Getting Around Zanzibar in 2026: Airport Taxi Prices, Car Rental, Currency Exchange and Travel Tips
Planning a holiday in Zanzibar? Before arriving on the island, it is important to understand how transportation works, how much airport taxis cost, where to exchange money and whether renting a car is worth it. Zanzibar is a beautiful island with many places to explore, including Nungwi, Kendwa, Matemwe, Paje, Jambiani, Stone Town and Kiwengwa. However, these destinations are spread across the island, and transportation costs can become a significant part of your holiday budget. In this complete Zanzibar travel guide, we explain airport taxi prices, currency exchange rates, car rental costs, driving permits, road conditions and the best ways to travel around the island in 2026.
1. Zanzibar Airport Taxi Prices in 2026
One of the first things visitors need after landing at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport is transportation to their hotel or accommodation. Taxis are available outside the airport, and prices depend on your destination. Unlike many international airports, Zanzibar airport taxis generally operate with agreed fares rather than standard metered prices. Below is a destination-by-destination guide to estimated airport taxi fares.
Zanzibar Airport Taxi Fare Guide
| Destination | Estimated TZS | USD | EUR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stone Town | 50,000 | $20 | €20 |
| Mtoni / Kibweni | 87,000 | $30 | €30 |
| Bububu | 75,000 | $30 | €30 |
| H/Matt/Mangrove | 125,000 | $50 | €50 |
| Manga Pwani / Sea Cliff | 135,000 | $45 | €45 |
| Kiwengwa | 145,000 | $50 | €50 |
| Pwani Mchangani | 150,000 | $45 | €45 |
| Matemwe | 175,000 | $65 | €65 |
| Mkokotoni | 175,000 | $70 | €70 |
| Nungwi / Kendwa | 185,000 | $70 | €70 |
| Pongwe | 160,000 | $55 | €55 |
| Chwaka / Uroa | 110,000 | $45 | €45 |
| Tunguu | 100,000 | $40 | €40 |
| Unguja Ukuu | 150,000 | $4” | €40 |
| Jozani | 100,000 | $45 | €45 |
| Paje | 145,000 | $60 | €60 |
| Bwejuu | 145,000 | $60 | €60 |
| Dongwe | 212,000 | $85 | €85 |
| Michamvi / Pingwe | 225,000 | $90 | €90 |
| Jambiani | 175,000 | $70 | €70 |
| Makunduchi | 225,000 | $90 | €90 |
| Kizimkazi | 212,000 | $85 | €85 |
| Fumba | 125,000 | $50 | €50 |
| These are estimated guide prices based on photographed airport taxi rates with an additional $10 allowance for destinations other than Stone Town. They are not guaranteed quotations or official updated airport tariffs. | |||
| The airport taxi board indicates that its standard fares are per vehicle for groups of one to seven passengers. | |||
| Travel tip: Always agree on the final taxi price before entering the vehicle. Confirm whether luggage, waiting time and late-night collection are included. |
2. Is Renting a Car in Zanzibar Cheaper Than Taking Taxis?
For visitors planning to explore several parts of Zanzibar, renting a car can be a convenient and potentially more economical option. Consider a visitor staying in Nungwi for seven days who wants to visit Stone Town, Paje, Jambiani, Matemwe and other attractions. Arranging separate taxi journeys can become expensive, especially when returning to the hotel. With a rental car, you have the freedom to:
- Explore different beaches at your own pace.
- Visit restaurants and local attractions.
- Stop for photographs whenever you want.
- Avoid arranging a taxi every time you leave your hotel.
- Change your travel plans whenever necessary.
- Travel comfortably with family and luggage. However, if you are staying in one resort and only planning one or two excursions, taxis or private transfers might be more suitable.
Car Rental Prices in Zanzibar
Here are some starting prices for vehicles available through Kizingo Cars:
| Vehicle | Daily Price |
|---|---|
| Toyota RAV4 3-door | From $25 |
| Toyota RAV4 5-door | From $30 |
| Nissan Juke | From $30 |
| Toyota Vanguard | From $40 |
| Toyota Alphard | From $40 |
| Prices depend on availability and rental dates. | |
| Kizingo Cars offers airport delivery arrangements, assistance with Zanzibar driving permits and normal bookings without an advance deposit or security deposit. | |
| You can check available vehicles and book directly through: | |
| https://kizingocars.com |
3. Zanzibar Currency Exchange Rates in 2026
The local currency in Zanzibar is the Tanzanian shilling (TZS). US dollars and euros are also widely accepted in the tourism industry, particularly at hotels, restaurants, tour operators and car rental businesses. However, exchanging some money into Tanzanian shillings is useful when visiting local shops, markets and smaller businesses.
Example Currency Exchange Rates at Al Bashash Bureau de Change
The following rates were photographed on a local exchange board in Zanzibar.
| Currency | Buying Rate (TZS) | Selling Rate (TZS) |
|---|---|---|
| USD 50 / 100 | 2,630 | 2,670 |
| USD 5 / 10 / 20 | 2,615 | 2,670 |
| USD 1 | 2,550 | 2,670 |
| British Pound (GBP) | 3,400 | 3,600 |
| Euro (EUR) | 2,910 | 3,150 |
| Omani Rial (OMR) | 6,500 | 7,000 |
| Saudi Riyal (SAR) | 500 | 800 |
| UAE Dirham (AED) | 620 | 800 |
| South African Rand (ZAR) | 110 | 170 |
| Kenyan Shilling (KES) | 15 | 25 |
| Ugandan Shilling (UGX) | 0.2 | 2 |
| Swiss Franc (CHF) | 2,900 | 3,000 |
| Australian Dollar (AUD) | 1,500 | 1,900 |
| Canadian Dollar (CAD) | 1,600 | 2,100 |
| Swedish Krona (SEK) | 120 | 250 |
| Norwegian Krone (NOK) | 120 | 170 |
| Danish Krone (DKK) | 150 | 310 |
| Chinese Yuan (CNY) | 200 | 370 |
| Japanese Yen (JPY) | 18 | 30 |
| Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD) | 7,900 | 8,200 |
| Indian Rupee (INR) | 20 | 40 |
| Hong Kong Dollar (HKD) | 100 | 400 |
| These are photographed exchange-board rates, not guaranteed current rates. Always confirm the rate before exchanging money. |
What Is the Difference Between Buying and Selling Rates?
Understanding these two terms is important. Buying rate: The exchange bureau buys foreign currency from you and gives you Tanzanian shillings. Selling rate: The exchange bureau sells foreign currency to you in exchange for Tanzanian shillings. For example, if you exchange $100 in large USD notes at a buying rate of 2,630 TZS, you receive approximately 263,000 TZS. Smaller USD notes may have a different exchange rate, so check the denomination before exchanging. Travel tip: Avoid exchanging all your money at once without comparing rates. Different authorised exchange providers may offer different rates.
4. Do Tourists Need a Special Driving Permit in Zanzibar?
Yes. Tourists renting and driving vehicles in Zanzibar need a local Zanzibar driving permit in addition to their valid driving licence. An International Driving Permit does not automatically replace the local Zanzibar permit. Most established rental companies can assist with arranging the required documentation. At Kizingo Cars, we assist customers with the Zanzibar driving permit. Our current permit arrangement charge is $25 per driver. Customers generally need to provide:
- A copy of their valid driving licence.
- A copy of their passport. We recommend providing these documents approximately one week before arrival to allow sufficient processing time. If two people intend to drive the rental vehicle, both must have their own valid permit. Always confirm the latest official requirements before travelling.
5. Is It Safe to Drive in Zanzibar?
Driving in Zanzibar is generally manageable for visitors who are confident drivers and understand local road conditions. However, driving may feel different from what you are accustomed to in your home country. Important things to remember:
- Vehicles drive on the left-hand side.
- There are speed bumps in many villages.
- Motorcycles and bicycles share the roads.
- Pedestrians frequently cross roads.
- Some roads have potholes or uneven surfaces.
- Animals may occasionally appear on the road.
- Police checkpoints are common. Drive carefully, respect speed limits and keep your driving documents with you. If you are unfamiliar with driving on the left, consider arranging a professional driver instead.
6. Is Uber or Bolt Available in Zanzibar?
Visitors should not rely on Uber or Bolt for everyday transportation in Zanzibar. The most common transportation options are private taxis, hotel transfers, rental cars and local public transport. If you need an airport transfer, it is advisable to arrange it before arriving. If you want to explore multiple destinations independently, renting a car can be a practical alternative.
7. What Is Dala-Dala in Zanzibar?
Dala-dala is the local public transport system used by residents. These vehicles connect Stone Town with different villages and communities around the island. They are an affordable way to travel, but they are not always convenient for tourists carrying luggage or travelling with children. Some vehicles can become crowded, departure times may vary and certain journeys require changing vehicles. If you are travelling on a limited budget and want to experience local life, dala-dala can be an interesting option. For convenience, private transportation is generally more suitable for visitors with several destinations to explore.
