About the ride from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar
Once you've had your fill of watching Tanzania's wildlife, it's time to head for some well-deserved beach time on the magical island of Zanzibar. So grab your mask and snorkel and head for Stone Town because your East African adventure is just getting started — let's go!
There are a couple of ways to get from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar. The fastest is to fly. It’s a quick and easy option and saves time on hanging around. There are currently three flight departures per day, but you will have to spend at least an hour at the airport before take-off.
The Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar flight time usually lasts for no longer than half an hour. It's a short but very scenic flight, so make sure you make the most of every minute.
An alternative way to get off the mainland is by boat. The ferry is fairly frequent and leaves downtown Dar harbor at regular intervals. It makes the crossing over the Indian Ocean in under three hours.
The ferry from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar runs throughout the day. Ferries tend to leave at about 7 am and arrive in Stone Town in time for breakfast; the latest departure is approximately 3.30 pm which gets you in just in time for early evening cocktails.
The luggage allowance is about 25kg — you might have to pay for the excess.
Ferries can get pretty packed with people, particularly in high season. Book a first-class ticket if you want to avoid the crowds congregating on the top deck.
Sea conditions can be notoriously wavy, so take seasickness tablets at least an hour before the ferry departs Dar es Salaam port.
What to see when traveling from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar
An economy ticket on the ferry from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar lets you see lots of lovely Indian Ocean views. If you're looking for sunshine and sea breezes, the open-plan top deck is where you want to be. You don’t want to miss those beautiful blue swells juxtaposed against a cobalt blue sky.
Before you set sail, however, keep an eye out over the side as the industrious dock workers go about their business at the harbor in downtown Dar. Also, as you approach the port in Stone Town, Zanzibar, make sure you watch as the gangplank lowers and 1st class passengers depart.
Being onboard this ferry for just over two hours will encourage you to catch up on some reading or perhaps get to know a few of your fellow traveling companions. Lots of local people make this route as well as holidaymakers, so you never know who you might bump into along the way.
The distance from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar is just 72 kilometers (44 miles), but you'll still be able to see lots of sea in between.
Although first-class passengers are seated down below deck, they'll still be treated to some stunning seascapes as well as having the option to pop upstairs for a breath of fresh air.
If you're setting out from Dar es Salaam airport to Zanzibar, you won't have quite so long to enjoy the views. You’ll be up and down in 30 minutes, so grab a window seat and hold onto your hat as your light aircraft takes you up into the clouds.
How to get from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar
Taking a ferry from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar
It's very straightforward to take a ferry to Zanzibar. Boats are big and bustling with people. Tickets can be purchased at the main ticket office at the harbor in Stone Town. Numerous boats leave the East African mainland every day.
Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar ferry prices start from US$35 for economy and US$40 for first-class. Economy passengers are positioned on the upper deck, whereas the first-class passengers are inside and on the lower deck.
First-class passengers have a place to purchase food and drinks and can use the first-class washroom. Economy passengers also get a bathroom, but nowhere to buy provisions. So you’ll see loads of people quite happily tucking into their own supplies.
No alcohol is served on any Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar ferry — please avoid bringing any onboard. Otherwise, keep it safely stowed away in your luggage to ensure you don't disrespect local customs and laws.
Taking a flight from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar
Flying isn't that expensive. Standard flights by African Queen Adventures start from US$52. Seats are comfortable, and the planes are air-conditioned. Food is served during the flight but don't expect much more than pre-packed options and bottled drinks. Aircraft are small and come in 3 sizes: 13-seaters, 19-seaters and 30-seaters, so be prepared.
There are around three departures each day, and tickets can get booked up very quickly in the high season. You will also need to be at the airport in Dar es Salaam at least an hour before take-off.
Food and drink are served quickly, and the Indian Ocean views are amazing.
And that's how to travel from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar. Have a safe trip!
