Zanzibar Tanzania
Guided experienceSafari Blue Full-Day Sandbank & Marine Experience
Experience Zanzibar’s premier full-day ocean excursion: the Safari Blue Full-Day Sandbank & Marine Experience. *Please note that Safari Blue is a registered trademark; this experience is booked through independent local operators in Fumba, subject to availability.* Depart from Fumba on a traditional dhow to explore the Menai Bay Conservation Area. Relax on a breathtaking sandbank, snorkel over rich coral reefs, explore a hidden mangrove lagoon, and indulge in a spectacular beachfront seafood barbecue lunch on Kwale Island. *Tide and weather conditions may affect the sandbank and lagoon access.*
Key facts
- Starting Location
- Fumba Village (Southwest Coast)
- Ending Location
- Fumba Village (Southwest Coast)
- Optimal Duration
- 8 Hours
- Walking Information
- Light walking (approx. 1 km on Kwale Island trails and sandy beaches)
- Travel Logistics
- Private vehicle transfers and shared motorized wooden dhow
- Practical Information
- Swimwear, beach towel, change of dry clothes, camera, waterproof bag, sun hat, and reef-safe sunscreen
- Safety Information
- Life jackets are provided and recommended; sandbank and lagoon access are tide and weather dependent
- Seasonal Notes
- Available year-round, but sailing routes and snorkeling spots can change based on daily wind and wave conditions
- Starts from
- Zanzibar Town
Tour map
This tour covers the Zanzibar area.
Starts in Zanzibar Town.
Indicative route, not turn-by-turn directions.
Itinerary
Morning Pickup
Transfer to Fumba Village
Private pickup from your resort (pickup availability depends on accommodation location). Drive south to Fumba Village, the main departure point for Menai Bay.
Assembly
Boat Boarding & Departure
Arrive in Fumba. Meet your guide and boat captain, register, and receive a life jacket and snorkeling gear. Board a traditional motorized wooden dhow.
Setting Sail
Menai Bay Conservation Sail
Set sail across the protected waters of Menai Bay. Look out for wild dolphin pods that are frequently seen playing in the bay's calm waters.
Sandbank Stop
Sandbank Swimming & Snorkeling
Arrive at a pristine white sandbank. Spend time sunbathing, walking, and swimming. Snorkel over nearby coral reefs guided by the boat crew. *The sandbank is tide-dependent and sea conditions may vary.*
Island Landing
Kwale Island Beach Landing
Sail to Kwale Island and land on its sandy beach. Take a short walk to our shaded beachfront dining area.
Island Lunch
Beachfront Seafood BBQ
Indulge in a spectacular beachfront barbecue lunch. The menu typically features freshly grilled lobster, crab, calamari, fish, and Swahili sides (subject to daily market availability), accompanied by fresh fruits.
Lagoon Exploration
Mangrove Lagoon & Baobab
Take a short boat ride or walk to explore a hidden, crystal-clear mangrove lagoon. See a massive, fallen ancient baobab tree that is over 500 years old and still sprouting green leaves.
Late Afternoon
Return Sail to Fumba
Board your dhow for a relaxing return sail back to Fumba, catching the late-afternoon ocean breeze.
Drop Off
Return Hotel Drive
Arrive in Fumba. Meet your private driver and enjoy a comfortable transfer back to your hotel or resort.
What's included
- Private round-trip hotel transfers to Fumba
- Full-day shared dhow excursion with local operators
- Menai Bay Conservation Area entry permits
- Services of professional guides and experienced boat captains
- Snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, fins, life jacket)
- Spectacular beachfront seafood lunch on Kwale Island
- Fresh tropical fruits and chilled bottled mineral water
What's not included
- Gratuities and tips for your guides and boat crew
- Alcoholic beverages
- Travel insurance
Book this tour
Send your dates and pickup point and we will confirm availability.
Book Safari Blue Full-Day Sandbank & Marine ExperienceFrequently asked questions
Is this tour operated directly by Easy Transfers?
No. 'Safari Blue' is a highly specialized, registered brand. We book this experience through independent local operators in Fumba to deliver this exact premium experience, while providing you with our private hotel transfers.
What if I have seafood allergies?
We are happy to arrange grilled chicken, beef, or vegetarian alternatives. Please let us know of any dietary requirements or allergies at the time of booking.
Will we see dolphins?
Menai Bay is a protected marine sanctuary and home to wild dolphins. Sighting success is high but not guaranteed as these are free-roaming wild animals in their natural habitat.