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Did you know that Zanzibar is a magical island off the coast of Tanzania that offers many opportunities for families to make memories that last a lifetime? Famous for its pristine beaches, rich history, and culturally diverse population, Zanzibar is an unexpectedly affordable family holiday destination.
Whatever you’re doing — visiting historical sites, sunbathing on golden beaches, or immersing yourself in local culture — there’s always something fun to keep everybody occupied. Discover the best things to do in Zanzibar with family, with 15 budget-friendly and enjoyable activities to make the most of your trip.
Discover the Rich History of Stone Town

Stone Town, the historic heart of Zanzibar, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers families an enriching cultural experience. Its narrow winding streets, beautifully crafted buildings, and centuries-old history make it ideal for family exploration.
What to Explore in Stone Town
- House of Wonders: One of the largest and most significant buildings in Stone Town, the House of Wonders offers fascinating exhibitions about Zanzibar’s rich past under the Omani sultans.
- Old Fort: This iconic fortification, built in the 1600s, stands as a reminder of Zanzibar’s colonial history. Its walls are filled with stories that will spark your family’s interest.
- Local Markets: Wander through the vibrant Darajani Market, where you can see fresh produce, spices, and local goods, immersing yourself in Zanzibar’s unique atmosphere.
Budget Tip: You can explore Stone Town for free, although some attractions may charge small entry fees. A self-guided tour is a great way to save money.
Relax on Zanzibar’s Pristine Beaches: Fun Things to Do in Zanzibar with Family

Zanzibar is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, many of which are free to visit and perfect for a family day out. The soft white sands and clear turquoise waters create the perfect backdrop for relaxation and play.
Top Family-Friendly Beaches in Zanzibar
- Nungwi Beach: Located on the northern tip of the island, Nungwi Beach offers calm, shallow waters ideal for young children. It’s also famous for its golden sand and lively atmosphere.
- Kendwa Beach: Just a short distance from Nungwi, Kendwa is another stunning beach known for its breathtaking sunsets and shallow waters, making it perfect for families who enjoy relaxing by the sea.
- Paje Beach: Paje Beach is located in southeast Cost, Paje Beach is known for its stunning beauty, Soft White Sands, and turquoise waters. It is a Great Place for Travelers who Spend their Holidays with Kids and Families.
- Bwejuu Beach: Bwejuu Beach offers peaceful, white sandy shores, clear waters, and a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and local exploration.
Things to Do at Zanzibar’s Beaches
- Swimming and Sunbathing: The crystal-clear waters and warm weather make it easy to enjoy a day of swimming and sunbathing.
- Beach Games: Play volleyball, or frisbee, or simply build sandcastles with your children.
Both of these beaches are free to access and offer plenty of room for families to relax and have fun together.
Explore the Unique Jozani Forest

Jozani Forest is located on Unguja Island, which is part of the Zanzibar Archipelago in Tanzania, East Africa. It is situated about 38 kilometers southeast of Zanzibar City, near the village of Jozani.
The forest is part of the Jozani-Chwaka Bay National Park, known for its rich biodiversity and as a habitat for the rare Zanzibar red colobus monkey.
Why Visit Jozani Forest?
- Wildlife Viewing: Kids will love spotting the playful Red Colobus monkeys in their natural habitat. The park is also home to other wildlife like bush pigs, various bird species, and butterflies.
- Nature Walks: Guided tours offer a deeper understanding of the forest’s ecosystem, including its rare plants and unique wildlife.
Budget Tip: Entry fees to Jozani Forest are affordable, and family tours are typically reasonably priced, especially if you join a group tour.
Exploring Jozani Forest gives families the chance to connect with nature while learning about Zanzibar’s biodiversity.
Take a Spice Farm Tour

