Can I Wear Shorts To Zanzibar?

You’ll be happy to know that both men and women can wear shorts to Zanzibar, as long as you stay mindful of Zanzibar’s local customs. Wear knee-length shorts or capris with loose-fitting tops to ensure a respectful experience in Zanzibar. Here’s a brief guide on all you need to know when wearing shorts in Zanzibar.

Dress Modestly

Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim and adherent to Islamic beliefs; they believe it’s part of their religious duty to dress modestly.
Although tourists often wear shorts, it’s advised to show respect for their religion and beliefs by dressing conservatively, especially in more rural areas.

Ensure your knees are covered when visiting mosques and other religious sites or when interacting with locals.

Blend In

It’s perfectly acceptable to wear shorts at the beach and in resorts, hotels, and tourist areas. However, when you interact with locals or visit town, cover your shoulders and knees. Try to blend in with the culture and local norms. 

For example:

• At the beach or resort: Wearing shorts, swimsuits, tank tops, and other casual beachwear is perfectly acceptable. However, you will need to cover up those thighs and shoulders when leaving these areas.

• In towns and rural areas: Avoid wearing very short or revealing shorts or short skirts and dresses. Ensure your knees and shoulders are covered. You can still wear modest shorts that reach your knees.

• In mosques or religious sites: Shorts are not acceptable in religious areas. Whether you are a local or tourist, it is expected to dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Ensure your arms and legs are covered, and consider bringing along a light scarf or shawl to cover your head and shoulders when necessary. Long pants and skirts are acceptable.

Stone Town, Zanzibar’s historical center is well worth visiting on your trip. It’s filled with rich history and architecture and a myriad of fun things to do. Remember to ensure your knees and shoulders are covered when visiting these sites as a sign of respect for local customs.
 

Consider the Climate 

When visiting Zanzibar, remember to prioritize comfort and the climate when packing for your trip. Zanzibar temperatures range between 75 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit (24 to 32 degrees Celcius). Wearing the wrong garments can quickly have you feeling sunburned, sweaty, and sapped of energy.

Stay comfortable from morning to night in loose-fitting, natural fabrics like linen and cotton.  You can also wear cotton canvas. It’s lightweight, soft against the skin, and a great moisture-wicking option.

Types of Shorts To Wear in Zanzibar

Here are our top recommendations for the types of shorts you can wear in Zanzibar:

1. Casual shorts are lightweight and breathable. They’re perfect for those sunny days at the poolside in the hot, humid climate.
2. Cargo shorts are convenient. Their pockets are great for carrying around small items. Wear them when hiking or exploring Zanzibar’s more rural areas.
3. Chino or Bermuda shorts are your go-to option if you want a more polished look. They’re modest and chic. Wear them when dining our or attending a more upscale gathering.
4. Board shorts are for all water activities like swimming and surfing. They’re the perfect choice for wearing at the beach or poolside.
   
   

Long pants, flowy skirts, and maxi dresses are also great options.

What to keep in mind: You can wear swimsuits and board shorts at the beach or hotel, but you’ll want to cover up when leaving the beach or poolside.
If you plan to explore local markets, be mindful of local customs and ensure your shorts are at least knee-length.

Should I Wear Shorts on a Safari in Zanzibar

It is acceptable to wear shorts on a safari in Zanzibar. The safaris get hot. We recommend wearing lightweight, breathable fabrics. To blend in with your surroundings, wear neutral, earthy tones.

Here’s what you can wear on game drives and walking safaris:

Game drives: You’ll spend most of your time in a game viewer. Consider wearing loose and comfortable shorts or trousers. The roads can get dusty, making long plants a better option if you want to stay clean.

Walking safaris: Longer, modest shorts are acceptable for walking safaris. When getting up close to Zanzibar’s wildlife, you’ll want to wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes.

Conclusion

Avoid cultural mishaps and taboos when visiting Zanzibar by dressing appropriately and respecting religion and local customs. Here are our guidelines worth checking out for whether shorts are permitted in Tanzania.