Sail the turquoise waters of Menai Bay on a traditional dhow, snorkel over vibrant coral reefs, savor a seafood BBQ on a sandbank, and watch dolphins in the wild — all in one unforgettable Safari Blue day tour.
Why Choose This Package?
- 🐬 Dolphin Watching Delight – See dolphins in their natural habitat without disturbing them, guided by ethical marine practices.
- 🤿 Snorkeling in Menai Bay – Dive into Zanzibar’s most vibrant coral reefs with safe, guided snorkeling ideal for all levels.
- 🦞 Seafood BBQ on a Sandbank – Savor a delicious seafood feast in one of the most unique settings on the planet: a sun-kissed sandbank.
- ⛵ Traditional Dhow Sailing – Travel the way locals have for centuries and enjoy the romantic charm of a handcrafted Swahili dhow.
- 📸 Stunning Scenery – Perfect for photography lovers, with panoramic views, underwater colors, and magical dolphin encounters.
- 👨👩👧👦 Great for All Ages – Whether you’re a couple seeking romance or a family looking for fun, this experience caters to everyone.
- 🚐 Convenient & All-Inclusive – Includes hotel pick-up/drop-off, dhow cruise, snorkeling gear, seafood lunch, and expert guides.
Trip Description
Zanzibar Safari Blue Day Tour
The Zanzibar Safari Blue Day Tour is the most iconic sea excursions, offering a rich blend of marine exploration, culinary delight, and coastal adventure — perfect for couples, families, and solo travelers seeking a full-day escape into the Indian Ocean.
Your Zanzibar Safari Blue Day Tour begins with an early hotel pick-up and transfer to the departure point, where you’ll board a traditional wooden Swahili dhow. As the sail catches the wind, you’ll glide across the crystal-clear waters of Menai Bay, a protected marine conservation area renowned for its beauty and biodiversity.
The adventure begins with a guided snorkeling session, where you’ll discover thriving coral reefs teeming with colorful fish and marine life. All snorkeling gear is provided, and experienced guides are on hand to ensure your safety and comfort.
After your aquatic exploration, you’ll land on a remote sandbank, where a fresh seafood BBQ lunch awaits. Feast on grilled fish, lobster, calamari, and tropical fruits, all served with spectacular ocean views. Whether you’re basking in the sun, swimming, or simply relaxing in the shade, the sandbank stop is a highlight of the day.
The afternoon brings another incredible opportunity: dolphin watching. Cruise through the bay in search of playful pods of dolphins as they leap and swim beside the boat. Witnessing these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat is truly magical.
Uncover the magic of Zanzibar with our Zanzibar Travel Guide — your ultimate companion for exploring pristine beaches, rich culture, and unforgettable adventures!
After a fulfilling day at sea, you’ll sail back to shore and be transferred to your hotel, filled with new memories and stunning photos from your Zanzibar Safari Blue Day Tour. For more details on Zanzibar tourism visit Wikipedia.
Trip Highlights
- 1. Snorkel Among Vibrant Coral Reefs
- 2. Enjoy a Seafood BBQ on a Sandbank
- 3. Watch Dolphins in Their Natural Habitat
Highlight Description
🌊 1. Snorkeling Safari in Menai Bay Marine Reserve
- 🐠 Dive into Vibrant Coral Gardens: Explore the spectacular underwater world of Menai Bay, Zanzibar’s premier marine reserve. Guided by experienced snorkelers, you’ll swim among lively coral reefs filled with tropical fish, sea turtles, and colorful marine creatures. The calm, crystal-clear waters make it ideal for both beginners and seasoned snorkelers.
- 🧜 Safe & Guided Underwater Adventure: All snorkeling equipment is provided, and expert guides ensure a safe, informative, and exciting experience. They’ll point out unique marine species and share fun facts about the reef’s delicate ecosystem.
- 🐢 Marine Life Encounters: You might even spot sea turtles gracefully swimming by or glimpse stingrays gliding across the ocean floor — unforgettable moments in Zanzibar’s turquoise paradise.
🏝️ 2. Seafood BBQ on a Pristine Sandbank
- 🍽️ Indulge in a Tropical Feast: Relax on an exclusive white-sandbank in the middle of the Indian Ocean and enjoy a freshly prepared seafood barbecue featuring grilled lobster, calamari, fish, and a tropical fruit platter. Vegetarian options are also available.
- 🌞 Unwind in Paradise: After your meal, sunbathe, swim, or stroll along the sandbank surrounded by nothing but blue skies and gentle waves. Capture breathtaking photos of the stunning seascape and enjoy the serenity of nature.
- 📸 Scenic Views & Island Vibes: The backdrop of turquoise waters and distant palm-fringed islands creates the perfect setting for a tranquil, picture-perfect beach escape.
🐬 3. Dolphin Watching Excursion
- 🐬 Observe Dolphins in the Wild: Set sail on a traditional dhow boat to spot pods of bottlenose and humpback dolphins in Menai Bay. These playful creatures often swim close to the boat, offering thrilling, up-close encounters without any chasing — part of a responsible and ethical marine tour.
- 🚤 Eco-Friendly & Educational: Learn from local guides about Zanzibar’s efforts in dolphin conservation and the importance of sustainable marine tourism. Gain a deeper appreciation for the marine ecosystem while enjoying the natural spectacle.
- 💙 Memorable Marine Moments: Watch dolphins leap and spin through the waves, creating magical memories that make this tour a highlight of any Zanzibar trip.
Itinerary
🌅 Morning: Sail Into the Blue
🕗 08:00 AM – Hotel Pick-Up
Your ocean adventure begins with a comfortable morning pick-up from your hotel in Zanzibar. As you prepare for a day of exploration and relaxation, make sure you have your essentials ready for the trip ahead.
🕘 09:00 AM – Dhow Departure to Menai Bay
Board a traditional Swahili dhow and set sail toward the stunning Menai Bay Conservation Area. With the wind in your sails and the turquoise waters glistening around you, this scenic journey offers panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and the surrounding coastline.
🕤 09:30 AM – Snorkeling in Coral Reefs
Anchoring near a prime snorkeling spot, you’ll dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant coral gardens and tropical fish. With provided equipment and expert guidance, explore the underwater world of Zanzibar's rich marine ecosystem for an unforgettable snorkeling experience.
☀️ Afternoon: Seafood, Sandbanks & Dolphins
🕛 12:00 PM – Seafood BBQ Lunch on a Secluded Sandbank
By midday, you’ll arrive at a breathtaking sandbank surrounded by endless sea views. Here, a freshly prepared seafood BBQ lunch awaits—featuring grilled fish, calamari, lobster, tropical fruits, and refreshing drinks. Enjoy your meal barefoot in the sand as you soak in the serene ambiance of this private paradise.
🕑 02:00 PM – Dolphin Watching Experience
After lunch, the dhow continues cruising through Menai Bay, known for its resident bottlenose and humpback dolphins. Keep your eyes on the waves as these playful creatures swim, spin, and leap alongside the boat—offering a magical glimpse into their natural behavior.
🕞 03:30 PM – Return to Hotel
As the day winds down, sail back across the bay with the ocean breeze at your back. Upon reaching shore, you'll be transferred to your hotel, carrying memories of sun-soaked beaches, marine encounters, and the tranquil charm of Zanzibar Safari Blue day tour experience.
Included Excursions
This immersive full-day ocean safari in Zanzibar’s Menai Bay Conservation Area blends marine adventure, dolphin encounters, and traditional dhow sailing with authentic island hospitality. Each included activity is carefully designed to give you a rich taste of Zanzibar’s natural beauty and Swahili seafaring culture.
🌊 Morning Marine Discovery
- 🛶 Traditional Dhow Sailing Experience – Set sail from Fumba on a hand-crafted Swahili dhow—an iconic wooden boat used by Zanzibari fishermen. As you glide across the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, soak in spectacular views of coastal mangroves, small islands, and marine birdlife. The journey itself is a peaceful, scenic highlight.
- 🐠 Coral Reef Snorkeling in Menai Bay – Your first stop is a carefully selected snorkeling site within the Menai Bay Conservation Area. With crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, this area is a snorkeler’s paradise. Dive in to discover colorful tropical fish, reef structures, and other marine life—ideal for underwater photography and marine enthusiasts.
