Zanzibar: Blue Lagoon Snorkeling With Starfish Tour

Zanzibar: Blue Lagoon Snorkeling With Starfish Tour Review

Imagine floating in tranquil, turquoise waters, surrounded by colorful fish and the occasional glimpse of a vibrant starfish resting peacefully on the sandy seabed. That’s exactly what you get with the Blue Lagoon Snorkeling With Starfish Tour in Zanzibar. While I haven’t personally been on this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of an experience that’s both accessible and breathtaking.

One of the standout features is the vibrant marine life—schools of tropical fish swimming close enough to touch, and starfish adding a splash of color to the seabed. The calm, shallow waters make it ideal for beginners, but the stunning underwater scenery will keep even seasoned snorkelers captivated. Plus, the inclusion of fresh fruits offers a sweet, refreshing break during your adventure.

That said, a potential consideration is that hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included—something to keep in mind when planning your day in Zanzibar. This tour seems best suited for travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic, and family-friendly snorkeling experience that offers a real taste of Zanzibar’s underwater beauty.

Key Points

• Accessible for all levels: Calm, shallow waters make it safe for beginners and comfortable for experienced snorkelers.
• Vibrant marine life: Expect colorful fish and starfish in their natural habitat.
• All necessary gear included: Snorkeling equipment provided for a hassle-free experience.
• Affordable value: At $80 per person, it offers a comprehensive snorkeling experience with added perks like fresh fruits.
• Flexible booking: Reserve now, pay later, with cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• No hotel transfer: Plan to arrange your own transportation to the lagoon.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: What to Expect on the Tour

The Blue Lagoon in Zanzibar is a shallow, crystal-clear body of water that’s perfect for snorkeling. From the moment you arrive, the calmness of the lagoon is striking, providing a safe environment for exploring marine life up close. The tour is designed to be leisurely, typically lasting a few hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the water without feeling rushed.

Your day begins with a brief safety briefing and equipment fitting—the snorkeling gear, including masks, fins, and snorkels, is included, making it easy to jump in without stress. Guides often speak multiple languages—English, French, German, and Italian—so language isn’t a barrier. Many reviews note that guides are friendly and helpful, with some mentioning guides like “Attam tour & safari” as reliable and professional.

Once in the water, the experience is almost meditative. Soft sunlight dances across the lagoon’s surface, illuminating the colorful coral and rocks below. Expect to see schools of tropical fish gliding past and, if lucky, close encounters with starfish resting on the sandy seabed. Finding these striking creatures is often a highlight, as they add a splash of vibrant orange, red, or purple to the seabed—an up-close glimpse into Zanzibar’s marine biodiversity.

One reviewer mentioned: “The peaceful waters and the starfish were truly mesmerizing, and it felt like swimming in an aquarium.” That’s a pretty fitting description for what most travelers experience.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

The Arrival and Preparation

Most tours start with a pickup from your hotel or accommodation—although, as noted, this isn’t included in the tour price. Once at the lagoon, the guides conduct a quick orientation, emphasizing safety rules such as not touching marine life, to preserve the environment. This focus on responsible snorkeling is appreciated and crucial for maintaining the lagoon’s fragile ecosystem.

Snorkeling in the Blue Lagoon

The main event is the snorkeling itself. The lagoon’s shallow, calm waters make it an ideal playground for spotting marine creatures without the need for advanced swimming skills. While you’re floating with your mask and snorkel, schools of tropical fish swirl past, often in synchronized patterns that are almost hypnotic.

Guests often comment on how easy it is to see the starfish. One reviewer said, “They’re resting quietly on the seabed, and their vivid colors make them impossible to miss.” The soft light filtering through the water enhances the visual experience, creating perfect photo moments.

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Encountering Starfish

Starfish are a standout feature of this tour. Resting peacefully on the seabed, these creatures showcase a variety of colors and shapes. It’s a rare chance to observe these animals in their natural environment, rather than in a tank or aquarium. Of course, guides remind everyone to admire from a distance and avoid touching, which is important both for your safety and for the starfish’s wellbeing.

Post-Snorkel Relaxation and Refreshments

After your underwater adventure, most tours include a stop to enjoy fresh fruits—a sweet, hydrating snack that’s especially welcome under the Zanzibar sun. This break also gives you time to chat with fellow travelers or simply soak up the serene surroundings.

Optional Extras and Tips

While the tour provides all necessary gear, bringing a few personal items can enhance your experience. A beach towel, sunscreen, and sun hat are essentials. Comfortable shoes for walking to and from the lagoon are also recommended.

Remember, this experience is suitable for beginners, but even experienced snorkelers will find the tranquility and beauty rewarding. If you’re traveling with kids or less confident swimmers, the shallow waters and gentle currents are reassuring.

The Value of the Tour

At $80 per person, this tour offers a balanced mix of affordability and quality. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and fresh fruits adds to its value, especially considering the cost of similar marine activities elsewhere. Compared to more commercialized excursions, this experience tends to be more relaxed and personal, often with smaller groups and friendly guides.

Travelers often praise the professionalism of the Attam tour & safari team, noting their knowledge and attention to safety. The flexible booking options—”reserve & pay later” and free cancellation up to 24 hours—are added convenience, allowing you to plan without stress.

While hotel transfers are not included, most visitors find this manageable by arranging local transport or taxis. The tour’s location in the Unguja South Region is accessible and well-signposted, making it easy to reach.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This snorkeling trip is perfect for travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic experience without the need for advanced equipment or skills. Families with children, first-time snorkelers, or anyone wanting a gentle introduction to Zanzibar’s underwater world will find it especially appealing.

Nature lovers will appreciate the chance to see vibrant marine life up close, while those on a budget will value the competitive price point. If you’re seeking a peaceful escape in a beautiful setting, the Blue Lagoon tour ticks most boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pick-up and drop-off included?
No, the tour price does not include transportation; travelers need to arrange their own transfer to the lagoon.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, towel, sunscreen, and beachwear to stay comfortable and protected during your day.

Can this tour accommodate beginners?
Yes, the lagoon’s calm and shallow waters make it suitable for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.

Are marine animals like starfish protected?
Absolutely. The guides emphasize not touching marine life to preserve the environment.

What is the duration of the snorkeling experience?
Most tours are a few hours long, providing ample time to enjoy snorkeling and relax afterward, including fresh fruit breaks.

Is there an option to cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

The Blue Lagoon Snorkeling With Starfish Tour offers a genuine taste of Zanzibar’s underwater charm. Its shallow, tranquil waters make it accessible for all levels, while the vibrant marine life and starfish encounters create memorable moments. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and refreshments adds to its practicality and value, making it a well-rounded choice for those seeking a peaceful, scenic marine adventure.

This experience is best suited for travelers wanting a relaxing, family-friendly outing that showcases Zanzibar’s natural beauty without the need for strenuous activity or complex logistics. The affordability combined with professional guides and responsible environmental practices makes it a smart pick for anyone eager to explore the island’s underwater treasures.

Whether you’re new to snorkeling or simply after a peaceful day on the water, this tour strikes a lovely balance of fun, safety, and natural wonder. It’s a straightforward yet charming way to connect with Zanzibar’s marine environment and take home stories of vibrant fish, starfish, and gentle waves.

You can check availability for your dates here: