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Kigali, Kigali Province to Zanzibar, Mjini Magharibi Region from $57: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Kigali, Rwanda
to
Zanzibar, Tanzania

How to Get from Kigali to Zanzibar: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$57 - Bus, ferryBest price
1123 kmDistance
4h 20m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Kigali to Zanzibar with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  20m
Estimated price
$245-607
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
36h  13m
Estimated price
$57-189
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1123 km
Duration: 4h 20m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
34h  23m
Estimated price
$63-185
Company
various
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
44h  11m
Estimated price
$84-2450
Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
40h  57m
Estimated price
$101-181
Company
various
Bus
Drive
Train
Drive
Average Duration
50h  6m
Estimated price
$2451-2452
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Kigali to Zanzibar

Embarking on the journey from Kigali to Zanzibar offers an enchanting contrast between Rwanda's lush landscapes and Zanzibar's stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant coastal life.

Best Neighbourhoods in Zanzibar

Zanzibar boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own charm and allure.

Stone Town
• UNESCO World Heritage Site with historic significance.
• Vibrant markets and lively street food scenes.
Nungwi
• Stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters.
• Excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities nearby.
Kendwa
• Famous for its white sandy beaches and sunsets.
• Great nightlife with beach bars and parties.

Best Times To Visit Zanzibar's Attractions

Timing your visits to Zanzibar's attractions can significantly enhance your experience.

Stone Town
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
Nungwi Beach
Early morning visits offer serene beach views and calm waters for swimming.
Jozani Forest
Midweek visits in the morning provide a peaceful atmosphere for exploration.

Zanzibar Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Zanzibar enjoys a tropical climate, which means warm temperatures year-round, but be prepared for occasional rain from March to May and heavy showers from November to December; planning visits during the dry seasons from June to October can enhance outdoor experiences and beach activities.

Dining Recommendation

Try the seafood served at the famous Forodhani Night Market, where the fresh catch of the day is grilled to perfection and infused with Swahili spices, providing a vibrant culinary experience that contrasts with Kigali's traditional Rwandan dishes; the lively atmosphere, coupled with the aroma of sizzling seafood and spices, offers a delightful sensory exploration that reflects Zanzibar's rich maritime heritage.

Kigali - Zanzibar operators

Explore transport companies operating between Kigali and Zanzibar, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights
Website
kenya-airways.com

Plane from Kigali (KGL) to Zanzibar (ZNZ)

Average Duration
4h 46m
Estimated price
$6071-6072
Website
auricair.com

Plane from Kigali (KGL) to Zanzibar (ZNZ)

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$60780-24580
Website
ugandairlines.com

Plane from Kigali (KGL) to Zanzibar (ZNZ)

Average Duration
4h 45m
Estimated price
$6073-6074
Website
condor.com

Plane from Kigali (KGL) to Zanzibar (ZNZ)

Average Duration
6h 20m
Estimated price
$2455-24580
Train
Contact phone
+255 800 11 0042
Website
trc.co.tz

Train from Mwanza to Dar es Salaam

Average Duration
38h
Estimated price
$60704-6075
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+254 709 897 000
Website
modern.co.ke

Bus from Kigali to Nairobi

Average Duration
16h 16m
Estimated price
$6070-6076

Bus from Bujumbura to Mwanza

Average Duration
7h 3m
Estimated price
$6070-570
Contact phone
0714583373
Website
facebook.com

Bus from Nairobi to Dar es Salaam

Average Duration
14h
Estimated price
$6075-574
Contact phone
0729356561
Website
tahmeedexpress.com

Bus from Nairobi to Dar es Salaam

Average Duration
16h
Estimated price
$571-6077
Ferry
Contact phone
+255 22 2123324
Website
azammarine.com

Ferry from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar

Average Duration
1h 45m
Estimated price
$6077-607000

Kigali to Zanzibar: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Kigali and Zanzibar offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🛫 For travelers heading from Kigali to Zanzibar it's important to note that there are no direct flights available. The quickest option involves a flight with one stopover that lasts approximately 4 hours and 20 minutes. 🌍 Various airlines, including Auric Air Services Limited, Brussels Airlines, and Egyptair, among others, operate flights connecting Kigali Airport to Zanzibar Airport. With a relatively short flight duration of 4 hours and 20 minutes, travelers can easily reach their tropical destination. 💸 Travelers can expect flight prices between Zanzibar and Kigali to range from $245 to $607, providing options for different budgets. This journey offers a quick and convenient way to explore the stunning beaches and vibrant culture of Zanzibar from the bustling city of Kigali.
Departure Point
Kigali Airport
Arrival Point
Zanzibar Airport. The quickest flight takes 4h 20m and has one stopover
🚌 Embark on an exciting journey from Kigali to Zanzibar by bus, a route that spans approximately 40 hours and 57 minutes. 💰 The bus fares between Zanzibar and Kigali typically range from $101 to $181, offering budget-friendly travel options for adventurers seeking to explore both countries.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Kigali to Zanzibar.

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The distance between Kigali and Zanzibar City is approximately 698 miles. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. The fastest option is by plane, which takes 6 hours and 12 minutes. Taking a bus and ferry via Nairobi takes 34 hours and 26 minutes, while traveling by bus alone takes approximately 40 hours and 57 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Kigali to Zanzibar is by taking a bus and ferry via Nairobi. This option costs between $60 and $180 and takes approximately 34 hours and 26 minutes. However, if time is a priority, the quickest way to travel is by plane, which takes around 6 hours and 12 minutes and costs between $240 and $650. The choice between these options depends on individual preferences and budget constraints.
The prices for a bus from Kigali to Zanzibar range from $103 to $168.
To travel from Kigali to Zanzibar without a car, the best option is to take a bus and ferry via Nairobi. This journey typically takes around 34 hours and 26 minutes. The cost of this trip can range from $60 to $180 depending on the specific bus and ferry companies chosen.
The flight duration between Kigali and Zanzibar is approximately 4 hours and 20 minutes, including one stopover. However, it is important to note that there are no direct flights available between the two airports. Prices for a flight between Zanzibar and Kigali typically range from $246 to $614, depending on the airline and time of booking.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Zanzibar City. With over 115 hotels to choose from, you can find a variety of options that suit your budget and preferences. Prices start at $52 per night, offering a range of choices for travelers. Whether you prefer luxury resorts or budget-friendly guesthouses, there are plenty of options to stay near Zanzibar.