Safari Blue Zanzibar: Snorkeling Adventure with Lunch
Planning a trip to Zanzibar and looking for an experience that combines marine adventures, cultural insights, and stunning scenery? The Safari Blue tour from Teyezilla Adventures might just be the highlight of your vacation. Based in the Unguja South Region, this full-day excursion promises a blend of snorkeling, dolphin spotting, and delicious seafood — all wrapped in a relaxed, authentic atmosphere.
What attracted us most about this trip? First, the chance to see playful dolphins in their natural habitat, a true highlight for marine lovers. Second, the opportunity to explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish, which promises one of the best snorkeling experiences in Zanzibar. And third, the sandbank picnic, a magical moment where you can lounge on pristine white sands with fresh seafood in hand. The only potential downside? With so many activities packed into one day, it’s a long, full-on experience that might not suit travelers seeking a slow-paced, laid-back beach day. But for those eager for adventure, this tour is a perfect choice.
This tour is ideal for travelers who love marine life, cultural encounters, and delicious food. It’s great whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or as a family. Just keep in mind that a fair bit of the day is spent on boat trips, so if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a relaxed, land-based vacation, it’s worth considering.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Comprehensive experience: Includes snorkeling, dolphin spotting, a sandbank lunch, and cultural insights.
- All-inclusive: Covers transportation, snorkeling gear, meals, and refreshments, offering good value for $95.
- Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides, like those mentioned in reviews, enrich the experience with local insights.
- Stunning scenery: Expect breathtaking views during boat rides, on sandbanks, and around uninhabited islands.
- Wildlife encounters: Opportunities to see dolphins and explore vibrant coral reefs.
- Flexible booking: Reserve with the option to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for peace of mind.
Looking for more options in Fumba? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
An In-Depth Look at the Safari Blue Experience
Starting Point: From Your Hotel to Fumba Village
The adventure kicks off with hotel pickup in Zanzibar, making it a breeze to start your day without logistical hassle. You’ll be transferred to Fumba, a small fishing village that acts as the gateway to this marine adventure. The pickup is generally smooth, and guides like those from Teyezilla Adventures are known for their friendly professionalism, helping set a relaxed tone for the day.
Traditional Dhow and the First Stop: Menai Bay Conservation Area
Once aboard a traditional dhow, you’ll begin your sail across the waters of Menai Bay, a protected marine area renowned for its biodiversity. The boat ride itself offers wonderful photo opportunities, with clear blue waters and the chance to spot local fishermen at work. This initial leg is also where you’ll get your first hints of the trip’s rhythm—leisurely, scenic, and full of anticipation.
More Great Tours NearbyDolphin Spotting: Playful Encounters
One of the most talked-about parts of this tour is dolphin watching. Guides are experienced and often manage to find pods of dolphins playing in the wild. Several reviews mention spotting them right next to the boat, sometimes swimming underneath or leaping alongside. Guides emphasize respecting the dolphins’ space, so you’re likely to see them in their natural behaviors rather than in artificial displays.
Snorkeling Among Vibrant Coral Reefs
After dolphins, the fun continues with snorkeling at prime spots full of colorful coral and tropical fish. Guides like those from the tour have been praised for their knowledge, helping guests identify fish and providing safety tips. The reefs are lively, with many visitors noting encounters with exotic fish, starfish, and even some curious sea turtles. The snorkeling gear is included, making it easy for everyone to participate, regardless of experience level.
The Sandbank Lunch: Seafood with a View
A highlight for many is the lunch on a secluded sandbank. Surrounded by turquoise waters and empty beaches, you’ll enjoy a seafood barbecue featuring fresh fish, lobster, calamari, and tropical fruits. The meal is often described as delicious, with the setting adding a touch of magic. Reviewers mention how peaceful and picturesque it is to dine with only the sound of waves and the seagulls overhead.
Exploring Hidden Lagoons and Mangroves
The tour continues with visits to serene lagoons and mangrove forests, offering quiet moments away from the busy reefs. This part of the trip is appreciated for its tranquility and the chance to see Zanzibar’s ecological diversity up close. Guides share insights into local ecosystems, making it more than just a pretty boat ride.
