Tanzania · Beach & Island

Full-Day Zanzibar Prison Island Tour with Nakupenda Sandbank

1 Day Round trip from Zanzibar Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Explore Prison Island's colonial ruins and meet century-old Aldabra tortoises
  • 02 Snorkel in clear waters around both Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank
  • 03 Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and panoramic ocean views at Nakupenda Sandbank
  • 04 Savor a seafood BBQ with tropical fruits on the sandbank

Embark on a memorable full-day adventure to Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank in Zanzibar. Cruise across turquoise waters to explore the historic former prison and quarantine station, meet giant Aldabra tortoises that are over 100 years old, and enjoy snorkeling in clear waters. Continue to Nakupenda Sandbank for sunbathing, swimming, and more snorkeling among colorful marine life, then savor a delicious seafood BBQ on the beach. This tour blends history, wildlife, boating, snorkeling, and beach relaxation in one unforgettable island experience.

Meet giant Aldabra tortoises, some of them over 100 years old.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 1 Day
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Not included
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Yes
Cities Zanzibar, Changuu
Languages English, French, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank Adventure

08:30 AM - Hotel Pickup

  • Your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel.

  • Transfer to Forodhani Gardens or a nearby dock in Stone Town.

09:00 AM - Depart for Prison Island (Changuu Island)

  • Enjoy a 20-minute boat ride across turquoise waters to Prison Island.

09:30 AM - Explore Prison Island

  • Visit the historic former prison and quarantine station.

  • Meet giant Aldabra tortoises, some of them over 100 years old.

  • Take photos, feed the tortoises, and enjoy the island's lush surroundings.

  • Optional: Enjoy a short snorkeling session in the island's clear waters.

11:00 AM - Depart for Nakupenda Sandbank

  • Take a 15-20 minute boat ride to Nakupenda Sandbank.

  • Enjoy panoramic views of the ocean and Stone Town as you approach the beach.

11:30 AM - Nakupenda Beach Time

  • Snorkel in crystal-clear waters with colorful marine life.

  • Swim, sunbathe, or take a stroll along the sandbank.

  • Relax under a beach umbrella with refreshments.

01:00 PM - Seafood BBQ Lunch

  • Enjoy freshly grilled seafood, including fish, lobster, and calamari, along with chicken, chips, rice, and tropical fruits.

  • Vegetarian options are often available upon request.

02:30 PM - Free Time at Nakupenda

  • Spend more time relaxing, swimming, or taking photos before returning.

03:30 PM - Return Boat Ride to Stone Town

  • Enjoy a scenic return trip to the main island by boat.

04:00 PM - Hotel Drop-off

  • Return to your accommodation, leaving with unforgettable memories of your Zanzibar island adventure.

Prison Island shoreline, Nakupenda Sandbank, Stone Town waterfront

Where this trip takes you

Prison Island shoreline, Nakupenda Sandbank, Stone Town waterfront

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Zanzibar 2 cities · 1 Day

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Food and drinks
  • Boat fee
  • Guide fee
  • Government fee
  • Entry fee

What's Not Included

  • Tips
  • All personal purchases

Logistics

Meeting & route

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

Your 1 day finishes where it began, in Zanzibar.

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