Zanzibar Airport (ZNZ) → Stone Town transfer
Stone Town is only 7 km from Zanzibar Airport: the private transfer takes about 13–17 minutes and typically costs around €15–25 by car or €25–35 by minivan. The exact price is shown before booking.
- From
- Zanzibar Airport (ZNZ)
- To
- Stone Town
- Distance
- 7 km
- Typical drive
- 13–17 min
The old town of Zanzibar City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a maze of coral-stone houses, carved wooden doors, mosques and markets. Its narrow lanes shape how your arrival works.
A short drive into the city
The airport lies just south of the city, so the drive is short and mostly through the newer districts of Zanzibar Town. At busy times of day, traffic on the approach roads can add a few minutes.
This is the shortest transfer on the island, which also makes Stone Town a convenient first or last night, especially after a late arrival.
Where cars stop in Stone Town
Many lanes in the old town are too narrow for cars. Vehicles stop at the edge of the historic quarter or on the nearest street that can be reached, and the last part is on foot.
Many hotels and guesthouses send staff or porters to help with luggage. Let your accommodation know your arrival time, and share its phone number with the provider so the driver and hotel can coordinate the handover.
Practical tips for Stone Town
- Luggage
- Wheeled suitcases are hard work on uneven lanes. Pack so that you can carry bags a short distance if needed.
- Dress
- Stone Town is a conservative, mainly Muslim city. Covering shoulders and knees is respectful in the streets.
- Ramadan
- During the holy month some restaurants close in the daytime and the evenings become lively. Check the dates for your travel year.
- Evenings
- The waterfront gardens host a popular evening food market, a short walk from many hotels.
Going back to the airport or to the beach
For an international flight, leave Stone Town about three and a half hours before departure: under 20 minutes of driving plus about three hours at the airport, with a little extra for city traffic.
If you continue to the beach after Stone Town, private transfers to Nungwi, Paje, Kiwengwa or other areas can be booked from your hotel. Ferries to Dar es Salaam leave from the port next to the old town.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Stone Town from Zanzibar Airport?
It is 7 km. The private transfer usually takes 13–17 minutes, a little longer at busy times.
How much is a transfer to Stone Town?
Typically around €15–25 for a car and €25–35 for a minivan. The exact price is shown before booking.
Can the car drive to my hotel door?
Often not, because many old-town lanes are too narrow for vehicles. The driver stops at the nearest accessible point and hotel staff usually help with bags.
Should I stay in Stone Town before the beach?
Many travellers spend one or two nights here at the start or end of the trip. It is close to the airport and the port, which helps with late arrivals and early flights.
Can I go from Stone Town to the ferry port by transfer?
Yes, the port is right next to the old town. Book a separate transfer if you need one with luggage.
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