Zanzibar, including private transfers, taxis, hotel pickups, local transport, and tours.

1. Airport to Hotel Transfers in Zanzibar

After arriving at the airport, the first step is reaching your hotel. Most travelers stay on the north or east coast, so arranging transportation in advance is often the easiest option.

Private Airport Transfers (Recommended)

A private transfer is the most convenient way to travel from the airport to your hotel.

With a private transfer, a driver meets you at the airport and takes you directly to your accommodation.

This option is especially helpful if:

  • It is your first time visiting Zanzibar
  • You are arriving late at night
  • You are traveling with luggage or family
  • Your hotel is located far from Stone Town
Private transfers are comfortable, reliable, and widely used by visitors staying in beach resorts across the island.

Typical Transfer Times

Approximate travel times from the airport:

  • Stone Town: 10–20 minutes
  • Paje / Jambiani: about 1 hour
  • Matemwe: about 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Nungwi / Kendwa: 1 hour 30 minutes

Airport Transfer from Zanzibar Airport to Nungwi

Nungwi is one of the most popular beach destinations in Zanzibar and is located on the northern tip of the island.

The distance from the airport to Nungwi is around 60 km, and the journey usually takes about 1 hour 30 minutes.

Because of the distance, most travelers staying in Nungwi arrange private transfers or taxis directly from the airport.

Airport Transfer from Zanzibar Airport to Paje

Paje is located on the southeast coast and is known for its relaxed atmosphere, kite surfing, and beach cafés.

The journey from the airport to Paje is around 50 km and usually takes about one hour.

Travelers staying in Paje often choose between:

  • Private airport transfers
  • Airport taxis
  • Hotel pickup services
Private transfers are generally the easiest option for first-time visitors.

Taxi from Zanzibar Airport

Taxis are available outside the airport terminal and can take you to most areas on the island.

However, prices are usually negotiated with the driver, so it’s important to agree on the price before starting the journey.

For this reason, many travelers prefer arranging a private transfer in advance.

Zanzibar Airport Taxi Prices

Taxi prices depend mainly on the distance to your destination. Typical approximate prices are:
  • Stone Town: $10 – $20
  • Paje / Jambiani: $40 – $60
  • Matemwe: $50 – $70
  • Nungwi / Kendwa: $50 – $70
Prices may vary depending on the time of day, number of passengers, and driver.

Hotel Airport Transfers

Some hotels offer airport pickup services.

This can be convenient because the driver already knows the hotel location, but prices are sometimes higher than independent transfers.

It’s worth comparing options before booking.

2. Getting Around Zanzibar During Your Trip

Zanzibar is relatively small, but many of the island’s beaches are located far apart. During your stay, you may want transportation for excursions or exploring different areas.

Private Drivers

Hiring a private driver is one of the most comfortable ways to explore Zanzibar.

Drivers can take you to destinations such as:
  • Stone Town
  • Nungwi
  • Paje
  • Jambiani
  • Matemwe
Many travelers hire a driver for half-day or full-day trips to explore the island.

Tours and Excursions

Some of Zanzibar’s most popular activities include:
  • Stone Town walking tours
  • Spice farm tours
  • Prison Island trips
  • Safari Blue boat excursions
Many travelers book excursions through platforms like Viator, which allows you to compare tours and book in advance.

Tours usually include transportation from your hotel.

Local Transport (Dala-Dala)

Zanzibar also has local minibuses known as dala-dalas.

These are very cheap but can be crowded and confusing for visitors unfamiliar with the routes.

For most tourists, taxis or private drivers are a much more comfortable option.

3. Hotel to Airport Transfers (Departure)

When leaving Zanzibar, it is best to arrange your airport transfer in advance.

This helps ensure you arrive at the airport on time, particularly if you are staying on the north or east coast.

Recommended Departure Times

Allow enough travel time depending on your location:
  • Nungwi / Kendwa: about 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Paje / Jambiani: about 1 hour
  • Matemwe: about 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Stone Town: about 15 minutes
It’s generally recommended to leave your hotel at least 3 hours before your flight.

Arrange a Zanzibar Airport Transfer

Arriving in Zanzibar for the first time can feel confusing, especially after a long flight. Instead of negotiating with drivers at the airport, many travelers prefer arranging a reliable transfer in advance.

If you would like, at Zanzibar Holiday Secrets, we can help you organize trusted private transfers with experienced local drivers who know the island well.

Transfers can be arranged for:

  • Airport pickup to your hotel

  • Hotel transfers across the island

  • Day trips and excursions

  • Return airport transfers

When leaving Zanzibar, it is best to arrange your airport transfer in advance.

This helps ensure you arrive at the airport on time, particularly if you are staying on the north or east coast.

Click here to Contact us on WhatsApp to arrange a transfer

Frequently Asked Questions on Zanzibar Airport Transfer

Is it easy to get a taxi in Zanzibar?

Yes. Taxis are available at the airport and in most tourist areas, although prices should always be agreed in advance.

Booking in advance is recommended, especially for travelers arriving late at night or staying far from Stone Town.

Travel times vary depending on your destination, but most beach resorts are between 1 and 1.5 hours from the airport.

Have a question or want to arrange a transfer?

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