What are the health risks in Zanzibar? Is it safe there, and where are the areas with the highest crime rates?

The 10 best hotels in Zanzibar

Health risks

There is no reported increased incidence of any exotic diseases in Zanzibar, and in this respect it is one of the safest regions in Africa.

There are no exotic diseases or extremely dangerous animals here. 

The most common health problems among tourists in Zanzibar are linked to prolonged exposure to the sun in hot weatheror overestimating one’s swimming ability whilst swimming in the sea. It is essential to always drinkplenty of water – ideally 3 litres a day.

Swimming in the sea

As far as swimming is concerned, observe any swimming bans and heed warnings about strong sea currents.

Sea currents are particularly common off the west coast. To the east and north, the sea is very shallow and very safe.

Drinking water

Tap water in Zanzibar is not safe to drink.

You will be provided with filtered water at your hotel; otherwise, we recommend drinking only bottled water bought from a shop.

Mosquitoes and flies

Don’t forget to buyinsect repellent for evenings spent outdoors and for trips into the countryside.

Mosquitoes are particularly prevalent in Zanzibar between October and May. We recommend using the mosquito nets provided by most hotels.

Dangerous animals

There are few animals in Zanzibar that pose a danger to humans, but it is nevertheless advisable to exercise caution in certain situations.

Marine life

The greatest danger in the sea comes from sea urchins.

Most sea urchins in Zanzibar are not poisonous, but if the wound becomes swollen or red, you should definitely visit the A&E department.

The waters around Zanzibar are also home to extremely poisonous stonefish, well-known fish with spines that look like stones. However, they live at greater depths and you’ll only encounter them whilst diving or snorkelling away from the beaches.

Sharks are found around Zanzibar, but encounters with humans are extremely rare here, and shark attacks are virtually unheard of

Stray dogs

Unlike other places in Africa, such as Mauritius, there are hardly any stray dogs in Zanzibar.

I saw a few stray dogs on the beaches around Jambiani and at restaurants The Rock, but there were always very few of them and they were not aggressive in any way whatsoever.

Snakes and spiders

Several species of venomous snakes, such as the mamba, are found in Zanzibar. However, as there are few native forests and the population density is relatively high, there are very few snakes here and encounters with humans are extremely rare.

Spiders are also found here, but there are significantly fewer of them compared to other equatorial regions.

Predators

There are no large predators on the island that pose a threat to humans. All large animals are found only on the Tanzanian mainland.

Compulsory vaccinations

There are no tropical diseases here, so no vaccinations are required for Zanzibar.

Crime 

Zanzibar is a very safe island.

Serious crimes and attacks against tourists are extremely rare, not least because tourism is by far the largest item in Zanzibar’s budget.

Nevertheless, basic caution is advised. Do not leave your belongings unattended, and keep valuables safe or lock them in a safe.

Pickpockets are mainly found in markets and occasionally on beaches, but there are generally fewer pickpockets here than in European cities, for example.

Within Africa, perhaps only the Seychellesor Mauritius are similarly safe.

Be cautious if anyone on the beach offers you various excursions and services. They may be very untrustworthy sellers, from whom you will ultimately not receive the agreed service, or the overall experience will be significantly worse than with a reputable travel agency.

We recommend booking excursions at high-street agencies or, ideally, via the website getyourguide.com.

Important contacts 

Telephone numbers that may come in handy during your stay: 

• Police – 112
• Fire brigade – 114
• Ambulance (SAMU) – 115
• Anti-Corruption Service – 113