From Nungwi: Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank With Lunch

Exploring Zanzibar’s coast offers many tempting options, but this particular tour to Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank is a standout for those who want a mix of wildlife, stunning scenery, and authentic local flavor. Based on a collection of traveler reviews and the detailed itinerary, this experience promises a day packed with memorable moments — from giant tortoises to crystal-clear waters and delicious seafood.

What makes this trip appealing? We love the chance to see the giant Aldabra tortoises up close, the opportunity to snorkel in Zanzibar’s vibrant marine environments, and the chance to relax on a pristine sandbank with a fresh seafood barbecue. The chance to learn about the island’s history at Prison Island and then unwind on Nakupenda’s beach is quite the combo.

A possible consideration? Some travelers point out that boat quality and speed vary, with complaints about slow or unstable vessels which could affect the overall comfort. It’s also worth noting that entry fees for Prison Island are not included in the price, and these have been increasing recently.

This tour is especially suited for those who want a balanced mix of wildlife, beach relaxation, and cultural insights. It’s popular among travelers looking for good value and authentic experiences, rather than over-the-top luxury or extensive sightseeing.

Key Points

• Wildlife encounter: Meet the giant tortoises on Prison Island and learn about conservation efforts.
• Snorkeling: Explore Zanzibar’s underwater world with provided equipment, offering a glimpse of vibrant marine life.
• Beach relaxation: Enjoy the tranquility of Nakupenda Sandbank, one of Zanzibar’s most stunning spots.
• Local cuisine: Savor a seafood barbecue lunch with fresh catch and seasonal fruits.
• Cost considerations: Entry to Prison Island costs an additional $12 (or more from September), and boat quality may vary.
• Overall value: The tour combines multiple experiences for a reasonable price, making it a popular choice for short trips.

If your aim is to experience a mix of nature, culture, and beachside relaxation, this trip ticks many boxes. The small motorized dhow boat offers a classic Zanzibar adventure, and the stops are designed to give you a taste of local wildlife and scenic beauty. The guided visits to Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank are highlighted by knowledgeable guides, some of whom, as one reviewer noted, helped them learn a lot about the island’s history and the conservation efforts surrounding the giant tortoises.

The snorkeling component adds a fun, interactive element, allowing you to explore Zanzibar’s underwater biodiversity without needing to be a seasoned snorkeler. The provided equipment makes it accessible for most, and the clarity of the waters often receives praise.

The lunch deserves special mention — a seafood barbecue featuring fresh catch, complemented by fruits like mango, pineapple, bananas, and watermelon. Reviewers appreciated the generous portions and the chance to relax on Nakupenda’s soft sands after some activity. The setting is perfect for unwinding and taking in the stunning views, with some mentioning it as an ideal spot to escape the heat.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Day Itself: What to Expect

Starting from Nungwi or Kendwa, the tour begins with a hotel pickup (or meeting outside Livingstone Restaurant Beach). The group generally consists of a small to medium-sized crowd, making the day feel intimate yet lively. It’s worth arriving early to maximize your time on the water and at each stop.

The journey to Prison Island involves a round-trip boat transfer. The boats are motorized, but as some reviews point out, the speed and stability can vary. One guest mentioned that the boat’s motor was quite slow, making the crossing longer than expected, and the ride somewhat unstable. If you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a faster, smoother ride, this is something to keep in mind.

Once on Prison Island, you’ll have roughly an hour to explore the prison museums and meet the giant tortoises. The tortoises are genuinely impressive, with some travelers remarking that the staff is very knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience both fun and educational. Expect to see these gentle giants lumbering around, and appreciating their conservation story.

Afterward, you’ll have the chance to snorkel in the waters around the island, using the provided gear to peer into Zanzibar’s lively underwater scene. The waters are described as crystal-clear with vibrant marine life, perfect for a short snorkeling session.

Next, the boat transports you to Nakupenda Sandbank, where you’re free to relax, swim, or stroll along the pristine white sands. It’s a real highlight, with stunning panoramic views and a peaceful atmosphere.

