Zanzibar is a popular family destination, but the airport arrival experience requires some preparation, especially around vehicle safety and the drive to beach resorts.
The airport with kids
The terminal is small and basic. There are no family-specific facilities. Restrooms are available but not to the standard you might expect from larger airports. The walk from baggage claim to the exit is short. Luggage trolleys may or may not be available.
The arrivals area is outdoors under a roof. It can be warm and crowded when flights arrive. Move through it promptly to find your driver or negotiate a taxi.
Car seats
Child car seats do not exist in the Zanzibar taxi market. Drivers do not have them, and there is no rental system at the airport. If your child needs a car seat, bring your own travel seat. This is the only guaranteed solution.
Some premium transfer services may be able to provide a car seat if requested well in advance, but confirm this explicitly before relying on it. Do not assume it will be available.
The road to beach resorts
If you are staying at a beach resort (Nungwi, Paje, Kendwa, Kiwengwa), the drive is 45-90 minutes on roads that range from acceptable to poor. Potholes are common. Some sections are unpaved. Speed bumps through villages are frequent and sometimes unmarked.
For children, this means a bumpy ride. Bring entertainment and snacks. Make sure everyone is belted in, even though enforcement is lax. The road conditions are the strongest argument for a higher-quality transfer vehicle over a random taxi.
Vehicle choice
Airport taxis range from small sedans with limited space to larger SUVs. With a family's luggage, a stroller, and children, you need a vehicle with adequate space. A standard sedan may not fit everything.
Booking a transfer allows you to specify the vehicle type. For families, an SUV or minivan is usually the right choice. The extra space makes the potentially long drive to beach areas much more bearable.
Practical tips for families
- Bring your own car seat. This cannot be emphasized enough.
- Book a larger vehicle (SUV or minivan) if you have strollers and multiple bags
- Have US dollars for the visa ($50 per adult, $50 per child in most cases) and for any transport
- Bring water and snacks for the drive to beach resorts since there are limited stops along the way
- If your resort offers airport pickup, take it. They know the roads and use appropriate vehicles.
- The drive to Stone Town is only 10-15 minutes, so even without ideal conditions, it is brief
Stone Town vs beach resort logistics
If you are spending a night in Stone Town first, the short airport-to-town drive is easy with children. The challenge comes with the longer drive to beach areas. Some families break the trip by spending a day in Stone Town before heading to the coast, which avoids a long drive immediately after flying.
Zanzibar is wonderful for families once you reach your destination. The airport arrival and drive are the part that needs planning. With the right vehicle and some preparation, it is manageable.