Zanzibar Day Trip to Prison Island, Stone Town & Nakupenda Beach
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
Explore the highlights of Zanzibar in a full-day adventure that combines history, relaxation, and natural beauty. Start your journey in Stone Town, where you’ll board a motorboat to Prison Island, home to fascinating giant tortoises and stunning beaches. After soaking in the island's culture, head to the secluded Nakupenda Sandbank, surrounded by crystal-clear waters. Enjoy a BBQ lunch with tropical fruits, and take time to snorkel among vibrant coral reefs or simply unwind in the sun. This tour is perfect for solo travelers, couples, and families seeking memorable experiences in paradise.
- Full-day tour with hotel pickup anywhere on Zanzibar
- Visit historic Stone Town and discover Prison Island's giant tortoises
- Relax on Nakupenda Sandbank with a BBQ lunch and tropical fruits
- Snorkel in crystal-clear waters or sunbathe in a pristine setting
Available options
Zanzibar Island Tour – English
Private Tours: Enjoy a personalized experience with a private guide, just for you and your group.<br/>Duration: 6 hours: Approx. 6-hour tour<br/>BBQ Lunch & Soft Drinks: Enjoy a delicious beachside BBQ lunch featuring fresh local flavors, served with a selection of refreshing soft drinks.<br/>Prison Island & Nakupenda: Visit historic Prison Island and relax on Nakupenda’s stunning sandbank — a perfect island escape.<br/>Toyota Alphard: Toyota Alphard – luxury, comfort, and space for small groups.<br/>Pickup included
The Real Experience
Private Tours: Enjoy a personalized experience with a private guide, just for you and your group.<br/>Duration: 6 hours: Approx. 6-hour tour<br/>BBQ Lunch & Soft Drinks: Enjoy a delicious beachside BBQ lunch featuring fresh local flavors, served with a selection of refreshing soft drinks.<br/>Prison Island & Nakupenda: Visit historic Prison Island and relax on Nakupenda’s stunning sandbank — a perfect island escape.<br/>Toyota Alphard: Toyota Alphard – luxury, comfort, and space for small groups.<br/>Pickup included
Zanzibar Island Adventure
Pickup included
Essence of Zanzibar Adventure
Private Experience: Enjoy a personalized experience with a private guide, just for you and your group.<br/>Duration: 6 hours: Approx. 6-hour tour<br/> BBQ Lunch & Soft Drinks: Enjoy a delicious beachside BBQ lunch featuring fresh local flavors, served with a selection of refreshing soft drinks.<br/>Prison Island & Nakupenda: Visit historic Prison Island and relax on Nakupenda’s stunning sandbank — a perfect island escape.<br/>Toyota Alphard: Toyota Alphard – luxury, comfort, and space for small groups.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Tropical fruits and soft drinks included
BBQ lunch on Nakupenda Sandbank
Professional driver and boat crew
Motorboat rides to Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank
Hotel pickup and drop-off anywhere on Zanzibar island
All taxes and service fees included
Guided tour of Prison Island
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Stone Town (starting point for the boat ride)
2
Stop 2
Prison Island (Changuu Island) — famous for giant tortoises, historic prison ruins, and beautiful beaches
3
Stop 3
Nakupenda Sandbank — a pristine, secluded sandbank surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters, ideal for relaxing, swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the beach
What's not included
Items not specified in the inclusions
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Contact us for special assistance requests
Important notes
Please present your confirmation email or e-ticket (printed or on your mobile device) to the driver at pickup or to the tour representative at the meeting point. No physical ticket is required. If you have any issues on the day of the tour, contact us using the phone number provided in your booking confirmation.
About Zanzibar City
Zanzibar City, also known as Stone Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the cultural heart of Zanzibar. This historic city offers a unique blend of African, Arab, and Indian influences, evident in its architecture, cuisine, and vibrant markets. With its narrow alleys, ornate doors, and bustling bazaars, Zanzibar City is a captivating destination for history lovers and cultural enthusiasts.
Top Attractions
Stone Town
A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its narrow alleys, ornate doors, and rich history. It's a labyrinth of culture, history, and architecture.
Historical
Half to full day
Free to explore, attractions may have entry fees
Forodhani Gardens
A popular waterfront area that comes alive in the evenings with food stalls, street performers, and local crafts.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free, food and crafts for purchase
Prison Island (Changuu Island)
A small island known for its giant Aldabra tortoises and beautiful beaches. It's a great spot for snorkeling and relaxing.
Nature
Half day
Moderate (includes ferry ride and entry fee)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Zanzibari Pizza
A local version of pizza with a thin crust and topped with spices, meat, and vegetables.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian options available
Urojo
A spicy soup made with potatoes, peas, and meat, served with rice or chapati.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian options available
Coconut Rice
Rice cooked with coconut milk and spices, often served with fish or meat.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian options available
Popular Activities
Snorkeling
Scuba diving
Dolphin tours
Beach relaxation
Spa treatments
Yoga
Exploring Stone Town
Visiting local markets
Best Time to Visit
June to October
This is the dry season with pleasant weather and lower humidity, making it ideal for exploring the city and enjoying outdoor activities.
24-30°C
75-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Swahili, English
- Widely spoken: Arabic
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Zanzibar City is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
- • Use reputable taxi services
- • Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas
Getting there
By air
- Abeid Amani Karume International Airport • 5 km from city center
By bus
Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar ferry terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and widely used by locals. Can be crowded during peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps:
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Stone Town
Malindi
Day trips
Nungwi
60 km from Zanzibar City • Full day
A popular beach destination with white sandy beaches and clear blue waters.
Kizimkazi
40 km from Zanzibar City • Half day
A village known for its ancient mosques and dolphin tours.
Festivals
Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF) • July
Mwaka Kogwa • July
Pro tips
- Hire a local guide for a deeper understanding of Stone Town's history
- Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience
- Visit the spice farms to learn about Zanzibar's spice trade history
- Explore the island's beaches and enjoy the crystal-clear waters
- Respect local customs and dress modestly, especially in religious sites
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
