Zanzibar, a beautiful archipelago located off the coast of Tanzania, has long been a dream travel destination for those seeking stunning beaches, tranquil turquoise waters, and rich cultural experiences. As the team at Azao Resort & Spa, one of the best beach resorts in Zanzibar, we have welcomed thousands of guests to our island paradise and know what it takes to explore Zanzibar safely and authentically. While Zanzibar is undeniably beautiful, we recognise that first-time tourists may be vulnerable to common tourist scams. We aim to share our knowledge of these scams, allowing you to focus on what matters most: the stunning island experience.
Transportation: We’ve Got You Covered
We’re well aware that taxi and transport scams are among the most common issues in Zanzibar. Drivers may quote inflated prices, especially when they notice tourists who don’t know the usual local fares. For that reason, we offer free airport transfers for our guests and partner with local drivers who consistently apply fair price standards. If you plan to travel beyond our resort, we will be happy to help arrange transportation at an honest price. If you prefer to schedule your own transportation, our concierge team can inform you of fairly priced ranges.
Book Tours Through Our Trusted Partners
Zanzibar is famous for its spice farms, historic Stone Town, and snorkeling trips to Mnemba Atoll. At Azao Resort & Spa, we’ve done our research and built partnerships with well-respected tour operators who also believe in quality and honesty. We can facilitate booking these reputable operators and provide you with transparent pricing for the excursions, so you may enjoy these amazing experiences in a safe and confident manner. We will always communicate in writing the particulars of every tour, including duration, inclusions, and total price. Our recommendation is to avoid any last-minute street offers as they are likely to have inaccurate details. Please connect with our team to help you to authentic experiences at fair prices.
Navigate Street Vendors and Guides Safely
We understand that street vendors can be charming and persuasive, but we’ve seen guests targeted for overpriced goods. Our recommendation is to compare prices and be firm about the amount you’re prepared to spend. Likewise, informal guides may offer to take you around Stone Town or the markets, only to ask for additional payment later. For safety reasons, we recommend utilizing licensed guides from trustworthy resources, and our concierge team is more than happy to make recommendations and provide a connection to trusted guides for added enjoyment.
Money Matters: Our Best Practices
Handling money in Zanzibar requires extra caution. We highly recommend not exchanging currency on the street as unofficial exchangers often engage in poor rates and/or counterfeit notes. Currency exchange is available and secure with the resort at competitive rates if you choose. It is a good idea to keep cash in small denominations for ease of exchange, as well as only carrying what you intend to use for the day in cash to minimize risk. You are welcome to use major credit cards while at the resort, but cash will be needed for local markets and small vendors.
Shopping for Souvenirs: What We Tell Our Guests
Zanzibar has lovely souvenirs, like fragrant spices and locally made crafts, etc, and tourists usually pay more than necessary. Before you go shopping, check in with our concierge—we’re happy to suggest the general price range for typical things and help you negotiate (politely, of course). We also have a curated boutique at Azao Resort & Spa with authentic local crafts at fair, fixed prices, making it much easier to shop confidently.
Trust Your Instincts and Stay Aware
Our best tip for avoiding scams is easy: just take notice and trust your gut. If something seems off, or unrealistically good, it likely isn’t genuine. Be suspicious of unsolicited offers or a stranger who becomes too friendly all of a sudden and promises you something exclusive. If you’re ever unsure about a situation, We’re always available to assist you—just get in touch.
Choose a Trusted Accommodation for Peace of Mind
One of the easiest methods to safeguard yourself against scams is by securing your stay with a trusted accommodation. At Azao Resort & Spa, we take great pride in verified bookings, pricing with no surprises, and a professional team dedicated to guest safety and satisfaction. Our luxury rooms in Zanzibar offer a worry-free experience with all-inclusive packages that include airport transfers, gourmet meals, and curated activities. This will help reduce the risk of scams while you navigate the local experience, and will allow you to relax without worrying about being charged too much.
If you are after a no-stress way to book luxury accommodation in Zanzibar, consider reading our previous blog, Avoid These Hotel Booking Mistakes, for more information to help you start your trip smoothly.
We’re Here to Support You at Every Stage
At Azao Resort & Spa, we see ourselves as more than just your accommodation; we are your partners in a memorable Zanzibar experience. We take great pride in saying our staff is available for advice on safe local practices, trusted tours, and fair pricing. Our local transportation providers, guides, and vendors have also partnered with us based on the same ethical standards we uphold. Whether you just want us to recommend something, book an excursion, or ask a question, our concierge staff is here to make the best of your time and stay leisurely.
Experience Zanzibar with Confidence
Zanzibar’s beauty and culture are truly unmatched, and we want every guest at Azao Resort & Spa to experience the island at its finest. By residing with us, using our trusted network for planning, and remaining aware, you will avoid the risks of major tourism scams and just focus solely on analyzing and creating strong memories. Our all-inclusive packages and commitment to guest safety and security are to mitigate risk to your comfort and convenience. Welcome to Azao Resort & Spa—where your safety and comfort, and an authentic island experience, are most important.
