How to book Zanzibar tours and transfers safely
Quick answer
In Zanzibar, book excursions and transfers through licensed operators or your accommodation, and pay as close to the activity as possible. The common losses are prepayments to beach sellers and transfers arranged over WhatsApp with an unverified number.
Last reviewed by the SafariVerify team.
Excursions and boat safety
Ask who operates the boat, whether life jackets are provided for every passenger, and what happens in bad weather. Boat safety is a real risk, not just a fraud question.
Transfers and combined itineraries
If Zanzibar is bundled with a mainland safari, confirm which licensed entity is responsible for each segment and who receives payment for each.
Your checklist
- Book through your accommodation or a licensed operator
- Confirm life jackets and weather-cancellation terms
- Avoid prepaying walk-up sellers
- Confirm who is responsible for each segment of a combined itinerary
Sources
- UK FCDO travel advice — Tanzania
- US Department of State — Tanzania international travel information
- Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO) — member directory
Licensing rules, fees and directories change. Always confirm details with the issuing body on the day you pay. See our methodology for what we can and cannot know.
Check the operator before you pay
Free, no account, about 60 seconds. One verdict — safe, caution or stop — with the sources shown.
Check an operator