Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank

Combine two unforgettable Zanzibar experiences in one day — meet the giant tortoises of Prison Island, then sail across the turquoise Indian Ocean to the beautiful Nakupenda Sandbank for swimming, relaxation, fresh seafood and the taste of fresh Zanzibar coconut.

Imagine leaving Stone Town by boat and watching Zanzibar's turquoise waters open around you. Your first stop is Prison Island, where history and nature come together. Explore the island, discover its fascinating past and meet the famous giant Aldabra tortoises that have made Changuu Island one of Zanzibar's most memorable places to visit. From Prison Island, continue across the Indian Ocean towards Nakupenda Sandbank. When the tide and conditions reveal the white sand surrounded by clear turquoise water, you will have time to swim, relax, take photographs and simply enjoy the beauty of Zanzibar. And then comes one of the highlights of the day: a freshly prepared seafood lunch by the ocean, accompanied by refreshing fresh coconut water. Whether you spend your time swimming, relaxing on the sand or enjoying lunch with the sea around you, this experience brings together some of the things Zanzibar is loved for most — islands, ocean, wildlife, food and unforgettable tropical scenery.

Highlights

• Boat trip across the turquoise Indian Ocean
• Visit historic Prison Island
• Meet the famous giant Aldabra tortoises
• Explore the island and learn about its history
• Visit beautiful Nakupenda Sandbank
• Swim and relax in crystal-clear water
• Enjoy a freshly prepared seafood lunch
• Refresh yourself with fresh coconut water
• Time for photographs and enjoying the scenery
• Dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice

Itinerary

1. 08:00

   Hotel Pickup

   Meet your driver at your hotel and travel to Stone Town. Your exact pickup time will be confirmed after booking.

2. 08:30

   Boat Departure

   Meet your boat crew and begin your journey across the Indian Ocean.

3. 09:00

   Prison Island

   Arrive at Prison Island and explore the island's historic surroundings.

4. 09:15

   Giant Tortoise Experience

   Meet the famous Aldabra giant tortoises and learn more about the island.

5. 10:00

   Continue to Nakupenda

   Return to the boat and cruise towards the beautiful Nakupenda Sandbank.

6. 10:30

   Sandbank Experience

   Enjoy the white sand, turquoise water and tropical surroundings. Swim, relax and take photographs.

7. 11:30

   Seafood Lunch

   Enjoy a freshly prepared seafood lunch by the ocean, together with fresh coconut water.

8. 12:15

   Relax & Enjoy

   Take some final time to enjoy the sandbank, ocean and beautiful Zanzibar surroundings.

9. 12:30

   Return Boat

   Begin the journey back towards Stone Town.

10. 13:00

    End of Experience

    Return to Stone Town and continue to your hotel or next activity.

11. Timing: This is an example itinerary. The actual departure and return times can vary depending on your hotel location, tide, sea conditions, boat schedule and daily arrangements. The final timing will be confirmed after booking.

Good to know

How long is the Prison Island & Nakupenda experience?

The experience takes approximately 4 hours, although the exact duration can vary depending on your hotel location, tide, sea conditions and boat schedule.

What time does the tour start?

You can request your preferred starting time when making your inquiry. The exact pickup and boat departure time will be confirmed after booking.

Is lunch included?

Yes. A freshly prepared seafood lunch is included at Nakupenda Sandbank.

Is fresh coconut water included?

Yes. Fresh coconut water is included as part of the experience.

Can you accommodate dietary requirements?

Yes. Please tell us about any dietary requirements, allergies or food preferences when making your inquiry so that we can arrange the most suitable meal.

Is the boat included?

Yes. Boat transportation for the experience is included.

Can I swim at Nakupenda Sandbank?

Yes. There is time to swim and enjoy the clear waters around the sandbank. Please bring swimwear, a towel and sun protection.

Will the sandbank always look the same?

Nakupenda is a natural sandbank, so its appearance and available beach area can change with the tide and sea conditions. This is part of what makes the experience unique.

Is the tour private or shared?

Private and shared arrangements may be available. Tell us your number of guests and preference when making your inquiry, and we will confirm the appropriate option.

Why does the price say “From $100”?

$100 is the starting price per person for larger groups. The final price depends on the number of guests, hotel location and selected arrangement. We will confirm your exact price before booking.

Does my hotel location affect the price?

Yes. Hotels are located in different parts of Zanzibar, and the required transfer distance can affect the final price.

What should I bring?

Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, comfortable clothing, a hat and a camera. Waterproof protection for phones and valuables can also be useful.

Can children join the experience?

Yes. Families and children are welcome. Children should always be supervised around the water and during the boat journey.

What happens if the weather or sea conditions change?

Because the experience involves boat travel and a natural sandbank, the itinerary may need to be adjusted for safety because of weather, tides or sea conditions. We will communicate any necessary changes and prioritize your safety.

What information do you need to confirm my booking?

Simply send us your preferred date, number of guests, hotel name or location and preferred starting time. We will check availability and confirm the final price and schedule.