Zanzibar, a beautiful island off the coast of Tanzania, welcomes travelers from around the world through its main airport — Abeid Amani Karume International Airport. Originally known as Kisauni Airport, authorities renamed it in 2010 to honor Abeid Amani Karume, the first president of Zanzibar.
Over the years, the airport has expanded to serve more passengers and destinations. Today, it acts as the primary gateway to the island’s stunning beaches, rich culture, and historic attractions. Conveniently located about 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) south of Zanzibar City, the capital, it allows travelers to reach the city center and nearby areas quickly and easily.
Airport Specifications
| Specification | Details |
| Full Name | Abeid Amani Karume International Airport |
| Zanzibar Airport Code | ZNZ |
| ICAO Code | HTZA |
| Location | Approximately 5 kilometers south of Zanzibar City, the island’s capital |
| Other Names | Kisauni Airport, Zanzibar International Airport |
| Terminals | 4 (Terminal 1 inactive, Terminal 2 for domestic, Terminal 3 for international, Terminal 4 planned) |
| Main Airlines | Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Oman Air |
| Main Destinations | Addis Ababa, Nairobi, Doha, Istanbul, Muscat |
History and Development of Zanzibar Airport
British colonial authorities initially established the airport during the protectorate era and named it Kisauni Airport. Later, in 2010, the Zanzibar government renamed it to honor Abeid Amani Karume, the country’s first president.
By December 2021, Terminal 1 had become inactive, and Terminal 2 had taken over domestic flight operations and administrative roles. Meanwhile, construction of Terminal 3 — a modern international terminal — neared completion. Authorities aimed to provide a better experience for international travelers through upgraded infrastructure and services.
Eventually, in the summer of 2022, Terminal 3 officially opened to handle international arrivals and departures. Due to rising passenger traffic, the Zanzibar government also initiated plans to build Terminal 4, collaborating with international firms to enhance the airport’s capacity and efficiency.
Terminals at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport
Zanzibar Airport features multiple terminals, each designed to meet different needs:
Terminal 1
Terminal 1, built during the British colonial period, was the airport’s first terminal. However, since December 2021, it no longer supports flight operations and remains inactive.
Terminal 2
Terminal 2 handles domestic flights within Tanzania. Additionally, it serves as the administrative hub for the airport. Domestic travelers benefit from this terminal’s convenient services and accessible layout.
Terminal 3
Terminal 3 is the airport’s newest facility and now manages international travel. Construction finished in mid-2022, and authorities opened the terminal shortly afterward. Designed with modern travelers in mind, this terminal features advanced amenities, comfortable spaces, and improved efficiency for passengers arriving from abroad.
Terminal 4
As tourism continues to grow, the government has already started planning Terminal 4. Working alongside international partners, Zanzibar aims to expand the airport’s capacity and improve service for all future visitors.
Airlines and Destinations
Zanzibar Airport connects the island to many international destinations, making it easy for travelers to visit from different parts of the world. Several major airlines operate regular routes from this airport, including:
- Ethiopian Airlines offers direct flights to Addis Ababa and easy connections to destinations across Africa and beyond.
- Kenya Airways flies to Nairobi, providing seamless links to global cities across multiple continents.
- Qatar Airways connects travelers to Doha, with onward access to Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
- Turkish Airlines flies to Istanbul, making travel to Europe and the Middle East smooth and convenient.
- Oman Air operates flights to Muscat, bridging Zanzibar with the Middle East and Asia.
These airline services allow tourists to reach East Africa, Europe, and beyond without hassle.
New and Improved Travel Services
With the launch of Terminal 3, Zanzibar’s main airport introduced several upgrades to enhance passenger experience. These include:
- Modern Facilities: The terminal now features spacious check-in counters, organized waiting lounges, and state-of-the-art baggage handling systems. These features help reduce wait times and create a smooth travel process.
- Dining and Shopping: Passengers can enjoy a range of dining options, from traditional Tanzanian meals to international cuisine. Furthermore, duty-free shops offer souvenirs, electronics, and premium goods.
- Better Transportation Access: The airport now provides better ground transport options, including taxis and shuttle buses. These make it easier for passengers to travel to various parts of the island quickly and comfortably.
Plan Your Dream Zanzibar Vacation
Now that you know more about Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, it’s time to plan your trip to Zanzibar! This island paradise offers something for everyone. Whether you want to relax by the turquoise ocean, explore the historic alleys of Stone Town, or enjoy thrilling water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving, Zanzibar won’t disappoint.
Book your flights today through Abeid Amani Karume International Airport and get ready for an unforgettable adventure on one of the world’s most enchanting islands.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the main airport in Zanzibar?
The main airport in Zanzibar is Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ), located about 5 km from Zanzibar City.
2. Which airlines fly to Zanzibar?
Major airlines flying to Zanzibar include Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, and Oman Air.
3. Does Zanzibar Airport have international flights?
Yes, Terminal 3 at Zanzibar Airport handles international flights to destinations in Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
4. How far is Zanzibar Airport from Stone Town?
Zanzibar Airport is approximately 15–20 minutes by car from Stone Town, depending on traffic.
5. Are there taxis available at Zanzibar Airport?
Yes, Zanzibar Airport offers taxis and shuttle buses for easy transportation to hotels and popular tourist areas.