SAFAR BLUE,fuul day trip Sandbank, with sea food lunch

This experience made our article of The 10 Most Popular Tours & Things To Do In Kwale Island.

Engaging Review of the Safari Blue Full Day Trip

Planning a day out on Zanzibar’s waters? The Safari Blue tour, offered by WINGS TOURS 52, promises a full immersion into the island’s marine beauty and peaceful sandbanks. Though we haven’t personally tested it, the detailed itinerary, rave reviews, and attractive price point suggest this is a solid choice for those craving an authentic ocean adventure.

What draws us to this experience? First, the chance to visit hidden lagoons and pristine sandbanks—places few travelers get to see—and the memorable seafood BBQ lunch featuring fresh lobster and local fish. Second, the opportunity to snorkel amid vibrant sea life and relax on a tiny island that feels miles away from the bustle.

The only consideration? The activity schedule depends heavily on the tide, which might influence the sequence of stops or timing. For travelers with flexible plans, this adds a touch of unpredictability but also a sense of natural rhythm.

This trip suits travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, beach lounging, and discovering lesser-known parts of Zanzibar. If you’re after an active, scenic day with a mix of relaxation and exploration, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic marine experience with snorkeling to see starfish, zebra fish, and other sea creatures
• Iconic sandbank stop for swimming, taking photos, and relaxing on tropical sands
• Visit to the Blue Lagoon and mangroves, perfect for swimming and nature photography
• Cultural highlight with a walk to the historic Baobab tree, ideal for photos
• Delicious BBQ seafood lunch served on the island, with vegetarian options available
• Flexible schedule based on tidal conditions, adding a natural rhythm to your day

Introduction to Safari Blue: What You Need to Know

Imagine cruising across Zanzibar’s waters on a traditional dhow, with the wind in your hair and the promise of adventure ahead. That’s part of what makes the Safari Blue trip appealing. This full-day excursion offers a mix of marine exploration, island relaxation, and local flavor, all for just $75 per person—an accessible price for such a comprehensive experience.

Two features we find particularly enticing are the snorkeling opportunities with colorful fish and the BBQ seafood feast that promises to be both fresh and satisfying. These promise memorable moments, whether you’re snapping photos or just enjoying the breeze with tropical fruits in hand.

However, a key consideration is the dependence on tide schedules. Since the stops and activities shift with the water levels, your day might vary in order or timing, which could affect your planning. Still, this natural rhythm adds an element of anticipation.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who love the outdoors, families with kids eager for marine life, or anyone looking to experience Zanzibar’s waters beyond the usual beach days.

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Pickup and Transfer

Your adventure begins with a hotel pickup, making it easy to start the day stress-free. The transportation is included, so you won’t have to worry about organizing your own transfer. We liked that the trip starts early, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop.

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The Journey to Kikungwi Port and the Dhow Ride

From your hotel, you’ll head to Kikungwi local port—an authentic launching point for Zanzibar’s traditional boats. The boat ride itself is a highlight, with the chance to feel the rush of the sea and observe local fishing boats. The crew is experienced, and the trip depends on the tide, meaning the start time might shift.

First Stop: Kwale Island Sandbank

The first major stop is at the sandbank on Kwale Island. Here, you’ll step onto a tiny island surrounded by water, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snapping photos. The tour includes tropical fruits to enjoy as you relax on the sands, and many reviews mention the “fantastic photo opportunities.”

Many travelers find this stop enchanting—the water is calm, and the scenery feels like a slice of paradise. You can indulge in swimming, taking in the scenery, or just lying on the sand—a perfect way to unwind. Some describe it as a “natural swimming pool,” thanks to the shallow, clear waters.

Snorkeling Among Sea Creatures

After the sandbank, the trip continues with snorkeling, offering a chance to see zebra fish, starfish, and other marine life. The snorkeling staff is experienced, and the waters are often calm, which makes it suitable for beginners. Snorkelers have appreciated the chance to see colorful fish and unusual sea creatures, making it a highlight for many.

