Zanzibar: Stone Town & Prison Island, Blue Safari, Sunset in the North

A detailed look at Zanzibar’s best-known sights and experiences, all wrapped into one affordable package, promises a memorable adventure for curious travelers. This tour, offered by Marvin Excursions & Safari for $235 per person, hits the main cultural, natural, and scenic spots of Zanzibar Island. Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of beaches, or someone chasing spectacular sunsets, this experience tries to tick all your boxes.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its blend of cultural insights, wildlife encounters, and relaxing beach time. Plus, the inclusion of a boat safari and snorkeling adds an adventurous touch. However, with multiple stops scheduled over several days, the itinerary can feel a bit packed, especially if you prefer slow, unhurried travel. This tour is best suited for travelers looking to maximize their Zanzibar experience without breaking the bank, and who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and leisurely beach days.

Key Points

• Cultural immersion in UNESCO-listed Stone Town with visits to historical sites and markets.
• Wildlife encounters at Prison Island’s famous turtle reserve.
• Sea adventures with snorkeling, boat rides, and dolphin search opportunities.
• Stunning scenery at Menay-Bay, Kwale Island, and Kendwa’s famed beaches.
• Authentic local cuisine through seafood lunch and grilled fish.
• Flexible booking with pay-later options and cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Zanzibar Experience

This multi-day tour crafted by Marvin Excursions & Safari promises a well-rounded introduction to Zanzibar’s vibrant culture, lush landscapes, and iconic beaches. Priced at $235, it offers a great value for those eager to see the highlights without the hassle of organizing each element independently. The tour combines guided visits, boat trips, snorkeling, and time for relaxation—ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive yet manageable overview of the island.

The experience is designed to be accessible to a wide range of visitors, with multilingual guides and included transportation outside the resort. The fact that you can book with flexible payment plans and cancel up to 24 hours before means you can approach this trip with confidence, even if your plans are still flexible.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Stone Town & Prison Island – A Cultural and Wildlife Excursion

The journey begins with a walking tour through Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its winding alleys, historic Arab gates, and vibrant markets. The guide will take you past landmarks like the House of Wonders and the Sultan’s Palace, offering insights into Zanzibar’s rich history and folklore. Notably, the visit to the Central Market and the Anglican Cathedral — built on the site of the slave trade — provides a sobering reminder of the island’s complex past.

Reviewers have appreciated their guides, noting that “the tour was well-organized and insightful,” with some mentioning the opportunity to shop for local crafts along the way. The tour wraps up with free time to explore some shops, a perfect chance to pick up souvenirs or enjoy local snacks.

Next, a short boat ride takes visitors to Prison Island, historically used for quarantining slaves and now home to a sanctuary for giant turtles. Watching the turtles swim lazily around the reef is a highlight, and many travelers comment on how “the turtle reserve is a delightful surprise”. The island’s calm beach offers a spot to swim, relax, and admire colorful starfish, a scene that many describe as “picturesque and peaceful.”

Blue Safari – Exploring Zanzibar’s Natural Wonders

The following day offers a full-day Blue Safari, a sailing adventure aboard traditional boats. The route takes you to Mena Bay, where sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling are the main activities. The waters are clear and inviting, with some reviews noting excellent visibility for observing marine life.

A highlight is the seafood lunch on Kwale Island, grilled right on the beach amidst the scent of tamarind trees. Many guests rave about the quality of the seafood — “fresh, well-cooked, and served with a beautiful view.” The day continues with an impressive visit to the 500-year-old Baobab, a true natural marvel that has withstood centuries, offering excellent photo opportunities.

For those who love wildlife, the search for dolphins during the sail adds a thrilling touch. While sightings depend on the day’s conditions, several travelers report getting close enough to dolphins to enjoy their playful leaps.

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Sunset at the Northern Beaches – The Perfect End to Your Day

The tour culminates with a sunset visit to Kendwa, one of Zanzibar’s most celebrated beaches. Sitting on the soft sands, watching the sun dip below the horizon, is a treat that many find surreal. The site offers a relaxed vibe, with the chance to unwind after busy days of sightseeing. The included fruit snack provides a refreshing break and a taste of local flavors.

Note: This part of the tour is not recommended for guests staying at Eden Village, as the excursion overlaps with the hotel’s grounds, but for others, it’s an ideal way to end the day with stunning scenery and peaceful waters.

Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

Transportation between sites is provided outside the resort, ensuring smooth transfers and minimizing logistical stress. The group size tends to be moderate, allowing for personal interaction with guides and a more intimate atmosphere. The tour is spread over several days, with each part scheduled to maximize the experience without rushing, though some may find the packed agenda challenging if they prefer more leisure time.

Timing is subject to weather and tides, which influence boat rides and snorkeling conditions. The tour is flexible in that respect, with reviews noting that “the guides adapt well to changing weather conditions,” ensuring safety and enjoyment.

Deep Dive into Each Experience

Stone Town – Insights and Tips

Walking through Stone Town feels like stepping back in time. The guide’s narration brings the streets’ stories alive, from slave trade sites to Arab influence. Visitors love the chance to see original Arab gates and learn about local folklore—these small details enhance the cultural richness.

Reviewer feedback highlights the shop visits as an opportunity to find unique souvenirs, like spices or handcrafted jewelry. The overall pace is relaxed enough to savor the sights, but be prepared for narrow streets and uneven pavements.

Prison Island – A Gentle Encounter with Wildlife

The boat ride to Prison Island is short but scenic, with many guests enjoying the breeze and ocean views. The turtle sanctuary is a hit, especially with children and animal lovers, who appreciate the chance to see these giant creatures. Some reviewers mention that the “turtles are surprisingly friendly and curious,” making for excellent photo moments.

The island itself offers calm beaches perfect for swimming and unwinding, plus the chance to spot starfish. It’s an unpretentious, peaceful stop that balances history and nature.

Blue Safari – A Day of Sun, Sea, and Seafood

The sailing part of the tour is a highlight, with many describing the experience as “peaceful yet exhilarating.” The traditional boats, often called dhows, add an authentic touch. The snorkeling spots are praised for their clarity and marine life, although some reviews recommend bringing your own snorkel gear for comfort.

The seafood lunch on Kwale Island is often described as a highlight, with fresh fish grilled to perfection, served in a relaxed setting under tamarind trees. The Baobab visit impresses even seasoned travelers, who appreciate its age and grandeur.

Sunset in Kendwa – A Scenic Climax

Watching the sunset in Kendwa is a favorite moment for many guests. The sky blazes with orange and pink, providing a perfect backdrop for photos. The calm waters and soft sands make it an excellent spot to unwind after a busy day exploring.

Guests often comment on the refreshing fruit snack included, which adds a nice touch to the experience. Many recommend staying longer if possible, as Kendwa’s slow pace invites mindful relaxation.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• What to bring: Swimsuit, camera, water, flip-flops, beachwear, and sunscreen to enjoy the beach and snorkeling comfortably.
• Weather considerations: Since activities depend on tides and weather, be flexible with plans. The guides are adept at adjusting schedules.
• Group size: Expect moderate groups, which helps with personalized attention but can still feel lively.
• Booking flexibility: The option to reserve and pay later offers peace of mind, especially if your plans are uncertain.
• Timing: The sunset portion is best experienced as scheduled but check with your guide if you want to extend your stay at Kendwa.

The Sum Up

This Zanzibar tour by Marvin Excursions & Safari offers an excellent way to see the island’s most iconic sights without overloading your schedule. It balances cultural exploration, wildlife encounters, and beach relaxation, making it suitable for travelers who want a well-rounded experience on a budget.

The combination of guided tours, scenic boat rides, and time to unwind at Kendwa’s famous beaches makes it a practical yet memorable choice. The inclusion of local cuisine, snorkeling, and the chance to observe dolphins adds layers of enjoyment and discovery.

While it’s a busy itinerary, the flexible booking options and knowledgeable guides help make the experience smooth and rewarding. For those eager to explore Zanzibar’s history, wildlife, and natural beauty in a single trip, this tour delivers excellent value.

If you prefer a slow-paced, in-depth experience or want to focus solely on relaxing beaches, you might find the schedule a bit hectic. But for most, this balanced adventure offers a fantastic introduction to Zanzibar’s vibrant character.

You can check availability for your dates here:

FAQ

• Is transportation included outside the resort? Yes, the tour provides roundtrip transfers outside the resort, ensuring smooth travel between sites.
• What language do guides speak? Guides are multilingual, speaking Italian, French, English, Spanish, Russian, Swahili, and Dutch.
• Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.
• What should I bring? Pack swimwear, a camera, water, flip-flops, beachwear, and sunscreen for comfort and safety during the activities.
• Are there any age restrictions? The tour suits most travelers, but always check with the provider if you have specific concerns about children or mobility.
• Is the tour suitable for solo travelers? Absolutely, the moderate group size and shared experiences make it a great option for solo adventurers.