🍽️ Midday Serenity & Island Flavors
- 🏝️ Secluded Sandbank Picnic & Beach Time – Relax on a pristine sandbank in the middle of the ocean—an idyllic escape surrounded by water. Lounge in the sun, walk along the white sand, or take a refreshing swim. This exclusive setting offers a peaceful interlude from your marine excursions.
- 🍤 Gourmet Seafood BBQ Lunch – Enjoy a freshly grilled seafood buffet served beachside, featuring Zanzibar’s signature catch: lobster, prawns, calamari, and snapper—accompanied by rice, tropical fruits, and soft drinks. This barefoot dining experience under the sun is a culinary highlight of the day.
🐬 Afternoon Dolphin Encounters & Sailing
- 🐬 Dolphin Watching in Menai Bay – Continue your cruise through dolphin-rich waters. Menai Bay is home to bottlenose and humpback dolphins, often seen swimming beside the dhow or playfully jumping through the waves. This ethical dolphin experience allows for unforgettable sightings in their natural habitat.
- 🪸 Swimming in the Natural Lagoon (subject to tides) – Depending on the day’s tides, enjoy a refreshing swim in a hidden natural lagoon surrounded by mangroves. This serene environment provides a moment of tranquility, perfect for floating, meditating, or simply connecting with nature.
- ⛵ Scenic Sail Back to Shore – As the sun begins to lower, sail back across the shimmering sea, capturing the golden glow of the Zanzibari horizon. The return journey allows time for reflection and photo ops—ending your ocean adventure on a high note.
- 🚐 Hotel Transfers (Included) – Round-trip hotel transfers are included for your convenience, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience from start to finish.
Includes/Excludes
Cost Includes
- Dhow cruise.
- Snorkeling equipment.
- Seafood BBQ lunch.
- Professional guide.
Cost Excludes
- Alcoholic beverages.
- Personal expenses.
Trip Location
Location: Zanzibar Island, Tanzania
Zanzibar, an archipelago off the coast of Tanzania, is a paradise known for its stunning white-sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and rich cultural history.
- 🌴 Pristine beaches: Relax on some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, where soft white sands meet the gentle waves of the Indian Ocean. Top beach destinations like Nungwi, Kendwa, Paje, and Matemwe offer ideal settings for sunbathing, romantic strolls, and beachside dining. The tranquil waters also make them perfect for swimming and paddleboarding.
- 🏛️ Historic Stone Town: Wander through the narrow streets of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, rich with history, Swahili culture, and a blend of Arab, Indian, and European influences. Discover ancient buildings, coral stone architecture, the House of Wonders, and Freddie Mercury’s childhood home.
- 🛍️ Local markets: Experience the vibrant local markets such as Darajani Market, where you can purchase fresh tropical fruits, colorful fabrics, exotic spices, and handmade crafts. These markets offer an authentic insight into the daily life of Zanzibaris and are perfect for souvenir shopping.
- 🌿 Spice Farms: Visit the famous spice plantations and learn about Zanzibar’s nickname—“The Spice Island.” Discover how cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla, and cardamom are grown, harvested, and processed. Spice tours often include interactive experiences, tastings, and traditional Swahili meals.
- 🐒 Jozani Forest: Explore this lush forest reserve located in the heart of the island. It’s home to the rare and endangered Red Colobus Monkeys, which are unique to Zanzibar. The forest also features mangrove boardwalks, medicinal plants, and various bird species—ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
- 🤿 Water activities: Dive into thrilling water sports in the clear, warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, kite surfing, dolphin tours, and traditional dhow cruises. Popular marine spots include Mnemba Atoll and Chumbe Island Coral Park, known for vibrant coral reefs and rich marine biodiversity.
- 🎭 Cultural tours: Engage in immersive cultural experiences to learn about Swahili traditions, local music, Taarab performances, village life, and Zanzibari cuisine. Participate in cooking classes, visit local schools, or join a traditional wedding dance ceremony.
