Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank 1 Day Tour

Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank 1-Day Tour is a unique opportunity to explore two of Zanzibar’s most popular attractions in one day. This popular 6–8-hour full-day excursion in Zanzibar combines historical exploration with a tropical beach experience.

0830 hours and 0930 hours: The tour departs from Stone Town via traditional wooden motorized boats. Prison Island is also Known As Changuu Island or Quarantine Island, and Nakupenda Beach – Nakupenda means “I Love You” in the Swahili language. 

The tour begins at 0800 hours with a pickup from your hotel in Stone Town, followed by a 30-minute traditional dhow boat ride to Prison Island. Prison Island has a beautiful beach, clean water, and fascinating history as a yellow fever quarantine station.

Prison Island highlights include learning about its history, seeing the giant tortoises that inhabit it, and enjoying swimming and snorkeling in the clear blue waters and white sands. After visiting Prison Island, you will continue by boat to Nakupenda Beach, a stunning sandbank that emerges from the ocean at low tide.

You will have a delicious lunch on the sandbank, with a choice of seafood including grilled shrimp, squid, octopus, lobster, and langoustine – depending on the daily catch. There is also food for vegetarians as well. You will also have time to relax on the white sand, swim in the turquoise water, or snorkel among the colorful coral reefs and fish.

You can also join some fun activities like beach volleyball, soccer, or frisbee. The tour includes all the equipment you need for swimming and snorkeling, such as masks, fins, and life jackets. You will also be provided with towels and sunscreens. The tour is private and customizable, so you can spend as much time as you want at each location.

The tour ends around 1500 hours, when you return to Stone Town. You will then be dropped off at your hotel or accommodation in Zanzibar. This tour is a perfect way to experience the beauty and culture of Zanzibar in one day.

Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank 1-Day Tour Itinerary

0900 Hours – Pickup & Boat Departure: Hotel pickup in Stone Town and transfer to the local harbor for a 25–30 minute boat ride via motorized boat or traditional dhow.
 0930 Hours – 1130 Hours – Prison Island (Changuu Island): Visit the sanctuary to see and feed the giant Aldabra tortoises (some over 100 years old). Explore the historic prison ruins and quarantine station. Snorkel in the clear, coral-rich waters surrounding the island
1130 Hours – 1200 Hours – Boat Ride to Nakupenda: Short, scenic boat ride to the secluded sandbank
1200  Hours – 1330 Hours – Nakupenda Sandbank (“I Love You”): Relax on the white sandbar, sunbathe, and swim. Enjoy a freshly prepared seafood BBQ lunch (lobster, calamari, fish, prawns) served with fruits and cold drinks. Leisure time for snorkeling, beach games, or photography
1530 Hours – 1600 Hours – Return Transfer: Boat ride back to Stone Town, followed by transport to the hotel

Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank 1-Day Tour Highlights

✓ Nature: Spot peacocks and small antelopes (dik-diks) around the island.
✓ Prison Island (Changuu Island): Start with a 20–30 minute boat ride from Stone Town
✓ Nakupenda Sandbank: Sail to this pristine sandbank, whose name means “I love you” in Swahili
✓ Giant Tortoises: Visit the sanctuary to see Aldabra giant tortoises, some of which are over 190 years old
✓ History: Explore the ruins of a prison built in 1893 that was later used as a quarantine station for yellow fever
✓ Relaxation: Use the afternoon to sunbathe or relax under private tents on the white sand
✓ Activities: Enjoy swimming and snorkeling in turquoise waters filled with colorful coral reefs and tropical fish
✓ Seafood BBQ Lunch: Feast on a freshly prepared beach barbecue featuring lobster, prawns, calamari, octopus, and fish, accompanied by tropical fruits like mango and pineapple

Useful Information

What to Bring: Swimwear, sunscreen, towels, hats, and waterproof cameras
Inclusions: Typically include boat transfers, snorkeling gear, lunch, fruit, and guide fees
Considerations: The sandbank is tidal and may disappear during high tide; the tour is weather-dependent

Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank 1-Day Tour Highlights!

You’ll learn about its origins as a prison that was never used, and instead, encounter the island’s main attraction: the giant Aldabra tortoises. These magnificent creatures, some over a century old, greet visitors with their gentle nature and offer an opportunity to interact with and feed them.

