Zanzibar: Salam Cave, Prison Island and Mtende Tour

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Introduction

This Zanzibar tour offering covers three diverse yet equally captivating spots: Salaam Cave, Prison Island, and Mtende Beach. It’s a great way for travelers to experience some of the quieter corners of the island, away from the crowded tourist trails. We love the chance to dip into nature’s serenity, explore historic ruins, and unwind on untouched beaches—all in one affordable package.

What makes this tour stand out is its combination of peaceful exploration, historical insight, and natural beauty. The crystal-clear pools in Salaam Cave promise a refreshing swim, while Prison Island offers a glimpse into Zanzibar’s colonial past, along with adorable giant tortoises. Meanwhile, Mtende Beach provides a secluded spot for relaxing walks and stunning photo opportunities.

That said, the tour’s price of $50 per person offers excellent value, but it’s worth noting that lunch and entry fees are not included, so budget accordingly. This experience seems best suited for those who enjoy laid-back days filled with nature, history, and scenic views, rather than high-energy or adventure-focused activities.

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Key Points

Affordable Price: At just $50, this tour offers a well-rounded experience of Zanzibar’s highlights.
Authentic Encounters: From marine life in Salaam Cave to giant tortoises on Prison Island, the tour emphasizes genuine, memorable moments.
Peaceful Settings: Perfect for travelers seeking tranquility, with scenic spots like Mtende Beach providing quiet reflection.
Cultural and Natural Diversity: Combines history, wildlife, and stunning landscapes in one trip.
Flexible and Practical: Includes hotel pickup/drop-off, guide, bottled water, and boat ride, making logistics simple.
Additional Costs: Lunch and entry fees are not included, so plan to bring extra funds if needed.

Looking for more options in Pemba Island? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Exploring Salaam Cave: A Natural Aquarium

Salaam Cave is a highlight for those wanting a peaceful escape into nature. Located in Kizimkazi Village, the cave contains crystal-clear pools filled with marine life, making it an ideal spot for swimming and relaxing in tranquil surroundings. The pools are small but inviting, and the calm waters offer a refreshing break from the heat.

Visitors often comment on the serene atmosphere, with the lush greenery and gentle sounds of water echoing throughout creating a calming experience. One reviewer mentioned that the cave’s environment is perfect for quiet reflection or a leisurely swim, especially if you’re looking to avoid overly touristy spots.

The cave’s natural formation offers excellent photo opportunities, especially with the dramatic reflections in the pools and the surrounding foliage. You may also encounter some marine life in the water, adding a sense of discovery and connection with nature.

Pro tip: Since Salaam Cave is a lesser-known spot, expect fewer crowds, but bring your own snorkeling gear if you wish to explore the marine life more closely.

Prison Island: A Historic and Wildlife Haven

A short boat ride from Stone Town takes you to Prison Island (Changuu Island), which combines history and wildlife. Originally built as a quarantine station, the island now hosts giant Aldabra tortoises that are quite accustomed to visitors. Feeding these gentle giants is a favorite activity, with many travelers noting how surprisingly interactive and calm the tortoises are.

The island also features colonial-era ruins of a prison, offering a glimpse into Zanzibar’s colonial past. Exploring these old structures provides a sense of history and contrast to the island’s natural beauty. One reviewer pointed out that walking through the ruins feels like stepping back in time, with the added bonus of spotting local wildlife.

For those interested in snorkeling, the coral reefs around Prison Island are described as teeming with tropical fish, though snorkeling isn’t included in the tour price. The boat ride itself is quite scenic, with turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs on the way.

Tip: The island tends to be busy during peak hours, so an early start might help you enjoy it with fewer people.

Mtende Beach: An Off-the-Beaten-Path Paradise

On Zanzibar’s southern coast lies Mtende Beach, a quiet stretch of white sand framed by dramatic cliffs and natural rock formations like Mtende Rock. This spot provides a perfect setting for relaxing walks, photography, or just soaking up the sun in peace. It’s a stark contrast to the more commercial beaches, offering a sense of untouched natural beauty.

Many visitors appreciate the seclusion and scenic views, with one review describing it as a “hidden gem.” The turquoise waters here are ideal for a gentle paddle, and the natural surroundings create a calming environment that encourages slowing down and taking in the scenery.

The beach’s rock formations offer interesting compositions for photographers, and the cliffs provide a dramatic backdrop for sunrise or sunset shots. If you’re seeking a peaceful, less touristy beach experience, Mtende Beach checks all the boxes.

Note: The beach is quite remote, so bring plenty of water and sun protection, and be prepared for a short drive from central parts of Zanzibar.

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Practical Details and Logistics

This tour is designed with convenience in mind. Included in the $50 price are a professional guide, bottled water, and the boat transfer to Prison Island, as well as pickup and drop-off from your hotel. These amenities make it an easy way to access some of Zanzibar’s best outdoor spots without worrying about transportation or planning.

The tour typically lasts several hours, allowing ample time at each location for exploring and relaxing. Since lunch and entry fees are not included, travelers should budget extra for meals or entrance tickets if they wish to visit certain sites more thoroughly.

The tour is offered in multiple languages—English, Italian, French, Spanish, and German—making it accessible for different travelers. For flexibility, you can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Travelers have noted that the group sizes tend to be manageable, which enhances the experience’s intimacy and allows for personalized attention from the guide.

There's plenty more to explore in Pemba Island

Final Thoughts

This Zanzibar tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, history, and tranquility, all at an accessible price. It’s particularly well suited for travelers looking to escape busy tourist spots and enjoy authentic, peaceful moments amidst Zanzibar’s diverse landscapes. Whether you’re swimming in Salaam Cave’s calm waters, feeding giant tortoises on Prison Island, or wandering the secluded sands of Mtende Beach, you’ll find plenty to love.

The tour’s relaxed pace and scenic stops make it ideal for those who prefer a calm, nature-focused experience. While it’s not targeted at adventure seekers, the authentic and quiet atmosphere will appeal to those craving genuine encounters with Zanzibar’s lesser-known treasures.

Overall, if you want an affordable, well-organized day that combines history, wildlife, and natural serenity, this tour delivers excellent value—and plenty of memorable moments.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a professional guide, bottled water, a boat to Prison Island, and hotel pickup and drop-off. It offers a convenient way to explore Zanzibar’s highlights without extra planning.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, lunch and entry fees are not included in the $50 price, so you should budget extra for meals or any entrance tickets you choose to pay for during the day.

How long does the tour last?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, the tour covers three main locations, so it’s likely to last several hours, allowing enough time at each spot for exploration and relaxation.

Is snorkeling available?
Snorkeling isn’t explicitly included, but the coral reefs around Prison Island are known for tropical fish. You might find opportunities to snorkel independently if you bring your gear.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, the relaxed pace and nature-based stops make it family-friendly. However, keep in mind the boat ride and walking involved.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear and snorkel gear if desired, sun protection, a camera for photos, and some extra money for meals or optional entry fees.

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

To sum it up, this Zanzibar tour provides a genuine look at some of the island’s quieter, scenic spots—perfect for travelers who value peace, natural beauty, and a touch of history. With its affordability and thoughtfully curated stops, it’s an excellent choice for those wanting to experience Zanzibar beyond the usual tourist haunts, especially if you’re seeking moments of quiet reflection and authentic encounters.