- 💑 Romantic getaways: The island offers a serene and picturesque setting, making it an ideal destination for honeymoons and couple’s retreats. Enjoy private beach dinners, luxury resorts, sunset dhow rides, and couple’s spa treatments. Zanzibar is a top choice for romantic experiences with a cultural twist.
Map
Things To Do In Safari Blue Zanzibar
Additional Activities and Excursions
Enhance your Zanzibar Safari Blue Day Tour with a variety of enriching and exciting optional experiences available for an additional cost. These activities are perfect for travelers looking to dive deeper into Zanzibar’s marine life, Swahili culture, and pristine island environments, while enjoying relaxation, adventure, and discovery.
🐢 Snorkeling with Marine Guide – $15 USD per person
Join a professional marine guide for an enhanced snorkeling session over vibrant coral reefs. Learn about the Indian Ocean’s marine biodiversity and get up close with colorful fish species, starfish, and sea urchins. Ideal for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.
🏝️ Sandbank Photography Experience – $12 USD per person
Capture unforgettable moments on the powdery white sandbanks of Menai Bay. A local photographer will assist with stunning photo compositions of your island adventure. Perfect for couples, solo travelers, and social media-ready content.
🍢 Swahili Cooking Demonstration & Tasting – $18 USD per person
Discover the rich flavors of Zanzibar’s culinary heritage with a Swahili cooking experience. Learn how to prepare traditional dishes like pilau, octopus curry, or coconut chapati, followed by a delicious tasting session.
🧜♂️ Traditional Ngalawa Canoe Ride – $20 USD per person
Sail the shallow turquoise waters aboard a traditional ngalawa (outrigger canoe). Glide past mangroves and hidden lagoons while enjoying the peaceful rhythm of the sea. A unique experience tied to the fishing heritage of Zanzibar.
🦐 Fresh Seafood Grilling Add-On – $22 USD per person
Upgrade your beach lunch with freshly caught lobster, prawns, or grilled calamari. Sourced daily from local fishermen, this add-on enhances your culinary experience with authentic flavors of the Indian Ocean.
🌅 Sunset Dhow Cruise Extension – $25 USD per person
Extend your Safari Blue day with a serene sunset dhow cruise along the coast. Enjoy the golden glow of the horizon as traditional taarab music sets the mood for a romantic and reflective evening at sea.
🧴 Seaweed Spa & Scrub Experience – $28 USD per person
Pamper yourself post-snorkel with a local seaweed-based body scrub on the beach. Rich in minerals and antioxidants, this natural spa treatment rejuvenates sun-exposed skin and leaves you feeling refreshed.
📸 Drone Footage of Your Safari Blue Tour – $30 USD per group
Get stunning aerial drone videos and photos of your sandbank visit, dhow sailing, and snorkeling adventure. Delivered digitally, this is a perfect keepsake of your tropical day tour.
🐬 Dolphin Spotting Experience (Early Morning Add-On) – $25 USD per person
Start your day earlier with a guided dolphin spotting excursion. Observe bottlenose and humpback dolphins in their natural habitat off the coast of Kizimkazi before joining the main Safari Blue tour.
🎨 Island Craft Workshop – $16 USD per person
Take a short cultural break and learn how to weave coconut leaf crafts, make handmade shell jewelry, or carve a Swahili-style keychain with local artisans. Great for families and those who love hands-on activities.
These optional activities and excursions allow you to tailor your Zanzibar Safari Blue Day Tour to match your personal interests — whether you’re seeking adventure, cultural immersion, wellness, or culinary delights. Let us know your preferences in advance so we can help craft a magical and personalized experience on the Indian Ocean!
What to know and bring before you go
Bring Swimwear and a Towel
Prepare for water activities by bringing appropriate swimwear and a towel for drying off.
Wear Sunscreen and a Hat
Protect yourself from the sun’s rays by applying sunscreen and wearing a hat.
Pack a Waterproof Camera
Capture the beauty of the underwater world and the memorable moments of your safari blue tour with a waterproof camera.
Stay Hydrated
Bring along additional water or refreshments to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Follow Safety Guidelines
Listen to your guide’s instructions and follow safety guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
FAQs
Safari Blue is a famous full-day Zanzibar boat trip adventure on a traditional wooden dhow. It departs from Fumba (Menai Bay) and combines sailing, snorkeling and beach time. Highlights include cruising the Menai Bay Conservation Area, two guided snorkeling sessions on vibrant coral reefs, plus relaxing on a white sandbank (Kwale Island) with tropical fruits. Guests also enjoy a fresh seafood barbecue on the beach and often visit a mangrove lagoon and ancient baobab tree. The trip finishes with a sail back to shore under wind power, making Safari Blue a quintessential Zanzibar boat trip experience.
Safari Blue is aptly named – it’s a blue-water adventure featuring marine exploration and seaside fun. Included activities are traditional dhow sailing, snorkeling over coral reefs, swimming on a sandbank, and visiting Kwale Island’s lagoon. You’ll sample tropical fruits on a deserted sandbar and enjoy a multi-course seafood BBQ lunch on Kwale Island. Most tours also include a stop in a mangrove swimming lagoon and a visit to the old baobab tree. In short, expect sailing, guided snorkeling (2–3 sessions), sandbank beach time and a hearty beachside seafood meal as part of the Safari Blue experience.
Safari Blue is a full-day tour, typically lasting about 7–8 hours. Guests are picked up early (often around 8–9 AM) from Stone Town or nearby hotels in an air-conditioned vehicle. The dhow then sails through Menai Bay. The itinerary usually includes two guided snorkeling stops on coral reefs, a walk on a shifting sandbank or deserted beach to taste exotic fruits, and a seafood buffet lunch on Kwale Island’s beach. After lunch and some relaxation, many tours visit a sheltered mangrove lagoon or historic baobab tree, and end with a sailing return to Fumba. This mix of sailing, snorkeling, swimming and beach time makes for a varied day on the water.
Most Safari Blue tours depart from Fumba (Menai Bay Conservation Area) on southwest Zanzibar. Operators usually include hotel pick-up (e.g. from Stone Town or Kizimkazi) in the morning. Because Safari Blue is extremely popular, it’s best to book well in advance, especially in peak season.
Safari Blue is popular with families, but keep in mind that small children must be supervised. Infants (ages 0–3) often go free, and children (5–14) usually pay reduced rates. Many families enjoy the beach and boat activities. However, the snorkel portions require swimming, and non-swimmers are generally not recommended to snorkel. Tour operators typically list “guests who can’t swim” as not suitable. That said, non-swimmers can still join the trip, stay on the boat or sandbank, and enjoy the ocean views and lunch. In summary, the tour is family-friendly for older kids who can swim (life jackets are provided), but infants/toddlers should be closely watched
Most guides advise that Safari Blue is not ideal for non-swimmers because of the snorkeling activities. Non-swimmers cannot participate in guided snorkeling and must stay on the boat or beach during swim stops. If you’re not a swimmer but eager to go, inform the operator—some will accommodate by ensuring you have a life jacket and staying in shallow water. However, know that seeing marine life up close requires being in the water. Many non-swimmers instead enjoy the scenery, seafood lunch and island beaches without snorkeling. Always check each tour’s policy, but generally plan to be comfortable around water if you join Safari Blue.
Safari Blue sails through dolphin habitats in Menai Bay, so dolphin watching is possible. Guides keep an eye out for playful pods during the boat ride. However, dolphins are wild and sightings are not guaranteed. Tours often mention keeping your eyes peeled for dolphins, but encourage guests to view dolphins as a bonus, not a certainty. In practice, many trips do report dolphin encounters, but it’s best to focus on the guaranteed highlights (snorkeling, beach, lunch) and consider any dolphin sighting a lucky bonus.
The ideal time for Safari Blue is during Zanzibar’s dry season. Aim for June–October or December–February, when the weather is sunny, winds are moderate and the sea is calm. These months offer the best snorkeling conditions and clear views. Even so, the tour runs year-round – in the short rains (March–May) or November you’ll find fewer crowds and lush scenery (though heavy rains might lead to choppier seas). If possible, avoid the peak rainy period (March–April) and major holidays when tours fill up. Otherwise, any dry-season day will make your Safari Blue experience fantastic
