Blue Safari Zanzibar: Pajejambiani Snorkeling & Lunch – Honest Review

The Blue Safari in Zanzibar, that really is an activity often talked about, especially if you happen to find yourself on the island’s eastern coast near Paje or Jambiani. It’s basically a full-day excursion that blends sailing, some superb snorkeling, plus a ridiculously good seafood lunch. But like, is it seriously worth the money and the hype? You’re gonna want to know, isn’t it? Well, let’s get right into what makes this safari special, the things you could very well encounter, and, that is, my straight-up take on whether you ought to make it part of your Zanzibar trip.

Setting Sail From Paje or Jambiani

The whole thing kicks off in the morning, pretty much when the sun is just beginning to properly warm things up. Departing usually from either Paje or Jambiani, the vibe straightaway, is actually super chill. You typically climb aboard a traditional dhow, that’s essentially a wooden sailing vessel that has been zipping around the Indian Ocean for centuries, you know. These boats aren’t exactly speed machines or anything, they are comfortable enough, providing shaded areas, plus plenty of space so you can spread out, that’s important.

As the dhow gets going, sailing out of the lagoon, that is the first proper sensation; just sort of easing yourself into island life. The crew often play local tunes, they usually get everybody involved in helping raise the sail – so prepare yourselves to pitch in. It is a relaxed and, as a matter of fact, authentic way to get started.

Snorkeling in Zanzibar’s Turquoise Waters

Okay, so, the snorkeling is like a big draw for this Blue Safari. Zanzibar’s waters, mostly around the atolls and reefs that they visit on the trip, really are teeming with sea life, they honestly are! Now, don’t be expecting Great Barrier Reef level of vibrancy or anything – some spots definitely see better days than others because, obviously, that’s just the ocean being the ocean, alright?

That being said, you should prepare yourself for a kaleidoscope of vibrant fish species – parrotfish are usually really quite prominent, there really are angelfish, maybe even a moray eel or two peeking out from their hiding spots. Coral formations range from delicate branching structures through to what appear to be massive brain corals. Some tours visit the protected Menai Bay Conservation Area, which they claim boasts very spectacular coral gardens. Gear that’s needed – mask, snorkel and fins – are usually provided. Test out the fit properly though. Nobody wants a leaky mask interrupting all the underwater fun, right?

Now, bear in mind water clarity might vary based on the time of year and, too, the weather on the day. After all, it’s always important to set realistic expectations. Even if visibility is so-so, spotting marine critters always is something to enjoy!

Seafood Feast on a Deserted Island

Listen, after all that snorkeling it’s pretty certain that you’re gonna be ravenous! Thankfully, the Blue Safari includes lunch, this takes place on, believe it or not, a totally deserted island or, that could be, a secluded sandbank. I mean, talk about atmosphere! Now, the lunch? It’s like a seafood lover’s dream. Forget your average sandwiches – think grilled fish, maybe that will be lobster (depending on the tour package you got, honestly), calamari, plus a heap of other local dishes like rice, and fresh fruit that are almost obscenely juicy, and a little spicy too.

Food’s usually grilled right there on the beach, basically offering an extra bit of theatre. Tuck into your food underneath the shade of a woven canopy, as you listen to the waves lapping gently onto the shore – so idyllic, truly it is. Dietary requirements are something you could tell your tour operator about in advance – there will almost certainly be veggie choices available if, by some chance, you really don’t like seafood.

Other Activities & Things to Watch Out For

A Blue Safari usually will feature a few other interesting bits and bobs in the mix. Loads of tours include a visit to a mangrove lagoon, pretty much giving a fascinating peek into Zanzibar’s diverse coastal ecosystem. Some also offer the opportunity so that you can go for a little swim, and there could be, a chance to check out local crafts that are, obviously, for sale.

When, actually, you’re looking at which tour operator to pick, do check very carefully what’s actually included. Cheaper tours will sometimes skimp on certain extras like drinks (that’s beer, sodas, and water). Bring water. The sun can be very fierce, alright. It is important to keep hydrated. Sunscreen’s a must, too, along with a hat and sunglasses so that you protect yourselves, that’s something that should be quite obvious, of course!

Basically, keep in mind responsible tourism, and think about what the tour’s doing when, actually, it comes to sustainability, they need to be ethical. Steer clear of excursions which actively encourage bothering wildlife and that is any use of single-use plastics. Try to find companies that do support local communities so your money’s doing some good.

Is The Blue Safari From Pajejambiani Worth It? My Honest Opinion

So, after all of that, you’ll, no doubt, be thinking, what’s the verdict then? Really, it depends on what you are hoping to gain. If, actually, you are expecting crystal clear waters the entire time, and vibrant coral comparable to that found in, like, famous spots, there really is a chance you will be left a little disappointed. If, yet, you want an absolutely delightful day out on a traditional boat, some nice snorkeling, a lot of tasty food, all whilst experiencing a flavour of Zanzibar, it really could very well be a great thing to do.

It actually can be about accepting the Blue Safari really isn’t all about perfectly pristine marine scenery – what you do is buy an experience. The laid-back atmosphere, actually, the buzz about being out on the water, the chance to scoff down some gorgeous food on a dessert island – it makes for something really quite special. It really does. Look, book with your eyes fully open, manage what expectations you’ve got, and, yes, too, it really will very possibly become one of the top memories from your Zanzibar vacation.