Private Tour to Prison Island, Nakupenda Sand Bank and Stone Town
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Private Tour to Prison Island, Nakupenda Sand Bank and Stone Town

Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Zanzibar with our exclusive tour, combining the rich history of Stone Town, the intriguing Prison Island, and the pristine beauty of Nakupenda Sandbank.
Join us for an unforgettable adventure and discover the magic of Zanzibar. Our expert guides ensure a safe, informative, and enjoyable experience. Book your tour today and create memories that will last a lifetime

Available options

Private Tour to Prison Island, Nakupenda Sand Bank and Stone Town

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation
Soda/Pop
Bottled water
Lunch
Use of Snorkelling equipment

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Changuu Island, commonly known as Prison Island, is a small island located about 5.6 kilometers northwest of Stone town, Zanzibar.
Initially, the island was used as a detention camp for rebellious slaves in the 1860s. Later, in the late 19th century, it was developed as a quarantine station for yellow fever cases.
Prison That Never Was: Although named "Prison Island," the building constructed for the prison never housed any prisoners and was instead used as a quarantine station.
One of the main attractions of Changuu Island is the population of Aldabra giant tortoises. These tortoises were a gift from the British governor of Seychelles in 1919, and some are over 100 years old.
Conservation Efforts: The island serves as a sanctuary for these tortoises, with ongoing conservation efforts to protect and preserve the species. The island is surrounded by clear, turquoise waters and coral reefs.
Visitors can enjoy beautiful views of ocean and the mainland from various points on the island.

2
Stop 2

Nakupenda Sandbank is a beautiful, temporary sandbar located off the coast of Stone Town
Surrounded by the Indian Ocean’s clear, turquoise waters, it's perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The sandbank features fine, white sand, offering a pristine and tranquil environment for relaxation.
The sandbank is only visible during low tide, making it a temporary yet stunning destination that changes with the tides
Explore vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
Popular for day trips and picnics, often including fresh seafood, tropical fruits and soft drinks

3
Stop 3

A Stone Town tour offers a rich blend of history, culture, and architecture, making it a fascinating destination for visitors.
House of Wonders: Visit one of the largest and tallest buildings in Stone Town, rich with history and artifacts.
Old Fort: Explore the oldest structure in Stone Town, offering insights into the island’s defense history.
Darajani Market: Experience the bustling local market with fresh produce, spices, and handicrafts.
Stone Town's Architecture: Walk through narrow alleys lined with traditional Swahili, Arab, Indian, and European-influenced buildings.
St. Joseph’s Cathedral and Anglican Cathedral: Admire the impressive architecture of these significant religious sites.
Birthplace of the Queen Lead Singer: Visit the childhood home of the famous musician, now a popular tourist spot

Available languages

Guide guide
DE EN IT FR ES

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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

Adults
Age 12-100
1
Childs
Age 7-11
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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