Full-Day Boat Tour to Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank
Active
1h - 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
Discover the best of Zanzibar with a full-day tour that combines the historical charm of Prison Island and the serene beauty of Nakupenda Sandbank. Start your adventure by sailing from Stone Town to explore Prison Island, where you can meet the giant Aldabra tortoises and learn about the island's intriguing past. Then, unwind on Nakupenda Sandbank, renowned for its idyllic white sands and crystal-clear waters. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and a delicious seafood buffet lunch right on the beach, all while soaking in the sun and capturing stunning photos.
- Full-day shared tour from Stone Town, approximately 7 hours
- Visit historic Prison Island and meet giant tortoises
- Relax on Nakupenda Sandbank with swimming and snorkeling
- Enjoy a seafood buffet lunch and drinks on the sandbank
This experience is featured within the Boat Trips Club collection.
Available options
Shared Prison Island (Max 27)
What's included
Visit to Prison Island
Snacks & tropical fruit
Local wooden boat
Seafood & Swahili buffet lunch
English-speaking local guide
Wine or beer
Snorkeling equipment
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure
Soft drinks
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Walk among the giant Aldabra tortoises, some over 100 years old, learn about the island’s history and explore the old prison and quarantine buildings.
You’ll have time for:
Feeding and photographing the tortoises
Exploring the prison ruins
Enjoying views back toward Stone Town
2
After Prison Island, continue to the stunning Nakupenda Sandbank, one of Zanzibar’s most photographed natural spots.
At the sandbank you can:
Swim in crystal-clear turquoise water
Snorkel with included equipment
Relax on powder-white sand
Take incredible beach and drone photos
A fresh seafood & Swahili buffet lunch is served right on the beach, featuring grilled fish, octopus, rice, vegetables, chapati and seasonal tropical fruits.
Drinks include soft drinks, wine or beer, plus fruit and light snacks.
What's not included
Towels
Hotel transfers
Toilet on the boat
Extra alcoholic drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
The exact meeting point will be shared after booking. Guests are required to arrive at least 20 minutes before departure.
Important notes
Thank you for booking with Boat Trips Club! We’re excited to have you join us for an unforgettable experience in Zanzibar.
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
