Nakupenda Sandbank Full-Day Boat Trip with Lunch

Zanzibar , Tanzania

Nakupenda Sandbank Full-Day Boat Trip with Lunch

Active

6h - 7h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience one of Zanzibar’s most stunning natural wonders on this full-day trip to Nakupenda Sandbank. Start in Stone Town and board a traditional wooden boat for a short cruise across turquoise water. Enjoy soft drinks, wine or beer, fruits, and snacks on the way. Once you arrive, relax on the white sand, swim in crystal-clear water, and snorkel with included equipment as your crew assists beginners. Around midday, enjoy a freshly prepared seafood & Swahili buffet featuring fish, octopus, rice, chapati, vegetables, and tropical fruits. Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun, taking photos, and enjoying the incredible 360° ocean views. This is a simple, authentic local experience with basic comfort, no toilet on board, and a maximum of 27 guests. Depending on tide and sea conditions, you’ll return to Stone Town around 15:30–16:00. A relaxed and unforgettable day in Zanzibar’s natural paradise.

Recognized as part of the Boat Trips Club experience portfolio.

Available options

Nakupenda Sandbank: Full-Day Boat Trip with Lunch

What's included

Professional local guide

Snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, fins)

Life jackets

Seafood & Swahili buffet lunch

Access to Nakupenda Sandbank

Shared traditional wooden boat transport

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure

Soft drinks, wine, or beer

Tropical fruits and snacks

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Board a traditional wooden boat and begin your short cruise to Nakupenda Sandbank.

Stop 2

Spend your day at Nakupenda Sandbank enjoying the natural beauty of this stunning Zanzibar destination. Spend about 3 hours swimming in calm, crystal-clear waters, snorkeling with provided gear, sunbathing on soft white sand, strolling along the pristine shoreline, and taking photos of the breathtaking surroundings. Around midday, indulge in a freshly prepared seafood & Swahili buffet lunch featuring grilled fish, octopus, rice, chapati, vegetables, and seasonal tropical fruits, all served right on the sandbank. After lunch, enjoy about 2 hours of free time to relax, swim, snorkel again, explore the beach, or simply soak up the peaceful atmosphere. End your day with unforgettable memories of this serene, postcard-perfect paradise.

Stop 3

Cruise back to Stone Town. Duration varies depending on tides and sea conditions.

What's not included

Hotel pick-up or drop-off

Extra alcoholic drinks

Toilet on the boat

Towels

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Please meet in Stone Town at the exact location sent to your email. The spot changes with the tide. We will also contact you a day before to reconfirm. Arrive 20 minutes early. Hotel pick-up not included. Contact us anytime if you need help finding the meeting point.

Important notes

Thank you for booking with Boat Trips Club! Please check your email for your booking confirmation and voucher. Arrive at the meeting point in Stone Town 20 minutes before departure. The exact location depends on the tide — we will also contact you the day before to reconfirm. Bring your voucher or show it on your phone.

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.