An Unforgettable Stay at Safira Blu Luxury Resort & Villas in Zanzibar, Tanzania
Last updated on March 2nd, 2024 at 06:22 pm
Nestled on the pristine shores of Nungwi, Zanzibar, the Safira Blu Luxury Resort stands out as a jewel amongst the best resorts in Zanzibar. I recently got the chance to visit this incredible 5-star resort and walked away absolutely speechless. I’ve never stayed at such a nice property in my life and I can’t wait to share all the details with you below.
In this complete travel guide and overview of Safira Blu Luxury Resort, we’ll explore the best times to visit Zanzibar, the various travel options for getting to Safira Blu, and how the oceanfront rooms and villas are unlike anything you’ve ever experienced. We’ll also take a closer look at all the world-class amenities including the food from their onsite restaurants and abundance of water activities. Keep reading to find out why Safira Blu Luxury Resort & Villas in Zanzibar isn’t just a destination but a luxurious journey that captivates all who visit.
Keep in mind that this site contains affiliate links. I may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. However, this does not impact my honest reviews and comparisons. I only make recommendations based on personal experience(s), in order to help you make the best decisions while traveling!
What Is The Best Time To Visit Zanzibar?
The best time to visit Zanzibar is during the dry season, June to October. This period offers pleasant weather with low humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities and water sports. I visited during 4th of July weekend and it was perfect.
Even though it was peak season, Zanzibar has a tropical climate, making it a year-round destination for travelers. The wet season, from November to May, brings occasional showers but also offers lush greenery and quieter beaches. Visitors can still enjoy the sun and water activities of East Nungwi during this time, especially as hotel and airfare tend to be more affordable.
Getting To Safira Blu Luxury Resort & Villas
Flying into Zanzibar International Airport
Zanzibar International Airport is the primary gateway to the island and is serviced by various international and regional airlines. Thus, making it relatively easy for visitors to reach the resort. I was originally flying from Nairobi direct to Zanzibar but ran into an unfortunate visa situation before leaving the states (pro tip, make sure to check that your visa for Kenya isn’t already expired before getting to the airport). Long story short, I ended up flying through Europe but made it to Zanzibar in one piece after a brutal 30 hour travel day from San Francisco.
Upon landing, my friends and I opted for the resort’s private transfer service. We were exhausted from flying and the pre-booked transportation allowed us to feel safe and relaxed during the ~90min journey to Nungwi.
Taking the ferry into Zanzibar
Alternatively, ferry services are available from the mainland for those who have a better tolerance than I do for the sea. The journey offers a unique perspective of the ocean and a chance to arrive at the resort’s private dock in style.
Safira Blu Luxury Resort Villas – The Rooms & Luxury Accommodation
As mentioned earlier, this was hands down one of the nicest hotels I’ve ever stayed at in my entire life. Each of the 12 oceanfront villas at Safira Blu completely redefines luxury with its unique Zanzibar charm and privacy. We were lucky enough to be put in “The Boardwalk Villa” and were told that no one had ever stayed in the room prior to us. We were the first! The villa itself featured its own boardwalk and outdoor bar, complete with swaying bar chairs, a private plunge pool, a relaxing hot tub, outdoor showers, and more.
Even though there are only 12 villas to choose from, I don’t think you can go wrong with any of them. One of them (The Lover’s Bae Villa) even has it’s own private beach. Like seriously – how is this a real place??? We literally felt like we were on the bachelor while in our exclusive villa.
All of the rooms in the hotel are equipped with air conditioning, ample seating area, a nespresso machine, personal concierge, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a complete kitchenette, a dining area, a safety deposit box, luxury toiletries, and so much more. Moreover, each villa has its own private terrace, providing guests with sweeping views of the Indian Ocean and incredibly lush gardens. The serene atmosphere promotes relaxation, while the modern amenities ensure maximum comfort throughout your stay.
The best part? Since the property is so massive, you can directly text the staff via Whatsapp and they’ll send a golf cart to come pick you up and take you to other parts of the property. (You’re also more than welcome to walk but the Zanzibar humidity is no joke).
The Culinary Experiences at Safira Blu Luxury Resort & Villas – BluFire Restaurant, Drunken Monkey Beach Bar, and A Floating Dhow Breakfast
BluFire Restaurant – Oceanfront Gourmet Dining
At BluFire Restaurant, guests are treated to a taste of Zanzibar’s treasures. Ocean-fresh seafood and spices from Safira Blu’s farm are the stars here.
Leading the kitchen, Chef Keith Lawrence masterfully creates innovative dishes. Whether you’re a food fanatic or a laid-back diner, you’ll discover new flavors just steps from the beach. The intimate space offers more than a meal; it’s a sensory feast set against a backdrop of stunning vistas.
