Tanzania · Beach & Island

Prison Island & Nakupenda Beach Nature Reserve Tour

8 Hours Round trip from Zanzibar Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Boat trip from Stone Town to Prison Island and Nakupenda
  • 02 Visit Prison Island and learn about its history as a detention and quarantine site
  • 03 See and interact with Aldabra giant tortoises
  • 04 Snorkel, swim, and sunbathe at Nakupenda Sandbank
  • 05 Enjoy a BBQ seafood lunch with seasonal tropical fruits and drinks
  • 06 Explore old buildings and take a short nature walk on Prison Island

Discover two of Zanzibar’s most memorable coastal highlights on this full-day experience to Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank. Begin with a boat ride from Stone Town to Prison Island, where you’ll explore the island’s layered history and meet its famous Aldabra giant tortoises, with time to walk around the old buildings and enjoy the setting.

Then continue to Nakupenda for a relaxing escape on brilliant white sands surrounded by clear Indian Ocean waters. Swim, snorkel, sunbathe, and enjoy a freshly prepared BBQ seafood lunch with tropical fruits and drinks in a beautiful natural setting that blends adventure, nature, and beach time in one easy day.

Today, the island is famed for its protected colony of Aldabra giant tortoises, some of which are more than a century old.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 8 Hours
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Not included
Transport Not included
Wheelchair access Not applicable
City Zanzibar
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank Tour

Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank Tour

Begin your journey with a scenic 20-minute boat ride from Stone Town, offering panoramic views of the historic city skyline. Upon arrival, you will explore Prison Island, originally constructed in 1893 as a detention facility but later used as a quarantine station for incoming visitors.

Today, the island is famed for its protected colony of Aldabra giant tortoises, some of which are more than a century old. Your guide will share the island’s fascinating history while giving you the opportunity to interact with the tortoises, feed them, and capture memorable photos. A short nature walk and time to explore the old buildings complete this enriching experience.

Nakupenda Sandbank Picnic

Snorkelling, Seafood Lunch & Beach Relaxation

After the Prison Island visit, you will continue by boat to Nakupenda, one of Zanzibar’s most remarkable natural attractions. Named after the Swahili word for “I love you,” this sandbank is renowned for its pristine white sands, crystal-clear waters, and peaceful atmosphere.

Spend your day snorkelling, swimming, and sunbathing in the heart of the Indian Ocean. Enjoy a freshly prepared BBQ seafood lunch, accompanied by seasonal tropical fruits and refreshing drinks. Whether you wish to explore the vibrant marine life or simply relax on the shifting sands, Nakupenda delivers an exceptional island experience.

Why Choose This Combined Tour?

  • A seamless blend of culture, nature, and relaxation
  • Guided exploration of Prison Island’s history and the Famous Aldabra Giant Tortoises
  • Stunning beach time at one of Zanzibar’s most beautiful sandbanks
  • Delicious seafood lunch served in an unforgettable setting
  • Perfect for couples, families, and Sea adventure lovers

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Zanzibar 1 city · 8 Hours

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Boat fee
  • Seafood lunch features Zanzibar flavors
  • Snorkeling equipment usage
  • Entrance fee & Conservation fee
  • Trained, friendly and professional guide

What's Not Included

  • USD 55 per way – Transfer from your hotel to Stone Town (drop-off at Mizingani Seafront Hotel or Forodhani Gardens). $55 is based on Up to 5 guests per car.

Know before you go

  • Meeting location: Mizingani Sefront Hotel or Forodhani Garden in Stone Town
  • Meeting time: 9:30 or 10:00 am
  • 'You can also inquire for pick-up and drop-off form /to your Hotel'
  • SPECIAL INFORMATION
  • Zanzibar is a predominantly Muslim island. Please respect this when in or around Stone Town. Woman are asked to cover their knees and shoulders
  • Please ask permission from your guide before taking pictures of people
  • Please do not purchase any large shells or coral from local vendors as it promotes the destruction of our fragile marine ecosystem
  • This is a boat tour, you might have to wear shoes that are easy to slip in and out and that don’t get damaged by water
  • Please pack sunscreen and a hat for the trip to Prison Island & Nakupenda.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Zanzibar, TZ
Tour start
Zanzibar, TZ
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 8 hours finish where they began, in Zanzibar.

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