Zanzibar - How to get there

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This is the most interesting way to travel the island, and can most definitely be the most hair raising. Dala Dala's are the local from of public transport. The vehicles are old pickups with a roof put over the back, and a guide hanging on tapping the bars to tell the driver when to stop. It is quite a sight.

Using them is quite safe, although the driving conditions in Zanzibar can be very dicey! They drive in the middle of the road, or on the wrong side of the road. These are their road rules and everybody seems to get by.

The dala dala's starting point is at Darujani Bazaar. Each vehicle has it's own marks identifying their route. The fares range from Tsh 200 (less than $1) to about Tsh 2,000 ( about $2.50) depending on the distance and route you travel.

Dala Dala markings are found on the front of the vehicle and are as follows:

B - Stone Town to Bububu and back
U - Airport to Stone Town and back
A - Stone Town to Amani Stadium and back
M - Magomani
J - Janje's Gombe

The last two travel to villages nearby Stone Town, but access the same routes as other dala dalas.

Matwani or Basi are the larger type transport (as can be seen in the picture). These travel to villages far away from Stone Town. Normally they are very slow and only make one journey per day. Make enquiries before jumping on one of these as you may get lost, and make sure your travel insurance is up to date, as they are very reckless.