Planning a trip to Zanzibar and wondering what to wear in Zanzibar? Need Zanzibar outfit ideas and a list of what to pack for Zanzibar? You’ve come to the right place!
As the island of Zanzibar in Tanzania is predominately a Muslim country, its conservative leanings can make it extremely difficult to know how to dress when visiting. As a traveler, it is important to respect the local culture and people and to not offend or stick out with your clothing choices.
Keep reading for a guide to what to wear in Zanzibar for every aspect of your Tanzania trip!
And if you are making the long trip to Zanzibar, make sure you don’t miss my guide on how to pack for a tropical vacation in just a carry on suitcase!
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What to Wear in Stone Town, Zanzibar
amazon maxi dress // amazon hat // amazon purse
One of my favorite parts of our trip to Zanzibar was our two night stay in historic Stone Town. You definitely don’t want to miss out on wandering the old city’s maze-like streets, but it does take extra planning on what to wear.
While beach wear and bikinis are acceptable at the resorts, it’s imperative to dress to respect the conservative Muslim culture while in local areas like Stone Town. These standards of dress also apply to any local villages you may visit.
While in Stone Town or a local village, dress to respect the local Muslim culture. Cover yourself from the shoulder to the knee. Do not wear clothing that exposes your midriff, cleavage, or thighs. Avoid tank tops, shorts, or dresses above the knee.
During my time in Stone Town, I wore short sleeve maxi and midi dresses that covered my body but were also lightweight and breezy. A breezy linen pants and top combo would work well too, and don’t forget to pack comfortable walking shoes. I highly suggest bright colors and patterns that will pop in your Stone Town photos.
While in Stone Town, you will likely see many tourists who are dressed in revealing clothing that clearly did not research their destination before departing. The locals will be too polite to say anything about it, but that does not mean you should follow suit and be disrespectful to their culture and principles.
Midi or Maxi Dress: Choose a maxi or midi dress in a breezy cut and lightweight fabric to beat the heat. Wear a bright pop of color or a fun African-inspired pattern to pop in your Stone Town photos. Make sure you avoid maxi dresses that touch/drag on the ground, as you’ll get your hem dirty roaming around Stone Town.
Kaftan: A breezy and lightweight kaftan is another option to stay covered and cool while you explore Stone Town. The best part is they also do double duty as swim cover ups.
Linen Pants & Top: If you’re not a fan of dresses, then you’ll want to wear a linen shirt and linen pants. This will keep you covered and ready to explore while still keeping you cool in natural fabrics.
Abaya: While traditional Muslim dress is not required of tourists in Stone Town, you may feel more comfortable blending in with the local women by donning a traditional Muslim abaya.
White Sneakers: I suggest wearing a pair of comfortable but fashionable white sneakers while exploring Stone Town, since you’ll be doing a lot of walking. Donning closed-toe sneakers can help avoid dirty, dusty feet.
Walking Sandals: If you want to wear sandals, make sure they are comfortable ones that will hold up during lots of walking! Leave your cute sandals for the beach, and wear your comfy airport slides instead.
Accessories: Don’t forget a cute sun hat, your sunglasses, and a crossbody bag or small backpack. Leave purses and shoulder bags back at the hotel. If you are traveling during rainy season (March – May or November – December), consider packing a rain poncho.
Do I need to wear a hijab in Zanzibar? While traditional Muslim dress are recommended or even required in many Islamic countries, it is not the norm for tourists in Zanzibar. While the local women do dress this way, you will not see any tourists dressed in this manner. However, solo female travelers may want to consider modest Muslim clothing in Stone Town in order to blend in and avoid unwanted attention.
What To Wear at the Beach in Zanzibar
left on friday blue swimsuit // cuup yellow swimsuit
Bikinis are totally acceptable at your resort and on the beach at your resort! However, in respect of the local culture, I do learn more towards my more conservative swimsuits. I personally recommend leaving the thongs at home! Please be very mindful of your beach attire if you visit a local beach off your resort.
High Waist Bikini: When packing my two-pieces for Zanzibar, I chose my more supportive, high waisted bikinis.
Fun One Piece: I also packed a couple of fun one pieces for this my Zanzibar as well, even though I normally don’t wear one pieces.
Cover Up: And of course you need a great cover up as well. Choose a cover up that will fully cover your swimsuit so you can grab some lunch at the resort without changing.
Beach Bag: The majority of resorts and hotels don’t provide beach bags, so you will want to pack one. Choose a beach bag that folds down flat to take up less space in your luggage, or use your beach bag as your carry on personal item.
Beach Sandals: Don’t pack those cheap rubber flip flops! Instead pack a cute, comfy beach sandal that can be repurposed for other outfits.
Water Shoes: Water shoes are a MUST in Zanzibar! Water shoes looks just like sneakers but can be worn in the ocean. They will protect your feet from sharp rocks or hazards like sea urchins.
Accessories: Don’t forget your sunglasses, a high SPF reef friendly sunscreen, and your beach hat!
What to Wear at a Zanzibar Resort
Most of your time at a Zanzibar resort will be spent pool and beachside. However, you will still need a few nice outfits for wearing around the resort and to meals. I try to pack both a few casual options as well as something a bit dressier.
To keep you cool in the African heat, I recommend dresses, rompers, jumpsuits, or two piece sets. I would avoid overly casual clothing such as jean shorts. And although you have more freedom of dressing on a resort, it would still be polite to keep your clothing leaning conservative.
Casual Dress: I always pack a more casual dress I can throw on quickly without getting ready. This works perfect for running down to the breakfast buffet or to grab lunch at a casual restaurant.
Shorts & Button Up Set: If you don’t care for dresses, consider packing a casual button up and matching short set. These are super comfortable, perfect for a casual meal, and they make a great cover up too.
Resort Wear Dresses: Pack a couple of nicer dresses to wear in the evenings to dinner. I felt most comfortable wearing longer midi and maxi dresses in Zanzibar.
Two Piece Pant Set: Instead of two piece sets that include shorts or a short skirt, try a two piece that has pants in the evenings. You’ll be more protected in the evenings from the mosquitos and sometimes cooler weather.
Dressy Flat Sandals: I always, ALWAYS recommend flats on vacation only! You will be doing a lot of walking, and you don’t want to risk twisting and ankle in wedges in the evening! Just find a super fun, flashy pair or two and your feet will thank me later.
Many resorts have dress codes for their restaurants, so make sure you consider those before packing. A good rule of thumb is to avoid jean shorts and tank tops or anything that is too casual.
I hope you this guide to what to wear in Zanzibar, Tanzania has been helpful! If you have been to Zanzibar or are planning a trip, I would love to hear from you in the comments. And for more help preparing for your trip, check out all of our Africa resources as well as our guide on how to pack for a tropical vacation in just a carry on!
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