From Zanzibar Airport to Stone Town
Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) is the main airport on Unguja, the main island of Zanzibar. It lies about 5 km south of Zanzibar City. That is the distance to the city, not to a particular address in the old town, so the length of your ride depends on where you are going and on the traffic.
You have three simple ways to get from the terminal to Stone Town: the new airport bus, a taxi or a pre-booked transfer. Shared local minibuses called dala-dalas also run, but they are the least straightforward option with luggage. Once you are in town, most of what you want to see is within walking distance, and the Stone Town walking tours start there as well.
Airport transport compared
The main options from ZNZ to Stone Town in 2026.
| Option | Price | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Airport bus, line R2 | TZS 700 per adult | Travellers with light luggage and a flexible plan |
| Taxi or transfer, sedan | $15 for up to 3 people | Couples and small groups |
| Taxi or transfer, SUV or van | $20 for up to 5 people | Families and groups with more bags |
| Dala-dala | – | Short local rides, not an easy choice with luggage |
For most visitors with luggage, a taxi or a pre-booked transfer is the least effort, while the bus is the cheapest way if you travel light. The taxi prices are examples per vehicle and not an official taximeter tariff.
Stone Town tours and day trips
Walking tours, Prison Island, spice farms and sandbank trips from Stone Town, with live prices and availability.
Airport bus to Stone Town
A public bus service launched in Zanzibar City on 23 July 2026, and its line R2 links the town with the airport. It runs every day from 05:00 to 21:00. The adult fare is TZS 700 whatever the distance, the buses are air-conditioned with space for luggage, and the ride takes about 35 minutes.
You pay with a card by tapping in. The service is cashless, so you cannot pay the driver in cash. The line ends at the Kijangwani bus terminal in town. Look up the current boarding point on the day of travel.
- The bus does not stop at individual hotels, so plan a short walk or a short ride to your door.
- Check the current timetable if your flight lands late, because the bus does not run through the night.
- Ask at the stop about children's fares and how to get a travel card.
Taxi and transfer from Zanzibar Airport (ZNZ)
You can take a taxi at the airport or book a transfer in advance. Typical prices are $15 for a sedan carrying up to 3 people and $20 for an SUV or van carrying up to 5 people. These are prices per vehicle, not per person, and they are a guide, not an official fixed tariff.
Whichever you choose, agree the price and the destination before you set off. Tell the driver the area of Stone Town you want, such as Shangani or the waterfront near Forodhani. Narrow lanes mean the car may stop at the nearest road, so be ready to walk the last stretch with your bags.
A pre-booked transfer saves the haggling on arrival. Compare a few offers and read what is included before you pay.
Dala-dala from the airport
Dala-dalas are shared local minibuses and pickups that run along fixed routes. A large suitcase may not fit easily. The airport bus fare of TZS 700 does not apply to dala-dalas. Ask the driver where the vehicle goes and what the fare is before you board, and keep your bags with you. If you arrive at night or with heavy luggage, a taxi or transfer is a better choice.
Car rental and parking
Most visitors do not need a car in Stone Town itself. The old town is made for walking, and many lanes are too narrow for cars. If you plan to explore the island by car, the rules are different from the mainland.
- Permit: to drive on Zanzibar you need a local Zanzibar driving permit as well as your own licence. The rental company can often arrange it.
- Traffic: vehicles drive on the left.
- Parking: there is no complete plan for car access to the old town, so do not assume that you can drive to your guesthouse or park next to it. At the cathedral there is no regular parking inside, only a few spaces for disabled visitors by arrangement.
If you rent a car, ask the property where you can leave it. For a wider look at renting a car on the island, see car rental in Zanzibar.
Before you fly: entry, visa and insurance
- Visa: apply for the eVisa in advance, as processing takes at least 10 working days. A visa on arrival is possible but not guaranteed, and costs $50, also for minors. Check the rules for your nationality.
- Insurance: since October 2026, the compulsory travel insurance applies on the mainland as well. A policy for the first place of entry is enough for the same trip: NIC if you enter on the mainland and ZIC if you enter on Zanzibar. The mainland policy costs $44 per person for up to 92 days. Do not buy a second one for the same trip.
- Yellow fever: there is no compulsory vaccination if you fly directly from Germany. If you arrive from a risk area, you need proof.
- Travel advice: current advice recommends extra alertness at tourist and religious sites, including the Stone Town area. Check your own government's advice before you fly.
Coming from Dar es Salaam by sea instead? See the ferry from Dar es Salaam. For more on the airport itself, see Zanzibar Airport.
Zanzibar Airport to Stone Town: frequently asked questions
How far is Zanzibar Airport from Stone Town?
The airport lies about 5 km south of Zanzibar City. The exact distance and time depend on your destination in the old town and on the traffic.
Is there a bus from Zanzibar Airport to Stone Town?
Yes. Line R2 runs every day from 05:00 to 21:00, costs TZS 700 for adults and takes about 35 minutes. Payment is by card only.
How much is a taxi from the airport to Stone Town?
Typical prices are $15 for a sedan with up to 3 people and $20 for an SUV or van with up to 5 people, per vehicle. Agree the price before you set off.
Do I need a driving permit in Zanzibar?
Yes, a local Zanzibar driving permit is needed in addition to your licence. The rental company can often arrange it.
Can I drive into Stone Town and park?
Do not count on it. Many lanes are too narrow for cars, and there is no complete plan for parking. Ask your property where to leave the car.
Do I need a visa for Zanzibar?
Apply for the eVisa in advance, as processing takes at least 10 working days. A visa on arrival is possible but not guaranteed. Check the rules for your nationality.