Zanzibar Ocean & Safari Escape
From coral reefs to wildlife plains — turquoise water, dolphins, and a private safari in one unforgettable week.
Responsible & Ethical Ocean Encounters
Welcome to Tanzania
Step into an island world where reef-filled lagoons, gentle dolphins, and ancient tortoises meet golden savannah, elephants and wild horizons. This journey brings together Zanzibar’s most magical ocean moments with a dramatic safari day — a complete escape for the senses.


What's Included
8 days / 7 nights · Turquoise water, wild horizons & one unforgettable safari


7 nights in a hand-picked coastal accommodation
Breakfast and dinner included
Dolphin swim & coral snorkelling at Mnemba
Forest, reefs and sea: Jozani Forest walk, Blue Lagoon snorkelling & The Rock restaurant visit
Prison Island & Nakupenda sandbank boat day with snorkelling
Transparent-kayak ride over reef + drone photography
Heritage walk in Stone Town and spice-farm experience
Full-day flying safari to a national park — wildlife, open-jeep drive, buffet lunch & return flight
Where You’ll Stay
You’ll stay in a calm boutique hotel close to the beach, surrounded by soft island air and tropical greenery. The exact villas may vary depending on availability, but the style remains the same: beautiful, peaceful spaces designed for rest, privacy, and an easy connection to the ocean.
Your stay includes daily breakfast and dinner, allowing you to settle into slow mornings, relaxed evenings, and a gentle rhythm throughout the retreat.


What's Not Included


International flights
Travel insurance
Visa fees (if applicable)
Independent meals on exploration days
Alochol beverages
Spa treatments
Personal purchases or optional add-ons
Logistics
Retreat Dates
19–25 January 2026 · Zanzibar Island
7 days / 6 nights during one of Zanzibar’s warmest and most stable seasons, ideal for calm ocean days, bright reefs, and a smooth flying safari experience.
Arrival
Your international flight will land in Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ), or you may arrive in Dar es Salaam (DAR) and take the fast ferry to Stone Town.
A private driver will meet you upon arrival in Zanzibar and bring you directly to your coastal hotel.
Please plan to arrive on 18 January 2026.
If you prefer a gentler arrival or additional rest, you may also fly in on 17 January 2026.
Once you arrive, your private transfer to the retreat accommodation is arranged for you.
Departure
The retreat closes on the morning of 25 January 2026.
Please schedule your outward flight from Zanzibar (ZNZ) any time after 19:00, allowing enough time for your private transfer to the airport or ferry terminal.


Your Zanzibar Journey
Day-by-day, what you will live, feel, and experience.


Day 1 – Arrival in Zanzibar
Arrive by air or ferry and transfer to your coastal hotel.


Day 2 – Mnemba Dolphins & Coral Gardens
Swim with wild dolphins in Zanzibar’s clearest waters.
Day 3 – Jozani Forest, The Rock & Blue Lagoon
A day shaped by nature and iconic island scenery.
Day 4 – Nakupenda Sandbank & Prison Island
A turquoise-water day on Zanzibar’s brightest sandbank.
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The Experience
Experience a journey where coral reefs, white sandbanks, and Africa’s wild horizon come together.
Day 5 – Transparent Kayak & Drone Photography
A playful morning of clear water and cinematic visuals.
Day 8 – Flying Safari to Mikumi National Park
A full-day East African safari included in your retreat.
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Who This Retreat Is For
This retreat is for travellers who feel drawn to turquoise water, gentle marine life, and the soft rhythm of island culture, yet also dream of witnessing Africa’s wildlife up close. It suits anyone who loves calm exploration, warm seas, slow mornings, and a blend of ocean discovery with one unforgettable safari day.


Frequently Asked Questions
Which country does Zanzibar belong to?
Zanzibar is part of Tanzania. Entry rules follow Tanzanian immigration policies for tourists.
Do I need a visa?
Most travellers can obtain a Visa on Arrival (VOA) or apply for an e-visa online. Travellers from the EU/Schengen area, the UK, the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Switzerland are generally eligible.
Official visa information: https://eservices.immigration.go.tz/visa
What currency is used?
Tanzania uses the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS).
Are euros or dollars accepted?
USD is widely accepted for tours and many restaurants. Local shops prefer Tanzanian Shillings. Cards are accepted in hotels and most larger venues.
What language do they speak?
Swahili (Kiswahili) is the national language. English is widely spoken in tourism and hospitality.
What is the weather like?
January is warm, sunny, and tropical.
Air: 28–32°C
Water: 27–29°C
Rain: occasional short tropical showers.
When does the retreat begin?
The retreat programme begins on the morning of 19 January 2026. Your hotel night on 18 January is included so everyone can start smoothly the next morning.
Where do we stay?
You will stay in a calm boutique hotel close to the ocean. The exact hotel may vary depending on availability, but the style remains the same: comfortable, peaceful rooms designed for rest and privacy. Daily breakfast and dinner are included.
Can I stay in my own hotel instead?
Yes. If you prefer arranging your own accommodation, this can be organised. The retreat price will be adjusted accordingly.
Is this a resort or boutique hotel?
We work with small boutique-style hotels chosen for comfort, atmosphere, and calm — not large resort structures.
Are meals included?
Daily breakfast and dinner are included. Some lunches are included when part of scheduled activities, such as the flying safari.
Alcoholic beverages are not included.
Is snorkelling equipment included?
Yes. All ocean activities include the necessary gear.
Do I need experience to join?
No. Beginners are welcome, and activities are adapted to your comfort level.
Do I need to be very fit or a strong swimmer?
No. Ocean sessions are gentle and always supervised. If you are not confident in the water, guides will support you closely.
Are dolphins, tortoises, or wildlife guaranteed?
Encounters are likely but never guaranteed. Wildlife follows its own rhythm.
Are the tours ethical?
We work only with operators who follow respectful wildlife practices and avoid harmful behaviour.
However, Zanzibar is a popular island and many tours operate in the same areas. While we choose responsible partners, we cannot control other companies’ actions. You will always be guided with care, ethical awareness, and respect for the environment.
Is Zanzibar safe?
Yes. Zanzibar is generally safe, including for solo travellers. We recommend being mindful of personal belongings in busy areas and respecting local customs.
Is the safari safe?
Yes. The Mikumi flying safari uses licensed aircraft, trained pilots, and professional guides. Safari jeeps follow established safety procedures.
Do I need vaccines or malaria medication?
No mandatory vaccines are required. Some travellers choose malaria prophylaxis — consult your doctor.
We recommend bringing mosquito repellent for evenings.
Is the food safe?
Yes. Partner hotels and restaurants maintain good hygiene standards. Drink filtered or bottled water.
What should I wear in Stone Town or cultural areas?
Zanzibar is a Muslim-majority island.
Beachwear is perfect at your hotel and during ocean activities. In Stone Town or villages, modest clothing (shoulders covered, knee-length bottoms) is respectful.
What plugs do they use?
Type G (UK-style). An adapter is recommended.
Is there Wi-Fi?
Yes. All hotels offer reliable Wi-Fi suitable for messages, calls, and light work.
Can I buy a local SIM card?
Yes. Airtel and Zantel offer good coverage. SIM cards can be purchased at the airport or in Stone Town.
How many guests will join?
A small, intimate group — allowing for a calm atmosphere and personalised guidance.
Can I come alone?
Yes. Most guests join solo, and the group dynamic is naturally warm.
Will I get photos?
Yes. Underwater and drone photos are taken during specific activities and shared afterward.
Can I skip an activity?
Yes. You may rest at the hotel if you need to, though activities are non-refundable.
What happens if the weather changes?
The programme continues even with light weather changes. If ocean conditions shift, activities may be reordered for safety and comfort.
What if I feel unwell during the retreat?
You may rest at the hotel. Zanzibar has clinics and private hospitals, and we will assist if medical care is needed.
Can I store luggage at the hotel?
Yes — luggage storage is available before check-in or after checkout on 25 January.
Can I stay longer in Zanzibar?
Yes. If you want to extend your trip, we can recommend hotels and activities.
Can I arrive earlier?
Yes. Some guests prefer arriving a day or two before the retreat. Your included accommodation begins on 18 January.
Can I continue to mainland Tanzania for more safaris?
Yes. Many travellers add Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, or Manyara after Zanzibar.
We can guide you on logistics and recommendations.
What is included?
• 8 days / 7 nights boutique hotel accommodation
• Daily breakfast and dinner
• All transfers during the retreat
• Mnemba dolphins & coral snorkelling
• Jozani Forest, The Rock & Blue Lagoon
• Prison Island & Nakupenda sandbank
• Transparent kayak + drone photography
• Stone Town & spice farm experience
• Full-day flying safari to Mikumi National Park
• Local guides and support throughout
What is not included?
• International flights
• Visa fees
• Travel insurance
• Independent lunches
• Alcoholic beverages
• Personal purchases or optional add-ons
What is the cancellation policy?
All bookings are final and non-refundable. Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
What should I pack?
A detailed list will be sent to you. Expect light clothing, swimwear, sandals, reef-safe sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and essentials for warm tropical weather.
What if I have more questions?
You can contact me anytime. I’m here to support you with logistics, preparation, and anything you need before your trip.
All our ocean experiences follow strict ethical guidelines.
We work only with trusted operators who respect wildlife, avoid disturbance, and never chase or touch marine animals.
Contact
Let's chat about your ocean retreat journey.
© 2025. © Ocean Calling Retreats.
All rights reserved.
Ocean Calling Retreats
Operated by Rocío Ruiz — Swiss-based, serving clients worldwide
EMAIL
hello@oceancallingretreats.com
WhatsApp
+60 17 506 3408
