If you only do one tour in Zanzibar — make it Safari Blue. This legendary full-day ocean excursion is the most popular tour on the island for good reason. Here is everything you need to know before you book.
What is Safari Blue?
Safari Blue is a full-day dhow boat excursion that takes you to the most beautiful spots in Zanzibar's southwestern waters. Starting from Menai Bay — one of Zanzibar's most protected marine areas — you spend a full day snorkeling pristine coral reefs, relaxing on a white sand sandbank, exploring a mangrove forest, and enjoying a freshly cooked seafood lunch on a traditional wooden dhow.
It is not just a boat trip. It is a full immersion into the beauty of the Indian Ocean and the Zanzibar way of life.
What Does Safari Blue Include?
Snorkeling in Menai Bay The coral reefs here are extraordinary. You will see colourful tropical fish, sea turtles, starfish and if you are lucky — dolphins swimming alongside the boat. Snorkeling equipment is provided.
Sandbank Stop The boat anchors at a pure white sandbank surrounded by turquoise water. Swim, relax, take photos — this is the postcard moment of Zanzibar that you will remember forever.
Mangrove Forest Exploration A short excursion through the mangrove channels by small boat. The ecosystem here is unique and your guide will explain the importance of mangroves to Zanzibar's marine environment.
Fresh Seafood Lunch Cooked on board the dhow — grilled fish, calamari, lobster, coconut rice, tropical fruits and fresh juice. The food is exceptional and eating it on the water with the Zanzibar coastline around you makes it unforgettable.
Sailing on a Traditional Dhow The whole day is spent on a traditional wooden dhow — the same boats Zanzibari fishermen have used for hundreds of years. This is a genuinely authentic experience.
What to Bring
- Swimwear and a light cover-up
- Sunscreen — the sun on the water is very strong
- Sunglasses and a hat
- Small waterproof bag for phone and valuables
- Towel
- Camera or waterproof phone case
What to Expect on the Day
The day starts early — usually around 8am. The drive to the departure point at Fumba takes around 45 minutes from Paje. You board the dhow and set sail into Menai Bay. The first snorkeling stop is usually within an hour. After snorkeling you head to the sandbank for swimming and relaxing. The mangrove exploration happens mid-morning. Lunch is served around midday on the boat. The afternoon is for relaxing, swimming and sailing before returning to shore around 4-5pm.
Is Safari Blue Right for You?
Safari Blue is perfect if you enjoy snorkeling, the ocean and good food. You do not need to be a strong swimmer — the snorkeling areas are calm and life jackets are always available.
Children are welcome and most enjoy it enormously.
Best Time to Do Safari Blue
June to October is ideal. The seas are calmest, visibility for snorkeling is best and the weather is consistently beautiful. The tour runs year-round but may be cancelled during rough seas in the rainy season.
How to Book Safari Blue with HuShop
We run Safari Blue in small groups to ensure a personal and authentic experience. Our team are local Zanzibaris who know these waters intimately.
Contact us on WhatsApp at +255 688 686 983 and we will arrange everything for you. We collect guests from hotels across Zanzibar — just let us know where you are staying.
HuShop Team
Paje, Zanzibar · Travel writers & local experts