Best Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam Flight 2026–2027

Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam Flight 2026–2027 – Complete Guide

The Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam flight is the fastest and most convenient way to travel between Zanzibar Island and mainland Tanzania. In 2026–2027, this short route continues to be one of the busiest domestic connections in East Africa, serving both tourists heading for safaris and locals traveling for business. Whether you’re flying after a beach holiday in Stone Town or connecting to international flights from Dar es Salaam’s Julius Nyerere International Airport, here is everything you need to know about the Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam flight in 2026–2027.

Why Choose a Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam Flight in 2026–2027?

While ferries are scenic, flights are faster and more reliable. Benefits of flying include:

• Shortest travel time – just 20 to 30 minutes.
• Convenient connections to safaris in Serengeti, Ngorongoro, or Kilimanjaro.
• Direct transfers to international flights at Julius Nyerere International Airport.
• Multiple airlines and departures daily in 2026–2027.
• More comfort and fewer delays in rough sea conditions.

Distance and Duration – Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam Flight

The distance between Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam is around 70 kilometers (43 miles). Flights usually take 20–30 minutes, making it the quickest way to travel. With check-in and boarding, the total journey may take about 1.5 hours.

Airlines Operating Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam Flights 2026–2027

Several domestic and regional airlines serve the Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam flight route. These include:

• Precision Air – Reliable with multiple daily departures.
• Air Tanzania – National carrier, connecting Zanzibar with Dar es Salaam and beyond.
• Coastal Aviation – Offers small aircraft flights, great for safari connections.
• Flightlink – Known for short domestic hops including Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam.
• Auric Air – Popular for charter and scheduled flights.
• ZanAir – Local airline specializing in Zanzibar flights.

Ticket Prices – Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam Flight 2026–2027

Fares depend on airline, booking time, and travel season. Typical one-way ticket prices are:

• Economy Class: $50–$90
• Business Class: $120–$180
• Charter or Private Flights: $250 and above

Booking early for 2026–2027 ensures the best deals, especially during high season (June–October and December–February).

Flight Schedule – Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam 2026–2027

There are multiple daily flights, starting early morning and running until evening. Typical departure times:

• 06:30 AM – First morning flights.
• 09:00 AM – Mid-morning flights for safari connections.
• 12:00 PM – Midday flights for travelers catching international departures.
• 03:00 PM – Afternoon flights.
• 06:00 PM – Evening flights.

Schedules may change slightly depending on the airline and season.

Airports – Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam Flight Route

• Zanzibar Airport (Abeid Amani Karume International Airport – ZNZ): Located just outside Stone Town, this is the departure point for all Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam flights.
• Dar es Salaam Airport (Julius Nyerere International Airport – DAR): Arrival airport with three terminals, serving both domestic and international flights.

Baggage Allowance – Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam Flights

Most airlines operating this short route have specific baggage rules in 2026–2027:

• Economy class – 15 to 23 kg checked luggage + 7 kg hand luggage.
• Business class – 30 kg checked luggage + 10 kg hand luggage.
• Smaller airlines (like Coastal and ZanAir) often use light aircraft with baggage limits of 15 kg including hand luggage.

Travel Tips for Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam Flight 2026–2027

• Book tickets in advance, especially in high season.
• Arrive at the airport 1–2 hours before departure.
• Keep your passport or Tanzanian ID handy.
• Choose morning flights for fewer delays.
• Travel light if using small aircraft services.

Comparison – Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam Flight vs Ferry

Best Time to Fly – Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam 2026–2027

• June–October: Peak dry season, high demand for flights, especially safari connections.
• December–February: Popular for beach holidays and smooth flying conditions.
• March–May & November: Low season, cheaper fares, but some flights may have lower frequencies.

FAQs – Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam Flight 2026–2027

1. How long is the Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam flight?

Flights take around 20–30 minutes.

2. How much does a flight cost?

Ticket prices range from $50 to $90 in economy and higher in business class.

3. How many flights operate daily?

Over 10 flights per day between Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam in 2026–2027.

4. Which airlines operate this route?

Air Tanzania, Precision Air, Flightlink, Coastal Aviation, ZanAir, and Auric Air.

5. Can I book flights online?

Yes, all airlines allow online booking for Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam flights in 2026–2027.

6. Is it better to fly or take the ferry?

Flights are faster and more reliable, while ferries are cheaper and scenic.

7. Do flights operate year-round?

Yes, daily flights run throughout 2026–2027.

8. What is the baggage allowance?

Most airlines allow 15–23 kg checked luggage in economy, 30 kg in business class.

9. Which airport in Zanzibar should I use?

All flights depart from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ).

10. Which airport in Dar es Salaam do flights land?

Flights land at Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR).

11. Can weather affect flights?

Yes, but disruptions are less common compared to ferries.

12. Are last-minute flights available?

Yes, but they are often more expensive than advance bookings.

Conclusion

The Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam flight 2026–2027 is the fastest, easiest, and most comfortable way to travel between the island and mainland Tanzania. With multiple airlines, daily departures, and affordable ticket options, flying saves time and ensures smooth connections for safari and international travel. Whether you’re on a luxury trip or a short transfer, this flight is an essential part of a Tanzania holiday in 2026–2027.