Foxes Safari Camps, a family-run safari operator in southern and western Tanzania, has launched a unique excursion from their private island, Lazy Lagoon, to a nearby isolated sandbar. The sandbar only emerges from the water for a few hours during low tide, before disappearing into the depths of the turquoise ocean.
Using a local dhow, guests set out on a short boat excursion to spend time on the sandbar for as long as the island is above water. They can choose between sunbathing, snorkelling above the coral reefs, and stand-up paddle boarding, while a fish and seafood barbecue is freshly prepared over a fire.
The sandbar holds a special place in local folklore, according to Phillip Tsangari, General Manager of Lazy Lagoon Island Lodge.
“The sandbank is commonly referred to as ‘Mwamba Kuni’ by the locals, which directly translates to ‘rock wood’ in English. It is also interpreted as ‘reef’ and ‘firewood', due to the surrounding reef, and the driftwood that beaches on its shores. Since the 19th century, fishermen have been frequenting the sandbank, which is known as a prime local fishing location due to its healthy coral and marine life,” said Tsangari.
Lazy Lagoon Island is located just off Tanzania’s Swahili coastline and features 12 A-frame, en suite ‘bandas’ set amidst mahogany and mangrove forests, with unobstructed ocean views and direct beach access.
Whilst staying on the island, guests can enjoy restful beach days interspersed with ocean exploration activities and day trips to the historic sites of Bagamoyo, the 13th -century Kaole ruins and a well known local fish market.
Foxes Safari Camps showcases the often overlooked southern and western Tanzania, offering intimate safaris in areas with fewer tourists, which allows for a more immersive encounter with Africa’s wilderness. Lazy Lagoon Island Lodge is one of seven camps and lodges within the Foxes Safari Camps portfolio.
“The Lodge is always looking for new ways to allow their guests to experience more of the Swahili Coastline, explore new coral reefs and discover marine life, which is what the tidal sandbar offers. Guests are encouraged to embrace the pole pole (whichmeansslowly in Swahili) lifestyle, deliberately slowing down and connecting with the true meaning of island living,” said Tsangari.
