1. Choose Family-Friendly Accommodation
Zanzibar has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to cozy beachside villas. For families traveling with kids, it’s important to choose places that cater to their needs, offering kid-friendly amenities and services.
- Family Resorts: Look for resorts with family rooms, kid-friendly pools, and activities such as kids’ clubs, playgrounds, or organized excursions tailored for young travelers.
- Private Villas: Renting a private villa can give your family more space and privacy, making it easier to manage your kids’ routines. Many villas come with kitchenettes, so you can prepare meals for picky eaters.
- Childcare Services: Some luxury resorts offer babysitting services or childcare facilities, which can be a huge help for parents wanting some time to relax.
2. Pack Smart for the Tropical Climate
Zanzibar’s tropical climate is warm year-round, with high humidity and temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Being prepared for the heat and humidity will ensure your kids stay comfortable and safe during your trip.
- Sun Protection: Pack a good quality sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), sunglasses, and hats to protect your children from the strong sun. You’ll also want to dress them in lightweight, long-sleeved clothing to shield their skin from sunburn.
- Insect Repellent: Zanzibar is known for mosquitoes, particularly at dawn and dusk. Bring a DEET-based insect repellent or citronella spray to protect your kids from bites. Mosquito nets are also helpful, especially when staying in open-air or rural accommodations.
- Lightweight Clothing: Loose, breathable clothes made from cotton are ideal for the hot climate. Don’t forget swimwear, as Zanzibar is famous for its pristine beaches.
3. Prepare for Long Travel Times
If you’re traveling from mainland Tanzania or a long-haul flight, consider the long travel times to Zanzibar, especially for young children. Make the journey more comfortable and stress-free with these tips:
- Snacks and Entertainment: Pack plenty of snacks, drinks, and entertainment to keep your kids occupied during long flights or drives. Consider downloadable games, books, or favorite toys to help keep them distracted.
- Frequent Breaks: During long drives to the airport or between activities, plan frequent breaks for bathroom stops and to stretch out. This is particularly important for younger kids who may get restless.
- Travel Pillow and Blanket: A travel pillow and blanket can make naps more comfortable, especially during long flights or car rides.
4. Be Mindful of Food and Water Safety
While Zanzibar offers delicious and diverse food, it’s important to be cautious about what your kids eat to avoid foodborne illnesses.
- Eat at Reputable Places: Opt for restaurants with good hygiene practices. Street food can be tempting, but it may not always meet safety standards.
- Avoid Tap Water: Stick to bottled or purified water for drinking and brushing teeth. Encourage your children to avoid ice, as it may be made from tap water.
- Child-Friendly Meals: Zanzibar’s cuisine may be unfamiliar to your kids, so choose milder dishes like rice, grilled chicken, or pasta. Be sure to inquire about any spices in local dishes.
5. Plan Kid-Friendly Activities
Zanzibar is a fantastic destination for family fun, offering a wide range of activities that kids will love. Plan your itinerary to include both relaxing and educational experiences that will keep your children entertained.
- Beaches: Zanzibar is famous for its beautiful beaches. Many of them have calm, shallow waters perfect for young children to splash around safely. Nungwi and Kendwa are great beaches for families.
- Snorkeling and Glass-Bottom Boat Rides: Take your kids on a glass-bottom boat ride to explore the coral reefs without getting wet. For older children, snorkeling can be a thrilling activity, allowing them to see colorful fish and marine life.
- Wildlife Experiences: Visit the Jozani Forest, home to the rare red colobus monkeys, or take a boat trip to Prison Island to meet the giant tortoises. These wildlife encounters will provide educational and fun experiences for your kids.
- Spice Tour: A spice farm tour can be a great sensory experience for kids, allowing them to learn about Zanzibar’s rich agricultural history while smelling and tasting fresh spices.
- Stone Town: While a walking tour through Stone Town can be fascinating for adults, some kids may find it a bit overwhelming. If you visit, consider keeping the tour short and making stops at local markets for some fun souvenirs.
6. Manage Health and Safety
Ensuring your child’s health and safety while traveling is a top priority, especially in a tropical destination like Zanzibar.
- Vaccinations: Make sure your kids are up to date on vaccinations, including those for yellow fever, typhoid, and hepatitis A. Malaria is also a concern, so speak with your healthcare provider about the best precautions, such as malaria tablets.
- Travel Insurance: Invest in comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies for your family. This is important in case of any unexpected illness or injury during your trip.
- First-Aid Kit: Pack a first-aid kit with essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relief, and any prescription medications your kids may need. It’s also helpful to carry anti-diarrheal medication in case of stomach upsets.
7. Take Your Time and Stay Flexible
When traveling with kids, things don’t always go as planned, so it’s important to stay flexible and take it slow.
- Pace Your Activities: Avoid over-scheduling. Allow plenty of downtime at the beach or by the pool to keep the kids happy and relaxed.
- Be Prepared for Change: Whether it’s a change in weather or an unplanned delay, having a relaxed attitude will make your trip much more enjoyable for the whole family.
- Keep Safety in Mind: Always keep a close eye on your children, especially when swimming or exploring. Teach them about safety in the water, and ensure they wear life vests if necessary.
Traveling to Zanzibar with kids offers the chance to create lasting memories in a beautiful and culturally rich environment. By planning ahead, staying flexible, and making sure your children’s needs are met, your family can enjoy a stress-free and fun-filled vacation on this tropical island paradise. Future African Safari can assist you in creating a family-friendly itinerary that takes into account all the best activities and accommodations for families traveling to Zanzibar.