Stone Town Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank

A Practical Look at the Stone Town Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Zanzibar, chances are you’ll want to see a good mix of history, wildlife, and beachside relaxation. This guided tour offers exactly that, combining a visit to the historic Stone Town, the famous Prison Island with its Aldabra giant tortoises, and a relaxing day on Nakupenda Sandbank. With a rating of 4.7 from six reviews, this experience seems to balance well between cultural exploration and leisure.

What we love about this tour is its variety. First, it offers the chance to get up close with Aldabra giant tortoises — a highlight for animal lovers. Second, the historic Stone Town walk provides insights into Zanzibar’s past, with visits to key landmarks like the Old Fort and Sultan’s Palace. Third, the sandbank picnic promises a laid-back day with stunning scenery, good food, and the chance to swim in clear waters.

A potential drawback? The day is quite packed, starting early and ending late, so it might feel rushed if you prefer a slow, in-depth experience. Also, those who don’t enjoy boat rides or outdoor activities might find the schedule a bit intense. Still, if you’re after a well-rounded day with plenty of variety, this tour should suit you well.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a balanced day of cultural discovery, wildlife interaction, and beach relaxation. It’s especially appealing to those who enjoy guided experiences with good logistics, tasty food, and scenic boat rides.

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Key Points

Diverse itinerary includes Stone Town, Prison Island, and Nakupenda Sandbank.
Wildlife encounters with Aldabra giant tortoises and small antelopes.
Historical insights through visits to the Old Fort, Sultan’s Palace, and prison ruins.
Excellent value with included lunch, snorkeling gear, and transport.
Flexible booking options with pay later and free cancellation.
Ideal for all, from families and couples to solo travelers seeking variety.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Review of the Tour Experience

Looking for more options in Zanzibar City? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

The Morning Start: From Hotel to Adventure

The day kicks off at 8:30 am with hotel pickups arranged by the tour provider, Cocos Nucifera Tours and Safaris. The transport is private, making the start smooth and comfortable. The trip then departs from a central location near the Serena Hotel, with the boat trip to Island beginning around 9:30 am.

This early start is great for maximizing your day but requires some planning if you’re not a morning person. Once underway, the boat ride itself is quite scenic, providing a chance to enjoy the ocean views and anticipate the day ahead.

Prison Island: History and Giant Tortoises

The first stop is Prison Island (Changuu Island), famous for its giant tortoises and historic prison ruins. Guests love the chance to touch, feed, and take photos with the Aldabra giants relaxing on the beach or wandering freely. One reviewer, Connor, simply summed it up with “Everything,” underscoring the simplicity and charm of this experience.

You’ll probably spend around 1-1.5 hours here, exploring the ruins and soaking up the relaxed island vibe. The tour guide provides context, sharing stories about the island’s past as a prison and quarantine station, giving a glimpse into Zanzibar’s colonial history. The opportunity to interact with the slow-moving tortoises is a highlight, especially for animal lovers and families.

Snorkeling and Relaxing Around Prison Island

Following the wildlife visit, the tour offers snorkeling around the island. Snorkeling gear, including masks and fins, is provided, and life jackets are available on request. The water is clear, and the marine life is part of the appeal, although the provided details don’t specify the reef’s vibrancy; you might find it suitable for a quick splash rather than a lengthy underwater adventure.

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Nakupenda Sandbank: Sun, Seafood, and Birdlife

After the island visit, the boat sails to Nakupenda Sandbank, one of Zanzibar’s most iconic spots. Here, the focus is on unwinding. The sandbank offers a perfect setting for lounging, swimming, and snapping photos of the brilliant birdlife that inhabits the area. Tourists are advised to bring towels and swimsuits, and the guide offers snorkeling gear and life jackets.

The highlight is the lunch break, featuring seafood options like lobster, calamari, octopus, and fresh fish, along with tropical fruits such as pineapple, banana, watermelon, mango, and coconut. The meal is served in a relaxed beach setting, making it an ideal spot for a picnic in paradise.

Guests mention that the food quality is excellent, with local seafood prepared fresh, and the drinks provide a refreshing break from the sun. The atmosphere is casual, perfect for families, couples, or groups wanting to soak up the sun and enjoy the stunning surroundings.

There's plenty more to explore in Zanzibar City

The Return Journey and Stone Town Walk

By mid-afternoon, around 3:30 pm, the tour begins to wind down, sailing back toward Stone Town. Before disembarking, many guests take in the views and reflect on the day’s highlights.

Once back in the city, the tour continues with a walking safari around Stone Town, lasting about 1.5 hours. Led by an experienced guide, this walk covers historic buildings like the Old Fort, Sultan’s Palace, and Christ Church. Reviewers praise guides for their knowledge, with Marvin mentioning that the guide “spoke German very well and was able to tell us a lot about the island, Stonetown and its history.”

This city walk offers a more cultural perspective, helping you understand Zanzibar’s past as a trading hub and its diverse influences. It’s a perfect way to wind down, soaking in the vibrant streets, markets, and architecture.

Practical Details

The entire tour runs from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm, making it a full day of activity. The cost is $135 per person, which includes hotel transfers, lunch, snorkeling gear, guide services, and all entry fees. The private boat ensures a comfortable, intimate experience, and the flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours before are helpful for planning.

What We Learned from Reviews

Multiple reviewers highlighted the professionalism of the guides, with special praise for their language skills and knowledge. Matthias appreciated the constant communication and the friendliness of the team, noting, “everything went perfectly from booking, paying, transfer, and the trip itself.” The food also stood out, with some reviewers mentioning the quality of seafood and the friendly service.

Connor summarized his experience simply: “Everything,” reflecting the overall satisfaction, while Marvin recommended the tour highly due to the guide’s expertise and the well-organized nature of the trip.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This day-long excursion offers a well-rounded taste of Zanzibar. You’ll get to see historic sites, interact with gentle giants, relax on a pristine sandbank, and enjoy delicious local seafood. It’s a good choice if you’re looking for a varied itinerary that combines culture, wildlife, and leisure.

The inclusion of snorkeling gear and private transportation adds to the convenience, especially for travelers who appreciate smooth logistics. The tour’s value is evident in the variety of experiences packed into one day and the positive feedback from past guests.

The tour might feel rushed for those wanting a more leisurely pace or in-depth exploration of each site. However, for most travelers seeking a rundown of Zanzibar’s highlights without multiple bookings, this is a practical and enjoyable option.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

Ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers who want a full day of sightseeing and relaxation. It’s especially suited for those interested in history and wildlife but also eager to unwind at a scenic beach. If you enjoy guided tours with good food, friendly guides, and scenic boat rides, this experience checks all those boxes.

FAQs

What time does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at 8:30 am with hotel pickups and typically finishes around 5:30 pm, including the city walking safari.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pick-up and drop-off in private vehicles, ensuring a comfortable start and finish.

What should I bring for the day?
It’s recommended to bring towels and swimming suits for the beach and snorkeling activities.

Are snorkeling gear and life jackets provided?
Yes, snorkeling masks, fins, and life jackets are available upon request, making it easy to enjoy the water safely.

How long is the Stone Town city walk?
The walk lasts around 1 hour and 30 minutes, covering key historic sites and offering insights into Zanzibar’s past.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your plans.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour’s mix of wildlife, history, and beach activities makes it family-friendly, especially since it includes engaging animal encounters and scenic spots.

In summary, this tour offers a smart way to experience Zanzibar’s highlights in one well-organized day. It combines cultural sites, wildlife, and beach relaxation, making it an excellent choice for travelers craving variety, good value, and memorable moments. Whether you’re a history buff, wildlife enthusiast, or beach lover, this trip promises a truly enjoyable day on Zanzibar.