unforgettable full-day Safari Blue experience in Zanzibar,

Planning a trip to Zanzibar and looking for an adventure that combines breathtaking scenery with authentic local flavor? The Safari Blue tour offers just that — a full-day journey across the turquoise waters of Menai Bay, filled with snorkeling, relaxing on pristine sandbanks, and feasting on fresh seafood. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed reviews and descriptions paint a picture of an experience that’s both exciting and relaxing, suited for those who love marine adventures and beautiful beaches.

What I love about Safari Blue is the chance to explore Zanzibar’s vibrant marine life while enjoying the comfort of a traditional dhow boat. The opportunity to snorkel among coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, relax on remote sandbanks, and indulge in a seafood feast on Kwale Island truly makes it stand out. Plus, the inclusion of hotel transfers and guided tours adds convenience and peace of mind. The one thing to keep in mind? This is a full-day activity, so it’s best suited for those with moderate fitness who love being on the water.

A possible consideration is that the tour is weather-dependent, meaning bad weather could lead to rescheduling. It’s also worth noting that dolphins are spotted frequently but not guaranteed — a thrill if they appear, but not a promise. This experience suits travelers seeking a mix of adventure, relaxation, and scenic beauty, especially those eager to explore Zanzibar’s marine environment.

Contents show

Key Points

Incredible marine encounters with coral reefs, tropical fish, and occasional dolphin sightings
Comfortable dhow sailing with professional guides on a traditional vessel
Unique sandbank relaxation with stunning views and photo opportunities
Fresh seafood lunch with vegetarian options on Kwale Island
All-inclusive experience with transfers, snorkeling gear, drinks, and fruits
Weather-dependent activity, so flexibility may be needed

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary: What’s Included and What You Can Expect

While the full schedule can vary slightly depending on weather and group size, the overall day is designed to maximize your exposure to Zanzibar’s natural beauty. The experience begins early, with pick-up around 7:30 AM from your hotel — an ideal start to make the most of daylight hours. Once onboard the traditional dhow, you’ll glide through Menai Bay, feeling the salty breeze and soaking in the scenic views.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Zanzibar Archipelago

Sailing to Menai Bay and the Marine Environment

The vessel, often crewed by experienced guides and friendly crew members, offers a genuine sailing experience on a traditional Swahili dhow. We loved the way the guides shared insights into the marine environment, making the cruise more enriching. Keep your waterproof camera handy — the views are stunning, but also watch out for dolphins, which are spotted frequently, weather permitting.

Snorkeling in Vibrant Coral Reefs

The highlight for many is snorkeling in Zanzibar’s crystal-clear waters. The reefs are filled with vibrant corals and tropical fish, according to reviews — “We saw a huge variety of fish and even some small sharks,” one traveler noted. The snorkeling equipment provided is of decent quality, and guides are helpful in pointing out marine life. Moderate swimming ability is recommended, as some areas might be a little deeper or have currents.

Relaxing on a Sandbank

One of the most memorable moments is lounging on the pristine sandbank, with the Indian Ocean stretching in all directions. Guests report that the sandbanks are beautifully untouched, perfect for relaxing or taking photos. The experience of floating in the calm waters surrounded by endless blue is something many describe as surreal.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Seafood Feast on Kwale Island

After a morning of water activities, the tour stops at Kwale Island for a delicious seafood lunch, which is often praised for its freshness and variety. Vegetarian options are available upon request, making it suitable for different dietary needs. Soft drinks, water, and fresh fruits are included, allowing you to enjoy the meal without extra expenses.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Zanzibar Archipelago

Exploring Kwale Island and the Lagoon

Post-lunch, you can explore the island or enjoy the lagoon’s calm waters. Some reviews mention that guides sometimes organize small excursions or walks around the island, adding to the experience.

Return Voyage and Sunset Views

The day winds down with the journey back to Fumba, with most travelers noting how the sunset views from the boat are breathtaking. Dolphin spotting is possible on the return cruise, although it’s not guaranteed — but the chance to see these intelligent creatures is definitely high enough to keep hopes alive.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

This tour is priced at $286 per person, which covers a lot of ground — hotel transfers, snorkeling gear, meals, drinks, and the boat experience. Considering the full-day commitment, this is quite good value, especially given the inclusion of local guides and well-organized logistics.

Transportation from your hotel is smooth, with pick-ups starting early in the morning, allowing you to maximize daylight hours. The boat ride itself is comfortable, with ample space for relaxing and enjoying the scenery. While the group size varies, reviews suggest it’s generally a small to medium-sized tour, making it easier to get personalized attention and better interaction with guides.

The tour lasts approximately 7-8 hours, making it a full day well-spent. It’s important to wear comfortable swimwear, bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and waterproof camera protection. Towel and extra clothes are recommended for after snorkeling or swimming.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and anyone wanting a break from the beach resorts to see Zanzibar’s marine environment firsthand. It’s also suitable for families, as children can participate but must be accompanied by an adult. The moderate fitness level requirement means it’s accessible for most, but those prone to seasickness or with back problems should consider their comfort.

Final Thoughts: Is Safari Blue Worth It?

The Safari Blue experience offers a fantastic way to explore Zanzibar’s marine charm without the hassle of planning multiple activities separately. The combination of sailing, snorkeling, relaxing on sandbanks, and feasting on seafood creates a well-rounded day that appeals to a variety of travelers.

You’ll love the chance to float above coral reefs, enjoy the serenity of secluded beaches, and indulge in fresh local cuisine. The knowledgeable guides and smooth logistics make the day comfortable and safe, even if you’re new to snorkeling or boat trips.

That said, it’s a full-day activity, so it’s best for those who enjoy being on the water and don’t mind a bit of boat motion. The weather can influence the day’s mood, but most reviews mention that the experience remains memorable regardless of conditions.

If you’re craving a mix of adventure, relaxation, and scenic beauty with a genuine local touch, Safari Blue in Zanzibar is a top pick. It’s a chance to create lifelong memories while exploring one of Africa’s most stunning coastlines.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, round-trip transfers from your hotel are part of the package, making the start of your day seamless.

How long does the tour last? The full-day experience lasts about 7-8 hours, from morning pick-up to late afternoon return.

What should I bring? Sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, waterproof camera, and extra clothes for after swimming.

Is snorkeling equipment provided? Yes, snorkeling gear is included in the tour, and guides are available to assist beginners.

Are vegetarian options available for lunch? Absolutely, vegetarian dishes can be requested when booking.

Can children join? Yes, children can participate but must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is suitable for most ages with moderate fitness.

What if the weather is bad? The tour may be rescheduled if weather conditions are unsuitable for boating or snorkeling.

Are dolphin sightings guaranteed? No, but dolphins are frequently seen in Menai Bay; sightings depend on weather and luck.

Is it suitable for non-swimmers? Non-swimmers should inform guides, as snorkeling and swimming are part of the experience, but guides help ensure safety.

What is the value for money? Considering all inclusions and the full-day itinerary, the price is reasonable for a memorable, well-organized marine adventure.

In essence, the Safari Blue tour in Zanzibar is a fantastic way to experience the island’s marine treasures, enjoy delicious local cuisine, and relax on untouched beaches. If you love ocean adventures mixed with scenic beauty, this is a day you’ll remember long after you leave Zanzibar.

You can check availability for your dates here: