Full-day Safari Blue Trip in Zanzibar with Lunch buffet

A Closer Look at the Safari Blue Trip in Zanzibar

If you’re dreaming of exploring Zanzibar’s crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life without the hassle of planning every detail, the Safari Blue trip might just be your ideal escape. This full-day adventure promises a mix of snorkeling, relaxing on sandbanks, and enjoying a delicious seafood buffet—all wrapped up with convenient hotel transfers. While we haven’t personally sailed these waters, reviews paint a picture of a memorable experience, especially for lovers of sun, sea, and marine marvels.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the expert-guided snorkeling at some of Zanzibar’s top spots, including coral reefs and lagoon waters. Second, the chance to relax on a calm sandbank, often accompanied by sightings of dolphins, according to some reviews. Third, the seafood buffet on Kwale Island offers a tasty reward after hours of underwater exploration. A potential con? The experience isn’t perfect for those wanting a completely private or personalized trip—it’s a group tour. Still, it suits travelers looking for an authentic, hassle-free day on the water.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned snorkeler, this tour is best suited for those who want a comprehensive day out that balances adventure and relaxation. If your goal is to see Zanzibar’s marine life comfortably and enjoy local flavors, this tour could be a fantastic choice.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Snorkeling, sandbank relaxation, and seafood buffet in one day.
• Guided snorkeling: Expert-guided spots ensure you see the best marine life and coral reefs.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics stress-free.
• Group setting: Max group size of 25 helps maintain a lively yet manageable environment.
• Good value: At $149.99, it includes meals, snacks, water, and all fees.
• Authentic moments: Chances of dolphin sightings and unique photo opportunities.

What to Expect on the Safari Blue Tour

Starting with hotel pickup, your day begins early—around 8 AM—so getting enough rest beforehand is advisable. The transfer in an air-conditioned vehicle from your Zanzibar hotel to Fumba sets the tone for a comfortable day. Once there, you’ll board a traditional wooden dhow boat—an iconic vessel that adds to the charm of Zanzibar’s maritime culture.

The Journey to the Sandbank

The first stop is a beautiful sandbank in calm waters, accessible only by boat. It’s a prime spot for swimming, sunbathing, or just soaking in the views. Reviewers mentioned that dolphins are sometimes spotted en route—an exciting bonus if your luck is in. The sandbank is also perfect for relaxing, meditating, or snapping photos with the crystal-clear waters and endless horizon as your backdrop. Light refreshments like fresh fruits are served, making it an ideal moment to unwind.

Snorkeling at Reefs and Lagoons

Next, your guide will take you to some of the most vibrant snorkel sites. Expect colorful fish—possibly even schools of them—fluttering around coral formations. Some reviews mentioned that guides are knowledgeable, helping you spot marine life and ensuring everyone’s safety. You’ll snorkel at a reef that teems with life, and then at a mangrove-framed lagoon—an area praised for its clarity and tranquility.

The lagoon is a favorite among reviewers for its calm, clean waters and photo opportunities. One reviewer noted that it’s “a great place to take some memorable photos,” and others appreciated the chance to swim freely in such pristine surroundings.

Kwale Island and the Seafood Buffet

The final stop takes you to Kwale Island for a seafood buffet. The meal features lobsters, tuna, calamari, octopus, prawns, chicken, rice, and vegetable soup. Vegetarian options are available, making it flexible for different diets. After eating, a visit to an old baobab tree with a unique shape provides a fun and photogenic ending to the day.

The buffet is generally considered a highlight—satisfying and flavorful, with fresh seafood that many reviewers found delightful. Plus, the relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff add to the overall experience.

Return and Relaxation

After a leisurely lunch, your boat ride back to Fumba concludes the day. Your driver will be waiting to take you back to your hotel, wrapping up around 3-4 PM. The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, giving you plenty of time for exploration without feeling rushed.

