Zanzibar Family Vacation | 7Day Ultimate Beach and Adventure

Morning: Arrival and Resort Transfer (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

Touchdown at Zanzibar International Airport: Upon arrival, a friendly guide welcomes your family with cool refreshments and assists with luggage.
Private Transfer to Family-Friendly Resort: Travel in comfort to a carefully selected beachfront resort — equipped with spacious family suites, a kid’s club, and a safe, shallow swimming pool.
Scenic Drive: On the way, admire the swaying palm trees, fishing villages, and glimpses of the sparkling turquoise ocean — a great time to share a few fun facts about Zanzibar with the kids (Did you know it’s also called the "Spice Island"?).

Afternoon: Welcome Activities (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM)

Kid’s Treasure Hunt Adventure: After check-in, the little ones are invited to an exciting resort-led treasure hunt, exploring gardens, pools, and the beach while solving puzzles — ending with a prize to kick off their vacation!
Crafts & Culture Corner: Kids can join a craft session where they create their own Maasai bead bracelets or design mini dhows (traditional boats) to take home as souvenirs.
Parents' Moment of Peace: While the kids play, parents can unwind with a welcome cocktail, take a beachfront stroll, or dip in the pool.

Evening: Family Feast by the Beach (7:00 PM onwards)

Dinner with a View: Head to the resort’s family-friendly restaurant. Parents can indulge in fresh seafood platters while kids enjoy a special “Little Explorer’s Menu” — think mini pizzas, chicken skewers, fruit platters, and Zanzibar’s famous coconut rice.
Interactive Dining: Some resorts offer a live cooking station where the chef involves kids in making their own mini pizzas or decorating desserts — a fun, memorable experience!
Wind Down: After dinner, families can enjoy an optional beach walk under the stars or join a laid-back storytelling session around a beach bonfire — perfect for setting the island’s relaxing tone as your Zanzibar family vacation begins.

Morning: Kizimkazi Dolphin Tour (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

Early Rise & Light Breakfast: Start the day with a light, energizing breakfast at the resort — think fresh tropical fruits, pancakes, and smoothies — before heading to Kizimkazi, a quaint fishing village on Zanzibar’s southern coast.

Boat Ride Adventure: Board a traditional wooden boat with an experienced guide. As you cruise into the crystal-clear waters, learn about the local bottlenose and humpback dolphins that often swim close to the shores.

Dolphin Encounter: Spot pods of dolphins gliding gracefully through the ocean. For families feeling adventurous, dive into the water and swim alongside these playful creatures — a truly unforgettable moment for kids and adults alike!

Snorkeling Excursion: After the dolphin experience, head to a nearby coral reef for snorkeling. The vibrant underwater world is bursting with colorful fish, starfish, and coral gardens — it’s like swimming through a real-life aquarium.

Lunch Break at the Resort (12:30 PM - 1:30 PM)
Return to the resort for a relaxed family lunch — perhaps grilled seafood platters, Zanzibari coconut curry, or kid-friendly burgers and fries.
Pro Tip: Request a beachfront table so everyone can enjoy the sea breeze while recharging for the afternoon.

Afternoon: Family Beach Games (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM)

Beach Volleyball: Divide into teams — parents vs. kids, or mix things up — and enjoy a lively match on the sandy court.
Sandcastle Building Contest: Unleash your family’s creativity by crafting the biggest, most epic sandcastle. Bonus points for adding a moat or seaweed flag!
Frisbee or Beach Soccer: Engage in a fun-filled frisbee throw or a friendly soccer match by the waves.
Resort’s Kids Club (Optional): If the kids need a break, some resorts offer afternoon kids’ activities, like beach treasure hunts or kite-making, while parents steal a moment to relax.

Evening: Unwind and Reflect (6:00 PM onwards)

Sunset Stroll: Walk along the beach together, toes in the sand, watching the sky turn pink and gold as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean.
Dinner Under the Stars: Return to the resort for a laid-back dinner. Some resorts offer themed nights — like BBQ on the beach — with live music, a bonfire, and plenty of kid-friendly meals.
Family Chill Time: End the day with a movie night in your room, a starlit swim in the resort’s pool, or board games in the lounge.

