Prison Island and Sandbank tour with BBQ Lunch
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Embark on a memorable day trip that combines history, nature, and relaxation with an authentic BBQ experience on the stunning shores of Nakupenda Sandbank. Start your adventure at Prison Island, where giant tortoises roam freely, and fascinating history awaits. Then, sail to Nakupenda Sandbank, a pristine oasis of white sands and turquoise waters, where you’ll savor a freshly prepared BBQ feast and enjoy hours of sun, swim, and sand. This is the ultimate way to experience Zanzibar’s natural beauty and rich history in one day.
Available options
With Hotel Transfer
Van
Without Hotel Transfer
What's included
Professional guide
BBQ lunch with seafood, local dishes, and beverages
Guided tour of Prison Island, including tortoise sanctuary entrance
Boat transfer to and from Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank
Snorkeling gear
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Prison Island offers a unique glimpse into Zanzibar’s captivating history and stunning natural beauty. Officially known as Changuu Island, this tiny isle has evolved from a 19th-century prison site into a popular day-trip destination famed for its turquoise waters, snorkeling spots, and giant tortoises.
2
Stop 2
Nakupenda Sandbank Tour is a dreamy escape to one of Zanzibar’s most scenic sandbanks, offering soft white sands, crystal-clear waters, and unparalleled ocean views. Translating to “I love you” in Swahili, Nakupenda is aptly named for its mesmerizing beauty, making it the perfect destination for a day of relaxation, snorkeling, and feasting on fresh seafood.
What's not included
All personal needs
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Please wait at the entrance door of the Old fort at stone town, your guide will meet you from there!
About Zanzibar
Zanzibar is a tropical paradise known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and rich cultural heritage. This semi-autonomous region of Tanzania offers a unique blend of African, Arab, and Indian influences, making it a fascinating destination for history buffs and beach lovers alike.
Top Attractions
Stone Town
The heart of Zanzibar, Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site with narrow alleys, historic buildings, and vibrant markets.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free to explore, attractions vary
Prison Island
A small island known for its giant Aldabra tortoises and historical significance as a former slave prison.
Historical/Nature
Half day
Moderate (entry fee and boat ride)
Nungwi Beach
One of Zanzibar's most famous beaches, known for its white sand, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife.
Beach
Full day
Free to access, activities vary
Jozani Forest
Zanzibar's only national park, home to the rare Red Colobus monkey and diverse birdlife.
Nature
Half day
Moderate (entry fee and guide)
Kizimkazi
A historic village known for its ancient mosques and dolphin tours.
Cultural
Half day
Moderate (dolphin tour fee)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Urojo
A spicy Zanzibari soup made with cassava, potatoes, and sometimes meat or seafood, served with coconut and chili sauce.
Snack
Vegetarian option available
Coconut Rice
Rice cooked with coconut milk, often served with fish or meat.
Main
Vegetarian option available
Zanzibar Pizza
A local street food item made with a thin, flaky pastry filled with eggs, meat, and vegetables, cooked on a griddle.
Snack
Customizable to dietary preferences
Biriyani
A fragrant rice dish cooked with spices, meat, and sometimes vegetables, influenced by Indian cuisine.
Main
Vegetarian option available
Popular Activities
Snorkeling
Diving
Island hopping
Spice tours
Dolphin tours
Beach relaxation
Sunset cruises
Spa treatments
Best Time to Visit
June to October
This is the dry season with plenty of sunshine and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for beach activities and exploring the island.
25-30°C
77-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Swahili, English
- Widely spoken: Arabic, Indigenous languages
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Zanzibar is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Use common sense and take precautions to ensure a safe trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxi services.
- • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas.
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.
Getting there
By air
- Abeid Amani Karume International Airport • 5 km from Stone Town
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable but can be crowded. Useful for reaching popular destinations.
Taxis
Available • Apps: None widely used
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Stone Town
Nungwi
Kendwa
Jambiani
Day trips
Pemba Island
100 km • Full day to overnight
Known for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and spice plantations, Pemba Island offers a more secluded and adventurous experience.
Chumbe Island
12 km • Full day
A small island known for its coral reef sanctuary and lighthouse, offering excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.
Mafia Island
150 km • Overnight
Known for its remote beaches, excellent fishing, and whale shark sightings, Mafia Island offers a more secluded and adventurous experience.
Festivals
Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF) • July
Mwaka Kogwa • July
Zanzibar Carnival • June
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Swahili phrases to enhance your interactions with locals.
- Hire a local guide for spice tours and historical sites to gain deeper insights.
- Visit the Forodhani Gardens night market for a taste of local street food.
- Book a sunset cruise for a romantic and memorable experience.
- Explore the island's diverse regions, from the bustling Stone Town to the serene beaches of Kendwa and Jambiani.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