The Experience in Practice: Pros and Cons

What travelers love:
Guided snorkeling with knowledgeable guides ensures you won’t miss the best marine sights, and their patience and safety awareness are often praised. The chance to see dolphins, if lucky, adds a magical element. The crystal waters of the lagoon and sandbank are often described as postcard-perfect, offering perfect spots for photos and relaxation. The seafood buffet on Kwale Island is a major plus for those wanting a genuine taste of local cuisine.

What could be improved:
Some reviews highlight issues with customer communication—like delayed or confusing pickup times, which could be problematic if you’re unfamiliar with the area. The experience is on a group basis, so if you prefer complete privacy or a bespoke itinerary, it might not suit your tastes.

Value for money:
At $149.99 per person, the tour is quite comprehensive. It includes all fees, meals, snacks, water, and hotel transfers, which together represent good value considering the convenience and variety of activities packed into one day.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Morning pickup: Ensures you’re collected from your hotel in the early morning, setting you up for an adventurous day. The drive to Fumba, approximately 30-45 minutes from many Zanzibar hotels, is comfortable and straightforward.

Sandbank stop: The highlight for many—an isolated stretch of sand in calm waters. Expect to swim, relax, and perhaps see dolphins along the way. Be sure to bring your camera; the views are spectacular.

Snorkeling sessions: Guided by locals who know the reef areas well, you’ll see a rainbow of fish and coral. The reef is accessible for snorkelers of all levels, which makes it a relaxed yet exciting experience.

Lagoon swim: Surrounded by mangroves, the lagoon offers an even more peaceful environment, with glassy waters perfect for wading or floating.

Kwale Island and lunch: The seafood buffet is served outdoors in a breezy setting, with options catering to vegetarians. After eating, a quick visit to the iconic baobab tree rounds out your day.

Return journey: A scenic boat ride back to Fumba, followed by hotel drop-off, completes the 7-hour adventure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers wanting an active day in Zanzibar’s waters without the hassle of organizing multiple activities themselves. If you love snorkeling, are keen on fresh seafood, and enjoy scenic boat rides, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s suitable for groups, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate guided experiences in a lively, social environment.

However, if you’re seeking a private, personalized tour or want to focus solely on snorkeling without the group aspect, this might not be the best fit. Also, be mindful that the tour’s success heavily depends on weather conditions—dolphins or good visibility can’t be guaranteed.

The Sum Up

The Safari Blue trip offers a richly layered day that combines adventure, relaxation, and local flavor. With guided snorkeling at beautiful sites, the chance to relax on a deserted sandbank, and a tasty seafood buffet, it ticks many boxes for a memorable Zanzibar experience. The inclusion of hotel transfers simplifies logistics, making it accessible and convenient.

This tour is especially well-suited for travelers eager to explore Zanzibar’s waters without the stress of planning every detail, and who enjoy a lively group atmosphere. While it’s not perfect—occasional communication hiccups and limited customization—overall, it offers excellent value and authentic moments that showcase the island’s marine beauty.

For those wanting a day packed with scenic sights, marine encounters, and delicious food, this Safari Blue trip is a solid choice that’s likely to leave you with lasting memories—and plenty of photos.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your Zanzibar hotel, making the day more convenient.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, starting early in the morning and returning by mid-afternoon.

Are vegetarian options available for the buffet?
Yes, vegetarian options are provided alongside the seafood offerings.

What should I bring?
It’s wise to bring sunscreen, a hat, snorkel gear if you have your own, a towel, and waterproof camera or phone for photos.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best to consider swimming ability and comfort with boat rides for children.

How many people are in a group?
The tour typically caters to groups of up to 25 travelers, fostering a lively but manageable atmosphere.

Can I see dolphins during the trip?
Dolphins are sometimes spotted en route, but sightings are not guaranteed and depend on luck and weather.

What is the price for the tour?
It costs $149.99 per person, which includes meals, water, snacks, all fees, and transfers.

This detailed review aims to help you decide if the Safari Blue trip aligns with your Zanzibar adventure plans—balancing the thrill of marine exploration with the ease of guided, all-inclusive travel.