Dar-es-salaam to Zanzibar

To travel from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar by ferry, you can board one of the regular ferry services that operate between the two locations. The distance between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar (specifically Stone Town) is approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles), and the ferry journey takes around 2 to 3 hours, depending on sea conditions and the type of ferry.

Ferry Operators and Boarding Points:
Azam Marine and Zanzibar Fast Ferries are the main operators offering reliable services. The ferries depart from the Dar es Salaam Ferry Terminal, located at Sokoine Drive near the city center, and arrive at the Zanzibar Ferry Terminal in Stone Town.

Frequency and Timings:
Ferries run multiple times daily, with departures usually in the morning, mid-day, and afternoon. The first ferry often departs around 7:00 AM, and the last one leaves around 4:00 PM. However, schedules can vary, so it's advisable to check the timings in advance.

Costs:
Ticket prices vary depending on the class and type of ferry. Economy class tickets generally cost between $35 to $50 USD (KES 4,900 to KES 7,000 per person) per person, while VIP and business classes can range from $60 to $80 USD. (KES 8,400 to KES 11,200 per person) Prices can fluctuate based on demand, season, and the ferry operator.

Additional Information:
It's recommended to purchase tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability. Ferries are generally safe, but it's advisable to arrive at the terminal at least an hour before departure for check-in procedures. Additionally, seas can be rough at times, so those prone to motion sickness might consider taking precautions.

This ferry journey offers a scenic route across the Indian Ocean and is one of the most popular ways to reach Zanzibar from Dar es Salaam.

To reach Zanzibar from Dar es Salaam by air, you can take a direct flight from Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) in Zanzibar. This is the fastest and most convenient option, especially for those who prefer to minimize travel time.

Duration and Distance:
The flight distance between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar is approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles).

Flight time is typically 20 to 30 minutes, making it a very quick journey.

Flight Operators and Frequency:
Major airlines operating this route include Precision Air, Coastal Aviation, Auric Air, ZanAir, and Tanzania Air.

Flights are frequent, with multiple daily departures, sometimes even hourly depending on the season and airline demand. The first flight usually departs early in the morning (around 6:00 AM) and the last flight is typically around 9:00 PM.

Costs:
Ticket prices can range from $50 to $120 USD (KES 7,250 to KES 17,400) for a one-way economy class ticket, depending on the airline, season, and time of booking. The cost for premium cabins or last-minute bookings may be higher.

Additional Information:

• Most flights depart from Terminal 1 or 2 at Julius Nyerere International Airport, so it's recommended to check your flight details in advance.
• Booking in advance is advisable to secure better prices, especially during the peak tourist seasons (December to February and June to October).
• Flights are generally reliable and offer the quickest way to travel between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar, ideal for those who want to maximize their time on the island.