Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ)
Zanzibar, TZ 🇹🇿 Large International Airport Scheduled Service
ICAO
HTZA
IATA
ZNZ
Elevation
54 ft
Region
TZ-07
Local Time
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GPS Code: HTZA
Local Code: Not available
Location: -6.22202° N, 39.224899° E
Continent: Africa
Type: Large International Airport
Keywords: HTAK Zanzibar Airport Kiembi Samaki
What Travelers Say
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Online Reviews Summary
Recent traveler reviews for Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) in Zanzibar present a mixed but generally improving picture, largely due to the opening of its new Terminal 3. While the new terminal receives praise for its modernity and cleanliness, travelers frequently highlight organizational issues, inconsistent staff professionalism, and long wait times in various areas, particularly for arrivals and older terminal sections. Overall satisfaction appears heavily dependent on which terminal is experienced and the specific interactions with airport staff.
What Travelers Love
- Modern and Clean Terminal 3: The new Terminal 3 is often described as modern, clean, and well-organized, offering a significantly improved experience compared to older facilities.
- Decent Air Conditioning: Travelers appreciate the effective air conditioning in the new terminal, providing comfort in Zanzibar's warm climate.
- Smooth Departure Security (sometimes): For departures, check-in and security can sometimes be smooth and efficient.
- Variety of Shops and Cafes Airside: The new terminal features duty-free shops, local souvenir stores, and cafes offering food and beverages.
- Convenient Transportation to Stone Town: The airport is relatively close to Stone Town (approximately 20 minutes), and pre-arranged private transfers are generally efficient.
Common Complaints
- Chaos and Disorganization: Many travelers report a chaotic and unorganized environment, especially during peak times, leading to confusion and frustration.
- Long Security, Customs, and Immigration Wait Times: Queues for Visa on Arrival (VOA), immigration, and security checks can be excessively long and slow, with some experiencing delays of over an hour. Immigration wait times are estimated at around 9-10 minutes currently but can be longer.
- Staff Behavior and Corruption: There are concerning reports of airport staff requesting money (bribes), reopening luggage, and even stealing personal items during security checks. Unfriendly service is also noted.
- Inadequate Air Conditioning in Older Areas: Parts of the airport, particularly older terminals or certain waiting areas, are described as stiflingly hot with poor or non-existent air conditioning.
- Limited Amenities and Poor Wi-Fi: Beyond the main departure halls of the new terminal, facilities can be basic, with scarce seating and unreliable Wi-Fi connectivity that works on and off. Airport lounges have also received negative reviews for being outdated.
While Abeid Amani Karume International Airport has made significant strides with its new Terminal 3, offering a much-improved physical environment, travelers should still anticipate potential challenges related to queues, staff interactions, and overall operational efficiency, particularly during busy periods. Arranging airport transfers in advance is highly recommended to ensure a smoother arrival and departure experience.
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Airport Routes
Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) offers 51 flight routes operated by 10 airlines. Major carriers include Auric Air Services, Flightlink, Precision Air and others. Popular destinations from Zanzibar include Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Moi Int'l, Kilimanjaro Int'l and Jomo Kenyatta Int'l.
Route Network Map
Top Routes (by observations)
Newly Discovered
- Dar es Salaam (DAR) new
- Arusha (ARK) new
- Pemba (PMA) new
- Dubai Int'l (DXB) new
- Kilimanjaro Int'l (JRO) new
- Seeb Int'l (MCT) new
- Istanbul Airport (IST) new
- Jomo Kenyatta Int'l (NBO) new
- OR Tambo Int'l (JNB) new
- Tanga (TGT) new
- Moi Int'l (MBA) new
- Bole Int'l (ADD) new
Popular Flight Routes
| Destination | IATA | City | Aircraft Type | Airline | Details | Route Map |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
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Top Airlines
Operating at Abeid Amani Karume International AirportAirlines by Flight Activity
Based on observed flight operations and route network| Airline | Routes | Flights | Destinations | Last Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Auric Air Services
AUK
/ UI
|
4 | 593 | 4 | Jan 31, 2026 |
|
Flightlink
FLZ
/ YS
|
5 | 387 | 5 | Jan 31, 2026 |
|
Precision Air
PRF
/ PW
|
4 | 178 | 4 | Jan 31, 2026 |
|
Air Tanzania
ATC
/ TC
|
5 | 171 | 5 | Jan 31, 2026 |
|
Coastal Aviation
CSV
/ CQ
|
4 | 158 | 4 | Jan 31, 2026 |
Turkish Airlines
THY
/ TK
|
2 | 101 | 2 | Jan 31, 2026 |
FlyDubai
FDB
/ FZ
|
1 | 68 | 1 | Jan 31, 2026 |
|
Kenya Airways
KQA
/ KQ
|
2 | 46 | 2 | Jan 29, 2026 |
|
Air Excel
XLL
|
2 | 38 | 2 | Jan 23, 2026 |
|
Regional Air
REG
/ 8N
|
1 | 36 | 1 | Jan 23, 2026 |
For Pilots
| Designation | Length | Width | Surface | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
18/36 |
9915 ft | 148 ft | ASP | Active Lighted |
| Type | Description | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| APP | APP | 121.2 MHz |
| TWR | TWR | 121.2 MHz |
Ground Transportation
Taxis
Taxis are the most common and convenient option, available 24/7 outside the arrivals terminal. Fares are not metered, so it is crucial to negotiate and agree on a price with the driver before starting your trip. A typical ride to Stone Town takes about 15-20 minutes. Many hotels also offer pre-booked airport transfer services for a fixed rate.
Rental Cars
Several local and international car rental agencies have desks at the airport. It is highly recommended to book a vehicle in advance, especially during peak season. To rent a car, you will need a valid driver's license from your home country, an International Driving Permit (IDP), and a temporary Zanzibar driving permit, which the rental company can arrange for a fee.
Public Transportation
The local public transport, known as 'Dala-dalas' (shared minibuses), offers a very low-cost way to travel. However, they do not pick up directly from the terminal exit. You must walk a short distance to the main road to catch one. This option is best for adventurous, budget-conscious travelers with minimal luggage, as the vehicles are often crowded and do not run on a fixed schedule.
Nearby Airports
Julius Nyerere International Airport
Dar es Salaam, TZ
Large International Airport Scheduled Service
Julius Nyerere International Airport
Dar es Salaam, TZ
Large International Airport Scheduled Service