Morning: Guided Jozani Forest Tour (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

Arrival at Jozani Forest: Depart from the resort and arrive at Zanzibar’s only national park — Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park — a lush, tropical haven teeming with wildlife. Your friendly guide will meet you at the entrance and lead you through the forest.
Red Colobus Monkey Encounter: The highlight for kids — spotting the endangered Zanzibar Red Colobus Monkeys. These playful, curious monkeys are unique to the island, often leaping between trees or hanging out in small groups. Guides explain their quirky behaviors and why they’re protected.

Nature Walk: Stroll deeper into the forest, where towering mahogany trees, butterflies, and colorful birds create a magical, storybook-like atmosphere. Guides share fascinating facts about the medicinal plants and local legends tied to the forest.
Mangrove Boardwalk Adventure: Explore the elevated wooden boardwalk winding through the mangrove swamp — a peaceful, shady spot perfect for a little adventure. Learn how mangroves protect Zanzibar’s coastline and provide a safe home for fish, crabs, and birds. Kids love peeking down to spot tiny mudskippers or fiddler crabs scuttling in the shallow water.

Lunch at the Resort (12:30 PM - 1:30 PM)
Head back to the resort for a delicious, laid-back lunch.
Kid-friendly options: Freshly made burgers, fries, pasta, or grilled chicken — paired with tropical fruit juices or smoothies.
For parents: Enjoy seafood platters, Swahili coconut curries, or a light salad and cocktail by the beach.

Afternoon: Relax at the Resort (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM)

Pool Time: Spend a sun-soaked afternoon splashing around in the resort’s pool. Many family-friendly resorts have kids' pools or water slides to keep little ones entertained while parents lounge nearby.
Beach Play: Prefer the beach? Let the kids collect shells, build sandcastles, or fly a kite, while you unwind in a beach cabana with a cool drink.
Optional Activity: For extra excitement, some resorts offer optional family-friendly water sports — like paddleboarding, kayaking, or even a banana boat ride.

Evening: Family Movie Night (6:00 PM onwards)

After dinner, head to a family movie night hosted by the resort — complete with cozy seating, blankets, and popcorn.
Movie lineup: Many resorts offer kid-friendly classics or adventure films set by the ocean — think "Finding Nemo", "Moana", or "The Lion King" for that African wildlife vibe.
If the resort doesn’t have a movie night scheduled, consider setting up a cozy room movie night with snacks, or ask the resort to arrange a private beach movie setup — a magical experience under the stars!

Morning: Prison Island Adventure (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

Boat Ride to Changuu Island: Set off from Stone Town on a short, scenic boat ride to Prison Island (also known as Changuu Island), famous for its turquoise waters and fascinating past. Kids will love the feeling of riding the waves on a small motorboat.
Giant Tortoise Sanctuary: On arrival, head straight to the giant Aldabra tortoise sanctuary — home to tortoises that are over 100 years old! The kids can feed leafy greens to these gentle giants and snap some fun photos. The sanctuary staff often share stories about the oldest tortoises — it’s a fantastic educational moment wrapped in a cool animal encounter.

History Tour: After meeting the tortoises, dive into the island's intriguing history. Once intended to hold prisoners, the island later became a quarantine station. The preserved buildings and ruins offer a mini exploration quest for curious kids.
Beach Picnic: Take a break under a shaded palm tree or a beach cabana and enjoy a scenic picnic on the island’s sandy shores. Pack a mix of light bites — fresh fruit, sandwiches, juices, and some local treats like Zanzibar spice cookies.

Lunch on the Island (12:30 PM - 1:30 PM)
Seaside Dining: For those who prefer a hot meal, enjoy lunch at a cozy, rustic restaurant on the island, offering fresh seafood platters, grilled chicken, or veggie options — plus refreshing drinks and tropical smoothies.
Kid-friendly tip: If the kids are picky eaters, you can pre-arrange a meal from the resort to bring along.

Afternoon: Return to Resort & Relaxation (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM)

Optional Water Adventures: After returning to the resort, let the kids cool off with some fun water activities — like paddleboarding, banana boat rides, or a friendly family kayak race.
Poolside Chill: Prefer a slower pace? Lounge by the pool with a mocktail while the kids splash around. Some resorts even have supervised kids’ clubs if parents want a quiet moment.

Evening: Unwind at the Resort (6:00 PM onwards)

Family Game Night: Many resorts offer board games or outdoor evening activities like beach bonfires or movie nights.
Dinner Delight: Enjoy a relaxed family dinner. If the kids still have energy, ask the resort for a "Kids' Pizza Night" or DIY Sundae Bar to keep the fun going.
Bedtime Wind Down: Wind down with a bedtime story inspired by Zanzibar’s folklore — like the tales of Ng'ambo the fisherman or the island's hidden pirate treasures.

