Safari Blue is one of the best-known day trips in Zanzibar. It is a full day on a traditional wooden dhow in the Menai Bay Conservation Area, off the south-west coast of the island. This guide explains what the day usually involves, what is included on our trip, and how to prepare.
What is Safari Blue?
Despite the name, there are no land animals involved. Safari Blue is a boat excursion in the shallow, sheltered waters of Menai Bay, an area protected for its coral reefs, mangroves and marine life. You travel by dhow, stop to snorkel over the reef, swim at a sandbank and eat lunch on a small island.
What the day usually looks like
The order changes with the tide, the weather and the crew, but most Safari Blue days follow the same pattern:
- Out into the bay. You board a traditional dhow and head out across the water.
- Snorkeling. One or more stops over the coral reef, where reef fish are easy to spot in clear water. Snorkeling gear is included.
- The sandbank. Sandbanks appear and disappear with the tide, so the time you spend on one depends on the day.
- Lunch. A seafood lunch with local dishes and tropical fruit, served on a small island.
- Dolphins. Dolphins live in these waters and some trips meet them. Sightings depend on the animals’ natural movements and are never guaranteed.
Many Safari Blue itineraries also include a paddle through mangrove channels. Ask us if this matters to you.
What is included
On our Safari Blue Adventure the price includes:
- A full-day boat trip in Menai Bay
- Snorkeling gear
- A seafood lunch with local specialties
- Soft drinks and water
- A professional guide
Alcoholic drinks, tips (optional) and personal expenses are not included.
Is it suitable for children and non-swimmers?
Safari Blue suits families, couples and groups. On our tour, children under 6 travel free and children from 6 years pay half the adult price. If anyone in your group is not a confident swimmer, tell us when you ask for a price so we can advise you before you book.
What to bring
- Swimwear and a quick-dry towel
- Sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses
- A light shirt to cover your shoulders in the sun
- A waterproof bag for your phone and camera
- Motion-sickness tablets if you are prone to seasickness
- Some cash for tips and small purchases
When is the best time to go?
The sea is generally calmer and the weather more reliable in the drier months. The long rains, usually from March to May, can bring rough water and cancelled sailings. Our guide to the best time to visit Zanzibar explains the seasons month by month.
How it compares with other boat trips
If you have less time, the Prison Island boat trip and the Nakupenda sandbank picnic are shorter outings on the water. For dolphins and snorkeling on the north-east side of the island, look at the Mnemba dolphin and snorkeling tour. Our day tours page lists them all.
Looking after the reef
Menai Bay is a protected area, and a few habits help keep it healthy for the next visitor.
- Do not stand on or touch coral, and keep your fins away from the reef.
- Do not take shells, starfish or other marine life from the water or the sandbank.
- Use sunscreen that is kinder to reefs, and put it on well before you get in the water.
- Take your rubbish back to the boat.
Staying comfortable on a full day at sea
A full day on the water is more tiring than it sounds. Drink water regularly, put sunscreen on again after swimming, and wear a hat and a light shirt. If you are prone to seasickness, take a tablet before you leave rather than after you feel unwell. Tell your guide if anyone in the group is uncomfortable in the water. For other trips to compare, read our guides to Prison Island and things to do in Zanzibar.
How to book
Open the Safari Blue Adventure page to see the starting price and choose your group size to see the total, or send us a message with your dates. You can also write to us on WhatsApp.
