Private Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank with Seafood BBQ

4.6 (26 reviews) Zanzibar City, Tanzania
Duration5h - 6h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Private tourOnly your group will participate
Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below

Overview

This experience is the perfect combination of Zanzibar history and beautiful beaches. Instead of a standard boat ride, you are booking a fully guided, premium day trip. We highlight the absolute best of Stone Town with zero stress.

While our itinerary covers the famous Aldabra Giant Tortoises at Prison Island and the beautiful Nakupenda Sandbank, our excellent service makes this trip truly special.

You will enjoy a freshly prepared, delicious seafood or vegetarian lunch buffet, served right on the pure white sand. You can relax completely while we handle all the details. Spend your time swimming in the warm, crystal-clear water, taking stunning photos, or simply resting under the sun.

We provide safe boat transfers, a comfortable beach setup, and expert local guides who know the island perfectly. From the amazing food to the dedicated service, our team ensures you have a lifetime experience on your Zanzibar vacation.

Options

From anywhere in Zanzibar

Zanzibar: This tour package includes pick-up and drop-off from any hotel or accommodation in Zanzibar.
Pickup included

From Stone Town

Stone Town: This tour package includes pick-up and drop-off from any hotel or accommodation in Stone Town.
Pickup included

What's included

  • Private transportation
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Fries, Salads, Seafood (Lobsters, Tuna fish, Calamary, Octopus, Prawns, etc.). For Vegetarian (Fries, Salads, etc.). Fruit Snacks (Banana, Watermelon, Pineapple, Coconut, etc.) and more
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Prison Island USD 22.00 per person
  • Drinks: Bottles of water, Coca-Cola, Fanta, Sprite, Novida, etc.

What to expect

  1. Stone Town
    Pass by
    Begin your boat journey toward the islands while enjoying panoramic views of the Stone Town waterfront. As you sail out, you will pass neighboring islets like Snake Island and see famous historic landmarks from the water, including the Old Fort, Forodhani Park, the House of Wonders, the Sultan's Palace, the Old Customs House, the Old Dispensary, and the busy Zanzibar Port.
  2. Prison Island - Changuu Private Island
    2h · Admission ticket included
    Your visit begins at the 1893 Prison Ruins. Built as a jail, the complex became a quarantine station following disease outbreaks. Today, you can explore the restored remains, admire carved Zanzibar doors, and visit the museum, bookstore, boutique, and bar. Right next door sits the historic stone dock, perfect for photos.

    As you walk the pathways, look for peacocks and dik-dik antelopes roaming freely. You will also see the historic European Bungalows from the outside, currently being converted into a private hotel reserved strictly for overnight guests.

    Next, enter the sanctuary to interact with the famous Aldabra Giant Tortoises, gifted from the Seychelles. Learn their history and take photos before passing Mathews' Restaurant—the restored residence of Sir Lloyd Mathews, Zanzibar's first Prime Minister—on your way to the boat.
  3. Nakupenda Island - The Paradise Island
    3h · Admission ticket included
    Next, take a short boat ride to Nakupenda Sandbank, which means "I love you" in Swahili. This breathtaking natural sandbank in the ocean is one of Zanzibar's most famous beach spots.

    Enjoy your time swimming in the warm, crystal-clear turquoise waters, resting under the shade, sunbathing on the soft white sand, and capturing unforgettable tropical photos.

    While you relax, our team prepares a fresh, delicious buffet lunch right on the beach—featuring your choice of local seafood or vegetarian dishes. You will also enjoy a fresh tropical fruit platter with pineapple, watermelon, and fresh coconut, accompanied by unlimited bottled water and soft drinks served right on the sand.
  4. Stone Town
    Pass by
    On the boat ride back to Stone Town, enjoy scenic coastal views of the State House, Mnazi Mmoja Referral Hospital, sports grounds, and local fishing beaches lined with traditional wooden boats before your transfer takes you safely to your hotel.

Meeting and pickup

Pickup details

We offer convenient, hassle-free pickup options. During the checkout process, simply select the location and automatic pickup time that works best for you:

• Stone Town Guests: Select either a 9:00 AM or 10:00 AM pickup.
• Outside Stone Town (Anywhere in Zanzibar): Select either an 8:00 AM or 9:00 AM pickup.

Your chosen time is instantly confirmed upon booking! Please simply be ready at your hotel reception at the exact time you selected.

Additional information

  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

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

Reviews

4.6 (26)
From
$160.00 per person
Check availability & book
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • Instant confirmation
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
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