Areas to Avoid in Zanzibar
Tanzania
|⚠️ CautionHonest 2026 safety guide for travellers visiting Zanzibar. Which areas need extra caution, common scams to watch for, and safe neighbourhoods to stay instead.
Last updated: March 2026
Skip the risky areas. Compare hotels in safe neighbourhoods on Expedia.
Zanzibar is generally Use Caution
2 areas to be aware of · Best areas to stay: Stone Town, Nungwi, Paje
Travel Insurance for Zanzibar
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.
Quick tip: Most tourist areas in Zanzibar are safe. This guide covers areas locals recommend avoiding.
Areas That Need Extra Caution
These areas are not necessarily dangerous, but travellers should be more aware
Remote jungle areas without a guide
Can be disorienting, and local wildlife (though generally not dangerous) can be surprising.
🛡️ Stay here instead: Stone Town
A labyrinthine historic heart pulsing with Swahili, Arab, and European influences.
Unlit alleys in Stone Town at night
Poor lighting increases the risk of petty crime and disorientation.
🛡️ Stay here instead: Nungwi
A lively northern beach town known for its stunning sunsets and vibrant atmosphere.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Zanzibar
Now you know which areas to avoid, here are the best guided experiences to explore the city with confidence.
Zanzibar Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Zanzibar on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Zanzibar Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Zanzibar with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
View Tour Details
Best of Zanzibar: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Zanzibar's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from Zanzibar: Scenic Excursion
Escape Zanzibar for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Zanzibar Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Zanzibar's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
View Tour DetailsWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Stay Safe, Explore Confidently
Book a hotel in a safe neighbourhood or join a guided tour in Zanzibar
Stay in a safe neighbourhood
Compare hotels in Zanzibar on Expedia
Book a guided tour
Explore Zanzibar safely with a local guide
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Book a Hotel in a Safe Neighbourhood
These areas are recommended by locals and popular with travellers
Stone Town
A labyrinthine historic heart pulsing with Swahili, Arab, and European influences.
Generally safe during the day, but be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas; at night, stick to well-lit main streets and avoid unlit alleyways.
Nungwi
A lively northern beach town known for its stunning sunsets and vibrant atmosphere.
Generally safe, but be mindful of beach touts and petty theft, especially after dark. Keep valuables secure.
General Safety Tips for Zanzibar
At Night
Stick to well-lit, populated areas. Avoid walking alone in deserted streets or beaches after dark. Use reputable taxis or hotel transport.
Solo Female Travel
Generally safe, but exercise standard precautions. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded markets. Dress modestly to avoid unwanted attention, particularly in Stone Town and rural areas. Trust your instincts.
Emergency Number
112
Stay Connected
Save your accommodation address and emergency contacts on your phone. Download offline maps before exploring.
Common Scams to Watch For in Zanzibar
- 1Overpriced souvenirs and tours from aggressive touts.
- 2Taxi drivers overcharging or taking longer routes.
- 3Being approached by 'guides' who expect payment after showing you around briefly.
Travel Insurance for Zanzibar
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.
Safe Neighborhoods to Stay Instead
These areas are popular with travellers and rated well for safety
Stone Town
A labyrinthine historic heart pulsing with Swahili, Arab, and European influences.
Generally safe during the day, but be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas; at night, stick to well-lit main streets and avoid unlit alleyways.
Nungwi
A lively northern beach town known for its stunning sunsets and vibrant atmosphere.
Generally safe, but be mindful of beach touts and petty theft, especially after dark. Keep valuables secure.
Paje
A laid-back kite-surfing paradise on the southeast coast with a bohemian feel.
Very safe during the day; at night, stick to the main paths and be aware of your surroundings as some areas can be dimly lit.
Kendwa
A more tranquil northern beach destination known for its calm waters and stunning sunsets.
Generally very safe; the beach is well-trafficked during the day, and evenings are quiet. Be aware of your belongings.
Safety in Zanzibar
SafeSolo Female Travel
Generally safe, but exercise standard precautions. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded markets. Dress modestly to avoid unwanted attention, particularly in Stone Town and rural areas. Trust your instincts.
At Night
Stick to well-lit, populated areas. Avoid walking alone in deserted streets or beaches after dark. Use reputable taxis or hotel transport.
Emergency
112
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overpriced souvenirs and tours from aggressive touts.
- 2Taxi drivers overcharging or taking longer routes.
- 3Being approached by 'guides' who expect payment after showing you around briefly.
Found your hotel in Zanzibar?
We search 30+ sites including members-only platforms like Secret Escapes and Voyage Privé. Most people save 14-23%.
Areas to Avoid in Other Popular Cities
Safety guides for other destinations travellers are researching
Areas to Avoid in London
Safety guide & neighbourhood tips
Areas to Avoid in Paris
Safety guide & neighbourhood tips
Areas to Avoid in Barcelona
Safety guide & neighbourhood tips
Areas to Avoid in Rome
Safety guide & neighbourhood tips
Areas to Avoid in Tokyo
Safety guide & neighbourhood tips
Areas to Avoid in Amsterdam
Safety guide & neighbourhood tips
Plan Your Perfect Zanzibar Trip
Tell us what you love and we'll build a personalised day-by-day itinerary with the best spots, tours, and hotels. Completely free.