Dala Dala Zanzibar: Complete Guide to Routes, Prices & How to Use (2026)
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Cost Range
500-3,000 TSh
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Operating Hours
6am - 8pm
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Main Terminals
Darajani & Mwanakwerekwe
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Best For
Budget Travelers
What is a Dala-Dala?
In Zanzibar, the most iconic form of public transport is the Dala-Dala - typically a Toyota Dyna truck converted into a shared minibus. These colorful vehicles are the lifeblood of local transportation, connecting Stone Town to beaches, villages, and every corner of the island.
Vehicle Design & Features
Traditional Dala-Dalas are modified with two long benches running along the sides, a roof with a luggage rack on top, and roll-down heavy-duty blinds providing protection from sun, rain, and wind. If you've traveled in Southeast Asia, think Thailand's Songthaew, but larger and more robust.
While converted Toyota Dynas still dominate the roads, you'll notice an increasing number of modern minivans and minibuses joining the fleet, offering slightly more comfort for popular routes.
💡 Local Insight
The name "Dala-Dala" comes from the Swahili word for "dollar" or "five cents" - the original fare when these vehicles first appeared in the 1970s!
How to Use Dala-Dalas: A Step-by-Step Guide
Understanding the Two-Person Team
Each Dala-Dala operates with a coordinated two-person crew:
The Driver
Usually wears a blue shirt and focuses on navigating Zanzibar's roads. Responsible for the vehicle and route timing.
The Conductor
Stands on the back step holding onto the sides or roof. He calls out destinations, collects fares, and watches for passengers along the route.
How to Flag Down a Dala-Dala
Position yourself clearly: Stand at a visible spot along the route, near designated stops or anywhere on the road.
Signal the conductor: Make eye contact and wave your hand to indicate you want to board.
Listen for destinations: The conductor calls out the route - if it matches where you're going, board quickly.
Find a seat: Squeeze in wherever there's space (and there's always space!).
⚠ Important: No Fixed Stops or Schedules
While major locations have designated stops, Dala-Dalas can be flagged anywhere along their route. At starting points, they depart only when the vehicle is deemed "full" by the driver and conductor - there's no timetable to consult.
How to Get Off
Alert the conductor when you want to disembark. Simply call out "Shusha!" (meaning "drop me") or tap on the roof/side of the vehicle. The conductor will signal the driver to stop at the next safe spot.
Pro Tips for First-Timers
Learn basic Swahili greetings - "Jambo" (hello) and "Asante" (thank you) go a long way
Keep small bills ready for payment (more on this below)
Don't be discouraged if one passes you by - sometimes even "always room for one more" has limits
Watch how locals board and pay, then follow their lead
Keep valuables secure and bags on your lap
Costs & Payment: What You'll Pay
Compared to taxis, Dala-Dalas offer exceptional value for money. The fare structure is beautifully simple: short or long distance, with an additional charge for luggage.
| Journey Type | Examples | Cost (TSh) |
|---|---|---|
| Short Journey | Airport to Stone Town, within Stone Town area | 500 TSh (~$0.20) |
| Long Journey | Stone Town to Nungwi, Stone Town to Paje | 3,000 TSh (~$1.20) |
| Luggage Fee | Per large bag/backpack | 500-1,000 TSh |
How Payment Works
The conductor collects fares during the journey, not before boarding. Here's what happens:
Partway through the journey, passengers start passing money forward
Money travels from hand to hand until it reaches the conductor
Change is passed back the same way
If you're getting off soon, just pay the conductor directly as you exit
💡 Payment Pro Tip
Bring small denominations! Trying to pay a 500 TSh fare with a 10,000 TSh note will earn you frustrated looks from the conductor and fellow passengers. Aim for 1,000 TSh notes or smaller. Conductors across the island will thank you!
Dala-Dala vs. Taxi: Cost Comparison
Stone Town → Nungwi
Dala-Dala:3,000 TSh (~$1.20)
Taxi:50,000-70,000 TSh (~$20-30)
You save:95%
Airport → Stone Town
Dala-Dala:500 TSh (~$0.20)
Taxi:15,000-20,000 TSh (~$6-8)
You save:98%
Operating Hours: When Dala-Dalas Run
Standard operating hours are 6:00 AM to 7:30-8:00 PM, but several important exceptions exist:
Early Birds & Night Owls
Fumba Route: Starts at 5:45 AM to connect with the first mainland ferry
Nungwi Route: Practically 24-hour service! While not as frequent at night, you can usually find a Dala-Dala even after midnight on this popular tourist route
Kiembe Samaki to Stone Town: Runs later until approximately 10:00 PM, serving travelers from the airport area
Ramadan Schedule Alert
Critical for travelers during Ramadan: Dala-Dala service becomes scarce after 6:00 PM as drivers rush home to break their fast. Traveling around sunset during Ramadan is not for the faint-hearted -drivers move significantly faster than usual to complete their final journeys. Plan accordingly and consider alternative transport for evening travel during this month.
Popular Routes: Getting Around Zanzibar
Understanding Route Displays
Most Dala-Dalas clearly display their route number and destination names on the front and back. You'll also see shorthand notations:
"M/M" = Mnazi Mmoja (the main hospital)
"D/J" or "D/Jani" = Darajani Market
"Tobo la Pili" = "Second entrance" - a stop on Karume Road near Michenzani roundabout
If these aren't listed, the Dala-Dala likely bypasses Stone Town entirely, possibly stopping at Mwanakwerekwe instead.
Top Tourist Routes from Stone Town
Stone Town → Nungwi
Departure:Darajani Terminal
Duration:~90 minutes
Cost:3,000 TSh
Frequency:Very frequent
Stone Town → Paje/Jambiani
Departure:Mwanakwerekwe
Duration:~75 minutes
Cost:3,000 TSh
Look for:"Michamvi" sign
Airport → Stone Town
Departure:Airport road
Duration:~15-20 minutes
Cost:500 TSh
Frequency:Every 10-15 min
Stone Town → Kendwa
Departure:Darajani Terminal
Duration:~100 minutes
Cost:3,000 TSh
Look for:"Nungwi" sign
Route Flexibility Note
Route portions can vary at the driver's discretion. For example, routes from south Stone Town may turn right at Kilimani hill through the Soviet-era apartments, or continue straight to save time. If you miss your stop, don't worry - just stay on for the return journey!
Beach Destinations: Which Terminal to Use
Here's the simple rule for finding your beach-bound Dala-Dala:
Darajani Terminal
For North & Northeast destinations:
Nungwi
Kendwa (take Nungwi Dala-Dala)
Matemwe
Kiwengwa
Located next to GapCo petrol station in Stone Town
Mwanakwerekwe Terminal
For South & Southeast destinations:
Paje (look for "Michamvi" or "Jambiani")
Jambiani
Bwejuu
Makunduchi
~5km from Old Stone Town, 15-20 min by Dala-Dala
Hidden Destination Tip
Not seeing your destination listed? Don't panic! Kendwa isn't on signs - take a Nungwi Dala-Dala and ask the conductor to drop you at Kendwa junction. Same for Paje - look for Michamvi or Jambiani routes. The conductor will know where you need to go!
Key Swahili Phrases for Your Journey
| English | Swahili | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | Jambo / Habari | JAM-bo / ha-BAH-ree |
| Thank you | Asante | ah-SAHN-teh |
| Drop me here | Shusha! | SHOO-sha |
| How much? | Bei gani? | BAY gah-nee |
| I'm going to... | Naenda... | nah-EN-dah |
Safety Tips & Insider Advice
Staying Safe on Dala-Dalas
Dala-Dalas are generally safe, but like any crowded public transport, take sensible precautions:
Essential Safety Tips
Secure your valuables: Keep bags on your lap, not in the overhead rack. Wear backpacks on your front in crowded vehicles.
Watch your pockets: Pickpocketing can occur in very crowded Dala-Dalas. Keep phones and wallets in front pockets or secure bags.
Hold on tight: Drivers can brake suddenly. Always hold onto the rail or bench.
Board wisely during peak hours: 7-9 AM and 5-7 PM are packed with commuters. If you have large luggage, consider off-peak travel.
Trust your instincts: If a Dala-Dala feels too crowded or uncomfortable, wait for the next one.
Stay hydrated: Bring water, especially for long journeys in the heat.
What to Do If You Get Lost
Don't panic: Zanzibar isn't that big, and locals are incredibly helpful.
Ask the conductor: Show them your destination on a map or say the place name. They'll tell you when to get off.
Missed your stop? Stay on board - drivers often do the full route back, and you won't be charged extra.
Use landmarks: Mention well-known spots near your destination (hotels, beaches, markets).
Have a backup plan: Keep a taxi number handy or download offline maps.
When NOT to Take a Dala-Dala
Very early flights: If your flight is before 8 AM, book a taxi the night before
Evening during Ramadan: After 6 PM, service is minimal
With excessive luggage: Two large suitcases? Take a taxi for everyone's comfort
Time-sensitive appointments: Dala-Dalas run on "island time" - no fixed schedules
Late at night: Except Nungwi route, most services stop by 8 PM
Frequently Asked Questions
Is taking a Dala-Dala safe for tourists?
Yes, Dala-Dalas are generally safe for tourists. Thousands of visitors use them daily without issues. Take standard precautions: keep valuables secure, avoid overly crowded vehicles if uncomfortable, and watch your belongings. The biggest risks are minor pickpocketing and the adventurous driving style - both manageable with awareness.
Can I use a Dala-Dala to reach the beaches from Stone Town?
Absolutely! Dala-Dalas connect Stone Town to all major beaches. For northern beaches (Nungwi, Kendwa), depart from Darajani Terminal. For eastern/southern beaches (Paje, Jambiani, Bwejuu), go to Mwanakwerekwe bus station. The journey costs 3,000 TSh (about $1) and takes 60-100 minutes depending on your destination.
How do I pay for a Dala-Dala ride?
Payment is collected by the conductor during the journey, not before boarding. Passengers pass money forward to the conductor, who returns change the same way. If you're getting off soon, pay directly when exiting. Always carry small denominations (1,000 TSh notes or coins).
What's the difference between a Dala-Dala and a taxi in Zanzibar?
Dala-Dala: Shared public transport, 500-3,000 TSh, no fixed schedule, cultural experience, crowded but authentic.
Taxi: Private transport, 15,000-70,000 TSh, door-to-door service, comfortable, air-conditioned, faster.
Choose Dala-Dalas for budget travel and cultural immersion; taxis for comfort, privacy, and time efficiency.
Do Dala-Dalas run at night?
Most Dala-Dala routes operate from 6:00 AM to 7:30-8:00 PM. The major exception is the Nungwi route, which runs nearly 24 hours (though less frequently at night). The Kiembe Samaki to Stone Town route runs until about 10:00 PM. During Ramadan, expect minimal service after 6:00 PM as drivers rush home to break their fast.
What happens if I don't speak Swahili?
Don't worry! Many conductors speak basic English, especially on tourist routes. Learn just a few words: "Jambo" (hello), "Asante" (thank you), and "Shusha" (drop me). Pointing to your destination on a map works perfectly. Locals are incredibly helpful and patient with tourists - just smile and they'll guide you.
Dala-Dala Map
We’ve been pulling together a ton of information recently to clear up some of the mystery of how to get to some of the more popular destinations such as Kendwa or Paje when there never seems to be any Dala-Dalas with those places listed!
Spoiler: for Kendwa, use a Nungwi Dala-Dala, for Paje look for Michamvi or Jambiani.
To our knowledge there has never previously been any kind of route map for Dala-Dalas, so after a few days of going cross-eyed staring at numbers and place names, and the frenzied yelling of those same place names still ringing in our ears, we are happy to present to you what we hope is a useful transport map to find your way around Zanzibar.
Prefer the Comfort of a Private Transfer?
Not in an adventurous mood? We arrange fair-priced Airport Transfers and around the Island with careful drivers, air-conditioned and fully insured vehicles.
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