Zanzibar with Kids: Our Family Holiday on a Tropical Island

Zanzibar with Kids: Our Family Holiday on a Tropical Island

After an unforgettable family safari in Tanzania, we were ready for a few days of relaxation. We’d spent our time spotting elephants, lions and giraffes, travelling across dusty roads and getting up early for game drives. Now it was time for white sandy beaches, turquoise water and a little bit of luxury.
Our destination? Zanzibar!
We visited Zanzibar in July during the summer holidays, travelling there after our safari in Tanzania. It was the perfect way to end our African adventure, and we were looking forward to swapping the safari jeep for a sun lounger.
If you’re planning Zanzibar with kids, I’ll share our experience at Diamonds Mapenzi Beach Resort, the family excursions we enjoyed and a few things worth knowing before you go. From exploring a coral reef at low tide to meeting giant tortoises and swimming near sea turtles, we discovered that Zanzibar offers plenty of adventures beyond the beach.
Of course, travelling with children also means unexpected moments, questionable food priorities and the occasional travel mishap. Our holiday had all three!
If you’re still planning your trip, start with our Zanzibar: The Ultimate Family Travel Guide for a broader overview of the island and practical information to help organise your stay.

From Safari to Zanzibar: A Slightly Rocky Start

After our safari, we flew from Arusha to Zanzibar. The flight itself was short, which was a relief after all the driving we’d done in Tanzania. Unfortunately, our departure was very early in the morning.
And early mornings aren’t exactly Evelijn’s favourite thing.
She doesn’t cope particularly well with getting up too early, especially when she hasn’t had enough sleep. By the time we were ready to leave, she was exhausted and feeling sick. There was even some vomiting before we set off.
Not quite the glamorous start to a tropical beach holiday we’d imagined!
Fortunately, the resort staff were prepared with bags and tissues when we arrived. We could finally relax a little, and the sunshine and beach soon worked their magic. Evelijn recovered and, thankfully, didn’t suffer from any more travel sickness during the rest of our stay.
Anneloes had her own adventure while we were dealing with the situation. She was sitting in the breakfast room by herself when some monkeys appeared to keep her company.
You might think that sounds lovely, but Anneloes isn’t particularly fond of monkeys. Later, she told us that she hadn’t known where to go when they turned up.
So while one daughter was recovering from travel sickness, the other was apparently having an unexpected wildlife encounter of her own.
After our safari, perhaps we should have expected that wildlife would follow us everywhere!
Our tip: If you’re combining a safari with Zanzibar, allow some time to recover from the early starts and travel days. We loved having a few days to relax after our busy safari itinerary. If you’re considering the same combination, read Safari + Zanzibar: Why This Is the Ultimate African Family Vacation.

Staying at Diamonds Mapenzi Beach Resort

We chose Diamonds Mapenzi Beach Resort Click here because we wanted that classic tropical-island feeling. You know the one: white sand, palm trees, turquoise water and the sort of beach that makes you wonder whether you’ve accidentally stepped into a holiday brochure.
The beautiful beach villas were a big reason for choosing this resort. All-inclusive was an added bonus.
And the resort didn’t disappoint.
Our villa opened straight onto the beach, so we could step outside and feel the sand beneath our feet. It was exactly the kind of setting we’d been hoping for.
There was just one thing to remember: the tides.
At high tide, the sea was around 150 metres away from our villa. At low tide, the water retreated much further, revealing more of the beach and the reef. This is typical of Zanzibar’s east coast, where the changing tides can make a big difference to your beach experience.
It was beautiful to watch, but it also meant that swimming in the sea wasn’t always as straightforward as walking out of your room and jumping into the water.
For us, the beach, the atmosphere and the relaxed setting made up for that. We were happy with our choice because we wanted a resort where we could spend time together, enjoy the beach and arrange a few excursions without having to fill every day with activities.

The Food, Drinks and Little Details

The all-inclusive package was a lovely bonus, and we enjoyed the food throughout our stay.
The buffet wasn’t as extensive as the enormous all-inclusive buffets we’d experienced in Turkey, but there was plenty to choose from. The food varied from day to day, and we always found something good to eat, including options that Evelijn enjoyed.
The girls did, however, have one important complaint.
There were only chips on the menu once during our entire week!
Apparently, even a tropical paradise has its limitations.
The drinks were good too, whether you fancied something alcoholic or preferred a non-alcoholic option. One of our favourites was the resort’s house hibiscus juice, which was delicious and a lovely change from the usual holiday drinks. Fresh coconuts were another favourite, and there was plenty of entertainment to keep everyone occupied.
Every evening, the staff also treated our room against insects and put mosquito nets over the beds. It was a thoughtful touch and helped us feel comfortable at night.
Overall, we were very happy with our choice. If you’re comparing accommodation options, have a look at Where to Stay in Zanzibar: Best Areas & Resorts to help decide which part of the island suits your family best.
Our tip: When choosing a beach resort in Zanzibar, don’t look at the photographs alone. Check where the resort is located, how the tides affect the beach and what facilities are available for your family. If being able to swim in the sea throughout the day is important to you, it’s worth researching the conditions at your chosen beach before booking.

Exploring the Reef at Low Tide

One of our most memorable experiences happened when the tide went out.
A local beach vendor offered to take Pim and Anneloes out to explore the reef. It sounded like a wonderful opportunity to see marine life up close, so the two of them went along.
Anneloes was particularly excited about the starfish. She held a whole collection of them for photographs, and they also spotted something she described as SpongeBob.
I’m not entirely sure SpongeBob would have recognised himself, but it certainly made an impression on her.
There was just one small detail they hadn’t quite planned for.
The tide started coming back in.
Suddenly, they needed to swim back towards the beach. Pim had his phone with him and was determined to keep it above the water, while Anneloes tried to keep up.
Thankfully, they made it back safely.
It became one of those family holiday stories that you remember long after you’ve unpacked your suitcases. Looking back, it was a fantastic experience, although the incoming tide added a little more excitement than we’d bargained for.
Evelijn, who was five at the time and not yet a confident swimmer, stayed with me by the pool. It was the sensible decision: we didn’t need to turn a family excursion into an adventure that everyone had to tackle regardless of their swimming ability.
She was perfectly happy where she was, especially after discovering the bar.
She quickly learned her way there and ordered herself milkshakes on several occasions. Once she’d discovered the chips, those became another priority.
Clearly, she had her own holiday itinerary.

Is Exploring the Reef with Kids a Good Idea?

Exploring the reef can be a memorable way to experience Zanzibar’s marine life, but the tides deserve respect. The water can retreat a considerable distance and then return, so it’s important to understand the conditions before walking out onto the reef.
If you want to explore the reef with children:

• Check the tides first. Ask your resort or a knowledgeable local guide about the safest time to go.
• Go with someone who knows the area. Don’t assume you can easily find your own way back once the water starts returning.
• Consider your children’s swimming abilities. A reef walk can involve uneven surfaces, shallow pools and changing water conditions. Choose an activity that suits your family.
• Protect your belongings. If you’re carrying a phone or camera, use appropriate waterproof protection.

Our experience was fantastic, but the incoming tide was a good reminder that the sea deserves respect, even when the water looks calm.
The changing tides are worth considering when choosing where to stay in Zanzibar. If long stretches of beach and opportunities to explore the shoreline appeal to you, read our guide to The Best Beaches in Zanzibar.

Snorkelling in Zanzibar: Finding Nemo and Dory

We also went snorkelling during our excursion to Prison Island.
By the time we reached the snorkelling spot, we were already quite far out at sea. The water was full of colourful fish, and the girls were excited to see what they could spot beneath the surface.
Well, that was the plan.
Anneloes suddenly decided that the fish were scary.
After all, it’s one thing to look at fish in an aquarium and quite another to find yourself swimming among them in the sea. We had to do some persuading before she was willing to get into the water.
Evelijn, on the other hand, was already enjoying herself.
Because she was still young and didn’t have endless stamina for swimming, we’d brought a transparent, half-moon-shaped flotation device. She could rest her arms on it while looking down into the water.
It worked brilliantly. She could enjoy the underwater world without having to swim continuously, and it gave her a little extra confidence.
Once Anneloes got over her initial nerves, she enjoyed the experience too. Both girls were fascinated by the colourful fish, especially the ones that reminded them of Nemo and Dory.
Sometimes, the best part of travelling with children is watching them move from I’m not doing that! to Can we do it again? in the space of a few minutes.
Snorkelling was definitely one of the highlights of our Zanzibar holiday.

Tips for Snorkelling with Children

Our experience taught us that it’s worth thinking about more than just the fish when planning a family snorkelling trip.

