🌴 Most Frequently Asked Questions: A Mom’s Q&A Guide For Travelling to Zanzibar With Kids
- W&F Zanzibar
- Sep 11
- 4 min read
Dreaming of a family holiday in Zanzibar but wondering if it’s really kid-friendly? You’re not alone. Moms often ask: Is Zanzibar safe for kids? How long should we stay? What’s the best time to visit?
The good news is that Zanzibar is not just for honeymooners—it’s also a wonderful destination for families. With turquoise beaches, wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, and family-friendly resorts, this tropical island has something for every age.
Here’s your complete guide to planning a trip to Zanzibar with kids—covering the best times to visit, health tips, accommodation, activities, and cultural expectations.
☀️ Best Time to Visit Zanzibar with Kids
Zanzibar has two rainy seasons:
Long rains: April to June (sometimes into early July)
Short rains: November (monsoon season)
These months can feel humid and wet, so they’re not ideal for short family trips.
The best times to visit Zanzibar with kids are:
Mid-July to October – warm, sunny, and less humid.
December to March – hot and perfect for beach days.
Mom Tip: I personally enjoy the cooler rainy months, but for a family holiday, stick to the dry seasons so every day feels like a beach day.
⏳ How Long Should You Stay in Zanzibar with Kids?
The ideal length depends on your child’s age:
Young children (under 7): 1–2 weeks. This allows downtime for “off days” while still leaving enough space for rest and play.
Older kids (7+): 10 days to 3–4 weeks. With so many activities — snorkelling, exploring the caves, cultural tours—older children get more out of a longer stay.
Mom Tip: The older they are, the more they’ll enjoy and remember.
🛡️ Health and Safety in Zanzibar
What Vaccinations or Precautions Do Families Need?
Zanzibar has made major progress against malaria, with rates under 1% in recent years. Many doctors still recommend antimalarial medication, but I personally don’t take it with my kids due to side effects. Instead, we rely on mosquito nets, repellent, and long-sleeved clothes in the evenings.
Is Zanzibar Safe for Women and Children?
Yes. Zanzibar is generally safe for families. Resorts are secure, locals are warm and welcoming, and the crime that takes place is almost always petty theft. Like anywhere, keep an eye on your belongings and supervise kids near water.
Mom Tip: Zanzibar feels like a “village that helps raise your child.” I’ve always felt supported, never unsafe—even when traveling solo with my kids.
🏨 Best Family-Friendly Accommodation in Zanzibar
What Lodging Works Best for Families?
While some Zanzibar hotels catering to adults only, there are many family-friendly resorts that offer:
Kids’ clubs and child-friendly activities
Shallow pools for little swimmers
Teen-friendly watersports
Babysitting services (many staff are happy to help for extra cash)
Are Child-Friendly Facilities Available?
Yes, especially at all-inclusive resorts. Many have kids’ menus, family rooms, and entertainment designed for children.
🌊 Things to Do in Zanzibar with Kids
A Zanzibar family vacation is packed with fun:
Snorkeling – spot Nemo and friends in shallow reefs.
Swim with turtles – magical cave pools kids love.
Jozani Forest – home to Zanzibar’s red colobus monkeys.
Horse riding in the sea – a bucket-list family experience.
Watersports – SUP, jet skiing, kite surfing lessons for all ages.
Water park fun – perfect for energetic days.
Dhow cruises – family boat trips with life jackets provided.
Mom Tip: Every day can be an adventure, but even lazy beach days are unforgettable here.
👩👧 Childcare and Kid-Friendly Tours
It’s not always easy to find child-focused tours online. That’s why we made this our focus at Wild & Free Zanzibar—to help moms plan family-friendly experiences.
You can:
Book your entire family holiday package with us.
Or book a 1–5 hour Travel Consultation where I’ll guide you to the right hotels, drivers, babysitters, and activities.
🍴 Family Dining in Zanzibar
Zanzibar is known as the Spice Island, and the fresh food is incredible.
Best Family Dining Options
Resort restaurants – safe, convenient, and child-friendly.
Beach restaurants – walk along the shore and try different spots.
Street food – fresh, tasty, and budget-friendly (look for busy vendors for safety).
Safe Eating Tips for Kids
Stick to bottled water (we always buy 1.5L bottles).
Be careful with ice (ask if it’s made from bottled water).
Try tropical treats: pineapples, mini mangos, jackfruit, coconuts, sugarcane juice.
🚖 Transportation in Zanzibar with Kids
Best Way to Get Around
Taxis are the safest and easiest option. Public transport is cheap but not practical with kids—it’s slow and crowded.
I use a network of trusted drivers for my family and clients, which makes travel smoother and safer.
Is It Safe to Drive in Zanzibar?
Yes, but roads can be rough, and you’ll share them with animals, people, and scooters. Confident drivers can rent a car, but I only recommend it if you’ve driven in similar conditions before.
🌍 Preparing Kids for Cultural Differences
Zanzibar is 99% Islamic, with a rich Swahili culture influenced by African, Arab, and Indian heritage.
Teaching Kids Respect
At hotels and beaches: swimsuits and summer dresses are fine.
In villages and Stone Town: cover shoulders and knees to respect local norms.
Teach kids a few Swahili phrases—Asante sana (thank you), Karibu (welcome), Rafiki (friend), Hakuna Matata (no worries).
🧑🦽 Traveling with Kids Who Have Special Needs
While facilities are limited, many hotels can accommodate specific needs. Main streets in Stone Town are wheelchair accessible, but some older buildings have steps and uneven floors.
If accessibility is important, contact us to recommend properties that best fit your family.
✅ Final Thoughts: Why Moms Love Zanzibar
A family holiday in Zanzibar offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. With safe resorts, warm people, delicious food, and unforgettable activities, it’s a destination where kids thrive and moms finally get to exhale.
From sandy toes to spice-scented adventures, Zanzibar is the kind of place you’ll want to return to again and again.
If you want to add more destinations to your African Adventure, check out the Top 10 Family Friendly Destinations in Africa
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