Zanzibar: Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank

If you’re looking for a quick yet memorable way to experience some of Zanzibar’s highlights, the Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank tour offers a blend of history, wildlife, and relaxing beach vibes—all within a half-day. While it’s not a full-day adventure, it packs enough diverse sights and activities to make it worth the $43 price tag, especially if you’re keen on discovering Zanzibar beyond the usual beach lounging.

What we love about this experience is the chance to explore Prison Island’s fascinating past, get up close with the Aldabra tortoises, and unwind on the beautiful Nakupenda Sandbank. The boat ride itself, with breezes and ocean views, adds a sense of freedom and adventure. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling gear and a seafood lunch makes it feel like a well-rounded package.

One thing to keep in mind is that some reviews mention guiding and communication issues, especially at Prison Island. If you’re someone who values clear guidance and language support, it’s worth noting. This tour suits travelers who love a mix of history, wildlife, and beach relaxation without committing to a full-day excursion.

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Key Points

Incredible boat ride with scenic views and fresh ocean air.
Unique wildlife encounters with giant tortoises and peacocks.
Historical insights into Zanzibar’s colonial past on Prison Island.
Snorkeling opportunities amidst coral reefs at Nakupenda.
Delicious seafood lunch with tropical fruits and soft drinks included.
Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour broadly covers three main highlights: Prison Island (also known as Changuu Island), the tortoise sanctuary, and the Nakupenda Sandbank, with a relaxing seafood lunch in between. It’s designed as a half-day experience, usually starting from Stone Town’s Forodhani area, and it wraps up back where it began.

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

The Boat Ride

Your day kicks off with a private boat transfer, which is a highlight in itself. We loved the way the boat cruise provides a fresh perspective on Zanzibar’s coast—feeling the wind in your hair and taking in the panoramic views of the sea. The boat is typically equipped with life jackets, snorkeling gear, and a guide to ensure safety and information sharing. From reviews, it seems the boat ride is generally smooth, though the focus is more on the journey than the specifics of the vessel.

Prison Island: A Glimpse into Zanzibar’s Past

Once at Prison Island, you’ll explore the remnants of the British colonial prison. These ruins evoke a sense of history, with crumbling walls telling stories of a bygone era. The island also hosts a tortoise sanctuary, home to the Aldabra tortoises, some weighing up to 200 kilos and living over a century. Many travelers find these gentle giants a highlight, with one reviewer noting, “interacting with the tortoises was incredible; they are so calm and friendly.”

The island’s peacocks, with their striking plumage, wander freely, adding a splash of color and a touch of regal elegance. Visitors often enjoy snapping photos of these birds, which have become symbols of beauty and good fortune on the island. However, some reviews mention that guides may not always communicate in French or other languages, which could be a consideration for non-English speakers.

Nakupenda Sandbank: Relaxing in Paradise

Later in the tour, you’ll head to Nakupenda Sandbank, a stretch of white sand surrounded by clear blue waters. Imagine lounging on soft sand, swimming in warm, calm waters, or snorkeling among vibrant fish and coral. The water clarity is often praised, making it a perfect spot for both swimming and observing marine life.

Many people appreciate that the sandbank is a private, peaceful spot, ideal for sunbathing or simply soaking in the views. The tour usually includes snorkeling equipment—masks, fins, and snorkels—so you can explore underwater life. Reviewers mention the abundance of fish, especially around mooring areas, which adds to the appeal for snorkelers.

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Lunch and Refreshments

As the day winds down, a seafood lunch is served, accompanied by seasonal tropical fruits and soft drinks. Guests often find the meal to be fresh and well-cooked, a perfect way to end the beach portion of the tour. One reviewer highlighted that the meal was “delicious and well cooked,” making it a highlight of the experience.

There's plenty more to explore in Zanzibar City

Practical Details

Duration and Timing: The tour lasts around half a day, typically starting in the morning from Forodhani and returning by early afternoon. This makes it an excellent option if you’re short on time but still want a taste of Zanzibar’s coastal charms.

Price and Value: At $43 per person, the price covers boat transport, guides, snorkeling gear, lunch, and drinks. While it’s a budget-friendly way to see several highlights, some reviews point out the importance of checking whether the guides are engaging and informative, as some travelers felt communication could improve.

Inclusions and Extras: The package includes private boat transfer, guide, fruits, seafood lunch, snorkeling equipment, life jackets, water, and soda. Entry fees to Prison Island are payable on the day, so budget extra for that.

Booking and Flexibility: Booking is straightforward, with options to reserve and pay later. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

What Could Be Improved

Some reviewers mention guides not speaking French, which could impact non-English speakers. Plus, a few travelers experienced guides arriving late or not at all, as Ricardo’s review pointed out, which underscores the importance of choosing reputable providers.

While the prison ruins aren’t particularly spectacular, the wildlife and snorkeling compensate by offering a more interactive and relaxing experience. A few guests felt that the guide at Nakupenda wasn’t as engaging, but overall, most found the beach and lunch segment enjoyable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a mix of history, wildlife, and beach relaxation without a full-day commitment. It’s especially suited for those interested in snorkeling, seeing giant tortoises, and enjoying a fresh seafood meal by the water. The tour’s affordability and flexible booking make it accessible for many budgets and schedules.

If you’re after a peaceful escape to a sandbank with underwater exploration and some historical context, this tour hits those marks well. However, if you prefer more guided commentary or in-depth historical tours, you might want to supplement this experience with additional excursions.

The Sum Up

The Zanzibar Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank tour offers a satisfying blend of history, wildlife encounters, and beachside relaxation—all within a manageable half-day. It delivers good value with inclusive meals, snorkeling gear, and scenic boat rides that truly enhance the experience. The chance to interact with the giant tortoises and swim in crystal-clear waters makes it especially appealing for those wanting a memorable, diverse outing.

This tour works best for travelers who are looking for a laid-back, affordable adventure that combines cultural sights with natural beauty. If you’re comfortable with some language barriers and occasional guide inconsistencies, it’s a dependable way to tick off key Zanzibar highlights.

For families, couples, or solo explorers wanting a well-rounded, relaxed day on the water, it’s an adventure worth considering—just keep your expectations flexible and your camera ready for those stunning views.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially since it includes interactions with tortoises and swimming. Just ensure children can handle the boat ride and snorkeling equipment.

Are the snorkeling activities safe?
The tour provides snorkeling gear and life jackets, and guides typically oversee the activities. Always follow instructions to ensure safety.

Do I need to pay extra for entry to Prison Island?
Yes, entry fees are payable on the day, so it’s wise to have some cash ready.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a towel, and perhaps a waterproof camera or phone for photos.

Is the lunch suitable for all diets?
The lunch is seafood-based with tropical fruits, so if you have allergies or dietary restrictions, it’s best to check in advance.

How flexible are the timings?
The tour is designed as a half-day experience, generally starting in the morning with a return by early afternoon. Confirm the schedule when booking.

Will guides speak my language?
Most guides speak English, but some reviews suggest that French or other language support may be limited. Clarify this when booking if needed.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some peace of mind if your schedule shifts.

This tour is a fantastic way to get a taste of Zanzibar’s diverse offerings—combining historical intrigue, wild encounters, and serene beaches into one affordable package. Just remember to bring your curiosity and a sense of adventure!