Some couples might prefer eloping over a traditional wedding. This is because it can be cheaper, easier,  private, and more romantic. Have you ever dreamed of saying ‘I do’ on a tropical island? If so, you might want to consider to elope in Zanzibar.

Zanzibar is based off the coast of Tanzania, a perfect place for an intimate and memorable wedding ceremony.

In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about eloping in Zanzibar, including the best time to elope, the legal requirements, the best venues, and the best packages.

Best time to elope in Zanzibar

Zanzibar has a tropical climate, which means it is warm and humid throughout the year. However, some variations in the weather might affect your elopement experience.

The average temperature ranges from 25°C to 28°C, but it can get hotter or cooler depending on the season.

The rainfall is also uneven, with two distinct wet seasons and two dry seasons. The wet seasons are from March to May and from October to December. The dry seasons are from June to September and from January to February. The humidity is also higher during the wet seasons, which can make the air feel sticky and uncomfortable.

The best months to elope in Zanzibar

The best months to elope in Zanzibar are from June to September and from January to February. This is when the weather is dry, sunny, and pleasant. These months are also the peak tourist seasons, which means you can enjoy the vibrant culture and nightlife of Zanzibar.

However, you might also have to deal with higher prices, crowds, and limited availability of accommodation and services. If you prefer a quieter and cheaper elopement, you might want to avoid these months and opt for the shoulder seasons. They are usually from October to November and from March to May. These months are still relatively dry and warm but with fewer tourists and lower rates.

Special events and Occasions

Another factor to consider when choosing the best time to elope in Zanzibar is the occurrence of special events or festivals that might coincide with your elopement date.

Zanzibar has a rich and diverse culture, influenced by its history as a trading hub and a melting pot of different ethnicities and religions. Some of the major events or festivals that you might want to witness or avoid are:

1. Ramadan:

This is the holy month of fasting for Muslims, who make up about 99% of Zanzibar’s population. During this month, Muslims abstain from eating, drinking, smoking, and sexual activity from dawn to dusk. They also engage in more prayers, charity, and spiritual activities.

Ramadan is based on the lunar calendar, so it changes every year.

If you elope during Ramadan, you might have to respect the local customs and traditions. For instance,  dressing modestly, avoiding public displays of affection, and refraining from eating or drinking in public during the day. You might also find some restaurants and shops closed or operating at reduced hours. You might however enjoy the festive atmosphere and the delicious food that is served after sunset.

2. Eid al-Adha:

This is another important Islamic festival that commemorates the willingness of Abraham to sacrifice his son Ishmael as an act of obedience to God.

Muslims celebrate this festival by slaughtering an animal, such as a sheep, a goat, or a cow, and sharing the meat with their family, friends, and the poor.

Eid al-Adha is also based on the lunar calendar, so it changes every year. In 2023, it fell on September 9.

If you elope during Eid al-Adha, you might witness the ritual of animal sacrifice, which can be disturbing for some people. You might also have to deal with traffic jams, noise, and crowds, as many people travel to visit their relatives or go to the mosque.

On the other hand, you might also experience the generosity and hospitality of the locals, who might invite you to join their feast or give you gifts.

3. Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF):

This is the largest cultural event in East Africa, which showcases the best of African cinema, music, and arts.

The festival takes place every year in July, usually in the historic Stone Town, the capital of Zanzibar. The festival features film screenings, workshops, concerts, exhibitions, and awards ceremonies.

Eloping during ZIFF might mean having the opportunity to enjoy the diverse and creative expressions of African culture. However, you might also have to book your accommodation and tickets in advance, as the festival attracts thousands of visitors and participants.

Legal requirements for eloping in Zanzibar

Eloping in Zanzibar is not as complicated as it might seem, but it does require some legal formalities and documents. The legal process and documents needed to elope in Zanzibar are as follows:

Documents

• Passports: You and your partner must have valid passports that are valid for at least six months from the date of entry to Tanzania. You must also have a visa, which can be obtained online or on arrival, depending on your nationality. The visa fee is $50 for most countries, except for US citizens, who have to pay $100.
• Affidavits: You and your partner must have affidavits that state your marital status, your nationality, your occupation, and your address. The affidavits must be signed by a commissioner of oaths or a notary public in your country of residence. It must also be stamped with an apostille or legalized by the Tanzanian embassy or consulate.
• Notice of marriage: You and your partner must give notice of your intention to marry at the Registrar of Marriages in Zanzibar at least 21 days before your elopement date. You must also pay a fee of 50,000 Tanzanian shillings (about $22) for the notice.

Certificates

• Birth certificates: You and your partner must have original or certified copies of your birth certificates, which must be translated into English if they are in another language.
• Divorce decree or death certificate: If you or your partner have been previously married and divorced or widowed, you must have the original or certified copies of your divorce decree or death certificate. They must also be translated into English if they are in another language.
• Marriage certificate: After you have given notice of your marriage, you can choose to have a civil or a religious ceremony, or both. The civil ceremony is conducted by a district commissioner or a registrar, while the religious ceremony is conducted by a priest, an imam, or a pastor, depending on your faith. You must have two witnesses for the ceremony, who can be provided by your wedding planner or your venue. The ceremony can take place at any location of your choice, such as a beach, a garden, or a hotel. After the ceremony, you will receive a marriage certificate, which will be in Swahili and English. You must also pay a fee of 150,000 Tanzanian shillings (about $65) for the certificate.

Best venues for eloping in Zanzibar

Zanzibar offers a variety of venues for eloping.

They range from beach resorts, private islands, and historic buildings, to local villages. Each venue has its features and advantages.  The scenery, the service, the amenities, and the price just to mention a few.

Here are some of the best venues for eloping in Zanzibar:

• Beach resorts: Zanzibar is famous for its pristine and picturesque beaches, which are ideal for a romantic and relaxing elopement. Some of the popular and recommended beach resorts are:
  • [Baraza Resort and Spa]: This is a luxury resort that combines Swahili and Arabic architecture and design, creating a lavish and exotic atmosphere. The resort has 30 villas, each with a private pool, a terrace, a lounge, and a bathroom. The resort also has a spa, a fitness center, a tennis court, a yoga pavilion, and a diving center.
  • [Mnemba Island]: This is a private island that is surrounded by a coral reef, making it a paradise for snorkeling and diving. The island has 12 thatched bandas. Each has a veranda, a beach sala, a barazza, and a bathroom. The island also has a dining area, a lounge, a bar, and a boutique.

Estimated cost for an elopement wedding in Zanzibar

The average cost of a wedding in Zanzibar depends on various factors, such as the number of guests, the type of venue, the season, and the services included.

Based on the experience we have had at Janeson Global, we can estimate that the average cost of a wedding in Zanzibar ranges from $1,500 to $5,000. That excludes accommodation and flights.

Ready to embark on your unforgettable Zanzibar elopement journey? Connect with Janeson Global, your global wedding planner. We shall make sure you elope in Zanzibar in style.