Country Overview

Production support in Zanzibar offers filmmakers a rare blend of untouched beauty, historical depth, and cultural richness. This semi-autonomous region of Tanzania, nestled in the Indian Ocean, is more than just a tropical paradise — it’s a cinematic treasure trove. From the labyrinthine alleys of Stone Town to palm-lined beaches, spice plantations, and turquoise seas, Zanzibar is a dreamscape for any visual storyteller.

Atlas Film Fixers provides expert, full-service production support in Zanzibar. Our team facilitates every element of your shoot, from navigating island-specific permit processes to sourcing multilingual local crew and securing breathtaking, lesser-known locations. Whether you’re capturing high-end fashion, a travel documentary, or a period piece, our logistical support ensures smooth sailing on this island of inspiration.

Most Beautiful Destination for Filmmakers

Zanzibar’s visual diversity is nothing short of spectacular. Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features coral stone buildings, intricately carved wooden doors, and centuries-old Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences — perfect for period dramas or culturally rich narratives.

Venture outside the city and you’ll discover powdery white beaches, lush spice farms, atmospheric fishing villages, and the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Paje and Nungwi offer windswept shores and vibrant marine life, while Jozani Forest provides an evocative natural backdrop with red colobus monkeys and towering mahogany trees.

What Does Production Support in Zanzibar Include?

While Zanzibar is welcoming and visually striking, shooting here requires local knowledge, cultural sensitivity, and precise planning. Atlas Production support in Zanzibar handles the details so you can focus on the story you’re telling.

Our services include:

• Location scouting across Stone Town, Paje, Jambiani, Kendwa, Nungwi, and Jozani Forest
• Permit procurement from the Zanzibar Film Board and other relevant authorities
• Support with customs clearance and temporary gear import via Dar es Salaam or direct entry
• Casting and crew sourcing with bilingual (Swahili-English) capabilities
• Transport and marine logistics, including boats, 4x4s, and equipment vehicles
• Accommodation and catering arrangements, even in remote coastal areas
• Drone permits and aerial filming coordination, including coastal and marine zones
• Liaison with village leaders and elders for respectful access to local communities and sacred areas
• Safety planning, including tropical weather and emergency medical response coordination

Zanzibar Filming Permits and Requirements

Filming in Zanzibar involves coordination with both local and mainland Tanzanian authorities. Timelines for approvals can vary depending on the scale of your production and shooting locations. Atlas Film Fixers streamlines this process and ensures full compliance with island regulations.

We assist with:

• General film permits through the Zanzibar Film Board
• Special permissions for filming in heritage sites, marine parks, or protected cultural areas
• Drone licensing via the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA)
• Temporary work visas and immigration compliance
• Importation logistics for equipment (Carnet and non-Carnet options)
• Risk assessment and safety measures for tropical or ocean-based shoots

Why Atlas Film Fixers?

Our local partnerships, regional experience, and deep respect for Zanzibari culture make us the preferred partner for global productions. We offer efficient, culturally aware, and cost-effective production support in Zanzibar tailored to your project’s scope.

Why productions choose us:

• In-depth local knowledge and trusted relationships with island authorities
• Bilingual fixers and coordinators experienced in international standards
• Strong logistical capabilities, including remote and marine filming
• Expertise in cultural diplomacy, particularly when filming in Muslim-majority communities
• Hands-on, end-to-end support, from pre-production to final wrap

Why Film in Zanzibar?

Zanzibar combines the intimacy of an island with the richness of centuries-old trade routes and cultural intersections. Its low production costs, cooperative government, and expanding tourism infrastructure make it a hidden gem for filmmakers looking for something truly unique.

Zanzibar offers:

• Cinematic locations from historic cities to idyllic coasts and lush forests
• Low-cost and logistically manageable island filming
• Strong cultural identity with layered storytelling potential
• Ease of access via direct flights from East Africa, the Gulf, and Europe
• Warm, welcoming communities that embrace international filmmakers

Let’s Roll in Zanzibar

From sunrise over the Indian Ocean to the golden tones of Stone Town’s alleys, Zanzibar offers magic in every frame. With Atlas Film Fixers’ production support in Zanzibar, your crew is equipped to film with confidence, creativity, and cultural respect.

Contact us today to begin your production journey on the soul-stirring island of Zanzibar.