Zanzibar: Safari blue tour

Introduction

Thinking about exploring Zanzibar’s coast beyond the usual beaches? Then the Safari Blue Tour might be just what you need. This full-day excursion promises a blend of nature, culture, and history, all wrapped up in a relaxed, sea-based adventure. From snorkeling among tropical fish to visiting iconic islands, it’s designed for travelers eager to see Zanzibar’s waters and islands from a different perspective.

What makes this tour appealing? First, you get to explore five distinct points, each offering a unique experience — from pristine sandbanks to natural lagoons. Second, it’s highly praised for its delicious local seafood and tropical fruits, making the food experience a highlight. And third, the sailing on a traditional wooden boat adds an authentic touch that transports you back to Zanzibar’s historical maritime roots.

Of course, no experience is perfect for everyone. A potential consideration is that the tour is quite full-on, with several stops in a single day, so travelers wanting a slow, unhurried pace might find it a bit busy. Still, it’s ideal for those who love outdoor adventures, snorkeling, and culture.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy water activities, want a rundown of Zanzibar’s coastal environment, and appreciate local cuisine. It’s perfect for those looking for a full-day, value-packed trip that offers authentic experiences and memorable scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Full-day sea adventure with multiple island stops and snorkeling
• Includes local seafood lunch and tropical fruits for a true taste of Zanzibar
• Opportunities to explore historic sites like the Baobab tree with cultural significance
• Traditional wooden boat sailing offers a glimpse into Zanzibar’s maritime past
• All essential gear provided, including snorkeling equipment and entry tickets
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

What the Safari Blue Tour Involves: A Deep Dive

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins with hotel pickup — a convenient way to start your day without worrying about transportation logistics. Once you arrive at the meeting point, you’ll join a group and board a traditional wooden dhow, a vessel that echoes Zanzibar’s historic sailing routes. The boat ride alone is a highlight, often described as a peaceful cruise, especially if the wind is gentle, as one reviewer noted, “we sailed with the moon soon wind, just like the Arabs and Portuguese did centuries ago.”

The first stop is usually Kwale Island, a small island fringed with white sand and calm waters. Here, you can walk on the sandbank and enjoy a picture-perfect setting with plenty of opportunities for relaxing or snapping photos. Reviewers like Martin mentioned this part: “A wonderful trip on a wooden boat to the sandbank or Kwale Island. After a sumptuous fruit platter and snorkeling, the seafood was outstanding!”

Next, you’ll head to snorkeling spots where you can observe colorful tropical fish and coral reefs. The provided snorkeling gear makes it easy for everyone to participate, regardless of experience. Many guests, including Hermann, appreciated the guides, like Abdul, who explained the marine life and ensured everyone felt comfortable in the water.

One of the most iconic stops is the Blue Lagoon, a natural pool with tranquil waters perfect for swimming and taking photos. It’s an idyllic spot with crystal-clear water, often praised for its calmness and beauty.

The visit to the Baobab Tree introduces a layer of local superstition and cultural significance. This ancient, massive tree is often surrounded by stories, making it a meaningful stop for those interested in local traditions.

The Food and Cultural Experience

A major highlight of the tour is the lunch. Served on the beach or a picnic area, it features local seafood, often fresh and cooked in traditional styles. Alongside the seafood, expect soft drinks and tropical fruits, adding a sweet and refreshing touch to the meal. As Martin beautifully described, “We were treated to local seafood more than you could eat, extremely delicious.”

Throughout the day, guides share insights into Zanzibar’s history and culture, adding depth to the sightseeing. For instance, the sail back, if wind conditions are right, offers a chance to appreciate traditional sailing techniques, reminding you of Zanzibar’s role as a historic maritime hub. This sailing experience is often described as relaxing and authentic.

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Practical Details: What’s Included and Tips

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which personalizes the experience from the start. You’ll have snorkeling gear, entry tickets, soft drinks, tropical fruits, and lunch covered in the price of $114. The use of a traditional wooden boat enhances the cultural authenticity, making the journey feel more connected to Zanzibar’s maritime history.

What to bring? Pack comfortable shoes for walking on islands and a towel to dry off after snorkeling or swimming. It’s also wise to bring sunscreen and a hat to shield yourself from the sun during stops.

The tour operates in English, and booking is flexible, with options to reserve now and pay later. Should your plans change, you can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund, which adds peace of mind.

Travel Pacing and Group Size

Expect a full day, typically starting early, with multiple stops that balance activity and relaxation. The group size tends to be moderate, which means more personalized attention from guides like Abdul, who received positive reviews for his friendliness and knowledge.

Authentic Encounters and Reviews

Both Martin and Hermann praised the professionalism and friendliness of the guides, noting Abdul’s multilingual skills and attention to safety. Hermann highlighted the driver Salum’s punctuality and kindness, emphasizing how smooth the logistics were.

Authentic experiences like the sailing on the wooden dhow and tasting traditional seafood really elevate the trip beyond mere sightseeing. The reviews suggest that for many, the combination of scenic beauty, cultural storytelling, and delicious food creates a well-rounded adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy water-based activities like snorkeling and sailing. If you’re looking for a culture with meaningful stops like the Baobab Tree and island visits, this tour offers plenty of opportunities.

It’s also ideal for foodies who want to taste authentic local seafood and tropical fruits. The full-day schedule makes it good for those with enough time to explore without feeling rushed.

However, if you prefer a very slow pace or have mobility issues, the multiple stops and walking on sand and boat decks might require some consideration. The tour’s historical sailing component is a lovely touch but might not appeal to those solely seeking leisure.

The Sum Up

The Safari Blue Tour in Zanzibar offers a compelling blend of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and delicious local cuisine. It provides a rundown of Zanzibar’s coastal environment, with enough variety to keep everyone engaged. The stops at stunning islands, snorkeling spots, and the Blue Lagoon make for fantastic photos and memorable moments, while the traditional boat ride adds a layer of authenticity.

For travelers who love the sea and outdoor adventures, this tour delivers great value — especially considering the included seafood lunch and snorkeling gear. The relaxed yet comprehensive itinerary means you’ll come away with a genuine feel for Zanzibar’s maritime spirit.

It’s a wonderful choice for those wanting a lively, full-day experience that combines nature, culture, and history in a beautiful setting. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a group, the Safari Blue Tour promises a day full of authentic coastal joys.

FAQ

What’s included in the price?
The tour price of $114 covers hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch with local seafood, soft drinks, tropical fruits, snorkeling gear, entry tickets, and the use of a traditional wooden boat.

How flexible is the booking?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a towel, sunscreen, and a hat. These items will help you enjoy the stops comfortably, especially since you’ll be walking on islands and swimming.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Most stops involve snorkeling and swimming, so non-swimmers or very young children should consider their comfort level. However, the calm waters at the Blue Lagoon are generally safe for a quick dip.

How long does the tour last?
The trip is a full-day adventure, typically starting early with pickups and ending in the late afternoon or early evening, depending on sea conditions and the itinerary.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, guides like Abdul are praised for their friendliness and multilingual skills, providing valuable insights into Zanzibar’s marine life and cultural history during the tour.

Can I expect a crowded experience?
The group size tends to be moderate, allowing for personalized attention and a more relaxed experience. The boat rides and stops are well-paced to avoid feeling overcrowded.

In summary, if you’re after an authentic, scenic, and fun-filled day that showcases Zanzibar’s natural beauty and culture through snorkeling, island visits, and local cuisine, the Safari Blue Tour is a fantastic pick. Its blend of adventure and authentic touches makes it a memorable addition to any Zanzibar itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: