My love affair with Zanzibar goes way back to childhood holidays spent exploring the island with my parents and siblings. Zanzibar, a beautiful blend of African and Arabian culture, has always had this magical pull. Its stunning natural beauty, the blue skies meeting the ocean, and a rich mix of history and culture never fail to captivate me. Returning as an adult, this time with my own wife and children, made our recent trips extra special. Over the last 18 months, I’ve had the joy of visiting twice, and each time, Zanzibar has left me with new, unforgettable memories.
After the physical challenge of summiting Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar was the perfect antidote. Its endless beaches, clear blue skies, and fascinating history gave me exactly what I needed—an opportunity to relax, recharge, and spend time with my friends in the most beautiful setting imaginable.
Our Stay: Hayat in Stone Town & Nungwi
We kicked off our stay at the Hayat Regency in Stone Town, a hotel I’d definitely recommend. It ticks all the boxes for comfort, service, and international standards. The food was superb, the rooms were comfortable, and we felt really well looked after. The only slight downside was that the hotel shares a public beach. While it wasn’t the most private experience, the charm and beauty of Stone Town more than made up for it.
From there, we headed to Nungwi, which I have to say, is one of the most breathtaking places I’ve ever seen. Famous for its soft white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, Nungwi looks like something straight out of a travel brochure. The contrast of the turquoise water against the bright blue sky is nothing short of postcard-perfect. It’s worth mentioning that Nungwi is about an hour’s drive from the airport, but trust me, it’s well worth the journey for what’s waiting at the other end.
Family-Friendly Adventures in Zanzibar
Zanzibar is packed with activities that are fun for both adults and kids. Here are a few of the incredible experiences we had:
- Spice Farm Walk and Fruit Tasting Zanzibar is renowned for its spices, so a visit to one of the local spice farms was a must. We went on a guided tour through the vibrant plantations, learning about spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. The smells were incredible, but the highlight for the kids was definitely the fruit tasting. They tried fresh mango, passion fruit, and jackfruit straight from the farm—a real treat! It’s a fantastic way to connect with Zanzibar’s agricultural roots.
- Prison Island A short boat ride from Stone Town, Prison Island is the perfect day trip. Originally intended as a prison, it’s now a sanctuary for giant tortoises, and my kids were absolutely mesmerised by these gentle giants, some of which are over 100 years old! Feeding and interacting with them was a real highlight, and the island’s history made the experience even more fascinating.
- Sandbank BBQ Imagine this: a tiny sandbank in the middle of the ocean, surrounded by clear blue waters, and a BBQ of fresh seafood being prepared just for you. That’s exactly what the Sandbank BBQ offered, and it was nothing short of magical. We spent the day lounging on soft sand, swimming in the sea, and tucking into a delicious meal. It’s an experience I’d highly recommend for anyone visiting Zanzibar—it felt like our own private slice of paradise.
- Swimming with Tortoises Yes, you read that right—swimming with tortoises! This was one of the most unique experiences we had in Zanzibar, and it’s perfect for families. Watching these gentle creatures glide through the water was a calming and surreal experience. My kids were blown away, and it’s something none of us will forget anytime soon.
- Water Horse Riding Horse riding is always a hit with kids, but riding horses through the water? That takes it to another level. The horses were calm and well-trained, and splashing through the waves as we rode along the shore was an unforgettable experience. This activity is perfect for families of all ages and adds a magical touch to our beach day.
Practical Tips for UK Travellers
Travelling to Zanzibar from the UK couldn’t be easier. UK citizens can get a visa on arrival, or if you prefer to be more organised, you can apply online before you go. Plus, airlines like Qatar Airways and Emirates fly direct to Zanzibar, making it a stress-free journey to this tropical haven. The warm welcome of the Zanzibari people, coupled with the island’s stunning scenery, makes it a must-visit destination.
Zanzibar: Where Africa Meets Arabia
Zanzibar is an extraordinary blend of African soul and Arabian charm, with its rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring the spice markets, soaking up the sun on the beaches, or immersing yourself in the vibrant local culture, there’s always something new to discover.
For me, visiting Zanzibar after my Kilimanjaro adventure was the perfect choice. It’s a place that’s deeply ingrained in my childhood memories, and now I have the joy of creating new ones with my own family. If you’re after a mix of relaxation, adventure, and culture, Zanzibar should definitely be on your travel list.