Private Stone Town Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank Tour

Zanzibar , Tanzania

Private Stone Town Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank Tour

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(9 reviews)

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

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About this experience

This private tour offers an exclusive, personalized experience combining the best of Zanzibar’s culture, nature, and history. Begin with a guided walk through the historic streets of Stone Town, exploring hidden alleys and learning about the island’s rich heritage, spice trade, and diverse influences. Next, relax at Nakupenda Beach, a pristine, peaceful sandbank with crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling, away from the crowds. Finally, take a short boat ride to Prison Island, home to giant Aldabra tortoises and vibrant coral reefs perfect for snorkeling. This tour uniquely blends history, wildlife, and stunning landscapes, tailored just for your group, making it a memorable and authentic Zanzibar adventure.

Available options

Private Stone Town Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Tour guide

Entrance fee

Private boat

This is marine conservation tax

This tour lunch is included and normally we are prepare see food with fries eg octopus ,praws , lobstar ,tuna fish and calamari(squid). But if you don't wan't the sea food other option is chicken.

Snorkeling equipment will be provided when you want to do snorkeling

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Step back in time on this immersive Stone Town Walking Tour, a must-do experience for visitors to Zanzibar. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city with a local guide who brings the narrow alleyways, ancient architecture, and vibrant history to life. Discover the cultural crossroads where Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences meet, and learn about the people, politics, and trade that shaped Zanzibar's storied past.
Whether you're fascinated by history, culture, or photography, Stone Town offers a unique glimpse into a living museum of Swahili coastal life.

Stop 2

Leave the bustle of Stone Town behind and set sail across Zanzibar’s blue waters to Prison Island, a peaceful hideaway steeped in mystery and charm. Known locally as Changuu Island, this former detention site has evolved into one of the region’s most fascinating natural and historical attractions.
On this guided experience, you’ll uncover stories of the island’s colonial-era use as a quarantine zone and never-used prison, walk among century-old giant Aldabra tortoises, and enjoy free time to snorkel or relax along the island’s sun-soaked shoreline.

This isn’t just a beach trip — it’s a journey into the lesser-known chapters of Zanzibar’s past, blended with tropical beauty and rare wildlife encounters.

Stop 3

Nakupenda, which means "I love you" in Swahili, isn’t just a name—it’s a feeling. Just off the coast of Stone Town, this pristine sandbank rises from the sea like a mirage. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, Nakupenda Beach is the ultimate escape for those seeking beauty, simplicity, and untouched nature.
This tour is more than just a beach visit — it's a full experience. Swim in warm turquoise waters, sunbathe on the soft white sand, snorkel among colorful fish, and enjoy a freshly prepared seafood picnic served right on the sandbank.

Whether you’re seeking romance, relaxation, or natural beauty, Nakupenda delivers a postcard-perfect slice of Zanzibar.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

9 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Mizingani Seafront Hotel is in Stone Town, Zanzibar, right on Mizingani Road by the ferry terminal, next to Forodhani Gardens and near the Old Dispensary.

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.