10 Things Tourists Wish They Knew Before Visiting Zanzibar (And How to Fix Them)
- DONALD ELISANTE
- Oct 22, 2025
- 9 min read
Updated: Jan 23
Imagine this: you are standing on a powder-white beach, the Indian Ocean's turquoise waves lapping at your feet. The air is scented with cloves and salt. This is the Zanzibar of your dreams. But suddenly, your peace is interrupted by a persistent vendor or your relaxing day threatened by a logistical hiccup you didn't see coming. For many travelers, this is the hidden reality of paradise.
Zanzibar is a breathtaking destination, but its beauty is often shadowed by common frustrations that can catch even savvy travelers off guard. This guide isn’t here to scare you, it’s here to empower you.
We are pulling back the curtain on the most frequent problems, from stressful scams to simple logistical issues, giving you the insider knowledge to navigate them with confidence and ensure your trip is as smooth as the ocean at sunrise.
We want your Zanzibar experience to be defined by spice-scented breezes and turquoise waters, not by stress and scams. To make that happen, let's get practical.
Here’s a clear breakdown of what you might face and exactly how to handle it, so you can reclaim your peace of mind and focus on creating paradise-like memories.
I. Scams and Persistent Harassment: The Biggest Frustrations
These are the issues most likely to disrupt your peace. Being prepared is your best defense.
1. Aggressive “Beach Boys” & Vendors
The Problem: On popular beaches like Nungwi, Kendwa, and in Stone Town, you will be approached by persistent vendors and self-appointed “guides” offering souvenirs, boat trips, or tours. They can be charming at first but often become pushy if you engage too long.
Solutions:
Use the “Hapana, Asante” method: Say “No, thank you” in Swahili firmly, without stopping or making prolonged eye contact.
Walk with purpose, if you look lost or hesitant, you become a target.
If it gets uncomfortable, step into a hotel, restaurant, or shop. Touts rarely follow inside.
Bonus Tip: A friendly but clear “Sina pesa leo” (“I have no money today”) in Swahili can also work wonders.
2. Corrupt Traffic Police Scams
The Problem: Tourists driving rental cars are often targeted by police for made-up violations such as “not wearing a seatbelt” or “speeding” without evidence and asked to pay an immediate cash “fine.”
Solutions:
Best option: Hire a vetted local driver through a trusted company (like Travel Wise Safari). We know the routes and local protocols.
If you are driving:
Always carry your license and rental documents.
Politely insist on an official ticket say, “I will pay at the police station.”
Never hand over your passport, a copy is sufficient.
Stay calm and respectful, losing your temper can worsen the situation.
3. Overcharging & The “Zanzibar Price”
The Problem: As a tourist, you will often be quoted prices much higher than what locals pay for taxis, souvenirs, and even food.
Solutions:
Always agree on the price before getting in a taxi or accepting a service.
Pay in Tanzanian Shillings (TZS), not USD or Euros, to avoid unfair exchange rates.
Learn a little Swahili even basic numbers and greetings can change the dynamic and show you are not a complete newcomer.
4. Fake Tours & Deposit Scams
The Problem: Unlicensed tour sellers on the beach may offer amazing deals for dolphin tours, spice tours, or snorkeling only to disappear after you pay a deposit.
Solutions:
Book through licensed operators with physical offices and verified online reviews like Travel Wise Safari
Avoid paying large deposits to individuals on the beach.
Get everything in writing, a WhatsApp confirmation with company details is better than a verbal agreement.
II. Practical & Logistics Issues
A little preparation goes a long way in making your Zanzibar trip smooth.
1. Expensive & Unpredictable Taxis
The Problem: Taxis from the airport or between towns can be overpriced, and unlicensed taxis (white license plates) may lack insurance.
Solutions:
Pre-book your transfers through your hotel or a trusted tour operator like Travel Wise Safari
For short trips, use tuk-tuks but always negotiate the fare in advance.
For the adventurous: try a dala-dala (local minibus) for the true Zanzibari experience!
2. Power & Water Outages
The Problem: Outside luxury resorts, power cuts are common and can last hours affecting Wi-Fi, AC, and water pumps.
Solutions:
Pack a power bank, flashlight, or headlamp.
Download movies or books for offline entertainment.
Keep a bottle of drinking water in your room, just in case.
