Is Zanzibar Tap Water Safe To Drink?

No, it's not advisable to drink the tap water.

Tap water in Zanzibar is generally not considered safe to drink due to potential contamination and inadequate treatment infrastructure. Locals and tourists often avoid it.

Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

Bottled or boiled water is recommended to prevent waterborne illnesses such as cholera, typhoid, and diarrhea, which are risks in the region.

Many hotels and resorts provide treated water for drinking. Using a reliable water filter or purchasing sealed bottled water is advised for visitors.

Last checked: 2025-04-25

Tanzania is ranked as number 156 globally with a score of 20.6% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.

Source of Water in Zanzibar, Tanzania

Zanzibar’s tap water primarily comes from groundwater sources accessed through boreholes and shallow wells across the islands.

Surface water sources, such as small rivers and rainwater catchments, contribute minimally due to limited availability and seasonal variability.

The Zanzibar Water Authority treats and distributes this water, but challenges with salinity and contamination affect overall water quality.

Zanzibar Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Zanzibar may not be reliably safe due to potential contamination and inconsistent maintenance.

Visitors are generally advised to avoid drinking directly from public fountains to reduce the risk of waterborne diseases.

Using bottled, boiled, or properly filtered water remains the safest option for drinking in public areas.

Drinking Water Map

Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Zanzibar. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions.

Nearby Places

About the Author

Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.

I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.

Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job — it's something I truly care about.

Disclaimer

* The information provided on this website regarding the safety of tap water in Zanzibar is sourced from reputable sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO), local water authorities, and the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) from Yale University. While we strive to ensure accuracy and reliability, it's important to note that water quality can vary over time and may be subject to factors beyond our control. Users are encouraged to verify the current water quality status with local authorities or consult additional resources before making decisions regarding water consumption. We disclaim any liability for actions taken based on the information provided on this website.