Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Climate
Zanzibar's climate is shaped by the monsoon, with tropical, sultry conditions year-round,
moderated somewhat by sea breezes. The main rains fall from March until May, when
many hotels and eateries close. There's also a short rainy season from November into early
December, and throughout the year showers can come at any time, especially on Pemba.
Dangers & Annoyances
While Zanzibar remains a relatively safe place, robberies, muggings and the like occur with
some frequency, especially in Zanzibar Town and along the beaches.
Follow the normal precautions: avoid isolated areas, especially isolated stretches of beach,
and keep your valuables hidden. At night in Zanzibar Town, take a taxi or walk in a group.
Also avoid walking alone in Stone Town during predawn hours. As a rule, it's best to leave
valuables in your hotel safe, preferably sealed or locked. Should your passport be stolen,
get a written report from the police. Upon presentation of this report, Immigration will issue
you a travel document that will get you back to the mainland.
If you've rented a bicycle or motorcycle, be prepared for stops at checkpoints, where traffic
police may demand a bribe. Assuming your papers are in order, the best tactic is respectful
friendliness.
Internet Access
Azzurri Internet Café (New Mkunazini Rd; per hr Tsh1000;
8.30am-8.30pm) Around
the corner from the Anglican cathedral.
Shangani Post Office Internet Café (Kenyatta Rd; per hr Tsh1000;
8am-8pm Mon-
Fri, 8.30am-7pm Sat & Sun) Also international telephone calls.
Media
Mambo Magazine ( www.mambomagazine.com ) Lots of background and events info for
the Zanzibar Archipelago.
Swahili Coast ( www.swahilicoast.com ) Free bi-monthly magazine with hotel and restaur-
ant listings and cultural articles.
Medical Services
Anything serious should be treated in Dar es Salaam or Nairobi (Kenya).
Shamshuddin's Pharmacy ( 024-223 1262, 024-223 3814; Market St; 9am-8.30pm
Mon-Thu & Sat, 9am-noon & 4-8.30pm Fri, 9am-1.30pm Sun) Just behind (west of) the
Darajani market.
Zanzibar HELP Foundation Dental Clinic ( 0779-272600; info@zanzibarhelp.org;
off Kenyatta Rd) This is an excellent, state-of-the-art dental clinic, with profits going to
Search WWH ::




Custom Search