Safari Blue Tour in Zanzibar

The Safari Blue Tour is one of Zanzibar’s most famous and unforgettable ocean excursions. This full-day adventure takes you through the Menai Bay Conservation Area, a stunning marine reserve located off Zanzibar’s southwest coast near Fumba Village. It’s a perfect blend of sailing, snorkeling, dolphin watching, and island exploration, all wrapped up in a day of fun, culture, and natural beauty.

If you’re looking for a signature Zanzibar experience that combines relaxation and adventure, the Safari Blue Tour is an absolute must.

Overview of Safari Blue Tour

The Menai Bay Conservation Area is the largest marine protected zone in Zanzibar, home to vibrant coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and an abundance of marine life. The Safari Blue Tour offers visitors the chance to explore this tropical paradise aboard a traditional wooden dhow, the same type of sailing vessel used by local fishermen for centuries.

Throughout the journey, guests experience the essence of Zanzibar — the rhythm of the sea, the warmth of the sun, and the genuine hospitality of local guides.

What to Expect on the Safari Blue Adventure

Your day begins in Fumba Village, where you’ll board your dhow and set sail across the turquoise waters of Menai Bay. The ocean breeze and the sound of the waves create a peaceful start to a day filled with discovery.

As you sail, you might encounter dolphins gliding alongside the dhow — an incredible sight that adds a touch of magic to the journey. The crew will then guide you to one of the best snorkeling spots in the bay, where you’ll dive into warm, clear waters teeming with colorful coral reefs and tropical fish.

After snorkeling, the dhow sails to a beautiful sandbank, a natural stretch of white sand surrounded by shallow blue waters. Here, you can swim, sunbathe, or simply relax while enjoying the serene atmosphere.

The highlight of the day is a freshly prepared seafood BBQ lunch, featuring grilled fish, lobster, octopus, calamari, and tropical fruits served under the shade of trees on a nearby island. The friendly crew often adds a touch of local entertainment with Swahili songs and coconut demonstrations.

The tour usually ends with a stop at a natural lagoon, where you can swim in calm, shallow waters before sailing back to Fumba in the late afternoon.

Activities Included in the Safari Blue Tour

The Safari Blue Zanzibar Tour is a full-day experience that includes:

• Sailing aboard a traditional dhow
• Dolphin watching in Menai Bay
• Snorkeling in coral reef gardens
• Swimming and relaxing on sandbanks
• Seafood BBQ lunch with tropical fruits
• Visiting small uninhabited islands and lagoons

This combination of activities makes Safari Blue ideal for couples, families, and groups looking for a perfect balance of adventure and leisure.

Why the Safari Blue Tour is Special

What makes the Safari Blue Tour unique is its authentic mix of Zanzibari culture, natural beauty, and ocean adventure. The experience is guided by local crews who share stories, traditions, and songs that bring Zanzibar’s coastal life to heart.

Beyond the activities, Safari Blue offers a chance to connect deeply with the environment  from coral reefs to mangrove islands  while supporting eco-friendly and community-based tourism.

Best Time to Enjoy Safari Blue

The Safari Blue Tour operates year-round, but the best time to go is during Zanzibar’s dry season (from June to October and December to February). During these months, the sea is calm, visibility for snorkeling is excellent, and the sun is perfect for beach relaxation.

Morning departures are ideal, as the early hours often bring cooler breezes and higher chances of spotting dolphins.

What to Bring

For a comfortable and memorable Safari Blue experience, remember to pack:

• Swimsuit and towel
• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
• Waterproof camera or phone case
• Sandals or reef shoes
• A light change of clothes