Planning a trip to Zanzibar and looking for an adventure that combines stunning scenery, snorkeling, and a touch of local charm? The Safari Blue tour promises just that—a full day exploring the pristine waters and unique islands off the coast. While we haven’t personally been on this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vibrant picture of what to expect.
What we love about this experience is its combination of relaxing beach time and active snorkeling, offering a genuine taste of Zanzibar’s aquatic beauty. Plus, the opportunity to explore the ancient baobab tree and swim in lush lagoons provides a sense of connection to the island’s natural history. One possible thing to consider: the tour is a shared boat, which might mean a slightly crowded experience at times.
This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a balanced day of adventure and relaxation, especially those who love the water and are eager to see Zanzibar’s underwater life. It also suits visitors with limited time but a strong desire to experience the coast’s highlights.
Key Points
- Stunning Scenery & Relaxing Sandbanks: Ideal for sunbathing and experiencing the Indian Ocean’s tranquility.
- Snorkeling at Two Prime Sites: Opportunity to see tropical fish, sea turtles, rays, and vibrant corals.
- Unique Cultural & Natural Highlights: Climb an ancient baobab tree and explore coral formations.
- All-Inclusive Value: Lunch, snorkeling gear, transportation, and water are included.
- Shared Boat Experience: Expect a group setting, which can be lively but also more affordable.
- Sunset Dolphin Cruise: Cap off the day with a scenic cruise and potential dolphin sightings.
An In-Depth Look at the Safari Blue Experience
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Zanzibar
Introduction to the Tour
The Safari Blue tour offers a comprehensive day out that promises both adventure and relaxation. For around $85 per person, you’ll spend approximately seven hours exploring some of Zanzibar’s most captivating marine and island sights. It’s operated by Smile Taxi and Tours, a reputable local provider, and includes convenient pickup and drop-off — a huge plus in Zanzibar’s sometimes labyrinthine transportation scene.
Two things stand out immediately. First, the photo-worthy sandbanks—powdery, shallow, and perfect for sunbathers or snorkelers. Second, the possibility of a scenic sunset cruise with dolphins, a memorable way to end a day exploring the Indian Ocean.
That said, this is a shared boat tour, which might mean a little more hustle and bustle than a private trip. However, the group size is capped at 15 travelers, maintaining a friendly, intimate vibe.
How the Day Unfolds
Stop 1: Kwale Island and the Sandbank
The day kicks off early with hotel pickup around 8:00 am. After a scenic drive, you’ll hop aboard a boat to Kwale Island, where you’ll be greeted with a large, powdery sandbank—a highlight for many travelers. Imagine sunbathing on soft sands, swimming in shallow waters, or simply soaking in the panoramic views of the Indian Ocean.
We love the way this part of the trip combines natural beauty with tranquility. The silence of the ocean here is almost meditative, especially when you listen to the waves lapping against the sand. The experience is versatile—whether you want to relax or explore.
Snorkeling & Marine Life
Next, the tour takes you to two snorkeling sites near Pungume Island. Here, you’ll likely encounter colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, rays, and coral reefs. Using the provided snorkeling equipment, you can discover these underwater worlds firsthand. The reviews suggest that the snorkeling stops are well-chosen, offering vibrant views of marine life and coral formations.
The joy of snorkeling isn’t just in the sights but in the clarity of the water and the chance to see marine creatures up close. Many participants find these moments to be the most memorable part of the day.
Exploring Kwale Island & the Baobab Tree
Back on Kwale Island, there’s an opportunity to climb an ancient baobab tree—a fascinating experience. The tree, believed to be over 3,000 years old, still stands tall, with its branches reaching toward the sky, offering a real sense of connection to the island’s natural history. Walking along the beach, exploring coral formations, and observing hermit crabs scurrying about add to the charm.
Lunch & Relaxation
A seafood feast is included, featuring Zanzibar’s signature grilled lobsters, crabs, squids, and octopus. We think this is a significant value addition, allowing you to enjoy fresh, local seafood in a spectacular setting without worrying about extra costs.
Sunset Dolphin Cruise
The day concludes with a scenic sunset cruise. The relaxed pace, combined with the possibility of spotting dolphins, makes for a perfect ending. Whether you spot dolphins or simply enjoy the changing colors of the sky over the ocean, this part of the tour feels like a well-earned reward.
What Travelers Say
A review from Claudine_R highlights the well-filled day, praising the beautiful Kwale Island and the ocean’s waters. She mentions the extraordinary 3,000-year-old baobab and notes some disappointment about the shared boat, but overall, the experience seems highly valued. The quote: “Dommage que l’excursion se déroule en bateau partagé,” reminds us to consider the group size when booking.
Many comments praise the stunning views and the relaxing atmosphere. The combination of beach, snorkeling, and marine life seems to resonate with most travelers, making it clear that this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Zanzibar’s natural beauty.
Practical Details & Considerations
- The tour lasts around 7 hours, starting at 8:00 am, giving you ample time to soak up the scenery.
- The price of $85 includes transportation, lunch, snorkeling gear, bottled water, and entry fees. This makes it a competitive value for such an all-in-one experience.
- The group size of up to 15 travelers helps keep things personal while still being affordable.
- The tour is suitable for most travelers—most can participate, and the activity level is moderate, mainly involving swimming and walking.
- Just remember to bring sunscreen, as it’s not included, and to be prepared for a shared boat experience, which might be lively.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Zanzibar
Final Thoughts: Is the Safari Blue Tour Right for You?
This tour offers a beautiful mix of relaxation, adventure, and culture. If you enjoy spending time by the water, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the sunshine, you’ll likely find this experience rewarding. The inclusion of seafood lunch, the scenic boat cruise, and the chance to see marine life make it a strong value, especially given its reasonable price.
However, if you prefer a private, quieter experience, or dislike sharing boat space, this might not be your first choice. That said, the limited group size helps maintain an intimate atmosphere.
Overall, Safari Blue at Menai Beach is perfect for travelers who want a fun-filled day with plenty of picture-perfect moments, and who adore the ocean and its creatures. It’s a taste of Zanzibar’s coastal beauty that balances active exploration with downtime on the sand.
Full day Shared Tour Safari blue at Menai beach
FAQs
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics one less thing to worry about.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, starting around 8:00 am.
What is included in the price?
The cost covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, lunch, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, and entry fees.
Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling equipment is provided, but you might prefer to bring your own mask or fins if you have specific preferences.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best to consider swimming ability and comfort with boat rides.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What kind of boat is used?
The tour is conducted on a shared boat, which can be lively but also promotes camaraderie among travelers.
Is there time for sunbathing?
Absolutely. The sandbank is perfect for relaxing under the sun.
Are there opportunities to see dolphins?
Yes, during the sunset cruise, there’s a chance of spotting dolphins.
What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, possibly a towel, and your camera—though you’ll want to keep some water handy, as it’s not provided.
To sum it up, the Safari Blue tour offers a well-rounded day of scenic beauty, marine adventure, and cultural sights—ideal for those eager to sample Zanzibar’s oceanic charms without breaking the bank. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers wanting a meaningful, fun, and visually stunning experience on the island’s waters.
