Zanzibar with Kids: Complete Guide to Family Vacation 2025

Travel to Zanzibar with children is easier than you might think. This Indian Ocean paradise combines safe, shallow-water beaches, fascinating educational activities, accessible culture and hospitality that makes families feel welcome. Unlike African destinations that require long safari days or extreme conditions, Zanzibar offers relaxed pace, short distances and experiences adaptable to all ages. Many parents doubt whether Tanzania with children is viable, worried about health, safety or logistics, but Zanzibar specifically is one of the most manageable family destinations on the continent. In this comprehensive guide I explain everything for a successful family vacation: best beaches for kids, age-appropriate activities, family-friendly accommodations, realistic budgets, health tips and a proven itinerary.

Why Zanzibar works so well with children

Safe, shallow beaches in Zanzibar with children

Most beaches in Zanzibar have gentle slopes with knee-deep clear water for 20-50 meters. Children can splash safely while parents watch from the sand. Steep tides (especially on the east coast) create natural pools ideal for young children.

Best beaches for children:

KendwaNo extreme tides, ever-present water, soft sand
NungwiSimilar to Kendwa, more restaurant/service options.
PageboyDuring low tide, perfect natural pools (but algae depending on the season).
Matemwe: Quiet, family oriented, beautiful

Avoid with small childrenRocky beaches in the south, areas with frequent sea urchins.

Manageable distances in Zanzibar with children

Zanzibar is compact. Stone Town to northern beaches: 1 hour. To eastern beaches: 45 minutes. No 6+ hour drives like on continental safaris. This means less complaining "When do we get there?" and more time enjoying.

Various activities in Zanzibar with children

Zanzibar offers the perfect mix: beach for relaxation, snorkeling for moderate adventure, history in Stone Town, nature in Jozani, culture on spice tours. Something for every age and interest, avoiding boredom.

Family-friendly accommodations in Zanzibar with children

From all-inclusive resorts with kids clubs to villas with kitchens to prepare family meals. Many hotels offer:

Family rooms or connecting rooms
Children's pools
Children's menus
Cots/extra beds
Babysitting service

General safety in Zanzibar with children

Zanzibar is safe. Violent crime is rare, tourist beaches are guarded, and the local culture adores children (often local women will smile and greet your children).

Gentle introduction to Africa if you are going to Zanzibar with children

For families who want to experience Africa but are concerned about the intensity of continental safaris, Zanzibar with children is the perfect introduction: authentic African culture, Swahili language, but with tourist comfort and no worries of extreme malaria with safari parks.

Best activities for Zanzibar with children by age

For all ages (0-12+ years)

Beaches and swimmingMain activity. Sand castles, splashing, search for shells.
Jozani Forest (excellent from 4+ years old):

Seeing red colobus monkeys up close (fascinating for children)
Short and easy trails (1-1.5 hours)
Elevated walkway through mangroves
Price: Adults 10 USD, children 5 USD
Ideal age: 4-12 years (younger in baby carrier)

Prison Island - Giant tortoises:

Interacting with centenarian tortoises
Half day tour (30-50 USD adults, 15-25 USD children)
Snorkeling in nearby reef
Ideal age: 3+ years old

Spice Tour (best for 6+ years):

Visit spice plantations
Smell, touch, taste spices
Educational but entertaining
Family Tours: 50-70 USD family (2 adults + 2 children)
Duration: 3-4 hours

For young children (2-6 years)

Stone Town short exploration:

Fruit market (colors, aromas)
Forodhani Gardens at sunset (street food, atmosphere)
Casa de las Maravillas exterior (impressive architecture)
Recommended duration: 1-2 hours maximum (streets can get tired)

Hotel pools: Better than beach for very young children - no salt, no sand in eyes, more controlled
Construction of dhows: On Nungwi/Kendwa beaches, local carpenters build traditional boats. Fascinated children watching the process.