Pro Tip: Make sure to ask about having dinner on the beach. As you can see, it’s a rather intimate setting but I was with my girlfriends so we just pretended like we were all on our honeymoon hahah.
Drunken Monkey Beach Bar – Sunset Sips and Savory Snacks
The atmosphere is laid-back yet electrifying at the Drunken Monkey Beach Bar, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a colorful sundowner cocktail or gourmet beach bites. The sushi boat was soooo good and fresh!! This is definitely where we spent most of our time as the bar is right on the beach and close to the pools. There was also live music both days and the whole resort was a total vibe. The Drunken Monkey combined with the panoramic infinity pools are definitely the stars of the show.
Floating Dhow Breakfast – Breakfast for Royalty
This is an absolute must while staying at Safira Blu. Where else are you going to find an incredibly aesthetic floating breakfast inspired by the local Zanzibar “Dhow” fishing boats? The best part is that it’s completely set up and delivered straight to your room. It comes with everything you need for a magnificent feast and epic photos/videos for Instagram (or TikTok now I guess). This is definitely a step up above the classic floating breakfasts you see everywhere else. My favorite part was definitely the fresh fruit and mini chocolate donuts.
Another great option is to order room service (pictured above) for in-room villa dining!
Social Bar – Serenity and Socializing
The Social Bar in the lobby offers the perfect escape for guests with a stunning view. With its open-all-day service and unique sunken seating, this bar combines relaxation and luxury. This makes it ideal for those looking to unwind while still feeling connected to Safira Blu’s vibrant social scene.
World-Class Amenities at Safira Blu Luxury Resort & Villas
Convenience and Comfort – Personal Concierge and Golf Cart Service
One of the first thing we did when we arrived was give our phone numbers to the staff. They immediately texted us via Whatsapp to let us know that we had 24/7 service at our fingertips. In addition to providing shuttle service to/from the airport – they also offer on-demand transportation via golf cart to get around the property. It was so fun to take the golf cart from our villa to the restaurant/pool on multiple occasions!
Exploring the Ocean – Kayaks, Snorkeling, and SUP
One of the best parts about visiting Zanzibar is that you can choose to do absolutely nothing or you can spend your whole day in the water! Adventure seekers will love all of the watersport activities available at Safira Blu.
The hotel provides glass-bottom kayaks which we used to kayak around the property. The water was a bit rough to start but eventually evened out. If kayaking isn’t your thing, they also offer stand-up paddleboards and snorkel equipment, free of charge for guests. If you want to take it one step further, you can also ask them to organize a tour out to the famous Mnemba Atoll for the opportunity to go deep sea diving.
Unbeatable Panoramic Infinity Pools with Endless Views
Safira Blu Luxury Resort & Villas takes it a notch higher with its multiple infinity pools for those seeking a relaxing day in the sun. These breathtakingly beautiful pools offer panoramic views of the ocean and lush gardens, giving guests an unparalleled experience of serenity and luxury. There is also direct beach access from all of the pools.
Cultural and Sensory Adventure – Safira Blu Spice Garden and Farm
Did you know that Zanzibar is nicknamed Spice Island due to the heavy production of common spices such as cloves, nutmeg, pepper and cinnamon? The Safira Blu Spice Garden and Farm offers guests an authentic spice tour experience without ever having to leave the comfort of the resort. The chef also shared with us that most of the vegetables and spices served at BluFire come directly from this garden.
Holistic Rejuvenation – Kioo Spa
What’s better than treating yourself to a spa day after 30 hours in the air? Well, Safira Blu’s Kioo Spa offers a ton of different treatments including body treatments, massages, facials, manicures & pedicures, and waxing services—all designed to soothe, beautify, and enhance well-being. The spa also features two treatment rooms with private bathrooms and serene outdoor relaxation areas.
Health and Wellness – Fitness Center
They say “calories don’t count on vacation” but my girlfriends and I know they definitely do which is why we were so happy to see an onsite gym. The resort boasts state-of-the-art fitness facilities for guests keen on maintaining their wellness routines on holiday. Complete with modern equipment and panoramic views of the surroundings, it’s a refreshing space for those looking to keep fit and energized.
If I haven’t convinced you by now that Safira Blu Luxury Resort & Villas is an absolute beacon of luxury and relaxation, then I hope you get the chance to travel to Zanzibar and experience it for yourself!
This property truly blends beach beauty with 5-star luxury and I hope my travel guide and honest review helped you decide where to spend your next vacation!
Did you get a chance to visit Safira Blu Luxury Resort & Villas? Let me know in the comments below.
Visiting other parts of Africa?
Check out my other travel guides on Africa here.
Looking for travel inspiration to somewhere else?
Last updated on March 2nd, 2024 at 06:22 pm
Nestled on the pristine shores of Nungwi, Zanzibar, the Safira Blu Luxury Resort stands out as a jewel amongst the best resorts in Zanzibar. I recently got the chance to visit this incredible 5-star resort and walked away absolutely speechless. I’ve never stayed at such a nice property in my life and I can’t wait to share all the details with you below.
In this complete travel guide and overview of Safira Blu Luxury Resort, we’ll explore the best times to visit Zanzibar, the various travel options for getting to Safira Blu, and how the oceanfront rooms and villas are unlike anything you’ve ever experienced. We’ll also take a closer look at all the world-class amenities including the food from their onsite restaurants and abundance of water activities. Keep reading to find out why Safira Blu Luxury Resort & Villas in Zanzibar isn’t just a destination but a luxurious journey that captivates all who visit.
Keep in mind that this site contains affiliate links. I may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. However, this does not impact my honest reviews and comparisons. I only make recommendations based on personal experience(s), in order to help you make the best decisions while traveling!
What Is The Best Time To Visit Zanzibar?
The best time to visit Zanzibar is during the dry season, June to October. This period offers pleasant weather with low humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities and water sports. I visited during 4th of July weekend and it was perfect.
Even though it was peak season, Zanzibar has a tropical climate, making it a year-round destination for travelers. The wet season, from November to May, brings occasional showers but also offers lush greenery and quieter beaches. Visitors can still enjoy the sun and water activities of East Nungwi during this time, especially as hotel and airfare tend to be more affordable.
Getting To Safira Blu Luxury Resort & Villas
Flying into Zanzibar International Airport
Zanzibar International Airport is the primary gateway to the island and is serviced by various international and regional airlines. Thus, making it relatively easy for visitors to reach the resort. I was originally flying from Nairobi direct to Zanzibar but ran into an unfortunate visa situation before leaving the states (pro tip, make sure to check that your visa for Kenya isn’t already expired before getting to the airport). Long story short, I ended up flying through Europe but made it to Zanzibar in one piece after a brutal 30 hour travel day from San Francisco.
Upon landing, my friends and I opted for the resort’s private transfer service. We were exhausted from flying and the pre-booked transportation allowed us to feel safe and relaxed during the ~90min journey to Nungwi.
Taking the ferry into Zanzibar
Alternatively, ferry services are available from the mainland for those who have a better tolerance than I do for the sea. The journey offers a unique perspective of the ocean and a chance to arrive at the resort’s private dock in style.
Safira Blu Luxury Resort Villas – The Rooms & Luxury Accommodation
As mentioned earlier, this was hands down one of the nicest hotels I’ve ever stayed at in my entire life. Each of the 12 oceanfront villas at Safira Blu completely redefines luxury with its unique Zanzibar charm and privacy. We were lucky enough to be put in “The Boardwalk Villa” and were told that no one had ever stayed in the room prior to us. We were the first! The villa itself featured its own boardwalk and outdoor bar, complete with swaying bar chairs, a private plunge pool, a relaxing hot tub, outdoor showers, and more.
Even though there are only 12 villas to choose from, I don’t think you can go wrong with any of them. One of them (The Lover’s Bae Villa) even has it’s own private beach. Like seriously – how is this a real place??? We literally felt like we were on the bachelor while in our exclusive villa.
All of the rooms in the hotel are equipped with air conditioning, ample seating area, a nespresso machine, personal concierge, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a complete kitchenette, a dining area, a safety deposit box, luxury toiletries, and so much more. Moreover, each villa has its own private terrace, providing guests with sweeping views of the Indian Ocean and incredibly lush gardens. The serene atmosphere promotes relaxation, while the modern amenities ensure maximum comfort throughout your stay.
The best part? Since the property is so massive, you can directly text the staff via Whatsapp and they’ll send a golf cart to come pick you up and take you to other parts of the property. (You’re also more than welcome to walk but the Zanzibar humidity is no joke).
The Culinary Experiences at Safira Blu Luxury Resort & Villas – BluFire Restaurant, Drunken Monkey Beach Bar, and A Floating Dhow Breakfast
BluFire Restaurant – Oceanfront Gourmet Dining
At BluFire Restaurant, guests are treated to a taste of Zanzibar’s treasures. Ocean-fresh seafood and spices from Safira Blu’s farm are the stars here.
Leading the kitchen, Chef Keith Lawrence masterfully creates innovative dishes. Whether you’re a food fanatic or a laid-back diner, you’ll discover new flavors just steps from the beach. The intimate space offers more than a meal; it’s a sensory feast set against a backdrop of stunning vistas.
Pro Tip: Make sure to ask about having dinner on the beach. As you can see, it’s a rather intimate setting but I was with my girlfriends so we just pretended like we were all on our honeymoon hahah.
Drunken Monkey Beach Bar – Sunset Sips and Savory Snacks
The atmosphere is laid-back yet electrifying at the Drunken Monkey Beach Bar, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a colorful sundowner cocktail or gourmet beach bites. The sushi boat was soooo good and fresh!! This is definitely where we spent most of our time as the bar is right on the beach and close to the pools. There was also live music both days and the whole resort was a total vibe. The Drunken Monkey combined with the panoramic infinity pools are definitely the stars of the show.
Floating Dhow Breakfast – Breakfast for Royalty
This is an absolute must while staying at Safira Blu. Where else are you going to find an incredibly aesthetic floating breakfast inspired by the local Zanzibar “Dhow” fishing boats? The best part is that it’s completely set up and delivered straight to your room. It comes with everything you need for a magnificent feast and epic photos/videos for Instagram (or TikTok now I guess). This is definitely a step up above the classic floating breakfasts you see everywhere else. My favorite part was definitely the fresh fruit and mini chocolate donuts.
Another great option is to order room service (pictured above) for in-room villa dining!
Social Bar – Serenity and Socializing
The Social Bar in the lobby offers the perfect escape for guests with a stunning view. With its open-all-day service and unique sunken seating, this bar combines relaxation and luxury. This makes it ideal for those looking to unwind while still feeling connected to Safira Blu’s vibrant social scene.
World-Class Amenities at Safira Blu Luxury Resort & Villas
Convenience and Comfort – Personal Concierge and Golf Cart Service
One of the first thing we did when we arrived was give our phone numbers to the staff. They immediately texted us via Whatsapp to let us know that we had 24/7 service at our fingertips. In addition to providing shuttle service to/from the airport – they also offer on-demand transportation via golf cart to get around the property. It was so fun to take the golf cart from our villa to the restaurant/pool on multiple occasions!
Exploring the Ocean – Kayaks, Snorkeling, and SUP
One of the best parts about visiting Zanzibar is that you can choose to do absolutely nothing or you can spend your whole day in the water! Adventure seekers will love all of the watersport activities available at Safira Blu.
The hotel provides glass-bottom kayaks which we used to kayak around the property. The water was a bit rough to start but eventually evened out. If kayaking isn’t your thing, they also offer stand-up paddleboards and snorkel equipment, free of charge for guests. If you want to take it one step further, you can also ask them to organize a tour out to the famous Mnemba Atoll for the opportunity to go deep sea diving.
Unbeatable Panoramic Infinity Pools with Endless Views
Safira Blu Luxury Resort & Villas takes it a notch higher with its multiple infinity pools for those seeking a relaxing day in the sun. These breathtakingly beautiful pools offer panoramic views of the ocean and lush gardens, giving guests an unparalleled experience of serenity and luxury. There is also direct beach access from all of the pools.
Cultural and Sensory Adventure – Safira Blu Spice Garden and Farm
Did you know that Zanzibar is nicknamed Spice Island due to the heavy production of common spices such as cloves, nutmeg, pepper and cinnamon? The Safira Blu Spice Garden and Farm offers guests an authentic spice tour experience without ever having to leave the comfort of the resort. The chef also shared with us that most of the vegetables and spices served at BluFire come directly from this garden.
Holistic Rejuvenation – Kioo Spa
What’s better than treating yourself to a spa day after 30 hours in the air? Well, Safira Blu’s Kioo Spa offers a ton of different treatments including body treatments, massages, facials, manicures & pedicures, and waxing services—all designed to soothe, beautify, and enhance well-being. The spa also features two treatment rooms with private bathrooms and serene outdoor relaxation areas.
Health and Wellness – Fitness Center
They say “calories don’t count on vacation” but my girlfriends and I know they definitely do which is why we were so happy to see an onsite gym. The resort boasts state-of-the-art fitness facilities for guests keen on maintaining their wellness routines on holiday. Complete with modern equipment and panoramic views of the surroundings, it’s a refreshing space for those looking to keep fit and energized.
If I haven’t convinced you by now that Safira Blu Luxury Resort & Villas is an absolute beacon of luxury and relaxation, then I hope you get the chance to travel to Zanzibar and experience it for yourself!
This property truly blends beach beauty with 5-star luxury and I hope my travel guide and honest review helped you decide where to spend your next vacation!
Did you get a chance to visit Safira Blu Luxury Resort & Villas? Let me know in the comments below.
Visiting other parts of Africa?
Check out my other travel guides on Africa here.
This is a fantastic review and would love to stay here in Zanibar (its near the top of my list for places me and my wife want to visit in Africa). Can picture myself sitting by the beach with drinkies in hand, taking in the Indian Ocean. Perfect. 🙂 Great review.
Hey! Thanks so much for reading and the kind words. This hotel was truly incredible!! Zanzibar was also such a bucketlist destination. I hope you and your wife get to visit soon!