Johannesburg (JNB) to Zanzibar (ZNZ) Flights
Get the latest collected flight schedules, prices, and route information all in one place.
- Distance
- 1,550 miles
- Flight time
- 3h 35m
- Time difference
- ZNZ is 1h ahead
Flights from Johannesburg to Zanzibar
All times are shown in local time. Prices are for one-way, per adult, including taxes and fees.
Transfers
Airlines
Departure / arrival
Airport
Flight route map
Route information
- Distance
- 1,550 miles
- Average flight time
- 3h 35m
- Time difference
- ZNZ is 1h ahead
- Route direction
- The initial bearing on the course from Johannesburg to Zanzibar is 29.64°, and the compass direction is NNE.
Airport information
O.R. Tambo International Airport

Abeid Amani Karume International Airport

What's the weather like in Johannesburg and Zanzibar?
JNB · Johannesburg
- Humidity
- 27%
- Wind
- 7 mph
- Precipitation
- 0 mm
ZNZ · Zanzibar
- Humidity
- 80%
- Wind
- 8 mph
- Precipitation
- 0 mm
Popular airlines from Johannesburg to Zanzibar
Popular airports near Johannesburg
- Lanseria International Airport (HLA)Johannesburg·ZA· 33 min· 24 mi (39 km)
- Pilanesberg International Airport (NTY)Pilanesberg·ZA· 1 hr 59 min· 87 mi (140 km)
- Mmabatho International Airport (MBD)Mafeking·ZA· 3 hr 51 min· 169 mi (272 km)
- Polokwane International Airport (PTG)Polokwane·ZA· 4 hr· 176 mi (283 km)
- Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE)Gaborone·BW· 4 hr 8 min· 182 mi (293 km)
Popular airports near Zanzibar
- Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR)Dar es Salaam·TZ· 1 hr 1 min· 45 mi (72 km)
- Tanga Airport (TGT)Tanga·TZ· 1 hr 48 min· 79 mi (127 km)
- Mafia Airport (MFA)Kilindoni·TZ· 2 hr 45 min· 121 mi (195 km)
- Moi International Airport (MBA)Mombasa·KE· 153 mi (247 km)
- Malindi International Airport (MYD)Malindi·KE· 215 mi (347 km)
Popular hotels in ZNZ
Everything you need to know for your flight from Johannesburg to Zanzibar
Which departure days are usually cheaper?
If you have flexibility with your travel dates, Tuesday and Wednesday departures are consistently your best bet for finding the lowest airfares. Across global flight routes, flying midweek can easily save you 10% to 20% compared to weekend departures, mainly because you avoid both Monday business trips and Friday weekend getaways. On the flip side, Fridays and Sundays tend to be the most expensive days of the week as leisure travelers head out and return. Another insider tip: opting for early morning flights (before 7:00 AM) or overnight red-eyes often unlocks additional savings while helping you breeze through airport security lines.
How far in advance do fares usually reach their lowest point?
There is no fixed booking window that guarantees the lowest fare for South Africa to Tanzania (ZA-TZ). Once your plans are clearer, compare prices for your intended dates and nearby alternatives, using the same cabin, baggage and change conditions. Choose a fare that fits your budget and flexibility; waiting can result in either lower prices or fewer suitable options.
How much time should I allow to reach O.R. Tambo International Airport before departure?
For departure from O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB), follow the operating airline’s recommended arrival time and its check-in, bag-drop and boarding deadlines. Allow additional time for the journey to the airport, security, baggage and any assistance you need. Confirm these arrangements before travel; a check-in cutoff is not a recommended airport arrival time.
How long does this route usually take?
The route reference duration is about 3 hours 35 minutes; check the selected flight for its scheduled duration.
What is the fastest way to get from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport to downtown Zanzibar?
Official licensed airport taxis and verified mobile ride-hailing services provide the fastest, most convenient door-to-door transit into downtown Zanzibar, typically taking 20 to 35 minutes depending on traffic. Scheduled airport express shuttle buses also depart regularly from right outside the arrivals hall, offering an economical direct link to central transit hubs.
Is public transportation practical if my flight arrives late at night at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport?
Regular public buses and scheduled shuttles at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport usually wind down by 23:00 or midnight. Fortunately, official airport taxis and licensed app-based ride-hailing services meet incoming flights late into the night 24/7. If your arrival is scheduled past midnight, booking a pre-arranged airport transfer or reserving a rental car for airport counter pickup will give you complete peace of mind.
Is renting a car worth it at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport?
Whether renting a car at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) is worthwhile depends on your destination and travel plans. Compare available public transport, transfers and rental options for the complete trip, including any additional costs. Before reserving a car, confirm the pickup location and opening hours, driver requirements and rental terms.
Which airport is more convenient for my destination: Abeid Amani Karume International Airport or other airports in Zanzibar?
Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) may be convenient depending on your destination address and flight options. If other airports serve the area, compare the total journey time and cost, available flights and arrival times. The closest airport is not necessarily the most convenient, and alternative airports should be checked for your actual travel dates.
Do children need identification or their own travel authorization?
Children’s travel documents depend on their age, nationality and itinerary. Check the operating airline’s proof-of-age and unaccompanied-minor requirements. For international travel, also confirm the child’s passport, visa or authorization requirements and whether parental consent or relationship documents are needed. An accompanying adult’s documents do not establish the child’s eligibility to travel.
What ID, passport, visa or travel authorization do I need?
The documents needed for South Africa to Tanzania (ZA-TZ) depend on your nationality, residence status, age, travel purpose and any transit points. Before booking and departure, check the destination and transit authorities’ current requirements and the operating airline’s accepted documents. Confirm whether identification, a passport, a visa or an electronic travel authorization is needed, including any validity conditions.
How do I request wheelchair or accessibility assistance?
Request wheelchair or accessibility assistance from the operating airline when booking or as early as possible. Describe the support you need and, if travelling with a mobility device, provide its dimensions, weight and battery details where relevant. Confirm the available service, any advance-notice requirements and the meeting point, including arrangements for connections.
What are my options if the airline cancels or significantly delays my flight?
For South Africa to Tanzania (ZA-TZ), contact the operating airline or booking provider if your flight is cancelled or significantly delayed. Ask about rebooking, refund options and any available assistance. Eligibility depends on the itinerary, operating airline, applicable rules and the reason for the disruption. Keep your booking details, notifications and receipts for any follow-up request.