From Paje/Jambian: Safari Blue Snorkelling with Lunch

Planning a day out in Zanzibar? If you’re craving a mix of vibrant marine life, beautiful islands, and a tasty seafood meal, the Safari Blue tour offers all that and more. This full-day excursion is popular among visitors who want an authentic experience of Zanzibar’s stunning waters, but it’s not without its quirks. We’ll break down what makes this tour special, what to expect, and whether it’s worth your time and money.

What we love about Safari Blue is the chance to explore hidden lagoons and pristine sandbanks, snorkel amidst colorful coral reefs, and indulge in a delicious seafood barbecue with tropical fruits. Plus, the guides are knowledgeable about the area’s ecology, making the experience educational as well as fun. However, a snag for some travelers is the limited snorkeling spots and the potential for long wait times before boarding, as some reviews highlight.

If you’re someone who enjoys sunny ocean views, marine adventures, and relaxed beach days, this tour could be perfect. It’s especially suitable for travelers eager to see Zanzibar’s marine biodiversity and unwind on uninhabited islands. But if you’re after a highly intensive snorkeling experience or have tight schedules, it’s worth considering the little details before booking.

Key Points

• Includes a seafood barbecue lunch, with vegetarian options available.
• Explores Menai Bay Conservation Area, known for its biodiversity and marine life.
• Snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs is a highlight, guided by experts.
• Uninhabited islands and sandbanks provide tranquil spots for relaxing and exploring.
• Long waits at boarding and limited snorkeling spots can be downsides.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off included, making logistics simple.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting from central Zanzibar or your hotel in Paje, Jambiani, Michamvi, Kizimkazi, Bwejuu, or anywhere nearby, the tour kicks off early in the morning—around 8:00 am. The personalized pickup is a plus, especially since the tour provider, Island Adventure Tours and Safaris, offers flexible hotel collection. This means you don’t have to worry about arranging transport; just be ready to start your adventure.

The journey begins with a drive to Fumba village, where you’ll board a traditional dhow boat. The use of a traditional vessel adds an authentic touch, and it’s quite scenic as you leave the coast behind. The boat ride itself is about an hour or so, sailing toward the Menai Bay Conservation Area, a protected marine reserve.

The Marine Reserve and Sandbank Stop

One of the main highlights is reaching the Menai Bay Conservation Area—a haven for marine life and coral reefs. Once there, the boat anchors at a pristine sandbank. Here, you’ll be able to relax on soft white sands and swim in the clear waters. Reviewers like Nicole appreciated the stunning views and activity-filled day, but some pointed out that the snorkeling time can be limited—often only 10-15 minutes for fish viewing, which might feel brief for avid underwater explorers.

Snorkeling and Marine Experience

The snorkeling spots are with equipment provided, including life jackets and masks. Guides are on hand to assist and ensure you see the best marine sights. Expect to see colorful tropical fish, vibrant coral formations, and perhaps some marine creatures depending on the conditions.

However, reviews reveal some mixed feelings here. Clara noted that there’s only one snorkeling spot, and she found the fish diversity fairly limited, which she felt made the experience feel somewhat rushed and less impressive. The mention of only one snorkeling stop suggests that if snorkeling is your main goal, this tour might not satisfy your deepest underwater ambitions.

Lunch on a Remote Island

Post-snorkeling, the boat heads to an uninhabited island for a seafood barbecue. The feast includes fresh fish, lobster, calamari, and tropical fruits. For vegetarians, options are available, ensuring no one leaves hungry. The lunch experience is often praised for its delicious fresh seafood and the breathtaking scenery surrounding the picnic spot.

Some reviews, like Paul’s, highlight how the food and the boat ride made the day worthwhile, even if the snorkeling was shorter than hoped. The warm ocean breeze and beautiful surroundings make it a memorable meal.

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Hidden Lagoons and Mangrove Forests

The adventure continues with visits to hidden lagoons and mangroves, where travelers can explore unspoiled nature. These stops offer a chance for quiet exploration, perfect for snapping photos or simply soaking in the serenity.

Uninhabited Islands and Relaxation

Throughout the day, the boat stops at secluded islands where you can wander freely, take more photos, or just relax on the untouched beaches. Reviewers like Nicole appreciated the peacefulness and natural beauty of these spots, which provide a true sense of escape from busy tourist areas.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation & Timing

The hotel pickup starts at 8:00 am, and the tour typically lasts around 8 hours, making it a full-day commitment. The group size can vary, but the experience tends to feel intimate given the focus on smaller, personalized tours.

What’s Included & What to Bring

The package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, boat trip, guide fees, snorkeling equipment, lunch, fruits, water, and soft drinks. All taxes and entry fees are covered, removing surprises at the end.

It’s advisable to bring beachwear—think swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen—as most of the activities are outdoors. A hat and sunglasses also help shield you from the sun, especially during the longer boat rides.

Additional Considerations

• The tour is available in multiple languages including English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish, which helps cater to international guests.
• For flexibility, you can reserve now and pay later.
• Cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which is handy if your plans change unexpectedly.
• The tour is not suitable for babies under 1 year.

Authentic Experiences & Common Critiques

While many travelers enjoy the scenery and seafood, some reviews bring up points worth considering. Clara pointed out that waiting 1.5 hours to board was frustrating and that she was disappointed by the limited snorkeling spots and fish variety. She also remarked that the guide’s language skills didn’t match the initial promises, which could affect the experience if language is important to you.

Nicolas added that the visibility of the Blue Lagoon depends heavily on the tides, so it’s not guaranteed you’ll see it. He also emphasized the need for shoes for walking in water, a small but useful tip for future travelers.

Paul noted that, despite the boat ride and lunch being enjoyable, the snorkeling times were quite short—about 10-15 minutes for fish—and that the windy conditions on the sandbank could require covering up well.

Despite these critiques, many still find the tour to be a worthwhile day out for the relaxing scenery, tasty food, and marine exploration.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day centered on marine life and beautiful islands. It suits those who appreciate guided outdoor adventures, enjoy seafood meals in picturesque settings, and don’t mind a bit of waiting or limited snorkeling time.

If you’re after an intensive snorkel or dive trip, you might want to look elsewhere. But if your goal is to combine relaxing beach time with light snorkeling and cultural surroundings, Safari Blue will tick those boxes.

It’s also a good choice for families, romantic couples, or groups wanting a safe, organized, and scenic day with plenty of photo opportunities.

The Sum Up

The Safari Blue snorkeling tour offers a beautiful blend of marine discovery, island relaxation, and delicious food. While it may not satisfy hardcore snorkelers seeking multiple dive spots or extensive underwater exploration, it compensates with its stunning scenery, knowledgeable guides, and tranquil beaches.

The experience is most valuable for those who enjoy guided tours with a balance of activity and downtime, and who appreciate the chance to sample fresh seafood in a picturesque setting. The hotel pickup adds convenience, and the overall package provides good value considering the full-day itinerary and included extras.

For travelers seeking an authentic and scenic day in Zanzibar’s waters, with a chance to unwind and enjoy local cuisine, Safari Blue stands as a reliable, charming choice. Just be prepared for some limitations on snorkeling duration and potential wait times.

FAQ

How early do I need to be ready for pick-up?
The pickup typically starts at 8:00 am, so it’s best to be prepared by then. Confirm your pickup time with the tour provider to ensure smooth coordination.

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring beachwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. It’s also wise to carry water and a towel, especially if you plan to swim or relax on the sand.

Is vegetarian lunch available?
Yes, the seafood barbecue includes vegetarian options, so vegetarians can enjoy the meal along with seafood lovers.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride to the marine reserve from Fumba village takes about an hour. The journey offers scenic views and sets the tone for a relaxing day.

Are the snorkeling spots good?
The snorkeling is guided and usually in vibrant coral reefs. However, some travelers have mentioned that there’s only one snorkeling spot, with limited fish variety. Conditions depend on the weather and tides.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s suitable for older children, but very young babies under 1 year are not recommended. Consider your child’s swimming ability and comfort with boat rides.

In summary, Safari Blue provides a peaceful, picturesque day enjoying Zanzibar’s marine environment, with the added bonus of a delicious seafood meal. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to combine light adventure with relaxation, especially if you value guided insights and scenic stops over multiple snorkeling sessions.

You can check availability for your dates here: