Local Safari Operator · Fumba Village · Since 2010
Authentic small-group dhow tours from Fumba Village to Kwale Island, Blue Lagoon & the Menai Bay sandbank. Snorkeling, fresh seafood BBQ & Zanzibar's warmest local hospitality — since 2010.
Authentic Dhow Expeditions is a legally registered, 100% locally-owned local safari operator based in Fumba Village, serving the Menai Bay Conservation Area. We have been guiding guests through these waters since 2010.
From vibrant coral gardens to quiet sandbanks, every stop is chosen by captains who know Menai Bay like the back of their hand.
Direct booking — pay on arrival. No prepayment required.
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Welcome to Authentic Dhow Expeditions — a registered, 100% locally-owned local safari operator based in Fumba Village, sailing the protected waters of the Menai Bay Conservation Area since 2010.
Why sail with us:
A local safari in Zanzibar is a small-group boat tour led by Zanzibari captains who grew up on these waters. Unlike larger corporate operators, a local safari offers personal attention, flexible pacing, and authentic Swahili hospitality — while supporting the local Fumba community.
Both visit the same reefs and sandbanks inside Menai Bay, but the experience is different. Larger operators typically sail with bigger groups on structured timetables. Small local crews — like ours — offer personal groups, flexible pacing, and direct pricing without agent commissions.
We wrote a full, honest guide explaining the differences so you can decide what fits your trip best:
📖 Read our Dhow Safari GuideSeafood BBQ lunch (fish, lobster, calamari), fresh tropical fruits, soft drinks, snorkeling gear (mask & fins), life jackets, and experienced local guides.
Starts around 8:30–9:00 AM, finishes between 4:00–4:30 PM.
Swimwear, sunscreen, hat, towel, water shoes, waterproof bag, and camera. For a full packing list, read our packing guide →
Yes — private pickup from anywhere in Zanzibar (Stone Town, Nungwi, Kendwa, Paje, Jambiani) for an extra fee.
Yes. Vegetarian, vegan and chicken options on request. Please notify us in advance.
Absolutely. Life jackets for all ages and crew assistance during snorkeling and sandbank stops.
Book via the online booking form or on WhatsApp. Pay on arrival in cash (USD, EUR, TZS) or by mobile money. For a detailed cost breakdown, read our cost guide →
Both experiences visit the same beautiful reefs, sandbank, and Kwale Island. What differs is how the day feels:
| Feature | Larger tour operators | Us (small local crew) |
|---|---|---|
| Group size | Larger groups sailing together on bigger boats | Small, personal groups with individual attention |
| Pacing | Structured timetables — which can sometimes mean longer waiting periods on the beach | Flexible pacing, decided together with your captain |
| Pricing | Often higher, due to agent and booking commissions | Direct and transparent — no middlemen |
| Where your money goes | Corporate structure | Directly to the local Fumba community |
| Crew interaction | You are one of many guests onboard | Personal attention, local stories, Swahili hospitality |
✨ Both options are perfectly valid — it simply depends on what kind of day you are looking for. If you prefer a more personal, unhurried experience with a smaller crew who grew up on these waters, we would be delighted to welcome you aboard.
📖 Read the full comparison guideLast updated: January 2026
Authentic Dhow Expeditions ("we", "us", "our") respects your privacy. This policy explains what information we collect and how we use it when you visit www.authenticdhowexpeditions.com or book a tour with us.
Information we collect:
How we use your information:
Data storage: Booking information is securely stored using Google Firebase (Firestore). We do not sell or share your data with third parties for marketing purposes.
Your rights: You may request deletion of your data at any time by emailing info@authenticdhowexpeditions.com.
Last updated: January 2026
Booking & Payment: A booking request submitted through this website does not constitute a confirmed reservation until our team replies via WhatsApp or email. Payment is collected on the day of the tour (cash or mobile money). No prepayment is required.
Cancellation Policy: If the weather conditions are unfavorable or an unexpected emergency occurs before departure, you may cancel or reschedule your tour for another available date without penalty. However, once you have boarded the boat and the tour has commenced, cancellation may no longer be free of charge. A small fee may apply, as we may have already incurred non-refundable expenses on your behalf, including entrance tickets, permits, and other operational costs associated with your booking.
Tour Conduct: Guests are expected to follow the safety instructions of the captain and crew at all times. The captain reserves the right to modify the itinerary for weather, safety, or marine conditions.
Liability: We are a Registered Business Name tour operator and provide life jackets for all guests. Guests participate at their own risk and are advised to inform us of any medical conditions in advance.
Governing Law: These terms are governed by the laws of Zanzibar, Tanzania.
Authentic Dhow Expeditions is a registered tour operator in Zanzibar, Tanzania. We comply with local maritime safety requirements and conservation regulations for the Menai Bay Conservation Area.
Registered Business Name: Authentic Dhow Expeditions
Business Registration (BPRA): Z0000313934
Registration Since: 2010
Base Port: Fumba Village, Zanzibar
Safety measures on every tour:
Environmental responsibility: We are committed to protecting the Menai Bay Conservation Area. We practice responsible snorkeling, no touching coral, no plastic waste, and support local marine conservation efforts.