Tours & experiences

Zanzibar Prison Island and Nakupenda Boat Trip with Lunch

About this experience

Experience two of Zanzibar's most iconic destinations in one unforgettable day. This tour combines the rich history and unique wildlife of Prison Island with the breathtaking beauty of Nakupenda Sandbank, offering the perfect balance of culture, nature, and relaxation.

Meet the famous Aldabra giant tortoises, explore the historic prison ruins, and learn about the island's fascinating past with the guidance of a knowledgeable local guide. Then cruise to the stunning Nakupenda Sandbank, where you'll relax on powder-soft white sand, swim in crystal-clear turquoise waters, snorkel among colorful coral reefs and tropical fish, and enjoy a freshly prepared seafood lunch with tropical fruits.

With convenient hotel pickup options, comfortable boat transfers, experienced local guides, and a well-planned itinerary, you'll enjoy a seamless and memorable experience. Ideal for couples, families, friends, and solo travelers, this tour showcases the very best of Zanzibar in a single day.

At a glance

  • Duration: 6 hr
  • Private experience

Choose your tour option

Select a date and travellers to compare current prices and departure times.

Zanzibar Prison Island and Nakupenda Boat Trip with Lunch
Pickup included

Plan your experience

Time on the tour6 hr
Getting therePickup offeredSee pickup details
Guide languagesGerman (live guide), English (live guide), Italian (live guide), French (live guide), Spanish (live guide)
Tour arrangementPrivate experience

Set aside 6 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.

Before you go

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

What is included

  • All government taxes and service charges
  • Professional English-speaking guide
  • Fresh tropical fruits
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Seafood lunch (with vegetarian options available upon request)
  • Round-trip boat transfer to Nakupenda Sandbank

Not included

  • Personal expenses
  • Tips and gratuities (optional)

Itinerary and highlights

Prison Island offers a fascinating blend of history, nature, and stunning coastal scenery. Visitors will meet the island's famous Aldabra giant tortoises, some of which are over 100 years old, and learn about their conservation. You'll also explore the historic prison building, originally constructed in the late 19th century, and discover the island's rich past.

Surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters, the island provides beautiful views of the Indian Ocean and Stone Town. There is also time to relax on the white sandy beach, take photos, or enjoy a refreshing swim and snorkel among colorful tropical fish in the clear waters surrounding the island.

Nakupenda Sandbank is a breathtaking stretch of pristine white sand surrounded by the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Depending on the tides, this picturesque sandbank emerges to create a tropical paradise perfect for relaxation, swimming, and sunbathing.

Travelers can enjoy snorkeling in the surrounding coral reefs, where colorful tropical fish and diverse marine life can be seen in the warm, clear waters. During the visit, you'll also experience a delicious seafood lunch (subject to the tour package), along with a selection of fresh tropical fruits. The stunning scenery, peaceful atmosphere, and panoramic ocean views make Nakupenda one of Zanzibar's most unforgettable destinations and a paradise for photography

Meeting and pickup information

  • To ensure a smooth pickup experience, please note the following: Pickup is available from hotels, resorts, villas, and designated meeting points across Zanzibar (if selected during booking). Your exact pickup time will be confirmed via WhatsApp or email at least one day before your tour. Please be ready at the agreed pickup location 10–15 minutes before your scheduled pickup time. If you are staying in a private villa, apartment, or Airbnb, please provide your exact location or a Google Maps pin after booking. Our driver will wait for up to 10 minutes after the scheduled pickup time. If you are delayed, please contact us as soon as possible. Pickup times may vary slightly depending on your hotel's location and traffic conditions.

Languages and tickets

  • German — Guide
  • English — Guide
  • Italian — Guide
  • French — Guide
  • Spanish — Guide
  • Mobile Only

Tour operator

  • Zanspice Tours

Accessibility and practical details

  • 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

Cancellation policy

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

Questions about this experience

How long is this experience?
The supplier lists a duration of 6 hr.
What are the pickup arrangements?
To ensure a smooth pickup experience, please note the following:

Pickup is available from hotels, resorts, villas, and designated meeting points across Zanzibar (if selected during booking).
Your exact pickup time will be confirmed via WhatsApp or email at least one day before your tour.
Please be ready at the agreed pickup location 10–15 minutes before your scheduled pickup time.
If you are staying in a private villa, apartment, or Airbnb, please provide your exact location or a Google Maps pin after booking.
Our driver will wait for up to 10 minutes after the scheduled pickup time. If you are delayed, please contact us as soon as possible.
Pickup times may vary slightly depending on your hotel's location and traffic conditions.
Which guide languages are listed?
German (live guide), English (live guide), Italian (live guide), French (live guide), Spanish (live guide).
What ticket format is listed?
Mobile ticket.
What ticket age bands are listed?
Child tickets: age 5–17; Adult tickets: age 18+. Check the practical details for participation requirements.
What is the cancellation policy?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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