Tanzania · Beach & Island

11-Hour Zanzibar Beach and Prison Island Tour with Tortoises

11 Hours Round trip from Zanzibar Easy pace

Ruins of a former prison and hospital in Prison Island

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Relax on the soft white sands of Nakupenda Beach surrounded by turquoise waters
02 Swim or snorkel in crystal-clear waters among colourful fish and corals
03 Explore Prison Island's former prison and hospital ruins with their intriguing history
04 Walk through the island forest to spot butterflies, peacocks, and Giant Aldabra Tortoises

Embark on a full-day journey to Nakupenda Beach, one of Zanzibar's most pristine beaches, and the historic Prison Island. Stroll along soft white sands surrounded by turquoise waters, then go swimming or snorkelling in the crystal-clear sea. At Prison Island, also known as Changu Island, examine the ruins of a former prison and hospital building with a local expert while discovering its intriguing past.

Admire beautiful peacocks with their spectacular tails of colourful feathers, and even walk among and feed endangered Giant Aldabra Tortoises.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 11 Hours

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Not applicable

Cities Zanzibar, Changuu

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Nakupenda Beach Escape and Prison Island Discovery

Meet your tour guide at the agreed-upon location in Zanzibar and commence the tour to Nakupenda Beach. Enjoy a seafood lunch and snacks. Look for abundant birdlife that will enhance your experience. Swimming and snorkelling among colourful fish and corals will make it even better. Do not forget to bring your underwater camera.
Visit Prison Island, where the ruins of a former prison and hospital building can be found. The intriguing history of the "rebellious slaves" and violent criminals imprisoned here will capture your imagination. During the 1900s, the prison was turned into a hospital to prevent diseases that were then spreading in Zanzibar.
Take a stroll and venture into the forest. Here, you will see beautiful butterflies and maybe even catch a glimpse of a duiker, a tiny antelope. Admire beautiful peacocks with their spectacular tails of colourful feathers, and even walk among and feed endangered Giant Aldabra Tortoises.
Head back to Zanzibar.