The Seafood BBQ Lunch on Kwale Island

Next, you’ll head to Kwale Island proper for a BBQ lunch centered around fresh seafood—lobster, fish, calamari, octopus, and shrimps. The meal is served with a variety of local flavors, and vegetarians are also catered for. Many reviews praise the freshness of the seafood and the relaxed setting.

Post-lunch, you can explore the island’s local shop, where you might pick up a pareo or souvenirs, adding a touch of local culture to your day. The opportunity to relax after the meal and enjoy some island time is appreciated by travelers.

Visiting the Baobab Tree

A short walk (about 3 minutes) takes you to the Baobab tree, a giant, centuries-old specimen that’s great for photos and understanding the island’s natural history. The massive trunk and unique shape make it a memorable stop, especially for nature lovers and those interested in local flora.

The Hidden Blue Lagoon

Your final stop is at the Blue Lagoon, a natural swimming pool surrounded by mangroves. The lagoon is a peaceful spot for swimming and relaxing, with the added bonus of mangrove scenery. The tide influences this activity, so it may vary when you get there. Many travelers find this place magical, describing it as a “hidden gem,” with calm waters perfect for a last swim of the day.

End of the Day and Return Trip

After a full day, the boat returns to Kikungwi port, followed by transportation back to your hotel. The trip usually wraps up in the late afternoon, leaving you with plenty of time to unwind.

Transport, Group Size, and Value

The included transfer from your hotel and boat fare make this a straightforward day trip with minimal planning hassle. The boat is a shared dhow, so you’ll be in a group, but many travelers report the atmosphere as friendly and relaxed.

At $75, the price offers good value, considering the inclusive BBQ lunch, snorkeling gear, entrance fees, and the experience of visiting multiple natural sites. The tour’s reviews highlight that the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, which enhances the experience and helps you appreciate each stop.

The Experience: What Travelers Are Saying

Reviews praise the stunning views and natural beauty of the sandbanks and lagoons. Many mention the professional snorkeling staff, and some describe the seafood lunch as “delicious and fresh.” Others appreciate the flexibility of the schedule, though, as noted, it depends on the tide.

One review summed it up: “The guides knew exactly where to take us to avoid crowds and showed us the best spots. The photo opportunities on the sandbank and the Baobab tree are unforgettable.”

Some travelers mentioned the importance of wearing comfortable shoes and bringing cash, since shopping on the island is limited but enjoyable. Others noted that the trip is best on a conducive weather day, as rough seas can affect the schedule.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

The Safari Blue full-day trip offers a well-rounded experience of Zanzibar’s marine and island environment. It’s an ideal choice for travelers wanting a mix of adventure, relaxation, and local flavor in one day. The inclusion of snorkeling, the iconic sandbank, and a seafood BBQ lunch make it a memorable adventure.

The natural beauty of the lagoons and the chance to see vibrant marine life are highlights that many travelers cherish. The guides’ local knowledge and the opportunity to explore less crowded spots add considerable value.

However, keep in mind the dependence on tidal conditions—activities may shift based on water levels. For flexible travelers, this adds a sense of natural unpredictability, which can be part of the charm.

If you’re looking for a full-day ocean adventure with authentic touches and fantastic photo ops, this trip is definitely worth considering. It suits active, curious travelers who don’t mind a bit of seawater and are eager to witness Zanzibar’s natural treasures firsthand.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes pickup and return transportation from your hotel, boat fees, snorkeling gear, entrance fees, soft drinks, and a BBQ seafood lunch. Vegetarian options are available.

How long does the trip last?
The trip is a full-day experience, usually wrapping up in the late afternoon after a series of stops and activities.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
Snorkeling staff are provided, and gear is included, so you don’t need to bring your own unless you prefer a specific mask or fins.

Can I buy souvenirs on Kwale Island?
Yes, there is a local shop where you can purchase pareos and other small souvenirs, making for a nice keepsake.

Is the trip suitable for children?
Most reviews suggest it’s family-friendly, especially for those comfortable with water activities and outdoor exploration.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a change of clothes, a camera, beachwear, cash, and don’t forget sun protection.

This Safari Blue tour on Zanzibar presents a fantastic way to combine scenic beauty, marine adventures, and local flavors—all in one price. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, it offers enough variety and authenticity to make your day truly memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby