Zanzibar: Safari Blue Snorkeling Tour with Lunch

Zanzibar: Safari Blue Snorkeling Tour with Lunch offers a compelling way to explore the island’s vibrant waters and idyllic shores. For $180 per person, this tour combines snorkeling in crystal-clear Indian Ocean waters, savoring a fresh seafood meal on Kwale Island, and lounging on a secluded sandbank—all curated for travelers seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation.

What makes this experience particularly appealing are the stunning views of Zanzibar’s turquoise waters, the chance to snorkel among colorful coral reefs, and the opportunity to enjoy a gourmet seafood lunch while surrounded by breathtaking scenery. We also appreciate that the tour includes a sail on traditional dhow boats, giving it an authentic touch.

However, a potential consideration is the tour’s physical nature—non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness might find parts of it challenging. The tour is best suited for travelers comfortable with water activities and looking for an immersive day in nature. Overall, if you’re eager to combine marine exploration with island tranquility, this experience could be a highlight of your Zanzibar trip.

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Key Points

Marine Adventure: Snorkeling in crystal-clear waters among vibrant coral reefs.
Authentic Experience: Sailing on traditional dhow boats with live guides.
Culinary Delight: Gourmet seafood lunch on Kwale Island with picturesque views.
Relaxing Time: Sunbathing and leisurely walking on pristine sandbanks.
Inclusive Tour: Equipment, lunch, and transfers included for a seamless day.
Limited for Non-swimmers: Not ideal for those uncomfortable in open water.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

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Easy Pick-up and Transfer

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup and drop-off, which is a major plus for convenience. Mjaka Island Tours and Safaris handles the logistics smoothly, often with knowledgeable guides who keep the atmosphere lively without being overbearing. Expect to meet your group and the guide early in the morning, setting the tone for a day packed with adventure.

Snorkeling in Zanzibar’s Pristine Waters

The highlight for many is the snorkeling. The waters are described as crystal-clear, perfect for spotting an array of marine life and vibrant coral formations. Reviewers mention that they loved the way the marine world is accessible and easy to navigate, especially with provided snorkeling equipment. The experience is suitable for all levels, but non-swimmers should exercise caution or consider their comfort level with water.

Sail on a Traditional Dhow

The traditional dhow sailing adds an authentic touch. The gentle sway of the boat and the chance to see Zanzibar from the water’s perspective appeal to many travelers. The guides often share interesting tidbits about the local environment and marine life, making the journey educational as well as scenic.

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Lunch on Kwale Island

The seafood lunch on Kwale Island is consistently praised for its freshness and presentation. Surrounded by stunning views of the ocean, guests indulge in generous servings of seafood, complemented by tropical fruits. Several reviews highlight the quality of the meal, describing it as a gourmet experience that exceeds expectations for a day trip.

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Secluded Sandbank Stop

A standout feature of the tour is the stop at a secluded sandbank. This tiny island of white sand is perfect for soaking up the sun, wading in shallow waters, or simply relaxing on your own patch of paradise. Guests often mention how peaceful and picture-perfect this spot is—ideal for photos or quiet reflection.

Swimming in a Mangrove Lagoon

Another memorable part is the swim in a mangrove lagoon, which offers a different perspective of Zanzibar’s coastal ecosystem. The guides often make this part educational, pointing out unique plant and animal species, and enhancing appreciation for the region’s biodiversity.

What to Expect From the Tour

This day-long experience typically lasts around 6 hours, with plenty of time allocated for each activity. It’s designed for those who want a diverse taste of Zanzibar’s marine and island life without the hassle of planning individual excursions.

Transport and Group Size:
The tour uses comfortable transportation, with hotel pickup and drop-off included. Group sizes tend to be moderate, ensuring interactions are intimate enough to feel personal but lively enough to enjoy a convivial atmosphere.

Physical Activity:
While snorkeling and swimming are core components, the tour is generally accessible for travelers with basic swimming skills. Non-swimmers should be cautious, as some parts of the trip involve open water.

Timing:
Most trips depart in the morning and return by early afternoon, providing ample daylight for all activities. This timing also means you’ll catch the best light for photos and avoid the midday heat.

Is This Tour Worth Its Cost?

At $180 per person, the Safari Blue trip offers significant value—especially considering the inclusive nature of the package (snorkeling gear, lunch, transfers, guide). The experience combines adventure with relaxation, and the unique stops like the sandbank and mangrove lagoon add memorable touches that are hard to find elsewhere.

Many reviews note that the seafood lunch is a highlight, with fresh, well-prepared dishes served in a stunning natural setting. Plus, the opportunity to sail on traditional dhow boats enhances the sense of immersion and authenticity.

How It Compares to Similar Experiences

While the listed experiences on GetYourGuide include options like dolphin swims, island visits, or kayaking, this tour’s emphasis on snorkeling, marine exploration, and a gourmet lunch makes it stand out. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, engaging day that combines water activities with scenic relaxation.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Day

Bring Sun Protection: Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essential.
Pack Light but Thoughtfully: A towel, camera, water, and cash for souvenirs or additional snacks.
Dress for the Water: Swimwear and a quick-dry towel are must-haves.
Non-swimmers: Exercise caution and communicate your comfort level to guides.
Timing: Arrive early for pickup, and prepare for a full, active day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals most to travelers who enjoy marine activities and scenic island stops. It’s excellent for those wanting a straightforward, well-organized adventure that combines snorkeling, traditional sailing, and a delicious seafood meal. It’s particularly suited for couples, small groups, or families with kids comfortable in the water.

Travelers seeking a laid-back day in a natural setting, away from crowded beaches, will appreciate the secluded sandbank and tranquil coral lagoon. If you’re not comfortable swimming or prone to seasickness, you might want to weigh that before booking.

The Sum Up

The Safari Blue Snorkeling Tour is a well-rounded way to experience Zanzibar’s marine and island beauty. The combination of snorkeling, a gourmet seafood lunch, and peaceful sandbank lounging delivers a memorable day that balances adventure with relaxation.

This tour offers genuine value through its inclusive pricing, authentic sailing experience, and scenic stops. It’s ideal for travelers eager to explore the vibrant underwater world and enjoy the serenity of Zanzibar’s less-traveled spots.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free, engaging, and picturesque day on the water with plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxation, this trip is likely to meet your expectations—and then some.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient to start and end your day.

What’s included in the price?
The $180 covers snorkeling equipment, a seafood lunch, sailing on a dhow, a sandbank stop, swimming in a mangrove lagoon, a live guide, and Zanzibar seasonal tropical fruits.

Are non-swimmers able to participate?
Non-swimmers can join but should exercise caution during water activities. The guide recommends being comfortable with water for snorkeling.

How long does the tour last?
Most experiences last around 6 hours, from morning pickup to early afternoon return.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, water, and cash for extras or souvenirs.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your travel plans.