👉 Top Things to Do in Zanzibar With Kids

Things to Do in Zanzibar With Kids: Best Family Activities on the Spice Island

Zanzibar isn’t just a honeymoon paradise or scuba-diving hotspot—it’s also one of the best destinations in East Africa for family vacations. With beautiful beaches, safe waters, friendly locals, and a relaxed pace of life, there are plenty of amazing things to do in Zanzibar with kids.

Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, tweens, or teens, this island offers fun, safe, and educational experiences that the whole family will enjoy.

Why Choose Zanzibar for a Family Holiday?

Zanzibar is a great choice for family travel because of its:

• Safe and shallow beaches ideal for young swimmers

• Unique cultural experiences your children will never forget

• Family-friendly hotels and resorts with kids’ clubs and babysitting services

• Mild weather all year round

• Adventure and education in one destination

If you’re wondering what are the best things to do in Zanzibar with kids, keep reading for detailed ideas.

Top Things to Do in Zanzibar With Kids

1. Beach Fun in Nungwi and Kendwa

Zanzibar’s beaches are perfect playgrounds for kids. In Nungwi and Kendwa, the sea is usually calm with few waves, making them ideal for family swimming and sandcastle-building.

Things to do in Zanzibar with kids at the beach:

• Collect colorful shells

• Try stand-up paddleboarding (great for older kids)

• Enjoy a family boat ride at sunset

• Watch local fishermen bring in the catch of the day

2. Visit the Jozani Forest Reserve

This is a must-visit destination for families. Located in the center of the island, Jozani Forest is home to the rare red colobus monkey, found only in Zanzibar.

What makes Jozani fun for kids:

• Easy, flat walking trails through the rainforest

• Monkey spotting and photography

• Mangrove boardwalk that feels like an adventure trail

• Interactive guides who explain plants, insects, and animals in a kid-friendly way

Jozani Forest is one of the most educational and exciting things to do in Zanzibar with kids.

3. Explore Stone Town with a Child-Friendly Guide

Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a great place to introduce children to history, culture, and architecture in a fun and interactive way.

Family activities in Stone Town:

• Visit the Old Fort and climb the walls

• Explore the Darajani Market and discover spices, fruits, and crafts

• Try Zanzibar pizza and coconut juice at Forodhani Gardens

• Take a short dhow ride from the harbor

Book a private walking tour with a family-focused guide to keep children engaged and entertained.

4. Snorkeling and Swimming at Mnemba Atoll

For adventurous families, a day trip to Mnemba Atoll is one of the most memorable things to do in Zanzibar with kids. The coral reef offers gentle waters, colorful fish, and high visibility, making it perfect for beginner snorkelers.

Most tours provide:

• Life jackets

• Snorkeling gear

• Kid-friendly guides

• Fresh fruit and snacks

This is also a great way to teach kids about marine life and coral conservation.

5. Visit a Spice Farm Tour

Zanzibar is known as the “Spice Island,” and kids will love visiting a real spice farm. The tours are interactive and full of surprises—perfect for curious young travelers.

What kids can do:

• Smell and touch cinnamon, vanilla, cardamom, and lemongrass

• Watch someone climb a coconut tree

• Taste fresh tropical fruits

• Get fun hats made from palm leaves

This is one of the most underrated yet enjoyable things to do in Zanzibar with kids—educational, fun, and memorable.

6. Go on a Safari Blue Adventure

Safari Blue is a full-day sea adventure that includes:

• Sailing on a traditional dhow

• Swimming in turquoise lagoons

• Visiting uninhabited sandbanks

• Barbecue lunch on an island

• Dolphin spotting (often possible)

This tour is family-friendly and often tailored to fit the comfort of kids.

7. Learn to Cook Swahili Dishes

Some resorts and local families offer kid-friendly cooking classes where parents and children can learn to prepare simple Swahili dishes.

Activities may include:

• Making chapati or coconut rice

• Preparing fresh juice from sugarcane or mango

• Learning food names in Swahili

These hands-on classes are both fun and cultural—great for family bonding.

8. Visit Nungwi Aquarium and Turtle Sanctuary

Nungwi has a small but fascinating natural aquarium where kids can feed and even swim with rescued sea turtles. Run by a local NGO, this center educates visitors on turtle conservation and marine protection.

This is one of the most popular things to do in Zanzibar with kids, especially for animal lovers.

Tips for Traveling Zanzibar with Children

• Stay in family-friendly hotels: Choose resorts with pools, kids’ menus, and family suites.

• Pack sun hats, sunscreen, and light clothing: Zanzibar can be hot, especially near the beach.

• Carry snacks and water for day trips.

• Bring snorkeling gear for kids to ensure proper fit.

• Hire guides who work well with children for cultural and nature tours.

Best Age for Kids to Enjoy Zanzibar

• Toddlers (1–4 years): Best for beach play and short boat trips

• Young children (5–9 years): Enjoy spice tours, turtle centers, and snorkeling

• Tweens and teens (10+): Can handle full-day activities like Safari Blue, Jozani hikes, and cultural walks

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Zanzibar with Kids

From the calm beaches of Kendwa to the monkey-filled forests of Jozani, there’s no shortage of fun, safe, and educational things to do in Zanzibar with kids. Whether your family is looking for adventure, culture, or pure relaxation, Zanzibar is a tropical paradise that welcomes children of all ages.

Create memories that your kids will carry forever—Zanzibar is more than just a beach holiday; it’s a family adventure rich in culture, nature, and wonder.

📩 For tailored Zanzibar family tours, excursions, or accommodation suggestions, contact:
info@topguideadventures.com
topguideadventures@gmail.com