Blue Lagoon and Pingwe in Zanzibar: snorkeling, tides, prices and visit (2026)
The east-coast "Blue Lagoon", near Pingwe and the Michamvi peninsula, is visited on a boat excursion with snorkeling, and its quality depends entirely on the tide. According to several sources, low tide gives clearer, calmer water for seeing coral and fish: check the tide table for your date. Excursions that include it are listed from $68 (half day Paje and Blue Lagoon) to $160 per adult (full day with other stops); one guide quotes $30 to $60, less reliable. No official entrance fee was found: ask whether entry and snorkeling gear are included. Reseller prices noted in October 2026.
Highlights
Pingwe at low tide
The rock under The Rock restaurant can be reached on foot at low tide; the same tide decides how good the lagoon is.
The rock at high tide
At high tide you get there by boat: the best-known image of Pingwe.
The lagoon snorkeling
Coral and fish in calm water at low tide, according to the excursions offered.
The seafood lunch
Several formats finish at The Rock, known for its seafood.
Practical info
Tips
- The best-selling formats combine The Rock and the Blue Lagoon (half day from Paje, about $68); a "Blue Lagoon, starfish, Salaam cave" day is listed at about AU$139 (roughly $90, approximate conversion). One excursion with Dongwe pick-up is listed at $125 with $10 to pay on site. To choose the best east-coast outing, compare with Safari Blue and the snorkeling spots. To understand the tide, read tides and swimming. Neighbouring beach: Michamvi Kae.
How to get there
The lagoon lies off the Michamvi peninsula, about 10 km from Paje according to one source, and about 1.5 hours from Stone Town. Excursions usually include the transfer from east-coast hotels; from the north, ask for the drive time.
Opening hours
Nearby
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