0 Nights / 1 Days
The Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank Tour is one of the most popular excursions in Zanzibar, offering a mix of history, wildlife, and stunning beach relaxation.
Here’s what you can expect:
1. Prison Island (Changuu Island)
History: Originally used as a detention center for rebellious slaves, it later became a quarantine station. The island got its name from its brief use as a prison.
Giant Tortoise: The main attraction is the Aldabra giant tortoises, some over 100 years old. You can feed and interact with them.
Snorkeling: The coral reefs around the island are great for snorkeling, with colorful fish and marine life.
Relaxation: Enjoy the white sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters.
2. Nakupenda Sandbank
A Stunning Sandbank: Nakupenda (Swahili for "I love you") is a beautiful, crescent-shaped sandbank in the middle of the ocean.
Picnic & Swimming: This tour includes a sumptuous seafood lunch (grilled fish, lobster, or octopus) and refreshing drinks. You can swim, sunbathe, or just relax in the shallow waters.
Snorkeling: The surrounding waters are great for spotting starfish and other marine life.
TOUR DETAILS
Duration: 6-8 hours (usually 9 AM–4 PM)
Departure: Transfer from your hotel to Stone Town seafront area.
Included in the price:
Transfer from hotel
Boat ride
Snorkeling gear,
Lunch and soft drinks
Entry fees
Government taxes
Tour guide
TIPS FOR THE TOUR
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses (the sun is intense).
- Carry some cash for tips or extra drinks.
- Wear swimwear under your clothes for convenience.
- If you love photography, this tour offers incredible photo opportunities.
Here’s a typical itinerary for this popular excursion:
Duration: 6 to 8 hours (approx. 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM)
1. Hotel Pick-Up (8:00 AM – 9:00 AM)
- Your guide/driver will pick you up from your hotel.
- Transfer to the Stone Town waterfront for the boat departure.
2. Boat Ride to Prison Island (Changuu Island) (~30 min)
- Scenic boat trip with views of the Indian Ocean.
- Arrival at Prison Island (historically used as a quarantine station and prison, though never actually used for prisoners).
3. Explore Prison Island (9:30 AM – 11:00 AM).
- Visit the old prison ruins and learn about the island’s history.
- Meet the giant Aldabra tortoises (some over 100 years old!) and even feed them.
- Enjoy snorkeling in the clear waters (optional).
- Relax on the island’s small beach.
4. Boat Transfer to Nakupenda Sandbank (~20 min)
- A stunning, white-sandbank in the middle of the turquoise ocean.
5. Nakupenda Sandbank Experience (11:30 AM – 2:00 PM)
- Relax on the pristine sandban (disappears at high tide!).
- Swim in the shallow, crystal-clear waters.
- Enjoy seafood BBQ lunch (usually includes grilled fish, lobster, calamari, tropical fruits, and soft drinks).
- Optional snorkeling around the sandbank (vibrant marine life).
6. Return to Stone Town (~2:30 PM – 3:00 PM)
- Boat ride back to Stone Town.
- Transfer to your hotel.
### **Tour Inclusions:**
✔ Hotel pickup & drop-off (Stone Town area)
✔ Boat transfers
✔ Entrance fees (Prison Island)
✔ Lunch & drinks (water, soda)
✔ Snorkeling equipment (sometimes extra cost)
### **What to Bring:**
- Swimwear, towel, sunscreen, hat
- Sunglasses & camera
- Cash for tips & extra drinks
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### **Additional Tips:**
- **Best Time to Go:** Morning tours avoid the midday heat.
- **Tortoise Interaction:** Be gentle; follow the guide’s instructions.
- **Nakupenda Sandbank:** No facilities, so bring only essentials.
No of pax | Age Limit | Price per pax (Rs) |
---|---|---|
Adult | Above 12 years | $ 80 / Adult ( With Tax ) |
My name is Maryam from the beautiful Zanzibar Island! I am a licensed professional Tour Operator from Zanzibar, Tanzania and this is my story...
Maryam Tours was founded with the motto; "Every trip is unique, be fair, competitive and always offer the best possible experiences to every single client".
Our goal is to provide you with all the necessary information about Excursions and Tanzania safaris even before you travel to help you plan your trip in advance! We don't just make plans, we help you discover this wonderful world and create beautiful memories that last a lifetime!
For over 10 years, I have been helping clients plan their tour activities in Zanzibar and the typical Tanzania Safari adventure beyond their wildest dreams! With rich knowledge and tools to find the best deals and expertise in the market, I am here to make your adventure as easy and enjoyable as possible! I organize amazing tour activities at affordable rates! From excursions, beach tours, village tours, safari and trek services in Tanzania tracing way back from 2018.
Am based at the amazing Kiwengwa beach area!
Book your trip with me and together we shall explore the beauty of Zanzibar and Tanzania Safari while creating beautiful memories that lasts a lifetime! Read More...
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