Safari Blue Zanzibar

Safari Blue is a full day marine excursion departing from the Fumba area of southwest Zanzibar to Kwale Island. The exact experience can vary with the tide and weather conditions, so we plan the day around what the sea allows.

Full day | 7 to 9 hours | Fumba / Menai Bay

What is Safari Blue?

Safari Blue is a full day excursion usually using a traditional dhow around Menai Bay in southwest Zanzibar, combining several experiences into one day on the water.

The excursion typically includes time around sandbanks, opportunities for snorkelling, visits around islands and a seafood lunch. It is a good option if you want to spend a full day exploring Zanzibar’s marine side rather than booking a short boat activity.

The exact itinerary and timing can change depending on tide and weather conditions, so we do not treat every Safari Blue day as exactly the same.

What to Expect on Safari Blue

Safari Blue is not simply a Dhow ride from one attraction to another. It is a full day built around being on the water and stopping at different points along the Menai Bay area. Note that you don’t have to be a swimmer to enjoy this experience. You can spend the time at the sandbank to walk around, stay in the Dhow during both snorkerling and the lagoon stops.

Practical Information

Before You

Duration:
Approximately 7 to 9 hours

Departure area:
Fumba / Menai Bay

Typical start:
Around 08:30 to 10:00 AM

Best conditions:
Morning departure, subject to weather, sea and tide conditions

Price:
Starting from $100 per person

What to bring:

Swimwear
Towel
Sunscreen
Hat
Comfortable clothing
Waterproof bag for valuables
Budge for souvenirs purchase in case you love shopping.

Important Notes

Safari Blue is a full day sea excursion, so there are a few things worth considering before you book.

The weather matters

Sea based activities can be affected by weather and sea conditions. During the long rainy season, for example, full day boat trips may need more flexibility. March can become increasingly unpredictable, while April is particularly weather dependent. May can still require flexibility because of the long rains.

That does not mean Safari Blue simply stops operating during these months. It means we look at the actual conditions before confirming the day’s plans.

The tide matters too

The sandbanks and some parts of the marine experience depend on the tide. We will inform you on the day of the tour what is possible, and what is not possible.

The day is longer than a short excursion

Safari Blue is planned as a 4 to 5 hour full day experience excluding transfers time. If you are staying far from Fumba, the road transfer adds to the overall time you spend away from your hotel. For example, it takes about 1.45 – 2 hours from Nungwi to Fumba.

Safari Blue from Different Parts of Zanzibar

Safari Blue departs from the Fumba area, so where you are staying matters when planning this full day excursion. The road travel times below are approximate and should be used for planning. Allow additional time for hotel pickup, traffic, weather and road conditions.

Where you’re staying	Approx. road travel time to Fumba	What to consider
Fumba	10 min	Very convenient for the excursion
Stone Town	1 hr 10 min to 1 hr 25 min	A relatively straightforward transfer to Fumba
Nungwi	2 hr to 2 hr 20 min	A long transfer, so expect a very full day
Kendwa	2 hr to 2 hr 20 min	A long transfer, so consider the total time away from your hotel
Matemwe	1 hr 50 min to 2 hr 10 min	An early start and long day should be considered
Paje	1 hr to 1 hr 20 min	Allow for the road transfer before and after the excursion
Jambiani	1 hr 10 min to 1 hr 30 min	Consider the early start and total length of the day
Michamvi	1 hr 10 min to 1 hr 30 min	Allow for the transfer when planning your day

What's Included

Traditional Dhow excursion
Sandbank experience
Snorkelling experience
Island visits / marine stops
Seafood lunch
Guide / crew
Snorkeling equipment
Soft drinks
Fruits
Hotel transfers
Entrance/conservation fee

What's Not Included

Personal expenses
Tips
Alcohol
Additional Equipment other than for snorkeling
Private boat supplement

Frequently asked questions

What is Safari Blue in Zanzibar?

Safari Blue is a 7-9 hours marine excursion around Menai Bay in southwest Zanzibar, combining traditional dhow travel with sandbank, snorkelling, Kwale island being final destination for seafood lunch, souvenirs shopping and large baobab tree viewing.

Where does Safari Blue depart from?

The Safari Blue excursion in our current programme operates from the Fumba / Menai Bay area.

How long does Safari Blue take?

The full excursion is approximately 7 to 9 hours, excluding any additional road transfer time from your accommodation.

Can I do Safari Blue during the rainy season?

Sea excursions can still operate during the rainy season, but weather and sea conditions become more important. During periods of less predictable weather, we recommend keeping some flexibility in your plans.

Can I book Safari Blue without booking a full Zanzibar package?

Yes. You can book Safari Blue as an individual excursion with Summer Vacation Tours, whether you are planning your Zanzibar holiday with us or are already staying on the island.

How much does Safari Blue cost?

The price starts $100 per person which includes hotel pick up, snorkeling equipment, conservation/entrace fees, lunch and soft drinks. The final price depends on the number of people.