What to Wear in Zanzibar

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Zanzibar is hot and sunny, there’s no getting around that! So you’ll want to ensure you pack clothes that will keep you cool, comfortable, and protected from the sun! But you’ll also want to be respectful of the Muslim culture, particularly in Stone Town, and adopt a fairly modest style of dress (especially if you’re a woman). 

I want to preface this by saying that I am not someone who polices what others wear. In fact, I’m a big believer in, “you do you” and if it makes you happy, I love that for you! However I strongly believe that it’s important to be respectful of local cultures when you travel and in Zanzibar, it’s a cultural norm to dress modestly.

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Now this doesn’t apply only to women. Okay, it applies mostly to women, but there are even a few guidelines that apply to men. Let’s start with those.

Men can wear shorts, but should only go shirtless at the beach or pool, and should keep their shoulders covered in Stone Town.

Of course, it’s a lot more nuanced for us gals. The suggested cultural clothing guidelines are as follows:

• Cover your shoulders
• Don’t show your cleavage
• Don’t show stomach
• Cover your legs to the knee (or just slightly above)
• Don’t wear anything too tight or revealing

Resort wear is fine at the beach and pools, but be sure to bring a coverup for when you leave those areas. Bikinis are okay, but maybe save your skimpiest swimwear for a different.

So what can you wear in Zanzibar?

Choose cotton or linen to keep you cool and flowy dresses are ideal. Another great option is to throw a pair of leggings under a shorter dress to be respectful of the culture while still looking cute.

Don’t forget your sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat because sun protection never goes out of style!

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