The lunch is served on the sandbank, and travelers often mention the seafood barbecue as a major plus — fresh fish, prawns, and other local specialties, plus seasonal fruits and drinks. The meal is served beachside, adding to the relaxed vibe.

The return trip wraps up with a scenic ride back to Zanzibar, with some guests sharing that the boat quality could be improved, but overall, the experience remains positive.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Many reviewers have highlighted knowledgeable guides who go out of their way to share the island’s stories and conservation efforts. For example, one reviewer called the guides “amazing,” saying they learned a lot about the tortoises and the island’s history.

Others mentioned that the total experience offers excellent value for money — especially considering the seafood lunch, snorkeling gear, and all transportation included for just $37 per person.

However, some criticisms revolve around the boat quality, with one traveler describing the vessel as “awful,” slow, and unstable, which could affect comfort. Also, the additional entry fee for Prison Island was seen as a bit of a surprise, especially since the price has increased recently, from $12 to $22 starting from September 1st, including government taxes and conservation fees.

The food quality is generally appreciated as good in quantity, if not gourmet, with some noting that the seafood was fresh and plentiful, though one reviewer felt the overall quality was medium.

The tour’s timing generally allows for a relaxed pace, but some have felt that the trip could be a bit longer, especially if boat conditions are slow or rough.

Practical Details & Tips for Travelers

• Price & What’s Included: $37 per person, which covers hotel pickup, boat transfers, snorkeling equipment, lunch, fruits, and drinks. Entry to Prison Island costs extra, starting at $12, rising to $22 from September 1st.
• Duration: Usually a full-day experience, with pickups early in the morning and returning by late afternoon.
• Group Size & Language: Tours are offered in multiple languages including English, Italian, German, French, and Spanish.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for people with mobility impairments.
• Weather & Safety: The boat ride can be slow and bumpy, especially if seas are rough. Keep an eye on weather updates.
• Cancellation & Flexibility: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

This day trip is ideal for travelers craving a mix of wildlife, beach, and cultural sights without spending a fortune. It’s perfect if you want to see giant tortoises, enjoy some snorkeling, and relax on a beautiful sandbank with a delicious lunch.

It’s particularly suitable for those who value authentic experiences over luxury, and who are comfortable with small boat rides that might be slow or slightly rough. The guides’ knowledge and friendly attitudes make up for some of the boat’s shortcomings, according to many travelers.

If you’re traveling with children or family, the tour’s relaxed pace and the chance to see animals and enjoy the beach make it a solid choice. However, if you’re sensitive to boat motion or have mobility issues, you might want to weigh the boat conditions more carefully.

This tour offers a well-rounded, budget-friendly taste of Zanzibar’s coast, combining wildlife, marine fun, and relaxing scenery. The highlight for many is definitely the giant tortoises and the stunning sandbank, but the local guide’s insights and fresh seafood round out the experience nicely.

While boat quality and additional fees are points to consider, most travelers find the overall value and the variety of activities worth it. If you’re seeking an authentic, scenic day trip with a touch of adventure, this tour is definitely worth considering.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 5 to 15 pay a reduced fee of $17, and kids under 5 enter free. The relaxed pace and outdoor activities make it family-friendly.

How much extra will I need to pay at Prison Island?
The entry fee is $12, but starting from September 1st, it will be $22, including government tax and conservation funds.

What should I bring for the snorkeling?
Use the provided snorkeling equipment, but bring your own mask and fins if you have preferences. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and a towel.

What is the boat ride like?
The boat ride can be slow and, at times, unstable. Some reviews mention it as “awful” or “terrible,” so prepare for a longer, potentially bumpy journey.

Can I customize the tour?
This experience follows a set itinerary, but you can book with flexible payment options and cancel up to 24 hours in advance if your plans change.

Is vegetarian lunch available?
Yes, vegetarian options are available for the seafood barbecue lunch, and it often includes seasonal fruits and drinks.

Overall, this tour from Nungwi combines wildlife with scenic beaches and local flavor, making it a worthwhile option for travelers wanting a taste of Zanzibar’s diverse offerings without overextending their budget.

You can check availability for your dates here: