Private Airport Transfers in Zanzibar

Zanzibar Abeid Amani Karume International Airport is 8 kilometres south of Stone Town. The island has no rideshare service — transport options are negotiated taxis, dala-dala shared minibuses, or pre-booked private cars. Beach resort destinations in the north (Nungwi, Kendwa) and southeast (Paje, Jambiani) are 45–65 kilometres from the airport on roads ranging from good tarmac to rough coral track. Pre-booking a LocalsRide private car ensures an appropriate vehicle for your destination and a price agreed before you land.

Beach Destinations from ZNZ

Stone Town (UNESCO heritage, hotels): 8 km, 15–20 min. Matemwe (northeast, boutique lodges): 52 km, 55–70 min. Nungwi (north coast, beach bars, snorkelling): 62 km, 70–85 min. Kendwa (north, sunset beach): 65 km, 75–90 min. Paje (southeast, kite surfing): 45 km, 50–65 min. Jambiani (southeast, quiet): 55 km, 65–80 min. Bwejuu: 48 km, 55–70 min.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a taxi from Zanzibar Airport to Nungwi?

Nungwi on the north coast is 62 kilometres from the airport — typically 70–85 minutes. Informal taxis at ZNZ quote $50–80 USD for this route; a pre-booked LocalsRide private car to Nungwi starts from approximately $45 USD with a confirmed driver in arrivals and a fixed price regardless of time of arrival or road conditions.

Is there a bus from Zanzibar Airport to Stone Town or the beach?

Dala-dala shared minibuses run from the road outside the airport to Stone Town (approximately $0.30). They do not serve beach destinations directly. For Stone Town, the dala-dala is a budget option — 20 minutes. For beach resorts, a private car is the only practical direct option. Pre-booking ensures you have transport confirmed for arrival rather than negotiating on the day.