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Zanzibar Family Holiday

Duration
9 days
Price from
£1,106 pp.
Location
Zanzibar, Africa
Pongwe beach aerial 2

Trip Highlights

  • Relax on stunning white sand beaches
  • Explore Stone Town
  • Family adventures

What's Included

  • All transfers
  • Luxury beachfront hotel
  • 8 nights accommodation

Sandy Toes & Spice Trails

A Family Adventure to Zanzibar: Sun-Soaked Shores, Swahili Culture, and Unforgettable Moments by the Sea

There is something truly special about arriving in Zanzibar. The moment you step off the plane, you are wrapped in warm sea air and the scent of spices that hint at the island's rich Swahili heritage. This trip begins with two nights in the heart of Stone Town, staying at the charming Zanzibar Coffee House - a characterful boutique hotel tucked away in the winding alleys of the old town. It's an ideal base for a gentle introduction to island life, with just enough adventure to keep children curious and engaged.

Stone Town is a treasure trove for little explorers. From watching boats drift across the harbour to spotting colourful chameleons in the shady courtyards, there is plenty to capture young imaginations. Families can wander through bustling markets, sample sweet local treats like sugarcane juice and fresh mango, or hop on a short boat ride to Prison Island to meet giant tortoises. It is a fun, safe way to get a feel for local culture - and parents will love the blend of history, architecture, and vibrant daily life.

After soaking up the energy of the town, the pace slows right down with six nights on the quiet east coast at Pongwe Beach Hotel, where you will stay in a spacious two-bedroom beachfront family suite just steps from the sand. This is where the real relaxation begins. Pongwe's calm, shallow waters make it one of the most family-friendly beaches on the island, perfect for paddling, sandcastle-building, and snorkelling close to shore. The laid-back atmosphere means days can unfold however you like - from guided reef walks at low tide to afternoon naps in a hammock.

What we love about Pongwe for families is its simplicity. There is no kids club or noisy entertainment - just space, comfort, and plenty to keep everyone happy. The staff are warm and welcoming, the food is fresh and unfussy, and the rhythm of the days quickly falls into that perfect holiday balance: enough to do, but never too much.

This trip is a brilliant combination for families, whether you are looking for a relaxed, standalone holiday in Zanzibar or a peaceful beach break after the excitement of a safari in Kenya or Tanzania!

Trip Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival in Zanzibar & Settle into Stone Town

Welcome to ZANZIBAR! After your international flight, you will be met at the airport by one of our friendly local team and transferred to the Zanzibar Coffee House, a lovely little hotel tucked away in the heart of Stone Town. This historic building oozes character - all carved doors, latticework balconies, and the irresistible aroma of roasting coffee drifting up from the café below.

Once you have settle in, spend the afternoon wandering the narrow, sun-dappled streets of Stone Town. It's like stepping into a storybook - with brightly painted doors, hidden courtyards, and the gentle bustle of island life all around. Children love the sense of adventure here, following alleyways, spotting cats sleeping on scooters, and tasting fresh coconut from local vendors. In the evening, take a stroll along the seafront and grab a bit to eat the lively Forodhani night market or a nearby family-friendly restaurant.

Day 2 Discover the Magic of Stone Town

Stone Town 2 1

Today is all about getting to know Stone Town. We recommend starting with a gentle guided walking tour, tailored for families. Your guide will bring the town's fascinating history to life in a way that is fun and accessible for children. Along the way, you will visit the Old Fort, the House of Wonders, and colourful local markets where little ones can practice their Swahili greetings.

A highlight for many families is a visit to Prison Island, just a short boat ride across the turquoise waters. There, you will meet the island's famous residents - giant Aldabra tortoises - and enjoy a bit of snorkelling or simply splashing in the shallows. Back in Stone Town, there is time for ice cream at a local café and maybe a rooftop sundowners (fresh juice for the kids!) before heading back to your hotel for a relaxed evening.

Day 3 Transfer to Pongwe Beach & Settle into Paradise

Staying at Pongwe Beach

After breakfast, it's time to leave the bustle behind as you're transferred to the quiet east coast of the island. The drive takes around an hour and a half, winding through spice plantations and sleepy villages before arriving at the palm-fringed shores of Pongwe Beach.