For older children (7-12 years)

Snorkel:

Safari Blue (from 7-8 years old): Full day tour, reef snorkel, natural lagoon, BBQ lunch. Children 35-45 USD.
Mnemba Atoll (from 8+ years, strong swimmers): Best snorkeling, sea turtles. Tours from 80 USD, children 50% discount.

Nakupenda Sandbank:

Sand island emerging at low tide
Snorkeling, barbecue, sandbar, sand bank games
Perfect for active children
40-60 USD adults, 20-30 USD children

Kitesurfing lessons (from 10+ years in Paje):

Professional schools with certified instructors
Courses for children from 200 USD (3-4 days)

Cooking class swahili:

Some kitchens offer family classes
They learn how to cook pilau, chapati, samosas, etc.
30-50 USD per person

For teenagers (13+ years old)

Diving (from 12 years old with PADI):

Junior Open Water courses available
Sites like Mnemba perfect for beginners
Full course: 350-450 USD

Stand-up paddleboarding:

Available in Nungwi, Kendwa, Paje
Rental: 15-25 USD/hour

Sunset dhow cruise:

Traditional sunset sailing
Many teenagers enjoy it more than young children
40-60 USD per person

Where to stay in Zanzibar with children

Nungwi - Ideal for active families Zanzibar with children

Advantages:

Beach without extreme tides (always water)
Many restaurants and options
Various activities (snorkeling, dhow, scuba diving)
Lively but not excessive

Recommended hotels family:

Diamonds La Gemma dell'Est (4-5 stars): Kids club, children's pool, all-inclusive. 200-350 USD/night family.
DoubleTree by Hilton Nungwi: Multiple swimming pools, family rooms. 150-250 USD/night.
Z Hotel (boutique): Quieter, beautiful beach, good food. 180-300 USD/night.

Average budget:

Amaan BungalowsBeach front, simple but clean. 80-120 USD/night.

Kendwa - Best for families looking for tranquility in Zanzibar with kids

Advantages:

More relaxed than Nungwi
Equally beautiful beach without tides
Less night partying
Spacious resorts

Recommended hotels:

Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa (5 stars): All-inclusive, excellent kids club, multiple pools. 300-500 USD/night family.
Kendwa Rocks (economic): Basic but perfect beachfront. 60-100 USD/night.

Matemwe - Families looking for authenticity in Zanzibar with children

Advantages:

Less touristic
Beautiful beach
Near Mnemba (best snorkeling)
Authentic local village

Recommended hotels:

Matemwe LodgeBoutique, excellent food, family-friendly. 200-350 USD/night.
Sunshine HotelEconomic, basic, beach front. 50-80 USD/night.

Page - Families with older/active children

Advantages:

Young and active environment
Kitesurfing (older children/teenagers)
Economic
Many restaurants

Disadvantages:

Extreme tides
Seaweed according to season

Hotels:

White Sand Luxury VillasAccommodation: Spacious, swimming pools, good for families. 120-200 USD/night.
Various hostels15-40 USD/night (private family rooms available).

Stone Town - 1-2 cultural nights

Why stay:

Unique cultural experience
Historic buildings converted into boutique hotels
Markets, museums, history

Not ideal for:

Long-term stays with small children (no beach, narrow streets, heat)

Recommended hotels:

Emerson SpiceBoutique historic, family rooms. 150-250 USD/night.
Tembo House Hotel: Sea front, historical. 100-180 USD/night.

General advice on accommodation for Zanzibar with children

Book in advance (2-3 months if high season) for:

Best prices
Family rooms (limited)
Confirm cribs/extra beds available

Ask specifically about:

Children's menus or kitchen flexibility
Shallow pools
Kids club or organized activities
Babysitting service (15-25 USD/hour generally)

Best time for Tanzania with children

High Season (June-October, December-February) for Zanzibar with children

Advantages:

Dry and predictable weather
Calm sea (better for aquatic activities)
Fewer mosquitoes
Coincides with European school vacations

Disadvantages:

Higher 30-50% prices
Most crowded
Book well in advance

Best forFirst visit, families who do not tolerate rain, fixed school vacations

Mid-season (November, March) for Zanzibar with children

Advantages:

Moderate prices (20-30% lower)
Fewer people
Generally good weather (occasional short rains).

Disadvantages:

Possible afternoon showers (usually brief)
Some climate uncertainty

Best for: Flexible families, best value for money

Low season (April-May) for Zanzibar with children

Advantages:

Very low prices (40-60% discount)
Island practically empty
Authentic experience without masses

Disadvantages:

Frequent and prolonged rains
Some hotels/restaurants closed
Water activities limited by sea conditions

Best forTight budgets, long stays (knowing that it will rain days but not all of them), very experienced families travelling

Ideal age and time in Zanzibar with children

Infants (0-2 years)Any time works if parents are flexible. Babies don't remember travel, so optimizing costs (low season) can make sense.
Toddlers (3-7 years)High or intermediate season. You want to maximize the probability of good weather to enjoy the beaches.
Older children (8-12 years)High season if you want snorkeling/specific water activities. Intermediate can work well.
TeenagersMore flexible, they can enjoy even with occasional rain.

Real budgets for Zanzibar with children

Economy family (4 persons: 2 adults + 2 children 6 and 9 years old)

Per day:

Accommodation (double guesthouse + extra bed): 60-80 USD
Meals (local/tourist mix, 4 persons): 40-60 USD
Transportation (occasional cabs): 10-15 USD
Activity every 2-3 days (average): USD 20/day
Total: 130-175 USD/day

Week (7 nights/8 days)910-1,225 USD + flights

Mid-range family (4 persons)

Per day:

Lodging (3-4 star hotel, family room): 120-180 USD
Meals (tourist restaurants, occasional all-inclusive): 80-100 USD
Private transportation: 20 USD
Activities: 40 USD/day average
Total: 260-340 USD/day

Week1,820-2,380 USD + flights

Luxury family (4 persons)

Per day:

5-star all-inclusive resort: 400-600 USD
Premium activities: 100 USD/day
Total: 500-700 USD/day

Week: 3,500-4,900 USD + flights

Specific costs for children in Zanzibar

FlightsChildren 2-11 years old: 70-90% adult price. Children under 2 years old: 10% (without seat)
HotelsChildren under 6 years old free with parents generally. 6-12 years old: 25-50% discount or free according to hotel
ToursChildren 5-12 years old: 50-70% adult price. Children under 5 years: Generally free
Tanzania Visa: Children under 16 years old: FREE (adults 50 USD)
Restaurant mealsChildren's menus 5-10 USD

Health and safety for Zanzibar with children

Vaccinations and prophylaxis in Zanzibar with children

MandatoryYellow fever only if you come from a country with risk (Spain/France NO).

Recommended:

Hepatitis A (children from 1 year)
Typhoid (from 2 years old)
Tetanus updated

MalariaRisk exists in Zanzibar but less than mainland.

Option 1Prophylaxis for the whole family (pediatrician consultation for children doses)
Option 2Strong repellent (DEET 30%+ from 2 months) + mosquito nets + long-sleeved clothing at dusk. Many families choose this option for short stays on tourist beaches.

CouncilConsultation with a physician specialized in travel medicine 6-8 weeks before.

Food and water in Zanzibar with children

WaterOnly bottled for drinking and toothbrushing.
IceAvoid in doubtful places
FruitsPeel it yourself
Street foodChoose stalls with lots of local people, freshly cooked food. Avoid if children have very sensitive stomachs.
Tourist restaurantsGenerally safe

Sun and heat in Zanzibar with children

Sunscreen SPF 50+Apply every 2 hours. Equatorial sun is intense.
Hats/hats: Essential
Lightweight long sleeve clothingExtra protection
HydrationWater constantly. Children dehydrate quickly.

Beach safety in Zanzibar with children

Sea urchinsFrequent in some areas. Water sandals for all.
CurrentsRare on tourist beaches but always keep an eye on the beach
Tides: Explain to children that the sea "goes away and comes back" (especially on the east coast).
Life jackets: For snorkeling, boats - ensures children's sizes available

Family first aid kit in Zanzibar with children

Children's paracetamol/ibuprofen
Antihistamine (stings, allergies)
Antidiarrheal for children + rehydration salts
Band-aids, gauze, antiseptics
Thermometer
Prescription medications that you usually take (carry extra)
Specific sunscreen for children
Age-appropriate mosquito repellent

Travel medical insurance in Zanzibar with children

ESSENTIAL for Tanzania with children. Insure coverage includes:

Medical expenses minimum €50,000
Emergency medical evacuation
Tropical diseases
Specific pediatric coverage

Price40-80 USD per week family of 4

Suggested itinerary 10 days Zanzibar with children

Day 1: Arrival and Stone Town

Arrival at Zanzibar airport
Transfer Stone Town (25 USD cab)
Hotel check-in, afternoon free to explore the surroundings
Forodhani Gardens Dinner (street food, ambiance)

Lodging: Stone Town (1 night)

Day 2: Stone Town + transfer to beaches

Morning: Darajani Market, House of Wonders (outside), short walk through historic streets (2-3 hours max)
Noon: Transfer to Nungwi/Kendwa (50-70 USD private cab)
Afternoon: Beach, hotel pool, rest

Lodging: Nungwi/Kendwa (start 7 nights)

Day 3: Beach and adaptation in Zanzibar with children

Full day relaxation
Children adapt, play beach
Parents rest

Day 4: Prison Island + Tortugas

Half day Prison Island Tour (family ~120 USD)
See giant tortoises
Snorkeling in nearby reef
Late return to hotel, pool/beach

Day 5: Safari Blue (best experience)

Full day tour (family ~220 USD)
Snorkeling, natural lagoon, BBQ lunch, dolphins if lucky.
Full day adventure

Day 6: Free beach in Zanzibar with children

Safari Blue recovery
Beach games, swimming pool
Activities hotel if there is a kids club

Day 7: Jozani Forest + Spice Tour

Morning: Jozani Forest to see colobus monkeys (family ~30 USD entrance fee)
Afternoon: Spice tour on the way back (family ~60 USD)
Return to hotel late

Day 8: Nakupenda Sandbank

Half day sand bank tour (family ~140 USD)
Snorkeling, barbecue, games
Afternoon hotel

Day 9: Beach and optional activities in Zanzibar with children

Snorkeling from hotel beach
Stand-up paddle or kayak (if there are older children)
Last afternoon/evening at the beach

Day 10: Return flight

Check-out
Airport transfer
Flight

Estimated total budget (family 4, middle range):

Lodging (9 nights): 1,080-1,620 USD
Tours/activities: ~570 USD
Meals (not all-inclusive): ~600 USD
Transportation: ~150 USD
Miscellaneous: ~100 USD
Total: 2,500-3,100 USD + flights

Practical tips for Zanzibar with children

What to bring to Zanzibar with children

Essential if you go to Zanzibar with children:

Children's sunscreen SPF 50+ (2-3 bottles per family per week)
Mosquito repellent DEET 30%+ suitable for children age
Water sandals ALL the family (hedgehogs)
Swimming vests/armbands if they do not swim well
Family snacks (cookies, bars) for emergencies
Complete first aid kit
Documents: Passports, children's birth certificates, medical insurance.

