From Nungwi: Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank Escape

Traveling to Zanzibar and looking for a day packed with both adventure and relaxation? This tour offers a perfect blend of history, wildlife, and beach paradise, all within a manageable day trip from Nungwi. We’ve gathered insights from real travelers to give you an honest, detailed look at what you can expect.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to see the world-famous giant tortoises on Prison Island with their fascinating history. Second, the crystal-clear waters and soft sands of Nakupenda Sandbank provide picture-perfect relaxation and snorkeling. Third, the fresh seafood lunch and tropical fruits make the day not just scenic but also delicious.

A possible consideration? The cost of entry fees ($22 per person) isn’t included in the initial price, so budget accordingly. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or those with certain mobility or food restrictions.

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a balanced day of wildlife encounters, cultural history, and beach downtime — especially those staying near Nungwi eager to explore Zanzibar’s highlights without hassle.

Key Points

• Convenient pickup and small group sizes enhance the personalized experience.
• Historically rich Prison Island features giant tortoises over 100 years old.
• Idyllic Nakupenda Sandbank offers excellent snorkeling and sunbathing opportunities.
• Fresh seafood and tropical fruits ensure a tasty, authentic meal.
• Snorkeling gear provided allows for underwater exploration.
• Additional entry fees are not included but can be easily paid on-site.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Fun and Practical Overview of the Tour

This tour kicks off early, with a pick-up at 8:00 AM from your Nungwi hotel. The journey in a small shared vehicle (max 6 guests) from Nungwi to Stone Town ensures fewer crowds and more personal attention. The boat departs at 10:00 AM, setting the stage for a day filled with scenic cruising, wildlife, and beachside bliss.

Prison Island: Tortoises, Ruins, and History

Your first stop is Prison Island, famous for its giant Aldabra tortoises, some over 100 years old. As one reviewer, Giordano, pointed out, the visit could be more organized, especially regarding timing with the tide, but the tortoises are a highlight. They roam freely, and you’re encouraged to pet and feed them, which is a real treat, especially for animal lovers.

The island is also home to historic ruins once used as a prison and quarantine station, which add an intriguing layer to the visit. The views over the ocean are stunning, offering plenty of photo opportunities. Reviewers like Valerie mentioned that guides, such as Hadji and Milano, made the experience enjoyable with their friendly and informative approach, helping travelers learn about the tortoises and the island’s past.

Nakupenda Sandbank: Sun, Snorkel, and Seafood

Next, you’ll cruise to Nakupenda Sandbank, a true slice of tropical paradise. The white sands stretch out into the azure waters, perfect for lounging or snorkeling among vibrant marine life. Reviewers have expressed that the beach is perfect for sunbathing and swimming, with crystal waters inviting you to dip in.

The snorkeling gear is provided, and the clarity of the water makes for excellent underwater viewing. After some time on the sandbank, a delicious seafood lunch is served, complemented by tropical fruits. The meal is regarded as fresh and flavorful, with many noting the high quality of the food provided in such a remote setting. One traveler loved the aromas and flavors of the local cuisine, describing it as a memorable highlight.

Return Journey and Additional Details

After a relaxing afternoon, the journey back to Stone Town begins, followed by a transfer back to Nungwi. The whole day is designed to be flexible and manageable, with plenty of time for photos, swimming, and relaxing. The total cost of $72 per person offers good value, considering the boat rides, guided tours, lunch, and equipment included.

Review insights reveal that the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, adding a warm and authentic feel to the experience. Travelers also appreciated the opportunity to enjoy Zanzibar’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning each detail themselves.

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Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Book in advance — the tours are popular, and you can keep your plans flexible by reserving with a “pay later” option.
• Bring essentials — sunhat, sunscreen, swimwear, towel, water shoes, waterproof bag, and beachwear are all recommended.
• Pay attention to entry fees — the $22 fee (from September onward) is paid on-site, so budget for that.
• Group size matters — the small group size (max 6) makes for a more intimate experience than larger tours.
• Timing is crucial — the tour departs at 10:00 AM from Stone Town, so arriving early helps maximize your day.
• Not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or travelers with food allergies, so plan accordingly.
• Cancellation policy allows for a full refund if you cancel 24 hours in advance.

Why This Tour Works Well

This trip hits the sweet spot for travelers wanting a balanced day in Zanzibar. You’ll get the chance to learn about the island’s rich history while also enjoying leisurely beach time and snorkeling in clear waters. The seafood lunch adds a flavorful touch that makes the experience feel truly local.

The small group size and friendly guides lead to a more personal experience, and the overall price of $72 is reasonable considering the inclusions. It’s especially well-suited for those staying near Nungwi who want a seamless way to explore some of Zanzibar’s top sights without the stress of organizing transport and activities themselves.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a relaxed yet engaging day that combines wildlife, history, and beach lounging, this tour is a great choice. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers looking for a manageable adventure without sacrificing quality.

Travelers who appreciate fresh seafood and beautiful scenery will find this trip particularly satisfying. If you’re short on time but want to experience the best of Zanzibar’s marine life and cultural highlights, this tour provides excellent value and authentic experiences.

However, it’s not suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, due to the physical nature of some activities and restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included? Yes, a shared transfer from Nungwi to Stone Town is included, accommodating up to 6 guests, making for a relaxed start to your day.

What is the tour duration? The entire experience runs from the 8:00 AM pickup to your return in Nungwi in the late afternoon, around 4-5 PM.

Are meals provided? Yes, a seafood lunch with tropical fruits is included, served on Nakupenda Sandbank.

Do I need to pay extra for entrance fees? Yes, the $22 per person fee (from September) covers Prison Island entry and conservation fees and is payable on-site.

What should I bring? Sunhat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, beachwear, water shoes, waterproof bag — all are recommended for comfort and safety.

Is snorkeling equipment provided? Yes, snorkeling gear is included, so you can explore the vibrant marine life.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children? It’s best for older children and adults; it’s not recommended for babies under 1 year or individuals over 95 years.

This tour from Nungwi to Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank offers a well-rounded day of Zanzibar’s highlights. The mix of wildlife viewing, cultural history, and beach relaxation makes it a compelling choice for a first-time visitor or those short on time.

You’ll love the chance to see giant tortoises, snorkel among colorful marine life, and enjoy a delicious seafood meal in a stunning natural setting. The small group size and friendly guides help keep the experience intimate and engaging.

While there’s a modest additional fee and some logistical considerations, the overall value and the memorable scenery make this tour standout. It’s a fantastic way to experience Zanzibar’s natural beauty and rich heritage in one manageable day.

Note: Always check for updated details or seasonal changes before booking.

You can check availability for your dates here: