Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank Full-Day Tour

Zanzibar City, Tanzania 6.00 hours

Highlights

Visit historic Prison Island
See the famous Aldabra giant tortoises
Enjoy a scenic boat ride from Stone Town
Explore the beautiful Nakupenda Sandbank
Swim in crystal-clear tropical waters
Enjoy snorkeling around the sandbank
Relax on Zanzibar's white sandy beach
Enjoy a freshly prepared seafood lunch
Taste tropical fruits and local Zanzibar flavors
Capture beautiful photos of the Indian Ocean

About this experience

Discover two of Zanzibar’s most popular experiences on one unforgettable day. Start your adventure with a traditional boat ride from Stone Town across the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean to Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island.

Explore the island and learn about its fascinating history, including its former use as a quarantine station. You will also have the opportunity to see and interact with the famous Aldabra giant tortoises, some of which are over a century old.

After visiting Prison Island, continue by boat to Nakupenda Sandbank, a stunning natural sandbank surrounded by clear blue water. Spend time swimming, relaxing on the white sandy beach, snorkeling in the warm tropical waters, and enjoying the peaceful island atmosphere.

A freshly prepared Zanzibar-style seafood lunch is served on the sandbank, usually featuring grilled fish, seafood, salad, tropical fruits and other local specialties, depending on availability. After lunch, enjoy more free time for swimming, photography and relaxing before returning by boat to Stone Town.

This full-day experience combines history, marine life, tropical beaches, swimming, snorkeling and authentic Zanzibar cuisine in one memorable excursion.

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off
if selected
Boat transfer to Prison Island
Boat transfer to Nakupenda Sandbank
Professional English-speaking guide
Prison Island entrance fees
Nakupenda Sandbank experience
Snorkeling equipment
subject to availability
Swimming and beach time
Freshly prepared seafood lunch
Tropical fruits
Drinking water
Soft drinks
Local taxes and service charges

What's not included

Personal expenses
Alcoholic beverages
Tips and gratuities
Items not specifically mentioned as included
Optional activities or services

Meeting point

Hotel Pick Up Zanzibar

Stone Town

What to bring

Swimwear Sunscreen Sunglasses Hat Towel Comfortable clothes Waterproof bag for valuables Camera or smartphone Extra cash for personal expens

Important information

Info: The tour is operated according to sea and weather conditions. The exact order of activities may change depending on tides, weather and sea conditions. Boat transfers may take approximately 20–40 minutes depending on the sea conditions and departure point. Nakupenda is a natural sandbank, so its size and appearance can change according to the tide. In some conditions, the sandbank may be partially covered by water. Seafood lunch is subject to daily availability. Guests with dietary restrictions or special meal requirements should inform us in advance. Hotel pickup and drop-off times depend on the location of the accommodation. Please arrive at the meeting point on time to avoid delays.
Requirements: uests should be comfortable travelling by boat and participating in basic beach and water activities. Swimming is recommended for snorkeling, but guests may enjoy the sandbank without swimming. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Guests with serious mobility limitations, severe medical conditions or conditions that may be affected by boat travel should inform the operator before booking.
Accessibility: Not recommended for guests with severe mobility impairments because the activity involves boat transfers and walking on sand. Please contact the operator before booking if special assistance is required.

Frequently asked questions

What should I bring for this activity? ▾

Swimwear Sunscreen Sunglasses Hat Towel Comfortable clothes Waterproof bag for valuables Camera or smartphone Extra cash for personal expens

What languages are available for this tour? ▾

English

Where is the meeting point? ▾

Hotel Pick Up Zanzibar

What is the cancellation policy? ▾

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled activity start time. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before departure may be subject to a cancellation charge. No-shows are non-refundable. The activity may be rescheduled or cancelled by the operator in case of unsafe sea or weather conditions. If the operator cancels the activity, customers will be offered an alternative date or refund according to the applicable booking terms.

Total

Group size: 2–1000 participants