Digital Nomads Guide to Zanzibar: Work, Explore, and Thrive
Zanzibar, an enchanting island off the coast of Tanzania, offers not just beautiful beaches and rich cultural heritage but also a growing environment for digital nomads. With the right preparation, you can work remotely while enjoying the island's breathtaking scenery. Here’s an in-depth guide to help you navigate Zanzibar as a digital nomad, from finding reliable Wi-Fi to the best places to work.
Preparing for Your Stay
1. Connectivity Essentials
Local SIM Card: One obvious first things you should do upon arriving in Zanzibar is to get a local SIM card. Providers like Vodacom, Airtel, and Tigo offer good coverage and data plans. A SIM card costs around $1, and data plans start at approximately $10 for 10GB. Personally Vodacom was the most reliable during my stay there. My partner also used Tigo which was also pretty reliable during our stay.
Portable Wi-Fi Devices: For consistent internet access, consider getting a portable Wi-Fi device. These can be purchased locally or rented, with costs ranging from $50 to $100. Providers often have daily or monthly plans, which are ideal for digital nomads. This is a really great way to not have to worry about power outages and weak cell service!
2. Cost of Living Zanzibar is relatively affordable compared to many Western countries. Accommodation can range from budget guesthouses at $20 per night to mid-range hotels and apartments for $50-$100 per night. Eating out is also inexpensive, with local meals costing around $5-$10. I personally rented an airbnb monthly which cost me around $1,200 per month, but this included an airbnb that had a generator which was necessary during power outages.
3. Accommodation Options Look for accommodation that advertises strong Wi-Fi. Many hotels, guesthouses, and Airbnbs cater to digital nomads and provide reliable internet. Make sure to ask your host in advance if they have a generator. This is crucial during power outages!! Popular areas to stay include Stone Town, Nungwi, and Paje. You’ll find many digital nomads located in Paje in particular and a variety of beach front cafes with wifi to work from!
One of my favorite places to work from daily was Hello Capitano! They always had strong reliable wifi, great vibes and good food.
Best Places to Work Remotely in Zanzibar
1. Cafes with Strong Wi-Fi
Hello Capitano! (Paje): As mentioned before, this was one of my favorite places to work from during my stay on Zanzibar. Great vibes, good food and decent wifi!
Wave's Restaurant and Bar (Nungwi): The combination of reliable Wi-Fi, great food, and beautiful views makes Wave's Restaurant and Bar an excellent choice for digital nomads seeking a vibrant work environment.
Puzzle Coffee Shop (Stone Town): Located in the heart of Stone Town, Puzzle Coffee Shop is a cozy place with excellent coffee, comfortable seating, and reliable Wi-Fi. It's perfect for a few hours of focused work.
Jaws Corner (Stone Town): A local favorite, Jaws Corner is an open-air space known for its vibrant atmosphere and strong Wi-Fi. It’s a great spot to meet other travelers and locals.
Beach House Zanzibar (Stone Town): This beachside cafe offers stunning views, good food, and strong Wi-Fi. It’s ideal for those who like to work with a view.
Upendo Beach Club (Michamvi): Located on the southeastern coast, Upendo offers a beautiful beachside setting with strong Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and delicious food.
Kiwengwa Coffee Shop (Kiwengwa): Known for its friendly staff and reliable Wi-Fi, this coffee shop is a great spot for digital nomads staying in the Kiwengwa area.
2. Coworking Spaces
The Work Hub (Stone Town): This is the first coworking space in Zanzibar, offering high-speed internet, comfortable workstations, and a community of like-minded individuals. It’s a great place to network and collaborate.
The Beach House (Nungwi): Offering coworking space with a view, this spot provides reliable internet, a relaxed atmosphere, and a chance to work by the beach.
Tips for Staying Connected
1. Internet Stability While the main towns and tourist areas generally have good internet connectivity, some remote parts of the island may have spotty coverage. Always have a backup plan, such as a portable Wi-Fi device or mobile data.
2. Power Outages Power outages can occur, so it’s advisable to have a portable charger and ensure your devices are always charged. Many cafes and coworking spaces have backup generators. Again, please confirm with your host or hotel that they have a generator before booking! This is crucial for you to not lose power.
3. Best Time to Visit Zanzibar has two rainy seasons: March to May and November. The best time to visit for reliable weather is from June to October and from December to February.
4. Health and Safety Ensure you have travel insurance that covers health and tech equipment. It’s also recommended to get vaccinations for diseases like Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Yellow Fever before traveling.
Conclusion
Zanzibar is a great destination for digital nomads if you prepare accordingly. This island offers a mix of work and leisure in a stunning setting. With the right preparation and knowledge of the best places to work, you can enjoy a productive and enjoyable stay on this beautiful island. Whether you’re working from a cozy cafe in Stone Town or a beachside resort in Nungwi, Zanzibar has everything you need to thrive as a digital nomad.