Zanzibar is known for its spices, and visiting a local spice farm is a fun and educational way to introduce your children to the flavors that have shaped the island’s history. Spice tours provide an immersive experience where you can learn about the cultivation and uses of various spices.
Spice Farm Highlights
- Cloves, Nutmeg, and Cinnamon: Discover how these essential spices are grown and harvested.
- Interactive Tasting: Many farms allow visitors to taste freshly picked spices and fruits, which can be a fun sensory experience for kids.
Where to Visit: Spice farms such as Shamba la Miti and Mango Tree Farm offer affordable and engaging tours that the entire family will enjoy. The tour guides often share interesting facts about the spice trade and its significance to Zanzibar.
Spice farm visits are an affordable and engaging way to spend the day, with the added benefit of taking home some exotic spices as souvenirs.
Snorkel in Zanzibar’s Clear Waters

Zanzibar’s warm, crystal-clear waters are ideal for snorkeling, offering families the chance to explore vibrant coral reefs and marine life without needing to venture far from the shore.
Best Snorkeling Spots
- Paje Beach: Known for its shallow, calm waters, Paje is perfect for beginners and children. The reefs just offshore are teeming with marine life, including colorful fish, starfish, and sea turtles.
- Mnemba Island: If you’re looking for more advanced snorkeling, Mnemba Island Atoll offers stunning coral reefs and the chance to swim with dolphins and sea turtles.
Budget Tip: While organized snorkeling tours can be pricey, renting snorkel gear from local vendors and heading to the beach is an affordable way to explore the underwater world on your own.
Snorkeling is a fantastic, budget-friendly activity for families who want to experience Zanzibar’s marine biodiversity.
Enjoy Zanzibar’s Magical Sunsets

Zanzibar is famous for its stunning sunsets, and there’s no better way to end a day of exploring than by watching the sun dip below the horizon.
Where to Watch the Best Sunsets
- Kendwa Beach: Known for its picture-perfect sunsets, Kendwa is one of the best spots to witness the golden hour with your family.
- Nungwi Beach: This beach, located on the northern tip, offers clear views of the sunset over the Indian Ocean.
Watching a sunset is a simple yet magical experience that is completely free, making it an essential part of any Zanzibar itinerary.
Explore the Mnarani Turtle Sanctuary

For families interested in wildlife conservation, the Mnarani Turtle Sanctuary in Nungwi is a fantastic destination. The sanctuary works to protect endangered sea turtles, and visitors can learn about the efforts to conserve these beautiful creatures.
What to Do at the Mnarani Turtle Sanctuary
- Turtle Feeding: Families can watch or even participate in feeding the turtles, an activity that is particularly exciting for younger children.
- Learn About Turtle Conservation: The sanctuary provides valuable information about the different species of sea turtles and their importance to the ecosystem.
Visiting the sanctuary is not only affordable but also a rewarding experience that teaches children about the importance of environmental conservation.
Stroll Through Mangrove Forests

Zanzibar’s mangrove forests offer a serene environment for families to explore. These unique ecosystems are essential to the island’s environment and provide homes for various species of birds and marine life.
What to Do in the Mangrove Forests
- Nature Walks: Many tour operators offer guided walks through the mangroves, where you can spot various wildlife, including birds and small creatures.
- Kayaking: Some areas also offer kayaking trips through the mangrove channels, allowing you to explore the area from a different perspective.
Mangrove forest tours are often quite affordable, and they provide a great opportunity for families to enjoy nature while learning about this vital ecosystem.
Dhow Boat Ride in Zanzibar

A traditional dhow boat ride is one of the most iconic experiences you can have in Zanzibar. These wooden boats have been used for centuries by local fishermen and traders, and riding one offers a unique and authentic experience.
What to Expect
- Sunset Dhow Cruises: Many operators offer budget-friendly sunset cruises where you can relax, enjoy the breeze, and take in the stunning scenery.
- Private Boat Tours: Families can also rent a dhow for a private tour to nearby islands or secluded beaches.
Taking a dhow ride is an affordable and relaxing way to experience the coastline, with the added bonus of stunning views.
Visit the Zanzibar Butterfly Centre

