Customs regulations for Tanzania
There are strict rules regarding food and beverages when entering Zanzibar (Tanzania). It’s especially important to distinguish between “duty-free allowances” for personal use and “restricted goods” for which you theoretically need permits.
Here are the details for private travel:
1. Luxury Goods (Duty-Free Allowances)
For travelers aged 18 and over, the following quantities are duty-free:
- Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 g of tobacco.
- Alcohol: 1 liter of spirits (over 22% ABV) or 2 liters of wine/liqueur.
- Note: High-proof alcohol (over 70% ABV) is completely prohibited.
- Perfume/Eau de Toilette: Up to 250 ml.
2. Food
Tanzania has very strict regulations regarding the import of fresh produce to protect local agriculture.
- Prohibited/Strictly Restricted: Fresh fruits, vegetables, meat and dairy products, as well as plants and seeds. These items are usually confiscated without official phytosanitary certificates.
- Allowed: Processed, unopened, and in their original packaging for personal use (e.g., a pack of cookies, gummy bears, or shrink-wrapped coffee) are generally tolerated.
- E-cigarettes: Since 2025/2026, these have been subject to stricter new excise taxes and regulations. For personal use (one device, a small amount of e-liquid), it is usually okay, but don’t stock up excessively.
3. Important Prohibitions (Customs Traps)
- Plastic bags: This is no joke – entry to Zanzibar is plastic-free. Regular carrier bags in your suitcase can result in fines. Only zip-lock bags for toiletries are usually accepted, as they are intended for reuse.
- Drugs: There is absolutely zero tolerance. Even the smallest amounts can lead to severe prison sentences.
- Pornographic material: Importation is strictly prohibited.
4. Cash
- Amounts exceeding the equivalent of USD 10,000 must be declared.
- The national currency (Tanzanian Shilling) may not be imported or exported.
Please also note the visa requirement and the mandatory health insurance/ZIC (only through the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation).
A tip for your return flight: Be careful not to take any shells, coral, or animal products (ivory, of course, but also furs/hides) as souvenirs. Customs at Zanzibar airport checks for this.