3. Tides & Beach Access
The Problem: On the east coast (Paje, Jambiani), low tide can pull the ocean out by hundreds of meters leaving sea urchins and seaweed exposed.
Solutions:
Check tide tables before planning beach days.
Wear water shoes, they protect your feet and make wading comfortable.
Use low tide for beach walks or photography high tide is best for swimming.
4. Slow Service (“Pole Pole” Culture)
The Problem: “Pole pole” means “slowly slowly” and it’s a way of life in Zanzibar. Meals can take over an hour, and service is rarely rushed.
Solutions:
Relax and embrace it. You are on island time!
Order drinks and food early if you are in a hurry.
Smile and be patient, getting frustrated won’t speed things up.
III. Health & Safety
1. Stomach Issues & Traveler’s Diarrhea
The Problem: Change in diet, tap water, or improperly washed fruits can cause stomach upsets.
Solutions:
Drink only sealed bottled water even when brushing teeth.
Avoid ice in drinks unless you are at a high-end resort.
Eat where locals eat busy spots usually mean fresher food.
2. Mosquitoes & Malaria Risk
The Problem: Mosquitoes are active at dusk and dawn, especially in rural and wooded areas.
Solutions:
Use a DEET-based repellent.
Sleep under a mosquito net if your room isn’t sealed.
Consult your doctor before traveling about anti-malarial medication.
BONUS: Little-Known Local Tips
Dress modestly outside beach areas especially in Stone Town.
Carry small bills it makes transactions easier and haggling smoother.
Learn a few Swahili phrases “Jambo” (Hello), “Asante” (Thank you), “Habari?” (How are you?) it opens hearts and doors.
The beauty of Zanzibar is truly unmatched, and with this knowledge, you are now prepared to experience it with confidence. However, navigating these potential pitfalls alone can still add a layer of stress to your well-deserved vacation. This is where the value of a trusted partner becomes priceless.
Imagine a holiday where you don’t have to worry about corrupt police, unreliable tours, or expensive taxi scams. Imagine having a local expert on call to handle any hiccups, leaving you free to fully immerse yourself in the magic of the Spice Island.
That is the peace of mind we offer at Travel Wise Safari.
We go beyond simply booking your mainland safari. We provide an integrated, secure, and seamless travel experience. Our network of pre-vetted, licensed drivers and tour operators in Zanzibar is your shield against the common frustrations. We handle the logistics, so you can focus on the memories.
You have done the research. Now, let us handle the rest.
Click below to explore our secure, pre-vetted Zanzibar and Safari packages and start your journey with confidence.
Below is a Recap of the problems and their solutions:
1. Scams and Persistent Harassment (The Biggest Frustrations)
This category represents the most frequent source of stress for tourists and is often cited as a reason for disappointment.
Problem | Description (Visitor Complaints) | Solutions (How to Avoid) |
Aggressive "Beach Boys" & Vendors | The Problem: Constant, relentless, and sometimes intimidating sales pitches from guides, souvenir vendors, and local young men on the beaches (especially in tourist hotspots like Nungwi and Stone Town). They often follow tourists for blocks after being politely declined, turning a relaxing stroll into a stressful ordeal. | Be Firm and Polite. A simple, clear “Hapana, Asante” (No, thank you) delivered firmly, without engaging further, is your best tool. Avoid prolonged eye contact or stopping to chat. If harassment persists, retreat to your hotel or a crowded, public spot like a café. Our pre-arranged tours ensure you are escorted by a vetted guide, creating a protective bubble from these hassles. |
Corrupt Traffic Police Scams | The Problem: Tourists who rent cars are frequently stopped by police, accused of fictional traffic violations (like failing to stop for an unmarked officer), and pressured to pay high fines in cash on the spot to avoid a lengthy trip to the station. This preys on a traveler's desire for a simple, quick resolution. | Hire a Vetted Driver or Use Reputable Transfers. This is the single most effective solution. Our drivers are known and respected on the roads. If you drive yourself: Never pay in cash. Insist calmly on an official, electronic ticket. Carry only small notes for potential unofficial "settlements," but know that standing your ground (politely) often makes them wave you on. |
Overcharging (The "Zanzibar Price") | The Problem: Shops, taxi drivers, and local tour operators lack fixed prices and charge tourists significantly inflated rates, often multiple times the local price. This makes every purchase a exhausting haggle and leaves you feeling "ripped off." | Haggle Hard, Pay in Shillings, and Use Trusted Sources. Always agree on the price before accepting a service. Carry small Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) notes, as paying in USD or Euro invites a poor exchange rate. For key services, book through a reputable tour company like Travel Wise Safari. We provide transparent, upfront pricing for transfers and tours, so you never have to wonder if you paid a fair price. |
Fake Tours and Deposits | The Problem: Paying deposits to unofficial or unlicensed beach operators for tours that either never happen or are "bait-and-switched" for a different, inferior activity. This doesn't just cost you money; it ruins a highly anticipated day of your holiday. | Avoid Street Touts for Major Bookings. Use licensed tour operators with physical offices and good reviews (like us!). Booking through your established accommodation or a trusted company like Travel Wise Safari guarantees you get what you pay for. We get everything in writing for you, so your dream dolphin tour remains a dream come true. |
2. Practical & Logistics Issues (The Preventable Headaches)
These are common travel planning difficulties that can be easily managed with the right preparation.
