Zanzibar Airport: Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ)

Zanzibar Airport, officially named Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (IATA: ZNZ, ICAO: HTZA), is the primary international gateway to the enchanting Zanzibar Archipelago. Located on Unguja Island, just 5–6 kilometers south of Zanzibar City (Stone Town), the airport serves as the entry point for millions of tourists, business travelers, and honeymooners annually.

This in-depth guide covers everything you need to know about Zanzibar Airport—its history, terminals, airline routes, services, practical travel tips, visa procedures, transportation, and even how to handle luggage. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, this article will ensure you're fully prepared for your journey to and from the Spice Island.

🛬 General Overview

✈️ Airport Terminals and Facilities

Terminal 1

• Status: Inactive.

• History: Built during the British protectorate era.

• Current Use: Airport offices.

Terminal 2

• Use: Domestic and some regional international flights.

• Facilities: Waiting lounges, check-in counters, and limited retail.

Terminal 3 – The New International Gateway

• Opened: Inaugurated in October 2020, operational from early 2021.

• Capacity: Up to 1.5 million passengers per year.

• Highlights:

  • Air-conditioned seating

  • Direct boarding bridges (no shuttle bus)

  • VIP (CIP) lounges

  • Modern toilets and elevators

  • Fast check-in and security

  • Retail shops and duty-free

  • Prayer rooms and kids’ playground

  • Facilities for disabled travelers

  • Multiple luggage belts

  • Large parking with automated POS system

🛫 Airlines and Destinations

Zanzibar Airport connects the island to East Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Asia through direct and chartered flights.

Major International Airlines:

• Air France (Paris)

• KLM (Amsterdam)

• Qatar Airways (Doha)

• Turkish Airlines (Istanbul)

• Flydubai (Dubai)

• Oman Air (Muscat)

• Edelweiss Air (Zurich)

• Neos (Milan, Rome)

• Etihad (Abu Dhabi – Seasonal)

• Condor (Frankfurt – Seasonal)

• LOT Polish Airlines (Warsaw – Seasonal)

Regional Airlines:

• Air Tanzania

• Precision Air

• As Salaam Air

• Auric Air

• Coastal Aviation

• Flightlink Limited

• Kenya Airways

• Uganda Airlines

• Jambojet

• Safarilink

Cargo Airlines:

• Astral Aviation

• Kenya Airways Cargo

🧭 Location and Access

• Distance to Stone Town: ~15 minutes by taxi

• To Beaches (North, East, South): 1–2 hours depending on location

• Ferry Connection: From Dar es Salaam via ferry to Zanzibar, with onward taxi to airport

🧳 Arrival Experience: What to Expect

1. Visa on Arrival

• Available for most nationalities.

• Cost: ~$50 USD

• Payment: Preferably in cash (sometimes credit card is unreliable)

2. Yellow Fever Certificate

• Required if arriving from high-risk countries.

• Not necessary if arriving from outside Africa.

3. Customs and Luggage

• Luggage may be manually brought in or scanned.

• Keep electronics inside your bag unless instructed otherwise.

• Patience is key: sometimes bags arrive slowly or all at once.

4. COVID-19 Measures

• Regular sanitation

• Mask mandates (may vary)

• Screening for symptoms upon entry (subject to change)

🚕 Transportation Options from Zanzibar Airport

Tip: Drivers wear airport ID cards. Always negotiate fare beforehand.

🏨 Hotels Near Zanzibar Airport

• Zanzibar Beach Resort – 5 mins from the airport

• Protea Hotel Mbweni Ruins

• Zanzibar Serena Hotel (Stone Town)

• Kholle House – Historic boutique hotel in Stone Town

• Beach Resorts: The Z Hotel (North), Fumba Beach Lodge (South), Kichanga Lodge (SE Coast)

🛍️ Facilities and Amenities

• Restaurants & Cafes: Available inside and just outside terminals

• Duty-Free & Local Shops: Sells souvenirs, snacks, and crafts

• Currency Exchange & ATMs: Available inside Terminal 3

• Wi-Fi: Free in departure lounge

• Airport Lounges: Available to all travelers with paid access

• Play Area for Kids: Gate 11

• Prayer Rooms: Non-smoking, gender-separated

• Medical Services: First aid and emergency services available

• Parking: 1,000 Tzs/hour or contact ZAA for long-stay

❌ Things to Avoid & Know

• No Plastic Bags Allowed: Tanzania bans all single-use plastic bags.

• No Luggage Storage: Plan accordingly; no lockers available.

• Night Closure: Airport may lock terminals overnight. Plan accordingly.

• Scams: Avoid offering tips to unofficial luggage handlers. Use only uniformed, identified staff.

👨‍🦽 Accessibility

• Fully accessible to disabled passengers

• Wheelchair assistance available via airline pre-notification

🤝 Who Manages the Airport?

• Zanzibar Airports Authority (ZAA) is the governing agency.

• ZAA manages both:

  • Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ)

  • Pemba Airport

ZAA was established by Act No. 8 of 2011.

📊 Key Stats (2005 – 2023)

🧾 Common Questions About Zanzibar Airport

1. Is there Wi-Fi at Zanzibar Airport?

Yes, free Wi-Fi is available in the main international departure lounge.

2. Can I get a visa on arrival?

Yes, most nationalities are eligible. Check in advance and bring cash just in case.

3. Are there duty-free shops?

Yes, inside Terminal 3 for international travelers.

4. Is the airport accessible at night?

The terminals may close at night—arrange accommodation or confirm with your airline.

5. Are plastic bags allowed?

No. Tanzania enforces a strict plastic ban.

6. What should I do if my luggage is lost?

Report to the Lost & Found Office inside the terminal, or ask airline ground staff for help.

🌴 Final Thoughts

Zanzibar Airport is more than just an arrival point—it’s the gateway to one of the most exotic and historically rich destinations in East Africa. Whether you're coming for the beaches, the spice tours, the culture of Stone Town, or the tranquility of island life, Zanzibar Airport makes your entry smooth with its modernized terminals, efficient services, and increasing global connections.

For the most seamless journey, plan in advance, confirm health and visa requirements, and embrace the island pace of life as soon as you touch down.