Island Wandering and Dolphin Chases
The trip doesn’t end there. Visitors can explore small uninhabited islands, perfect for wandering, relaxing, or taking photos. And if luck is on your side, you might spot dolphins again during the return journey. The guides are attentive, sharing stories that add context and depth to the scenery.
Practical Details: What’s Included and What to Bring
Included in the $95 price are hotel pickup and drop-off, snorkeling gear, the seafood barbecue lunch, refreshments, an entry fee, a guide fee, and a boat trip. Many reviews highlight the good value for such a comprehensive experience, especially considering the quality of the seafood and the knowledgeable guides.
It’s recommended to bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and swimming cap for comfort and sun protection. The trip lasts roughly a full day, so packing light and being prepared for sun and water activities is key.
Authentic Experiences and Practical Insights
From firsthand reviews, guides like those from Teyezilla Adventures tend to be friendly, well-informed, and eager to share local stories, which enriches the day. Travelers also note the size of the groups is manageable, maintaining an intimate, relaxed atmosphere without feeling crowded.
The timing is generally well-organized, with most tours starting early and wrapping up late afternoon, maximizing daylight hours for water activities. The option to reserve and pay later adds flexibility, especially for spontaneous travelers, while the 24-hour cancellation window provides peace of mind.
While the activities are many, the boat rides are often highlighted as smooth and comfortable. Expect some bouncing on the water, but guides are attentive to safety, and snorkeling spots are carefully chosen to be accessible to all levels.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?
If you’re after a lively, diverse day exploring Zanzibar’s marine environment, this tour offers excellent value. You’ll experience the thrill of dolphin sightings, the beauty of coral reefs, and the serenity of unspoiled beaches—all with knowledgeable guides and a delicious seafood feast. It’s a full-on day that balances adventure with relaxation, making it ideal for those who want to make the most of their time in Zanzibar.
The quality of the seafood and the professionalism of the guides are consistently praised, making it worth the price for many travelers. Plus, the chance to learn about local fishing traditions and ecological efforts adds depth to the experience.
However, if you prefer quiet beach days or are sensitive to boat motion, consider whether a full-day water-focused trip suits your style. That said, for anyone eager to see marine life, snorkel vibrant reefs, and enjoy a scenic lunch, the Safari Blue tour is hard to beat.
FAQ
How do I book this tour?
You can reserve through providers like Teyezilla Adventures, with options to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours before the trip.
What is included in the price?
The $95 fee covers hotel pickup/drop-off, snorkeling gear, a seafood barbecue lunch, refreshments, entry and guide fees, and the boat trip.
Do I need to bring my own equipment?
No, snorkeling gear is provided, but bringing your own mask and cap can add comfort and familiarity.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the activities are generally family-friendly, but check with the provider about specific age restrictions or considerations for young children.
How long does the trip last?
It’s a full-day experience, starting in the morning and returning in the late afternoon.
What should I wear?
Light, quick-drying clothes, swimwear, sun protection like hats and sunscreen, and a towel are recommended.
Final Remarks
For travelers eager to combine marine adventures, cultural insights, and stunning scenery, the Safari Blue Zanzibar tour offers a well-rounded, memorable day. The mixture of dolphin encounters, coral reef snorkeling, and a beachside seafood feast makes it a compelling choice for those wanting to experience Zanzibar’s natural beauty firsthand.
While it’s a busy day, it’s also a chance to tick many boxes — wildlife, scenery, local culture, and delicious food — all wrapped into one affordable package. Whether you’re a solo traveler chasing adventure or a couple seeking a romantic day on the water, this tour provides value and a genuine taste of Zanzibar’s vibrant marine life.
In summary, the Safari Blue tour is best suited for active travelers who want a full immersion in Zanzibar’s waters, wildlife, and local flavor. It’s not just a boat trip but an experience that leaves you with stories and memories, not just souvenirs.
You can check availability for your dates here: