Tours & experiences

Zanzibar Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank with Seafood Lunch

About this experience

Experience the perfect combination of Zanzibar’s history, wildlife, and tropical beauty in one unforgettable day. Our tour takes you beyond the ordinary, offering a chance to explore the historic Prison Island, meet the amazing giant Aldabra tortoises, and relax on the stunning Nakupenda Sandbank surrounded by crystal-clear waters.

Enjoy a comfortable boat journey, a delicious fresh seafood BBQ lunch, snorkeling opportunities, and plenty of time to swim, relax, and capture beautiful memories. With professional local guidance and convenient hotel transfers, we make your Zanzibar adventure smooth, enjoyable, and memorable from start to finish.

At a glance

  • Duration: 6 hr–7 hr

Choose your tour option

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

Private Tour: Meeting Point
Private Tour: Meeting Point: This booking option offers a private Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank tour with a meeting point arrangement.
Meeting Point (Fees Excluded): Conservation and entrance fee of Prison island ($22 or 60,000 TZS) are excluded and you will pay on the tour day.
Shared Tour: Meeting Point
Shared Tour Exclude Fees: This booking option includes a group tour to Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank with seafood lunch
Shared Tour Exclude Fees: Conservation and entrance fees of Prison island ($22 or 60,000 TZS) are excluded and payable on the tour day.
Group Tour: Meeting Point
Duration: 6 hours
Meeting Point (Shared Tour): This booking option offers a group tour to Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank with a seafood lunch
Shared Tour Includes all Fees: Conservation and All Entrance fees are included
Private Tour: All Inclusive
All Inclusive Hotel Transfer : This booking option offers a private tour of Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank with hotel transfer anywhere in Zanzibar.

Plan your experience

Time on the tour6 hr–7 hr
Guide languagesGerman (live guide), English (live guide), Italian (live guide), French (live guide), Spanish (live guide)

Set aside 6 hr–7 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.

Compare the available options before choosing: their itinerary, inclusions and pickup arrangements can differ. Check the price for your date and whole group.

Before you go

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

What is included

  • Professional local guide
  • Soda/Pop
  • Bottled water
  • Round-trip boat transfer
  • All Fees and Taxes
  • Seafood BBQ lunch, Fruits, Soft drinks & Vegetarian food
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off (it depend the booking option)

Not included

  • Tips not included

Itinerary and highlights

Travelers will enjoy a scenic boat ride from Stone Town across the beautiful turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean to Prison Island. They will explore the historic old prison ruins, discover the island’s interesting history, and learn about its transformation over the years.

Visitors will also have the chance to walk through the green tropical environment, visit the famous Aldabra giant tortoise sanctuary, meet and feed the giant tortoises, some of which are over 100 years old. The island also offers great photo opportunities, peaceful nature views, and a relaxing beach atmosphere.

Travelers will continue by boat to the breathtaking Nakupenda Sandbank, one of Zanzibar’s most beautiful natural spots. Surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft white sand, guests can relax, swim, sunbathe, and enjoy the peaceful island environment. They can explore the underwater world through snorkeling, discover colorful marine life, and capture unforgettable holiday photos. During the visit, travelers will enjoy a delicious seafood BBQ lunch with fresh tropical fruits and soft drinks while taking in the amazing ocean views before returning to Stone Town.

Meeting and pickup information

  • Please come to Forodhani Garden. You will find our boat waiting there, and our team will contact you before the tour to provide all the details and assistance you need.

Languages and tickets

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

Tour operator

  • Zanturtle Explore Tours and Safaris

Meeting points and locations

Accessibility and practical details

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • 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–7 hr. Check your chosen tour option for its specific itinerary.
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 3–9; Adult tickets: age 10+. 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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