8. How Long Does It Take to Travel From Zanzibar Airport to Popular Destinations?
Travel times depend on traffic, road conditions and the exact location of your accommodation. Here are approximate journey times:
| Destination | Estimated Driving Time |
|---|---|
| Stone Town | 15–25 minutes |
| Paje | 50–70 minutes |
| Jambiani | 60–75 minutes |
| Matemwe | 60–80 minutes |
| Kiwengwa | 45–65 minutes |
| Nungwi | 75–100 minutes |
| Kendwa | 75–100 minutes |
| Kizimkazi | 60–80 minutes |
| Allow additional time when travelling to the airport, particularly before international flights. |
9. Are Zanzibar Roads Suitable for Rental Cars?
The main roads connecting Stone Town with popular tourist destinations are generally accessible by ordinary rental vehicles. However, road conditions vary across the island. Some roads are paved and well-maintained, while others leading to smaller villages, beach properties and private villas can be sandy or uneven. During rainy periods, some secondary roads may become more difficult to navigate. A Toyota RAV4 or Toyota Vanguard can be a practical choice if you want additional ground clearance and luggage space. However, always avoid driving through deep water or onto unsuitable roads.
10. Can You Rent a Car Directly at Zanzibar Airport?
Yes. You can arrange to collect or receive your rental vehicle at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport. Booking before arrival is recommended, especially during busy holiday periods. At Kizingo Cars, customers can arrange airport delivery so they can begin their holiday without searching for transportation after landing. Delivery and collection arrangements should be confirmed in advance because some locations outside Stone Town may involve additional charges. Visit https://kizingocars.com to check availability and arrange your rental.
11. What Should You Know Before Visiting Zanzibar?
Besides transportation, there are several important things to organise before travelling.
Zanzibar Travel Insurance
Foreign visitors entering Zanzibar are subject to the mandatory inbound travel insurance requirement administered through the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation. Check the official requirements, current fees and purchasing procedure before travelling: https://inbound.visitzanzibar.go.tz/
Visa Requirements
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Some visitors require a Tanzanian visa, while others are eligible for visa-free entry. Check the official immigration website: https://immigration.go.tz/
Weather
Zanzibar has a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year. June to October is generally a popular dry period. November and December can experience short rains, while March to May is generally associated with the main rainy season.
Local Culture
Zanzibar has a rich Swahili and Muslim cultural heritage. When visiting Stone Town, local villages and public areas away from beaches, dressing modestly is appreciated.
12. Frequently Asked Questions About Zanzibar Transportation
How much is a taxi from Zanzibar Airport to Stone Town? The photographed airport taxi board displays $20 or €20 for Stone Town. Always confirm the current fare before travelling. How much is a taxi from Zanzibar Airport to Nungwi? Our estimated guide fare is $85 or €85 per vehicle. Confirm the actual price with your taxi operator. How much is a taxi from Zanzibar Airport to Paje? The estimated guide fare is $70 or €70 per vehicle. How much is a taxi from Zanzibar Airport to Matemwe? The estimated guide fare is $80 or €80 per vehicle. Is renting a car cheaper than taking taxis in Zanzibar? It depends on your itinerary. Visitors making several journeys over multiple days may find renting a car more convenient and economical than paying for separate taxi trips. What is the cheapest car rental in Zanzibar? Selected Kizingo Cars vehicles start from $25 per day, subject to availability. Can I rent a car without a deposit in Zanzibar? Yes. Kizingo Cars offers normal bookings without an advance deposit or security deposit. Can I pay in US dollars in Zanzibar? Yes. US dollars are widely accepted in the tourism industry, although Tanzanian shillings are useful for everyday purchases. Where can I exchange money in Zanzibar? There are authorised bureaux de change in Stone Town and other commercial areas. Compare rates and confirm the amount you will receive before exchanging. Which is better, renting a car or using a taxi? A taxi is convenient for occasional journeys. Renting a car is useful for visitors who want to explore several parts of Zanzibar independently.
Conclusion: Plan Your Zanzibar Transportation Before You Arrive
Transportation is an important part of planning a successful Zanzibar holiday. Whether you choose airport taxis, private transfers, local public transportation or a rental car, understanding the costs before arrival helps you avoid unexpected expenses. For visitors who want more independence, renting a car offers the flexibility to explore Nungwi, Kendwa, Matemwe, Paje, Jambiani, Stone Town and many other destinations at their own pace. Kizingo Cars provides affordable self-drive car rental services in Zanzibar, with selected vehicles starting from $25 per day. We offer Toyota RAV4, Nissan Juke, Toyota Vanguard and Toyota Alphard rental options, along with airport delivery arrangements and assistance with Zanzibar driving permits. Planning your Zanzibar holiday? Visit Kizingo Cars to view our vehicles, compare prices and book your rental car. Website: https://kizingocars.com Email: KizingoCars@gmail.com WhatsApp: +255 658 366 353 Kizingo Cars – Explore Zanzibar at your own pace.