What is not allowed in Zanzibar?

Zanzibar is a beautiful island off the coast of Tanzania in the Indian Ocean. It's famous for its beautiful beaches, blue waters, and lush jungles. Even though it is a famous tourist location, there are certain things to bear in mind before going there.

Continue reading to learn about some of the things you should do – and avoid doing – when visiting Zanzibar.

Here is a list of things not to do in Zanzibar:

Illegal drugs: The possession and use of illegal drugs is strictly prohibited in Zanzibar. Offenders face severe penalties, including jail time.
Plastic bags: Plastic bags are banned in Zanzibar. Visitors are advised to bring their own reusable bags or purchase biodegradable bags from local businesses.
Scandalous Clothing: Zanzibar is a conservative Muslim country and it is important to dress appropriately when going out. This means avoiding shorts, miniskirts, and sleeveless tops.
Public displays of affection: Public displays of affection, such as kissing and hugging, are considered taboo in Zanzibar. Visitors should respect local customs and avoid such behavior.
Littering: It is illegal to litter in Zanzibar. Visitors should dispose of garbage properly.

In addition to the above, there are a number of other things that visitors should be aware of when in Zanzibar. These include:

Drinking Tap Water: Tap water in Zanzibar is not safe to drink. Visitors are advised to drink only bottled water or use reliable water purification methods.
Taking photos of people: It is always polite to ask permission before taking photos of people in Zanzibar.
Visiting Mosques: Visitors are welcome to visit mosques in Zanzibar, but they should dress appropriately and observe rules of conduct.
Haggling: Haggling is common in Zanzibar, especially in markets and souvenir shops. Tourists should not be afraid to haggle to get the best price.

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