06/02/2022
FYY... I receive quite a few questions about the upcoming rainy season as well as Ramadan. Herewith some guidelines:
The worst months of the rainy season are especially April, and also May. Many hotels on the island are closed during that period. The few places of accommodation that are open usually offer great specials. Restaurants and other eateries are either closed or only serve food indoors.
This year, the holy month of Ramadan (the fasting period of the Muslim community, about 98% of Zanzibaris), is supposed to begin on 01 April, it lasts for 30 days (probably until 30 April). The exact dates depend on the sighting of the New Moon. It is celebrated with the big Eid Al-Fitr Festival which lasts 3 days. If you are in Zanzibar at that time make sure you are in Stone Town!
The Zanzibar Government has set some basic ground rules for everyone in Zanzibar, including foreigners, to follow during the Ramadan season:
– no eating, drinking or smoking in public
– liquor stores, night clubs and bars are closed
– restaurants are closed during the day (except for those in hotels; there are also a few restaurants in Stone Town that operate during the day, but their outdoor seating areas are closed - alcohol is served at these restaurants and in hotels during Ramadan).
– what to wear has always been important here but during Ramadan it is strongly emphasized (please read page ‘’to do and not to do’’ on www.zanzibarinsiderbuzz.wordpress.com)
The Zanzibar government understands that these rules might not be common for foreigners. Therefore, there is no reason not to come to Zanzibar during Ramadan. You can still have your breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks etc. in your hotel and go out during the day and night and enjoy yourself. Stores and souvenir shops are open, as well as attractions and museums are all operational. But PLEASE do respect the guidelines given. This is part of the travel experience. This is our culture. This is part of Zanzibar.
What to know about Zanzibar from a resident's perspective