Zanzibar: Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank Tour With Lunch

If you’re planning a visit to Zanzibar and looking for a combination of wildlife, history, and relaxing beach time, this tour could be just what you need. It’s a thoughtfully organized day exploring Prison Island’s iconic giant tortoises and historic ruins, followed by a serene, sun-drenched stop at Nakupenda Sandbank with a delicious seafood BBQ. We’ve gathered feedback from travelers and sifted through the details to give you a well-rounded picture of what to expect.

What makes this experience stand out?
First, the chance to see giant Aldabra tortoises—some over 196 years old—up close is unforgettable. Second, the knowledgeable guides bring history and wildlife stories to life, making the trip both fun and educational. Third, the stunning scenery at Nakupenda Sandbank, with crystal-clear waters and soft white sands, is perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

However, a point to consider is that the Prison Island sanctuary can be crowded, and some reviews mention visitors touching the tortoises despite signs asking them not to. If you’re sensitive to crowds or animal welfare concerns, this might influence your experience.

This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a mix of wildlife encounters, cultural insights, and beach relaxation—all at a very reasonable price.

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Key Points

Affordable value: At $37 per person, it offers a full day of diverse experiences.
Wildlife focus: See giant tortoises, peacocks, and antelopes in a historic setting.
Beautiful scenery: Expect pristine waters, white sands, and snorkel opportunities.
Informative guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with engaging stories.
Tasty food: Fresh seafood BBQ lunch and tropical fruits make for a memorable meal.
Flexible options: Book now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect on the Day

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Starting Out: From Stone Town to Prison Island

The adventure begins with a boat ride from Stone Town, which is often described as smooth and scenic. The boat trip itself is a highlight—feeling the wind, watching the coastline slip by, and soaking in the tropical atmosphere. The guides, easily recognizable by their yellow Bureau de Tours T-shirts, usually arrive prompt and prepared, ensuring everyone is comfortable and ready.

Prison Island’s Rich Past and Wildlife

Once on Changuu Island—commonly called Prison Island—expect a combination of history and nature. The ruins of the old British prison and quarantine station are intriguing, and guides do a good job of explaining their significance. The real star here, though, is the large population of Aldabra tortoises. Some tour participants have described these gentle giants as “incredible” and “a must-see,” noting they can weigh up to 200 kilos and live over 196 years.

The wildlife doesn’t stop there. Peacocks roam freely, their stunning feathers adding a regal touch to your photos. Some reviews mention visitors being able to interact with and photograph these birds, which are often seen as symbols of beauty and good fortune.

A cautionary note from reviews highlights that animal welfare can be a concern. Crowds can get crowded, and some visitors have been seen touching or sitting on the tortoises despite signs asking them not to. Guides try to manage this, but it’s a reminder to be respectful of the animals and mindful of their well-being.

Learning and Exploring

Guides like Salim and Bahama aren’t just there to tell you facts—they make history fun and engaging. Several reviews praised Bahama’s storytelling skills, singing, and positive energy. His enthusiasm adds a lively touch to the visit, making the history of Prison Island, its former residents, and the tortoises more memorable.

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Transition to Nakupenda Sandbank

After exploring Prison Island, the trip moves to Nakupenda Sandbank, a true highlight for many. The boat docks on the edge of the sandbank, which appears as a tiny, pristine island in the middle of the ocean. The water here is often described as crystal clear, perfect for snorkeling, swimming, or simply lounging on the soft sands.

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Snorkeling and Relaxing

Most travelers find the snorkeling in these waters rewarding, with vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish. While some reviews mention they didn’t snorkel much due to focusing on swimming and sunbathing, the equipment—masks, fins, life jackets—is provided, making it accessible for all levels.

The Seafood BBQ Lunch

One of the biggest draws of this tour is the lunch. Expect a fresh seafood BBQ featuring prawns, lobster, calamari, tuna, and octopus, served alongside fries or rice. Many reviews describe the meal as “delicious” and “more than enough,” especially considering the value of the price. Tropical fruits like watermelon, mango, and pineapple are also included, adding a sweet and refreshing finish to the meal.

Guests appreciate the flexibility—if seafood isn’t your thing, you can pre-order a different dish at no extra charge. The lunch is often enjoyed directly on the sandbank, making it a unique dining experience.

Free Time and Departure

Post-lunch, you typically have plenty of time to relax, swim, or take photos before heading back to Stone Town. The schedule is usually well-paced, giving you enough space to enjoy each activity without feeling rushed.

The Value of the Experience

This tour’s $37 price tag might seem modest given all that’s included—boat transfers, guide, snorkeling gear, lunch, tropical fruits, soft drinks, and taxes. Travelers frequently comment on the good value for money and the quality of the food, which exceeds expectations for the price point.

Many reviews highlight the professional organization of the trip—pick-up, boat ride, and itinerary adherence are consistently praised. The flexible booking options, including pay later and free cancellation up to 24 hours before, add peace of mind for travelers planning ahead.

The Guide’s Role in Your Day

Having an attentive and knowledgeable guide can truly elevate this experience. Guides like Bahama are not only storytellers but also keep everyone safe, ensure comfortable pacing, and foster a friendly group atmosphere. Several reviews mention how their guides kept spirits high with singing, dancing, and humor, making the day more enjoyable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wildlife lovers, history buffs, and beach enthusiasts. It suits solo travelers, couples, and families—especially since children under 8 get a 30% discount. If you want a combination of education, wildlife viewing, and beach relaxation at a reasonable cost, this trip offers great value. However, if you’re sensitive to crowds or animal handling, you might want to plan for some patience or consider the animal welfare concerns noted by reviewers.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a carefully balanced mix of history, wildlife, and beach time. The chance to see large tortoises and peacocks in a historic setting adds a special touch that’s hard to match. The snorkeling and swimming are ideal for hot days, and the seafood lunch is a highlight for many, often described as fresh, plentiful, and tasty.

The overall 4.5/5 rating from hundreds of travelers speaks to its popularity and value. With friendly guides, scenic boat rides, and enough free time to relax, it’s an excellent way to spend a day in Zanzibar—especially if you want to tick off wildlife encounters, cultural sights, and pristine beaches in one go.

If you’re seeking an authentic experience that combines nature, history, and tropical leisure, this tour is a fantastic choice.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select the option, hotel pick-up and drop-off are available with this tour, making the day even more stress-free.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sandals, and cash. Having your own water or snacks for extra energy is also wise, though soft drinks are provided.

Can I customize my lunch?
If you don’t prefer seafood, you can pre-order an alternative before the tour at no extra charge.

How long does the tour last?
It’s a full-day experience, typically organized to maximize your time at each location comfortably.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, masks, snorkels, fins, and life jackets are included, giving you an easy way to explore the underwater scene.

What animals might I see?
Expect to see giant tortoises, peacocks, and antelopes. Be aware that the sanctuary can be crowded, and animal interaction is encouraged, so maintain respect.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under 8 get a 30% discount, making it family-friendly. Just keep in mind the duration and some walking involved.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour can be rescheduled if weather conditions are unsafe, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How much does the conservation fee cost?
A fee of $22 (or 60,000 Shillings) is payable on the day and goes toward the island’s conservation efforts.

This Zanzibar trip offers a well-rounded day of adventure, relaxation, and culinary delight. Whether you’re snapping photos of the giant tortoises, splashing around in clear waters, or enjoying a delectable seafood feast, it’s sure to be a memorable part of your vacation.