Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ), commonly known as Zanzibar Airport, is the main gateway to Zanzibar Island. Most travelers arriving for beach holidays, honeymoons, or safari extensions pass through this airport.
Located just a few kilometers from Stone Town, Zanzibar Airport connects the island with major international cities and domestic destinations across Tanzania.
If you are planning your island trip, start with the complete Zanzibar Travel Guide.
Where is Zanzibar Airport?
Zanzibar Airport is located on Unguja Island, the main island of Zanzibar.
Approximate distances from the airport:
• Stone Town: 7 km (10–15 minutes)
• Nungwi: 60 km (about 1.5 hours)
• Kendwa: 60 km (about 1.5 hours)
• Paje: 50 km (about 1 hour)
• Jambiani: 55 km (about 1 hour 15 minutes)
Because it is close to Stone Town, many travelers explore the historic center before heading to their beach resort.
You can see the top island attractions in Things to Do in Zanzibar.
Zanzibar Airport Code
The international airport code for Zanzibar is: ZNZ
When booking flights to Zanzibar, search using the code ZNZ.
Airlines That Fly to Zanzibar Airport
Many international and regional airlines operate flights to Zanzibar.
Common airlines include:
• Qatar Airways
• Turkish Airlines
• Ethiopian Airlines
• Kenya Airways
• Air Tanzania
• Precision Air
• FlyDubai
• Oman Air
Most travelers reach Zanzibar through connecting flights via Doha, Dubai, Nairobi, Addis Ababa, or Dar es Salaam.
Domestic Flights to Zanzibar
Zanzibar is also connected by frequent domestic flights from mainland Tanzania.
Popular routes include:
• Dar es Salaam → Zanzibar
• Arusha → Zanzibar
• Kilimanjaro → Zanzibar
• Serengeti → Zanzibar
These routes make Zanzibar a popular extension after a Tanzania safari.
To plan a combined trip see Tanzania Safari and Zanzibar Guide.
Arrival Process at Zanzibar Airport
Arriving at Zanzibar Airport is usually straightforward. The airport is relatively small but well organized.
1. Immigration
Travelers arriving from international flights must pass through immigration.
Most visitors require a visa for Tanzania.
You can obtain the visa:
• Online (eVisa)
• On arrival at the airport
For more details see Tanzania Visa Requirements.
2. Baggage Claim
After immigration, you will collect your luggage at the baggage claim area.
The airport is small, so luggage collection usually takes less time than in larger international airports.
3. Customs
After collecting your bags you will go through customs before exiting the terminal.
Most travelers simply pass through the green channel.
4. Airport Pickup
Many hotels and tour operators arrange airport pickups.
Your driver will usually wait outside the arrivals area holding a sign with your name.
You can also pre-book Zanzibar Airport Transfers.
Zanzibar Airport Transfers
Transport from Zanzibar Airport depends on where you are staying on the island.
Zanzibar Airport to Stone Town
Distance: 7 km
Travel time: 10–15 minutes
Stone Town is the historic heart of Zanzibar and a popular place to stay for one night before moving to the beach.
Zanzibar Airport to Nungwi or Kendwa
Distance: 60 km
Travel time: 1.5 hours
These beaches are located on the northern coast and are among the most popular places to stay on the island.
You can learn more in the guide to Best Beaches in Zanzibar.
Zanzibar Airport to Paje or Jambiani
Distance: 50–55 km
Travel time: 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes
These east coast beaches are known for kitesurfing and a relaxed atmosphere.
Facilities at Zanzibar Airport
Zanzibar Airport has improved significantly in recent years and offers basic services for travelers.
Facilities include:
• Currency exchange
• ATMs
• Restaurants and cafés
• Duty-free shops
• SIM card vendors
• Car rental services
Although the airport is small, the new terminal building has modern facilities and improved passenger flow.
Best Time to Arrive in Zanzibar
Most international flights arrive during the afternoon or evening.
If possible, it is best to arrive during daylight hours so transfers to beach areas are easier.
Before traveling, check the climate in the Zanzibar Weather by Month.
Zanzibar Airport Departure Tips
When departing from Zanzibar Airport:
• Arrive 3 hours before international flights
• Complete check-in and immigration
• Pass security screening
• Wait in the departure lounge
Flights often leave late at night for international destinations.
Combining Zanzibar with Safari
Many travelers visit Zanzibar after exploring Tanzania’s famous national parks.
Popular safari destinations include:
• Serengeti National Park
• Ngorongoro Crater
• Tarangire National Park
• Lake Manyara National Park
Flights from the Serengeti or Arusha make it easy to continue your trip to Zanzibar.
For full planning tips read the Tanzania Safari Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What airport do you fly into for Zanzibar?
Travelers fly into Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ).
How far is Zanzibar Airport from the beach?
The distance depends on the beach location. Nungwi and Kendwa are about 1.5 hours away, while Paje is about 1 hour away.
Is Zanzibar Airport large?
Zanzibar Airport is relatively small but modern, with a new terminal that handles international flights efficiently.
Can you fly directly from safari parks to Zanzibar?
Yes. Several domestic airlines operate flights from Serengeti, Arusha, and other safari destinations directly to Zanzibar.
Final Thoughts
Zanzibar Airport is the main entry point to one of Africa’s most beautiful island destinations. Its close location to Stone Town and easy connections to mainland Tanzania make it convenient for travelers combining safari and beach holidays.
Whether you are arriving for a honeymoon, relaxing beach escape, or safari extension, Zanzibar Airport provides a simple and efficient gateway to the island.
Before planning your trip, also explore the Zanzibar Travel Guide, Best Beaches in Zanzibar, and Things to Do in Zanzibar.
