Zanzibar Island Travel Forum

What percentage USD vs Shillings should we take? I know the hotels operate in USD, but what about the local shops, restaurants and markets?

We will be arriving end June. Will it still be raining in ZNZ?

Any ideas on where to rent a motorbike/scooter cheaply? (Not large expensive companies)

Is it absolutely necessary to take Malaria tablets? I lived in Thailand for 1 year without taking anything and still survived.

Thanks - any advice will help.
Tanja

Hi Tanja,

Please have a look at my Zanzibar Island Page here:

http://members.virtualtourist.com/m/30b4a/221cec/

I have tips that can answer most of your questions. You can also save any you like as well.

I would advise taking zero Shillings if you have US Dollars. You can get a better rate there and there are plenty of places that will take them and/or exchange. My money tip was written when the dollar got 1100 Shillings. It has moved on now to 1 USD = 1,205.00 TZS. It will make it a bit harder to get the extra 10% the way I did. Having said that – ever price in Zanzibar is negotiable, especially printed ones.

I have a tip about Alley Keys the car rental man. He’s a great guy and has realistic prices. You can ring him ahead of time.

Malaria? It can be fatal the first time. It’s you call. All the hotels have nets and you should use 100% DEET repellent. My bar man in Jambiani had it 3 times before he was 25. I would recommend taking tablets highly.

If you have any other questions, I am happy to help.

All the best,

DAO