Don't leave home without these essentials. Our comprehensive Zanzibar packing guide covers clothing, gear, medications, and everything else you need for the perfect island trip.
Packing for Zanzibar requires balancing beach essentials with cultural considerations, marine gear with city clothing, and practical health items with comfort. Here is our definitive packing list, developed over years of guiding visitors to the island.
Clothing
Beach areas: lightweight swimwear, board shorts or bikini, rash guard for sun protection, lightweight linen or cotton shirts and dresses. Pack light sandals or flip-flops for the beach, but you will be hot, and you won't need formal clothes.
Stone Town and cultural sites: modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is respectful and culturally important. Light linen trousers, maxi dresses, and long-sleeved lightweight shirts work perfectly in the heat while respecting local customs.
Evenings: a light cardigan or long-sleeved layer is useful for restaurant air conditioning and cooler evenings during the dry season.
Marine & Beach Essentials
Reef-safe sunscreen is not just environmentally important but it is essential protection. SPF50+ for the equatorial sun. Bring significantly more than you think you need.
A quality snorkel mask is worth bringing if you have a preferred fit, though all tours include equipment. An underwater camera or waterproof phone case is worth its weight in gold.
Water shoes or reef shoes are useful for entry and exit at rocky beaches and reef areas. Flip-flops for all beach and general use.
Health & Medical
Antimalarial medication (consult your doctor). DEET insect repellent (40%+ concentration). Oral rehydration salts. Standard travel first aid kit. Any prescription medications in original packaging with prescription.
Travel insurance documents are essential. Emergency contact numbers for your insurer.