Very useful:

Tablets/books for downtime (travel, rain)
Compact beach toys
Portable mosquito nets if hotel does not have
Plastic spoons/forks (street food)
Waterproof wet/sand bags

Meals with children in Zanzibar

All-inclusive can be life-saving with young children (predictable, variety, no thinking)
Children's menusMostly pizza, pasta, chicken, potatoes - hotels/tourist restaurants available.
Local foodPilau (spiced rice), ugali (corn), chapati - many children enjoy it.
Fruits: Mango, watermelon, pineapple, papaya - excellent, inexpensive, fresh
Bottled water: Buy boxes in Stone Town/Nungwi supermarket, much cheaper than a hotel.

Jet lag management if you go to Zanzibar with children

Zanzibar is UTC+3. From Europe: 1-2 hours difference (minimum). From America: Major change.

Tips:

First day: Keep children awake until reasonable local time (even if tired).
Early natural light helps adjustment
Consistent routines (meals, naps, sleep)
Patience - children usually adapt in 1-3 days

Respect culture in Zanzibar with children

Zanzibar is mostly Muslim. It teaches children:

Dress modestly off beaches (shoulders/knees covered Stone Town/villages)
Ask permission before photographing people
Respect during prayer calls
Greeting with "Jambo" (hello) - locals love children trying to speak Swahili

Long trips in Zanzibar with children

FlightsBring plenty of entertainment, favorite snacks, change of clothes. Accept that it can be chaotic.
Ground transportationNegotiate stops with driver if children need bathing/stretching legs.

Frequently asked questions about Zanzibar with children

Is it safe to travel to Zanzibar with small children?

Yes, Zanzibar with children is considerably safe and one of the most manageable family destinations in Africa. The tourist beaches have gentle slopes perfect for small children, violent crime is rare, and the local culture loves children (you'll get constant smiles). The main health risks - malaria and waterborne diseases - are manageable with prophylaxis/repellent and bottled water. Thousands of European families visit Zanzibar annually with no problems. Basic precautions include: extreme sun protection (intense equatorial sun), water sandals (sea urchins), mandatory travel medical insurance, and up-to-date recommended vaccinations. According to Tanzania Tourism BoardZanzibar receives 50,000+ families with children annually and is considered the most family-friendly destination in Tanzania.

What age is ideal for traveling to Tanzania with children, specifically Zanzibar?

The ideal age for Zanzibar with children is 4-12 yearsWhen they appreciate activities (monkeys, snorkeling, beaches) but are not yet "too cool" for family travel, Zanzibar works for all ages with adjustments. That said, Zanzibar works for all ages with adjustments: Infants (0-2 years): Very manageable - beaches, no intense itineraries, but they won't remember. Advantage: they travel free/cheap. Toddlers (3-6 years)Excellent - fascinated by monkeys, turtles, beaches. Requires patience with transfers. Older children (7-11 years): Perfect - can snorkel, longer activities, remember experience. Adolescents (12+ years)Good if you are interested in diving, kitesurfing or culture. Some get bored if only beach. The key is not so much specific age but adjusted expectations: Zanzibar is relaxed, not constant adrenaline like Disney parks. According to Lonely Planet FamiliesTropical island destinations such as Zanzibar work better than mainland safaris for children under 8 years old.

How much does it really cost to travel to Zanzibar with children?

Zanzibar with children can cost 900-5,000 USD per week (excluding international flights) depending on travel style. Economic family (hostels/guesthouses, local food, public transportation, limited activities): 130-175 USD/day for family of 4 = 910-1,225 USD per week. Mid-range family (hotel 3-4 stars, tourist restaurants, private cabs, main tours): 260-340 USD/day = 1,820-2,380 USD per week. Luxury family (5-star all-inclusive resort, premium tours): 500-700 USD/day = 3,500-4,900 USD per week. Cost advantages for children: FREE Tanzania visa for children under 16 years (adults 50 USD), hotels often free for children under 6 years, tours 50-70% discount for children 5-12 years. Flights from Europe: 400-1.000 USD adults, children 70-90% that price. An average 10-day trip for a Spanish family of 4 costs approximately 4,000-5,500€ total including flights.