• Choose an excursion that suits your children. Consider their swimming ability, confidence in the water and how long they can comfortably stay active.
• Check what equipment is provided. Ask the operator about life jackets, flotation aids, masks and snorkels before booking.
• Don’t force nervous children into the water. Anneloes needed a little encouragement and time to feel comfortable. Letting children approach the experience at their own pace can make all the difference.
• Prioritise safety. Follow the guide’s instructions and make sure children have suitable flotation equipment and appropriate supervision. A flotation aid is not a substitute for adult supervision.

We were glad we’d thought about Evelijn’s stamina in advance. The right equipment meant she could enjoy the experience without becoming exhausted from swimming.
If you’re looking for more ideas for family-friendly excursions, take a look at Things to Do in Zanzibar Beyond the Beach.

Visiting Prison Island with Kids

Our snorkelling trip was combined with a visit to Prison Island, and we travelled there on our own private longtail boat from Stone Town.
The island is known for its giant tortoises, and these were undoubtedly the main attraction for our girls.
We could see the tortoises up close, feed them and stroke them. Evelijn was happy to pose for photographs with them, while Anneloes needed a little more time before getting close enough for her own photos.
Once she’d decided they weren’t quite as intimidating as she’d first thought, she joined in too.
The island also has an interesting history. Its name is associated with plans for a prison complex during the British colonial period, although the site later became known for other uses, including quarantine. Today, visitors generally know it for its historic buildings and giant tortoises.
I found the history interesting, but the girls were much less concerned about the island’s past. They were there for the tortoises, and once they’d spent time with them, there wasn’t a huge amount else to keep them occupied.
For us, the combination of the boat trip, snorkelling and tortoises made it a worthwhile excursion. Having our own boat also meant we could enjoy the trip as a family rather than being tied to a large group.

Would We Recommend Prison Island for Families?

Yes, particularly if your children are interested in animals. The giant tortoises were the highlight for our girls, and combining the visit with snorkelling made the outing more varied.
However, I wouldn’t necessarily plan an entire day around Prison Island alone. Our visit was relatively short, and the tortoises were the main attraction for us.
If you’re planning a visit, check the excursion details before booking so you know how much time is allocated to the island, whether transport is included and whether snorkelling forms part of the trip.
We enjoyed having our own boat, but the most suitable option will depend on your family’s preferences and budget.

Swimming with Turtles at the Zanzibar Turtle Sanctuary

Another experience we absolutely loved was visiting the Zanzibar Turtle Sanctuary in Nungwi.
The sanctuary offers visitors the opportunity to get into the water with turtles in a lagoon. During the visit, you can also feed them seaweed and, depending on the conditions, watch them swimming around you.
It sounded like a wonderful opportunity to see these animals up close, so we decided to give it a try.
And it really was a fantastic experience.
There was just one thing we hadn’t fully appreciated beforehand: turtles can be surprisingly enthusiastic when food is involved.
We fed them green seaweed, and they snapped at it eagerly. Sometimes, however, they missed the seaweed altogether and brushed against our legs instead.
Some of us were a little nervous about that!
Anneloes was particularly unlucky. She was wearing a bikini with little bobbles on it, which the turtles apparently mistook for something edible.
She was not amused.
We have some very funny photographs from that day, especially of Evelijn. In one picture, she’s sitting near the turtles, keeping a respectable distance. In the next, she’s leaning as far backwards as possible, with her toes curled up because one of the turtles has come a little too close.
The photographs tell quite a story.
Despite the occasional startled reaction, we all thought it was a great experience. Seeing the turtles up close was special, and it’s certainly one of the excursions our family remembers.

What to Know Before Visiting the Turtle Sanctuary

If you’re considering this excursion with children, check the current arrangements and rules before you go. Find out what the visit involves, whether swimming is optional and what supervision is provided.
Children should be comfortable following the guide’s instructions, especially when feeding or swimming near animals. Don’t touch or feed wildlife unless the staff explicitly permit it, and follow their guidance throughout the visit.
We found the experience memorable, but children react differently to animals. Anneloes was less enthusiastic when the turtles came too close, while Evelijn’s photographs show just how quickly curiosity can turn into caution!
If you’d like to experience it yourself, you can find more information here:
GetYourGuide – Zanzibar Turtle Sanctuary
Check the current tour details before booking, including transport arrangements, what’s included and the conditions for swimming with the turtles.

A Short Visit to Stone Town

Our excursion to Prison Island started in Stone Town, so we had a little time to explore before boarding our boat.
We arrived early in the morning, when the streets were still relatively quiet. We walked through some of the narrow streets and along the waterfront, getting a first impression of this historic part of Zanzibar.
Stone Town is known for its mix of African, Arab, Indian and European influences. Its architecture and historic buildings reflect the many cultures and trading connections that have shaped the town over the centuries.
It is also an important place in Zanzibar’s history, including its role in the Indian Ocean slave trade.
We only spent about an hour there, so we didn’t explore everything Stone Town has to offer. The girls were ready to move on, and with a boat trip waiting for us, we weren’t going to spend the morning trying to persuade them to admire historic buildings.
Sometimes you have to choose your battles when travelling with children.
Our short visit gave us a taste of Stone Town, but if you’re planning to explore it properly, I’d recommend allowing more time than we did. There’s plenty more to discover than you can fit into a quick walk before an excursion.
For practical information and more ideas for planning your stay, visit Zanzibar: The Ultimate Family Travel Guide.

Is Zanzibar Worth Visiting with Kids?

Absolutely!
For our family, Zanzibar was the perfect way to finish our Tanzania trip. After the early starts, game drives and excitement of the safari, we loved having time to relax on the beach, enjoy the resort and explore a different side of Tanzania.
The girls had plenty of memorable experiences, from seeing colourful fish while snorkelling to meeting giant tortoises and swimming near turtles. And, of course, there were the monkeys at breakfast, the incoming tide on the reef and the ongoing disappointment about the lack of chips.
Those are the details that make a family holiday memorable.
Zanzibar also offered something different from our safari. Instead of spending hours in a vehicle looking for wildlife, we could enjoy the sea, take excursions at a more relaxed pace and spend time together without a packed itinerary.
That said, a little planning makes a difference when travelling with children. Consider the tides when choosing your accommodation and beach activities, check whether excursions are suitable for your children’s ages and swimming abilities, and don’t underestimate the importance of a good night’s sleep before an early flight.
We were very happy with our choice of resort, and the combination of beach time and excursions worked well for our family.
Would we recommend Zanzibar with kids? Definitely.

Frequently Asked Questions About Zanzibar with Kids

Is Zanzibar suitable for families with young children?

Yes, Zanzibar can be a wonderful destination for families. You can combine beach time and resort facilities with boat trips, snorkelling and wildlife experiences. The best activities depend on your children’s ages, swimming abilities and interests. When choosing accommodation, consider the location, beach conditions and how much travel is involved in getting to excursions.

Can you snorkel with kids in Zanzibar?

Yes, family snorkelling excursions are available, but you should choose one that suits your children’s swimming abilities and confidence in the water. Check what equipment and supervision are provided, follow the guide’s instructions and never rely on a flotation aid as a substitute for adult supervision. Our girls enjoyed seeing colourful fish, although Anneloes needed some time to overcome her initial nerves.

Are the tides a problem when staying on Zanzibar’s east coast?

The tides can make a noticeable difference to the beach experience on Zanzibar’s east coast. At low tide, the sea can retreat a considerable distance, exposing parts of the reef. This can be fascinating to explore, but it may affect how easily you can swim in the sea. Check local tide information and ask your accommodation about the conditions at the beach before booking.

How long should you stay in Zanzibar with kids?

The ideal length of stay depends on how much you want to do and whether you’re combining Zanzibar with a safari. We enjoyed having time to relax at the resort as well as going on excursions. Rather than filling every day with activities, allow time for the beach, swimming and simply enjoying your surroundings.

Ready to Plan Your Own Family Trip to Zanzibar?

Planning a family holiday involves more than choosing a beautiful beach. You need to find the right place to stay, decide which excursions are worth your time, and work out how everything fits together with your travel dates, budget and the interests of your family.
If you’d love to visit Zanzibar but aren’t sure how to turn all your ideas into a realistic itinerary, let Travelicious help you plan your trip.
I’ll help you put together a practical seven-day itinerary with accommodation and activity suggestions, useful travel advice and one revision, tailored to your family’s needs.

Let Travelicious help you plan your trip!

Read our EVERYTHING YOU WANT TO for more tips and inspiration.