Problem | Description (Visitor Complaints) | Solutions (How to Avoid) |
Expensive and Unpredictable Taxis | The Problem: Taxi fares are high, especially for airport transfers. The confusion between licensed taxis (red-plated) and unlicensed taxis (white-plated) taxis adds a layer of anxiety about safety and reliability upon arrival. | Pre-Arrange Transfers. This is a game-changer. Book your airport transfers in advance through us. You will be greeted by a friendly, professional driver with a sign, bypassing the entire stressful taxi haggling scene. For short local rides, use tuk-tuks but always agree on the price before you get in. |
Power Outages (Electricity & Water) | The Problem: Frequent, sometimes hours-long, power cuts are a common occurrence outside of major luxury resorts. This affects charging electronics, air conditioning, and, in some cases, water supply, which can be frustrating if you're unprepared. | Pack Prepared. Bring a quality power bank, a small flashlight/headlamp, and non-electronic entertainment. A good book becomes your best friend during an outage. Be patient with staff, as this is often out of their control. Choosing accommodations with a backup generator (which many of our partner hotels have) can also mitigate this. |
Tides and Beach Access | The Problem: Beaches on the East Coast (like Paje and Jambiani) experience extreme, wide-ranging tides. At low tide, the sea recedes hundreds of meters, making swimming impossible and revealing seaweed and sharp sea urchins. | Check Tide Charts & Use Water Shoes. A quick online search for the daily tide schedule allows you to plan your beach days for high tide and your long walks for low tide. Pack water shoes or reef booties they are an absolute essential to protect your feet and enjoy the unique landscape comfortably. |
Slow Service ("Pole Pole") | The Problem: Everything runs on "Zanzibar Time," or pole pole (slowly, slowly). Meals, especially in local restaurants, can take an hour or more to arrive, which can be tiring when you are hungry or on a schedule. | Adjust Expectations and Relax. This is the hardest but most important solution. Embrace the pace you are on vacation! Order a drink and enjoy the view. If you are on a tight schedule, order your food well in advance. Fighting the culture will only cause frustration; flowing with it is the key to happiness here. |
3. Health and Safety Concerns (Protecting Your Wellbeing)
Staying healthy is the foundation of an enjoyable trip. These simple steps ensure minor issues don't majorly disrupt your journey.
Problem | Description (Visitor Complaints) | Solutions (How to Avoid) |
Traveler's Diarrhea/Infection | The Problem: Stomach issues are common due to tap water, different food preparation standards, or ice in drinks. Nothing ruins a day of exploration faster than feeling unwell. | Stick to Bottled Water. Use only sealed bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth. Avoid ice in drinks unless the source is confirmed to be bottled water. Be cautious with street food, especially meat that has been sitting out, and choose hot, well-cooked meals. Pack a simple rehydration solution and stomach soothing medication just in case. |
Mosquitoes and Malaria | The Problem: Zanzibar is a tropical region where mosquitoes are active, especially in the evenings. The concern about mosquito-borne illnesses can be a constant, low-level worry. | Prepare Medically and Repel. Consult your doctor about taking anti-malarial prophylaxis before you travel. Use strong insect repellent (with DEET) at dusk and throughout the evening. Choose accommodations with mosquito nets over the beds and wear long, light-colored clothing in the evenings. |
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