Located near Jozani Forest, the Zanzibar Butterfly Centre is a beautiful and educational destination for families interested in wildlife and conservation. The center focuses on butterfly farming and conservation and provides a unique opportunity to see a variety of species up close.
What to Do at the Butterfly Centre
- Interactive Displays: Learn about the life cycle of butterflies and the conservation efforts to protect them.
- Butterfly Watching: Kids will love watching the butterflies flutter around the lush gardens, and the center also offers the chance to hold or feed butterflies in a safe environment.
The Zanzibar Butterfly Centre is affordable and offers a fun, interactive experience for children and adults alike.
Take Part in Local Cultural Workshops
Zanzibar is a melting pot of cultures, and participating in a cultural workshop is a great way for families to learn about the island’s rich traditions.
Types of Workshops
- Swahili Cooking Classes: Families can learn how to cook traditional Zanzibari dishes like pilau (spiced rice) and samosa.
- Dance and Drumming Classes: Learn the rhythms of Zanzibar’s traditional music and dance. Kids will enjoy moving to the beat and learning the island’s dance moves.
Workshops are typically affordable and offer a hands-on way to learn about Zanzibar’s history and culture while having fun as a family.
Discover Zanzibar’s Historical Sites
Zanzibar’s long and complex history is reflected in its many historical sites. These locations provide a fascinating and educational experience for families interested in the island’s past.
Top Historical Sites to Visit
- Slave Market Memorial: Learn about the island’s dark past in the transatlantic slave trade at the memorial site.
- Anglican Cathedral: Built over the former slave market, the cathedral is an important historical site and offers a glimpse into Zanzibar’s colonial past.
Visiting these historical sites is an affordable way to learn more about Zanzibar’s cultural and historical significance.
Spend a Day at Zanzibar’s National Museum
The Zanzibar National Museum in Stone Town is an affordable destination that offers a deep dive into the island’s history, culture, and natural environment.
Exhibits to Explore
- Zanzibar’s Slavery History: A powerful exhibit showcasing the history of the slave trade in Zanzibar.
- Cultural and Natural Exhibits: Learn about the local wildlife, the spice trade, and Zanzibar’s rich cultural heritage.
The museum’s entrance fees are affordable, making it a great choice for families interested in a more structured educational experience.
Take a Guided Walk Through Nungwi Village

A visit to Nungwi Village offers an authentic experience of Zanzibar’s coastal life. The village is known for its fishing community, where you can watch fishermen repair their boats, go on traditional boat rides, or purchase handcrafted souvenirs.
What to Do in Nungwi
- Visit the Local Markets: Explore the markets for handmade goods and fresh produce.
- Traditional Fishing Boat Tours: Rent a small boat and explore the coastline, experiencing the local way of life firsthand.
A guided walk through the village offers a glimpse into Zanzibar’s daily life while being very budget-friendly.
Explore Zanzibar’s Inland Villages

Zanzibar’s inland villages are less touristy but offer a great opportunity to experience the island’s rural life. These villages are surrounded by green landscapes and are home to small communities that still follow traditional farming methods.
What to Do in Inland Villages
- Village Tours: Participate in guided tours to learn about farming and local crafts.
- Interact with Locals: Meet locals and learn about their way of life while enjoying the stunning natural surroundings.
Visiting inland villages is an affordable way to discover another side of Zanzibar, far from the hustle and bustle of the tourist areas.
Final Words
Zanzibar offers many activities that allow families to explore its beauty, history, and culture on a budget. From relaxing on stunning beaches to delving into the island’s rich past, Zanzibar provides various opportunities for families to create lasting memories without breaking the bank.
The island’s mix of natural wonders, historical sites, and vibrant culture ensures that there is something for everyone to enjoy, all while staying within an affordable budget.
People also ask
Is Zanzibar suitable for families?
Yes, Zanzibar is family-friendly, offering beaches, historical sites, and cultural experiences that are fun and safe for all ages.
How many days in Zanzibar is enough?
A 4-5 day stay is ideal to explore Zanzibar’s beaches, culture, and history while keeping a relaxed pace.
Is Zanzibar cheap or expensive?
Zanzibar is affordable, with budget-friendly accommodation, food, and activities, making it a great destination for families.
What is the best month to visit Zanzibar?
The best time to visit Zanzibar is during the dry season, from June to October, for ideal weather and outdoor activities.