Morning: Water Sports Extravaganza (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

Kayaking Adventure: Glide across the crystal-clear waters in a tandem or solo kayak. Instructors are available to help beginners, making it a fun, safe activity for the whole family. Paddle along the shoreline, spotting colorful fish and maybe even a dolphin in the distance!
Paddleboarding Fun: Try stand-up paddleboarding — a family favorite! The calm waters around Zanzibar’s beaches make this an ideal spot for beginners. Kids will love the challenge of keeping their balance (and the giggles that come when they fall in!).

Optional Water Sports: For the more adventurous, resorts often offer extra activities like jet skiing, parasailing, or wakeboarding — available at an extra cost.
Snorkeling by the Shore: For families who prefer a calmer option, snorkels are available to explore the shallows, where tropical fish dance around coral patches.


Lunch at the Resort (12:30 PM - 1:30 PM)
After the morning’s adventures, head back to the resort for a refreshing lunch.
For the kids: Chicken tenders, pizza, or pasta with fruit smoothies.
For the adults: Fresh grilled seafood platters, tropical salads, and chilled cocktails.
Specialty dessert: Try a local treat like coconut pudding or mango sorbet — light, sweet, and perfect for a warm beach day.

Afternoon: Free Time (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM)

Explore the Resort: Take advantage of the resort’s amenities — swim in the pool, relax in the spa, or visit the kids’ club if the resort has one.
Beach Walk: Stroll along the shoreline collecting seashells, or let the kids bury dad in the sand for a laugh.
Crafts and Souvenirs: Some resorts offer afternoon crafts — like painting seashells or making bead bracelets — a lovely keepsake to take home.
Optional Adventure: If the family’s feeling extra energetic, consider a short visit to a local village or market to experience Zanzibari culture firsthand.

Evening: Beach Barbecue with Entertainment (7:00 PM onwards)

Sunset Gathering: Head to the beach as the sun begins to set, with soft lanterns and bonfires creating a cozy atmosphere.
Beach Barbecue Feast: Feast on freshly grilled lobster, prawns, chicken skewers, beef kebabs, and vegetarian options. Accompany the mains with grilled veggies, local chapati, salads, and tropical fruit platters — all served buffet style.

Live Entertainment: Enjoy family-friendly performances — from local Swahili drummers to acrobats, and a fire-dancing show that will captivate everyone.
Games for Kids: Many resorts offer fun beach games like sack races, tug-of-war, or limbo contests.
Music and Dancing: Wrap up the night dancing under the stars, with a DJ or live band playing a mix of popular songs and local beats.

Morning: Leisure Time at the Resort (8:00 AM - 10:00 AM)

Final Ocean Dip: Take one last splash in the warm turquoise waters or a relaxing swim in the resort pool — a perfect way to savor Zanzibar’s tropical charm one last time.
Souvenir Shopping: Visit the resort’s gift shop or nearby market stalls to pick up unique Zanzibari keepsakes. Look for handcrafted Maasai jewelry, spice packets (cloves, cinnamon, vanilla), wooden carvings, or colorful kanga fabrics to remember the Zanzibar family vacation journey.

Resort Amenities: If the resort offers late-morning activities, this is a great time for a quick mini-golf match, kids’ play area visit, or family photo session around the most scenic spots on the property.
Snack Break: Grab a fruit smoothie or coconut water at the beach bar for a refreshing, tropical goodbye treat.

Check-Out and Airport Transfer (11:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

Check-Out: Settle any bills for extra activities or souvenirs, and ensure passports and travel documents are packed. Many resorts offer a late luggage hold area if you want to squeeze in a last-minute dip or walk on the beach.
Farewell Gift: Some resorts (especially family-friendly ones) may offer kids a small departure gift — like a seashell necklace or certificate of adventure completion — ask the reception if this is possible.

Airport Transfer: A comfortable, air-conditioned transfer awaits to take you to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport. It’s a short drive, around 20–30 minutes from most beachfront resorts near Stone Town.
Driver Tip: If you have extra time before your flight, ask the driver if they can make a quick scenic stop — like a beach lookout point or Stone Town’s iconic buildings — for one last photo.