You will be staying in a spacious two-bedroom beachfront family suite at Pongwe Beach Hotel, just steps from the white sand and sparkling lagoon. It's the kind of place that immediately makes you exhale. Unpack, kick off your shoes, and let the kids run down to the beach while you settle into island life. Dinner is served under the stars, with fresh seafood, tropical fruit, and something delicious for even the fussiest of eaters.

Day 4-8 Beach Days and Family Adventures

Zanzibar beach

These are your days to slow right down, unwind, and enjoy quality time together. Pongwe is wonderfully suited for families - the beach is peaceful and safe, with calm, shallow waters perfect for young swimmers. Spend lazy mornings building sandcastles, collecting shells, or floating in the warm sea. At low tide, guided reef walks reveal a miniature underwater world that kids find endlessly fascinating - from starfish and sea cucumbers to tiny crabs and darting fish.

If you're feeling more adventurous, we can help arrange snorkelling trips, local dhow cruises, or a visit to a nearby spice farm where children can touch, smell, and taste the real spices behind their favourite foods. Back at the hotel, the infinity pool offers a welcome break from the sun, and the restaurant serves a relaxed mix of local and international dishes - all freshly made and full of flavour.

Evenings here are simple and special. Paddle in the shallows as the sun sets, play cards on the terrace, or gaze up at the stars as the sound of the sea lulls you into holiday mode. It is a chance to reconnect as a family, away from screens and schedules, with the time and space to just enjoy each other's company.

Day 9 Say your goodbyes

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Duration

9 days

Location

Zanzibar, Africa

Price from

£1,106 pp.

Price Includes

  • Accommodation as outlined with meals & drinks as listed
  • Private transfers

Price Excludes

  • International flights
  • Tips, gratuities, and expenses of a personal nature

Price is per person based on two adults and two children (below 12) sharing excluding international flights in low season.

The trip includes all accommodations. Rooms and meals are as below:

  • 2 nights at Zanzibar Coffee House sharing in the Family Bourbon Suite with breakfast included
  • 6 nights at Pongwe Beach Hotel in the two bedroom Beach Front Family Suite on a half-board basis


Trips in Zanzibar

Zanzibar Trip Inspiration

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Our Zanzibar Experts
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When to go to Zanzibar

Find out the best time to visit Zanzibar with our month by month guide.

  • Best
  • Good
  • Mixed
  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec

January

January is dry season in Zanzibar, it is the best time to swim with whale sharks and exploring the isles corals reefs and exotic fish, with water clarity of 25 meters.

February

February is dry season in Zanzibar, it is the best time to swim with whale sharks and exploring the isles corals reefs and exotic fish, with water clarity of 25 meters.

March

In March Zanzibar experiences a period of long rains - showers become more frequent and it can be very wet from the middle of March.

April

The long rains make April a mixed month to travel, as beaches along the Indian Coastline become very hot and wet. Activities like scuba diving take a turn, with water clarity decreasing due to the weather. We would recommend not travelling during this time.

May

Temperatures during May are high, with strong winds and continual rainfall. If you travel during this time you won't witness the best of Zanzibar.

June

June, the wet season is finally over, temperatures are cooler making it a beautiful time to lounge on the beach or explore the culturally rich Stone Town. Sporadic rainfall may occur across the month.

July

Dry season is in full swing, with consistent weather over this period with little wind and low rainfall. Diving is good during July with clarity levels increasing.

August

Dry season is in full swing, with consistent weather over this period with little wind and low rainfall. Diving is good during August with clarity levels increasing as long as the weather remains temperate.

September

Dry season is in full swing, with consistent weather, the added bonus of September is the possibility of whale watching.

October

October is the ideal month for exploring coral reefs and exotic marine life, with water clarity of 25 meters or more it is perfect for any water lovers. The weather remains temperate, with little wind and rainfall.

November

November brings the arrival of the summer rains and winds, but if you're a keen fisherman, billfish season kicks off. Otherwise, it is the best time to swim with the mighty whale shark and to go coral reef diving.

December

The wet season continues in Zanzibar during December. However, it is the best time to swim with whale sharks. Diving is not at its best but visibility is good for exploring the isles corals reefs and exotic fish.

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Have a look at our original experiences and then contact us with your questions, or call 0203 111 1315

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