What you need before the trip
| Step | Why | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Import permit | To bring the drone into the country | Without it, confiscation is possible on arrival |
| Drone registration | Registration number | Third-party liability insurance required |
| Operator registration | To identify the pilot | Pilot certificate from your own country asked |
| Operations permit | To authorise flights | Request at least 3 weeks before |
Penalties and no-fly areas
Flying without authorisation exposes you to fines, seizure and, in serious cases, prosecution; a local press article mentions up to six months in prison for an unregistered drone. National parks ask for a separate permit. Avoid official installations, airports and crowds.
Risk-free alternatives
If the permit takes too long, book aerial photos or a photo outing with a local operator already authorised: see helicopter in Zanzibar. For sunset, a dhow cruise gives great shots without a permit.
FAQ
Is a small hobby drone exempt?
Sources disagree; the authority states no exemption for a foreign visitor.
Can I hire a drone on the spot?
We found no reliable offer: do not count on it.
Where to check?
With the TCAA, which has a drone office and an office in Zanzibar.
