Package Overview

A Safari Blue Day Trip is one of the most exciting and popular excursions you can take in Zanzibar. It’s a full-day adventure that combines snorkeling, relaxing on beautiful sandbanks, dolphin watching, and cruising through Zanzibar’s turquoise waters on a traditional dhow boat. The Safari Blue tour is perfect for anyone who loves the ocean, marine life, and idyllic island escapes.

Here’s everything you need to know to plan a fantastic Safari Blue Day Trip:

Safari Blue Day Trip Overview

Total Duration: 7-9 hours

Location: Starts from Fumba (on the southwestern coast of Zanzibar), with a boat ride to Menai Bay (famous for its rich marine life and beautiful islands).

Itinerary Highlights:

1. Boat Ride to Menai Bay

Time: 8:30 AM – 9:00 AM (Departure from Fumba)

Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour

• Overview: Your day begins at the Fumba Village dock, where you'll board a traditional Zanzibar dhow. The dhow is a beautiful wooden sailing boat, giving you a real taste of local maritime tradition.
• What to Expect: The boat ride to Menai Bay offers spectacular views of Zanzibar’s coastline. You’ll be cruising across clear blue waters, and the sights are breathtaking—keep an eye out for dolphins, as Menai Bay is a known habitat for these playful creatures. Depending on the time of year, you may even be able to stop for a brief dolphin-watching session.

2. Snorkeling in Menai Bay

Time: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM

Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours

• Overview: Once you arrive at Menai Bay, you’ll stop for a snorkeling adventure. Menai Bay is a protected marine area, home to vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and sometimes even rays.
• What to Expect: The water here is calm and crystal clear, perfect for snorkeling. You’ll be able to see a variety of colorful coral formations and plenty of fish swimming around you. Most tours provide snorkeling gear (fins, masks, and snorkels), but if you have your own gear, feel free to bring it.
• Guides: The crew is usually very experienced and will guide you to the best snorkeling spots, helping you make the most of your underwater experience.

3. Sandbank Visit & Relaxation

Time: 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM

Duration: 1.5 hours

• Overview: After snorkeling, you’ll head to a nearby sandbank for some rest and relaxation. The sandbanks are beautiful and isolated, with soft white sand surrounded by calm turquoise waters.
• What to Expect: Here, you’ll have some free time to enjoy the beach, swim, and soak in the sun. You can also walk around the sandbank or simply float in the water. It’s a serene and peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Zanzibar.
• Fresh Fruit & Refreshments: Many Safari Blue tours offer refreshments on the sandbank, including fresh tropical fruits (like mangoes, pineapples, and watermelon) and drinks to keep you refreshed while you relax.

4. Seafood Lunch on a Local Island

Time: 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM

Duration: 1.5 hours

• Overview: After your time on the sandbank, the next stop is a local island (usually Kwale Island). Here, you’ll enjoy a freshly prepared seafood lunch right on the beach. The meal typically includes grilled fish, prawns, lobsters, and a selection of local side dishes like rice, vegetables, and salads.
• What to Expect: The lunch is a highlight of the tour, especially if you’re a seafood lover. The peaceful atmosphere on the island, with the sound of the waves in the background, makes this meal even more special.

5. Explore the Island and Mangroves

Time: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Duration: 1 hour

• Overview: After lunch, there’s an opportunity to explore the small Kwale Island and its surrounding mangrove forests. You can take a walk through the forest, visit the traditional fishing village, or simply enjoy the tranquility of the island.
• What to Expect: The mangrove forests are incredibly lush and provide a peaceful atmosphere for a gentle walk. The island also offers a chance to interact with the locals and learn about their daily lives and traditions.

6. Return Boat Ride to Fumba

Time: 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Duration: 1 hour

• Overview: After a full day of activities, you’ll begin the return boat trip to Fumba. You’ll have one last chance to enjoy the sea breeze and the stunning views of the coastline as you make your way back to the mainland.
• What to Expect: The return trip is a relaxing end to the day, and many people take this opportunity to reflect on the beautiful scenery and experiences of the day.

Sample Day Plan (Timings & Flow):

• 8:00 AM: Pick-up from your hotel and head to Fumba dock (southwest of Zanzibar).
• 8:30 AM – 9:00 AM: Departure from Fumba on a traditional dhow.
• 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Snorkeling in Menai Bay.
• 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM: Sandbank Visit for relaxation, swimming, and refreshments.
• 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM: Seafood Lunch on Kwale Island.
• 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Explore Kwale Island and Mangrove Forests.
• 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Return Boat Ride to Fumba.
• 4:00 PM: Arrive at your hotel.

Tour Tips:

• Comfortable Clothing: Wear comfortable, breathable clothes, swimwear, and flip-flops for the day. Consider bringing a light cover-up or beach towel.
• Sunscreen: The sun in Zanzibar can be quite strong, so be sure to apply sunscreen before heading out and reapply throughout the day.
• Waterproof Camera: Bring a waterproof camera or GoPro to capture the underwater sights and the beautiful scenery.
• Snorkeling Gear: Most tours provide snorkeling gear, but if you have your own, feel free to bring it.
• Towels and Snacks: If you’re planning to swim or relax on the sandbank, consider bringing your own towel. Some tours offer snacks, but having your own water and light snacks is always a good idea.
• Cash: It’s a good idea to bring cash for tipping the crew or buying small souvenirs on the islands.