Culture & Etiquette
Zanzibar is a deeply cultural destination. A little understanding goes a long way towards enriching your experience and showing respect to your hosts.
A Muslim Island with a Rich Heritage
Zanzibar is approximately 99% Muslim, with a culture shaped by centuries of Arab, Persian, Indian, and African influences. Islam is woven into daily life — you will hear the call to prayer five times a day, and Friday is the holy day. The people of Zanzibar are warm and welcoming, and showing respect for local customs will deepen your connection to this extraordinary place.
What to Wear in Zanzibar
In Stone Town & Villages
- ●Cover shoulders and knees — both men and women
- ●Loose-fitting, breathable clothing is ideal
- ●Women: scarves can be useful for entering mosques
- ●Avoid tight or revealing clothing
- ●Shorts above the knee are considered disrespectful
At Resorts & Beaches
- ●Swimwear and beachwear are fine within resort grounds
- ●Cover up when leaving the resort area
- ●Topless sunbathing is not acceptable anywhere
- ●Many beach restaurants are casual but covered shoulders appreciated
- ●A light cover-up or sarong is a versatile travel essential
Visiting During Ramadan
Ramadan is the Islamic holy month of fasting, observed by most Zanzibaris. During this period, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset. As a visitor, you should be aware of the following:
- Some restaurants and cafes in Stone Town may be closed during daylight hours
- Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking openly in public during fasting hours
- Resort restaurants and hotel dining will operate normally for guests
- The atmosphere during Iftar (breaking of the fast at sunset) is magical — join in if invited
- Business hours may be shorter than usual
- Ramadan dates shift each year (moves approximately 11 days earlier annually)
Photographing People & Places
Zanzibar is incredibly photogenic, but please be considerate with your camera. Always ask permission before photographing local people, especially women and children. Many Zanzibaris are happy to pose once asked, but photographing someone without consent is considered rude. Be particularly respectful near mosques and during prayers. A polite “Naomba picha?” (May I take a photo?) goes a long way.
Essential Swahili Phrases
Swahili (Kiswahili) is the main language in Zanzibar. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but using a few Swahili words will earn you smiles and warmth. Zanzibaris particularly appreciate the effort.
| Swahili | English | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Jambo | Hello | |
| Habari | How are you? | |
| Nzuri | Good / Fine | |
| Asante (sana) | Thank you (very much) | |
| Karibu | Welcome / You're welcome | |
| Pole pole | Slowly, slowly | |
| Hakuna matata | No problem | |
| Kwaheri | Goodbye | |
| Ndio / Hapana | Yes / No | |
| Tafadhali | Please |
Tipping Guidelines
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory in Zanzibar. Here are general guidelines for luxury travellers:
10%
Restaurants
Check if service charge is included
$5-10/day
Tour Guides
Per person, for full-day tours
$2-5
Drivers
Per trip or per day
$1-2/day
Hotel Staff
Housekeeping, porters
Bargaining & Markets
Bargaining is expected at markets, street stalls, and with independent vendors in Stone Town and elsewhere. It's a social interaction as much as a financial one — enjoy the process with good humour. A reasonable starting offer is about 50-60% of the asking price, with the final price settling somewhere in between.
Fixed-price shops (hotel boutiques, established stores) do not expect bargaining. Prices are as marked. The Darajani Market in Stone Town is the best place to experience authentic Zanzibari market culture — spices, fresh produce, textiles, and souvenirs.
Cultural Dos & Don'ts
Do
- Use your right hand for greetings, eating, and passing items — the left hand is considered unclean
- Remove shoes before entering someone’s home or a mosque
- Greet people warmly — Zanzibaris value courtesy and take time with greetings
- Accept hospitality graciously — offers of tea or coffee are gestures of friendship
- Dress modestly when visiting Stone Town, villages, and religious sites
- Learn a few Swahili words — even basics will be warmly received
- Support local businesses and artisans when shopping
Don't
- Don’t photograph people without asking permission first
- Don’t wear revealing clothing outside of resort areas
- Don’t eat, drink, or smoke publicly during Ramadan fasting hours
- Don’t point at people with your finger — use an open hand instead
- Don’t display excessive public affection — it’s considered inappropriate
- Don’t rush interactions — island time is real, embrace it
- Don’t litter — help preserve the island’s natural beauty
Travelling with Respect
The warmth and hospitality of the Zanzibari people is one of the island's greatest treasures. By showing respect for local customs and culture, you'll find doors open, friendships form, and your experience becomes immeasurably richer. Our guides are always happy to help you navigate cultural nuances during your stay.