Zanzibar Code Of Conduct

Zanzibar Code Of Conduct : Dress Code And What To Wear In A Zanzibar Safari : Off the coast of Tanzania, there is a stunning group of islands known as Zanzibar. It is renowned for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, exotic wildlife, and vibrant culture. 99% of the people in Zanzibar are Muslims, according to the National Bureau of Statistics. Zanzibar is a warm, friendly, and exciting tourist destination. However, it is imperative to read the Code of Conduct, which was created by the government to protect the wildlife, reserves, and people, as well as to make sure that visitors can comprehend and respect the local culture, before traveling to Zanzibar.

While on the beach in Zanzibar, it is acceptable to wear whatever you like. However, once you enter the village or town where the locals reside, it is crucial that both men and women carefully consider what to wear. Here, we’ll go over the key ideas from the Code of Conduct. A complete copy of the Code of Conduct is available on the Zanzibar tourism website, or you can ask your tour guide or hotel for one.

WHAT TO WEAR FOR MEN AND WOMEN

In accordance with Islamic law, both men and women must dress simply, modestly, and with dignity. A Muslim man is required to cover himself from the navel to the knee at all times with baggy, modest attire. A Muslim woman must at the very least conceal the details of her body from the public when she leaves the house by dressing in loose, non-revealing clothing that covers her body and hair. When you visit a town or village where locals reside, dressing appropriately is highly appreciated and demonstrates respect for the native population’s culture and religious beliefs.

ADAPT THE CULTURE

Zanzibar will forever be a semi-autonomous nation with a distinct past, present, and culture. Despite the overwhelming influx of visitors from around the globe to this remarkable island, a strict Muslim heritage has continued to leave the biggest impression. Zanzibar draws a consistent stream of vacationers, but sadly not everyone makes the effort to comprehend or value Islamic culture or, most obviously, research what is appropriate to wear. Here are some recommendations and rules you might want to abide by when visiting nearby villages and Stone Town because Zanzibar is a Muslim region:

DRESS TIPS FOR ZANZIBAR

  • Packing a few items of clothing that cover the shoulders and wearing pants or shorts that at least reach the knees is advised for both men and women.
  • Wear opaque clothing while on your tour of Stone Town or any nearby villages.
  • Bathing suits and other beachwear are not permitted in Stone Town or the village.
  • When walking around the town or the nearby village, try to avoid wearing tops with open shoulders and/or deep cleavage.
  • Bikinis are acceptable on beaches, but thongs and going topless are definitely not permitted. Bathing suits are generally accepted on beaches.

If you treat the people of Zanzibar with this level of respect for their Islamic traditions, they will return the favor.

ZANZIBAR PACKING LIST: A GUIDE ON WHAT TO PACK TO MAKE SURE YOU DRESS PROPERLY.

Clothes

It is advised to carefully choose 1-2 outfits per day. This includes an outfit for the day and another for the evening (perhaps a party or dining outfit). For chilly nights, you can add a lightweight cardigan to your bag. The activities planned for the day should help you decide what to wear.

Beachwear

It is advised to bring a few pieces: a scarf or cover-up, a sunhat, and sunglasses.

Footwear

A pair or two of shoes. For a tour of Stone Town or a village, bring a pair of sandals, beach shoes, or comfortable sneakers. If you’re hosting a formal dinner party, comfortable heels are recommended but not mandatory.

Zanzibar Code Of Conduct
Zanzibar Code Of Conduct

Health and Hygiene

It is advised that you bring any necessary medications, such as allergy and antimalarial drugs. Pack standard-sized items like toothpaste, lotion, sunscreen, toothbrushes, feminine products for women, insect repellent, wet wipes, and anything else you might require while there.

OTHER ZANZIBAR CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS

  • Don’t give children sweets. It’s unhealthy and instills bad habits in them.
  • Without their parents’ permission, never take pictures of children; you wouldn’t do it at home, so don’t do it here either.
  • Avoid photographing specific people without first getting their permission. Since many have smartphones and Facebook, younger people tend not to care as much, but some people may object. As tourism increases, the atmosphere is becoming more laid-back. However, if you want to take a close-up photo of any individual, you must first ask permission. Some will accept it without issue, some will object, and some will demand payment.
  • Similar to many other locations in Africa, photographing governmental structures, citizens, and border officials is frequently prohibited. If anyone witnesses you, you run the risk of getting in trouble and possibly losing your camera.
  • You should avoid making public displays of affection around Zanzibari men and women, especially in Stone Town and the villages. Only holding hands is acceptable, unless you are in a very private setting. It’s much more laid-back in the beach bars, nightclubs, and on the beaches.
  • In Zanzibar, homosexuality is still prohibited. Foreigners may be arrested and imprisoned for making public displays of homosexuality, even something as minor as holding hands or kissing.
  • During Ramadan, you shouldn’t consume food, smoke, or drink on the streets. Despite not being against the law, it is very rude because most people are fasting.
  • Observe the laws, particularly during the holy and spiritual month of Ramadan.

CONCLUSION:

Zanzibar is a fantastic destination for a holiday, vacation, or honeymoon. Despite being a popular tourist destination, it is also home to many locals. People live there, children attend school, and locals work and raise their families on the island. If Zanzibarians see foreigners defying their culture, religion, and customs on a daily basis, it will leave a bad impression. Almost everyone you meet on this breathtakingly beautiful and historically significant island will greet you with the utmost respect. You could repay the favor by dressing appropriately and appreciating Zanzibar culture.