Prison Island, Nakupenda Sandbank and Stone Town

Zanzibar , Tanzania

Prison Island, Nakupenda Sandbank and Stone Town

Active

8h - 10h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Why Choose This Tour?
• The Best of Zanzibar in One Day: Experience everything Zanzibar has to offer, from its historic landmarks to the island’s pristine beaches.

• Unmatched Flexibility: This tour is perfect for those who want a balanced day of sightseeing, adventure, and relaxation.

• Local Expertise: Our professional guides will share fascinating stories, making your experience even more enriching.

Available options

Prison Island, Nakupenda Sandbank and Stone Town

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Boat Transfers

Lunch

All Fees and Taxes

Fully Guided Stone Town Tour

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Upon arrival at Prison Island, explore its fascinating history and natural beauty. Learn about its use as a quarantine station and later as a prison for rebellious slaves.
• Prison Ruins: The historical ruins are a reminder of the island’s colonial past, and your guide will take you through the stories of its past.
• Aldabra Giant Tortoises: Visit the tortoise sanctuary and meet the Aldabra giant tortoises—some of which are over 100 years old. You’ll have the chance to feed and take photos with these gentle giants.
• Snorkeling & Swimming: After the historical exploration, enjoy a refreshing dip in the clear turquoise waters. Explore the coral reefs surrounding the island and swim with tropical fish.

Stop 2

Spend a couple of hours basking in the beauty of Nakupenda Sandbank. It’s an uninhabited paradise, offering crystal-clear waters and soft white sand.
• Beach Relaxation: Lay back, soak up the sun, and enjoy the serenity of this peaceful sandbank.
• Snorkeling: The surrounding coral reefs are ideal for snorkeling, where you’ll encounter colorful marine life, tropical fish, and even sea turtles.
• Picnic Lunch: Enjoy a delicious picnic lunch on the sandbank, featuring fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and refreshing drinks.

Stop 3

After enjoying the beach, dive into the history and culture of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On this guided walking tour, you’ll visit:

House of Wonders: Zanzibar’s largest building, showcasing its rich history.
Sultan’s Palace: The former royal residence.
The Old Fort: A cultural center with art exhibitions.
Darajani Market: A bustling market filled with local goods.
The Former Slave Market: Learn about Zanzibar’s role in the slave trade.
Forodhani Gardens: Relax by the waterfront with stunning ocean views.
You’ll also have time to shop for unique, handmade souvenirs in the local markets.

What's not included

Alcoholic Beverages

Available languages

Guide guide

AR DE EN IT FR ES

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

For those not requiring hotel pickup, please meet at **Forodhani Gardens** in Stone Town, near the waterfront. Our guide will be by the entrance with a sign displaying the tour name. Please arrive 10 minutes early. Contact us if you need help finding the location.

Important notes

Please present your printed or digital ticket to your guide at the meeting point or during hotel pickup. If meeting at Forodhani Gardens, your guide will be waiting near the entrance with a sign. Arrive 10 minutes early to ensure a timely departure.

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.