Safari Blue is deep inside Menai Bay, a conservation area off Unguja’s southwest coast. To reach there, you shall need to use traditional dhows and motor launches to move between coral reefs, a shallow sandbank, and a mangrove lagoon where the water goes blue and quiet. The single day Safari blue trip mixes easy snorkeling with a social, beachside meal. That mix makes the day feel both active and restful.
Safari Blue is the classic full-day dhow trip through Menai Bay, famous majorly for snorkeling, sandbank time, and a seafood BBQ that reads like a celebration on the water. If you picture a single perfect sea day—clear water, reefs to swim over, a white sandbank to stand on, and a relaxed lunch cooked on the shore—this is probably it.
Snorkeling at the scenic and beautiful coral reef patches with guides who point out fish and coral. Most tours provide masks and fins so you do not need to bring everything.
Time on the majestic airy white sandbank where you walk, photograph, swim, and sit for the BBQ. The sandbank is tidal and appears best around low to mid tide.
A freshly prepared seafood lunch on Kwale or a nearby island, usually grilled and served family style, plus fruit and soft drinks. The meal is the social center of the day.
If you want a single day that sums up Zanzibar’s water, reefs, and food culture, Safari Blue does that reliably – you will never leave here sort of excitement.
Wedding & honeymoons: Safari blue & Sandbank are also great place if you want to plan an exciting, mind-blowing and unforgettable wedding experience. Just let us know and we shall have everything else catered for.
Pick a calm, dry month for the best visibility and gentler seas. The dry season from June through October gives steady conditions for snorkeling and launches. Early mornings reduce wind and crowds, which improves underwater clarity and sandbank space.
If you prefer something intimate, choose the months of October, November or December and ensure you go there early morning before the Island is crowded.
Safari Blue is a few kilometers from Fumba Village on the southwest coast of Unguja, Zanzibar. Trips to Safari Blue are usually inside the Menai Bay Conservation Area.
From Stone Town, you drive about 30 to 40 minutes to Fumba. From Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, plan 35 to 45 minutes. From Paje or Jambiani, plan 1 hour. From Nungwi or Kendwa, plan 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours.
You check in at Fumba Beach by about 8:30 a.m. Most boats leave around 9:00 a.m. If you need a landmark, ask for Fumba Beach and the Safari Blue office near the public beach launch.
Hotels around Stone Town and coastal villages book transfers. If your hotel offers pickup, accept it because operators time departures carefully to match tides and marine windows. Shared transfers take roughly 40 to 90 minutes from Stone Town depending on traffic and which coast you leave from.
You will step from dhow to small skiff or beach, guided by crew who handle gear and timing. Once you arrive at the sandbank, boats anchor off the shore to protect the sand and reef. Follow the crew instructions and stick with the group when snorkeling for safety and better viewing.
Safari Blue is a day trip. Base yourself in Stone Town or another place within Stone town for easiest convenience or on the southwest coast if you want shorter transfers. There are Resorts and guesthouses across the island but not on Safari blue.
Book a morning slot and confirm the meeting point.
Morning launches give calmer seas, better visibility, and fewer boats on the sandbank. Confirm whether pickup is from your hotel or a local jetty so you arrive on time.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a rash guard.
Use reef-friendly lotion to protect coral and wear a light shirt for sun protection. The sea reflects a lot of UV and small actions matter.
Carry a personal mask if you snorkel often.
Rental masks vary. If you plan repeated snorkel days, a snug personal mask prevents leaks and saves time.
Pack a dry bag, towel, and small cash.
Keep your phone, documents, and small bills dry. Cash helps for tips, extra drinks, or a small island purchase. Operators sometimes accept cards for booking but not on the sandbank.
Expect a communal seafood BBQ and share plates.
Meals arrive family style. If you have dietary limits tell the operator in advance so they can prepare vegetarian options or adjust the menu.
Wear reef shoes for sandbank and shallow reef approaches.
Sharp shells and coral rubble hide in shallow water. Shoes protect feet and let you move confidently around the sand and reef edges.
Keep an eye on your camera and use waterproof protection.
A wet phone or camera can spoil a good day. Use a waterproof case or a dry pouch and take wide, simple shots rather than risky close-ups.
How long does Safari Blue take?
Expect a half to full day, typically 6 to 9 hours depending on pickup point and boat type. Confirm the operator’s schedule before you book.
What is included?
Our most Safari Blue packages include hotel pickup, snorkeling gear, a guided snorkel, soft drinks, fresh fruit, and a seafood BBQ lunch. Confirm whether alcohol, diving, or private transfers cost extra.
Will I see dolphins?
Dolphin sightings can be done around Menai Bay but are not guaranteed. Some itineraries include a short dolphin search early in the day when sightings are more likely. Allow flexibility and avoid relying on a single trip for sightings.
Is the sandbank always available?
Sandbanks is not always available but most times. Tours time stops to match low and mid tide when sand shows best. Operators read tides and pick the best sandbank for that day.
Can non-swimmers enjoy the trip?
Yes. Crew provide life vests and shallow sandbank areas make the day accessible. Let the operator know your level so they can adapt snorkeling zones.
How crowded does it get?
Shared boats bring groups of 10 to 20 people. Peak season and popular operators can feel busy on the sandbank. If privacy matters, book a private dhow. If you prefer intimacy, then consider early morning visits or the months of between October and December.
Is Safari Blue suitable for children?
Yes, Children can be supervise and made to wear vests, also they can stay near boats and shallow channels and confirm family-friendly arrangements when you book.
How much should I tip the crew?
Tipping is customary but, must come from your heart. A modest tip per person for the crew and guide shows appreciation; if service excels, give more. Local staffs rely on tips as part of income.
Stay in Zanzibar, relax on sugar-white beaches, then fly to Serengeti or Nyerere for big cats, returning to sunset dhows and spice markets; you enjoy safari action with beach downtime with the experts.
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