Zanzibar is not a separate country. It is a semi-autonomous region of the United Republic of Tanzania, with its own president, parliament and government for many local matters. The name Tanzania itself comes from joining Tanganyika and Zanzibar.
A short history
- Swahili and Arab trade: for centuries the islands were a centre of Indian Ocean trade.
- The sultanate: from 1840, the Sultan of Oman ruled from Stone Town, and Zanzibar became a separate sultanate in 1861.
- British protectorate: from 1890 until independence in December 1963.
- Revolution: in January 1964 the sultan was overthrown.
- Union: on 26 April 1964, Zanzibar joined Tanganyika to form the United Republic of Tanzania. Union Day is a public holiday.
How the union works
| Shared with the mainland | Run by Zanzibar |
|---|---|
| Foreign affairs, defence, immigration, currency | Tourism, health, education, local laws |
| The Union President | The President of Zanzibar and the House of Representatives |
What it means for visitors
- Visa: a Tanzanian visa covers Zanzibar. Read the Tanzania tourist visa.
- Passport check: you still show your passport when arriving in Zanzibar, even from the mainland.
- Insurance: Zanzibar has its own mandatory travel insurance for visitors. Read travel insurance for Tanzania.
- Money: the Tanzanian shilling is used on both.
- Culture: Zanzibar is mostly Muslim, with stricter dress expectations. Read is Zanzibar safe.
The islands
Zanzibar includes the main island, Unguja, often simply called Zanzibar, Pemba and many smaller islands. Read about Pemba and the Anglo-Zanzibar War.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. It is a semi-autonomous region of the United Republic of Tanzania.
Yes. You show your passport on arrival, but no separate visa is needed.
On 26 April 1964, when it united with Tanganyika.
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