Why Tanzania is the top family destination in Africa

Tanzania is an incredible family-oriented location just waiting to be explored. Whether you're on a safari to witness the breathtaking wildlife or relaxing on a beach along the Indian Ocean, Tanzania excels at family travel.

Tanzanians are known for their warmth, and traveling with children enhances the experience, creating unique connections. Whether on safari or enjoying a beach vacation, the tourism industry caters well to families with family-friendly accommodations, menus, and activities designed to ensure a memorable visit.

Is Tanzania suitable for children?

If you've considered a trip to Africa with your kids, Tanzania might be the perfect introduction.

First and foremost, Tanzania boasts world-class attractions that captivate visitors of all ages. With safari parks showcasing some of the most thrilling wildlife on Earth, your kids will find it hard to enjoy a zoo again after this experience.

The beaches here are equally remarkable, featuring safe and accessible shorelines. While certain activities may have age restrictions for safety, adventures like snorkeling in the vibrant marine ecosystems around Tanzania’s islands could ignite a lifelong passion for the ocean in your child.

Tanzania is renowned for its skilled and professional tourism sector. Whether your adventure focuses on a safari in the national parks or a beach retreat along the coast – we highly recommend enjoying both – operators and accommodations are well-equipped to welcome families, having done so for many years.

Above all, it’s the Tanzanian people who make this destination truly memorable. Just watch your guide’s face light up upon meeting your children, and you’ll understand what we mean. While Tanzania might not offer the same child-friendly facilities found in Europe or other regions—yes, supermarkets provide most essentials, but you might struggle to find changing rooms or smooth pathways for strollers—locals are quick to lend a hand to visiting families in need.

Where in Tanzania is best for children?

There are two primary regions in Tanzania that are particularly suitable for family travel. The first is northern Tanzania, which offers a variety of national parks. Accommodations and tour operators in this region are generally more experienced in catering to families than those in other parts of the country. Moreover, the wildlife in northern Tanzania is among the finest in Africa.

The second ideal area for families is Zanzibar, known for its cultural and beach tourism, boasting a tourism sector that rivals that of the safari industry in terms of experience.

Top activities in Tanzania for infants and toddlers

A seaside getaway

For families traveling with infants or toddlers, a beach vacation is far more suitable than a wildlife safari. Taking very young children into the wilderness can be stressful, as you'll constantly need to ensure they don’t wander into the unfenced wild, unaware of the potential dangers posed by both large (lions, elephants) and small (scorpions, fire ants) creatures. Zanzibar, in particular, offers fantastic beach resorts featuring child-friendly pools, spacious lawns, and play areas (some even have playgrounds) alongside dining options. In areas like Nungwi at the northern tip of Zanzibar, the beaches lead to calm, nearly wave-free lagoon waters.

Top activities to enjoy in Tanzania with children

Wildlife safari

There's nothing like witnessing your first elephant or lion in their natural habitat, an unforgettable experience for your children. Most wildlife drives are conducted in open-sided 4WD vehicles with canvas roofs and tiered seating, allowing you to be fully immersed in the surroundings. While it's completely safe, even the calmest child will feel a rush when a lion gazes at them from just a few meters away. Serengeti National Park is among the finest safari destinations in the world. Nearby, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire National Parks offer equally exciting opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Maasai cultural experiences

Much of northern Tanzania is situated on the traditional lands of the Maasai, providing many chances for guided visits to a Maasai community. This is particularly true around the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, home to Ngorongoro Crater, where village visits allow you to explore a small Maasai community. Children are often treated as esteemed guests, welcomed into family homes and invited to join in traditional dances. Visiting with a Maasai guide can lead to a meaningful experience that your kids will remember long after returning home.

Beach activities

While you might want to unwind at a resort, there are plenty of opportunities for more adventurous activities. The waters surrounding Zanzibar and other coastal regions like Pemba and Mafia Island are teeming with marine life and vibrant coral, making snorkeling an excellent option. The most memorable excursions often involve sailing on a dhow (a traditional wooden boat) while enjoying a picnic lunch on the water.

Top activities in Tanzania for teenagers and tweens

Many experiences that appeal to younger kids—such as wildlife safaris, cultural interactions, and snorkeling—are also popular with teens and tweens.

Experience hunting with the Hadzabe

The region surrounding Lake Eyasi is inhabited by several Hadzabe communities that continue to live traditionally. Unlike other cultural experiences, visits with the Hadzabe involve participating in their morning hunt for food, an activity they would engage in regardless of visitors. This offers a captivating glimpse into a culture that has remarkably endured the pressures of modernity.

Culinary classes

A popular activity throughout Tanzania, from Arusha to Zanzibar, involves touring local markets with a chef and then learning to prepare traditional Swahili dishes. This makes for a refreshing change of pace for a day or half-day, providing valuable insights into the local way of life.

Scuba diving

Tanzania boasts a variety of dive schools, and adventurous teens might enjoy the challenge of scuba diving, which offers an entirely new underwater experience. Imagine them returning home excitedly sharing stories about how they learned to dive during their trip!

Hot-air balloon adventure

Experiencing a hot-air balloon safari over the Serengeti is an enchanting way to take in this breathtaking landscape. While it comes at a premium, it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to gaze down at a herd of elephants or to appreciate the vast Serengeti plains as the sun rises.

Tips for planning your trip

Taking a toddler on safari can be costly. To ensure a smoother experience, consider arranging a private safari, as the sounds of even the calmest babies may disturb wildlife and affect other guests’ enjoyment. Traveling during the off-peak season can also help, as you'll find lower accommodation and tour prices along with fewer tourists.

Regardless of your children's ages, discuss safari etiquette with them and ensure they follow their guides' instructions at all times. It's crucial for a positive safari experience.

Avoid trying to cover too much ground, especially with younger children. Focus on visiting a few locations thoroughly instead.

Nowadays, most accommodations offer wifi, even in remote safari areas, although it may be limited to common areas. Set expectations by finding out in advance where wifi access is available, so your kids know when they can connect with friends back home.