The island’s pristine beaches beckon for relaxation, sunbathing, and swimming in crystal-clear waters. Snorkeling lets you explore the colorful underwater world and discover vibrant marine life. Moving on to Nakupenda Sandbank, a scenic boat ride takes you to this untouched paradise in the Indian Ocean.

As the sandbank emerges during low tide, you’ll be enchanted by the sight of a secluded stretch of white sandy beach surrounded by turquoise waters. The sandbank offers a serene atmosphere, perfect for unwinding, soaking up the sun, and taking in the stunning surroundings.

Dive into the inviting waters for a refreshing swim or grab snorkeling gear to witness the vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine creatures. Some tours even provide a delectable seafood lunch on the sandbank, allowing you to savor the flavors while embracing the tranquil ambiance.

The Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank 1-Day Tour provides a well-rounded experience, combining historical exploration, encounters with giant tortoises, beach relaxation, and underwater adventures. It’s a day filled with awe-inspiring landscapes, close interactions with wildlife, and the chance to create lasting memories amidst the natural wonders of Zanzibar.

Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank 1-Day Tour Rates Include

Notes

* Free: Age below 2 years
* Adult: Age 8 years and above
* Children: Age between 2 and 7 years

Pickup and Drop-off in Zanzibar Island

Stone Town: This includes all hotels/ Accommodations located in Stone Town
Nungwi/ Kendwa: This includes all hotels/ Accommodations located in Nungwi/ Kendwa
South of Zanzibar: This includes all hotels/ Accommodations located in the South of Zanzibar; Makunduchi, Kizimkazi, etc
Southeast Coast: This includes all hotels/ Accommodations located in the Southeast; Michamvi, Bwejuu, Paje, Jambiani, etc
Northeast Coast: This includes all hotels/ Accommodations located in the Northeast; Matemwe, Kiwengwa, Pongwe, Uroa, etc
Other Areas: This includes all hotels/ Accommodations in Zanzibar

Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank 1-Day Tour Rates Exclude:

* Alcoholic drinks 
* Souvenirs & gifts 
* Personal Expenses
* Medical Insurance Gratitudes for Tour Guides or Drivers
* Pickup and drop off at beach hotels. Kindly contact us for an arrangement
* What to bring with you: swimming suit & towel, sunscreen/block cream, and sunglasses

1. Can I pay by Card?

Yes. You can pay by card via our DPO transaction link. But if you are trying to pay, please make sure you are not using a VPN – your card will likely be declined if we can’t determine your location as a fraud precaution.

2. Do I really have to pre-book?

Yes! Our online booking closes at 9 pm the night before a tour. If it is a last-minute plan, you are welcome to call us at (+254-721-242-711) in the morning to check availability.

3. Can I combine it with other Tours?

This tour normally ends around 1600 hours. If you would like to go somewhere after the tour, then we would recommend the Stone Town tour.

4. Where do I start booking the tour?

You can contact us via WhatsApp at (+254-721-242-711) or use the tour booking form on the website.

5. What are the main activities in this tour?

Prison Island highlights include learning about its history, seeing the giant tortoises that inhabit it, and enjoying swimming and snorkeling in the clear blue waters and white sands of Prison Island.

At Nakupenda Beach, you will have a delicious lunch on the sandbank, with a choice of seafood, including grilled shrimp, squid, octopus, lobster, and langoustine, depending on the daily catch. There is also food for vegetarians as well.

You will also have time to relax on the white sand, swim in the turquoise water, or snorkel among the colorful coral reefs and fish. You can also join some fun activities like beach volleyball, soccer, or frisbee. 

6. Do you provide transport from my Hotel?

Yes, we provide transport to and from any Hotel in Zanzibar.

7. How much is Prison Island with Nakupenda Sandbank?

Prices per person for the Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank Day Tour depend on the number of people, whether traveling privately or sharing. Actually, the more people, the lower the price per person.

8. What to bring for the Prison Island & Nakupends Sandbank tour?

What to bring with you: a swimsuit and towel, sunscreen/block cream, and sunglasses.

9. How long is the combined Prison Island with Nakupenda Sandbank?

The tour begins at 0800 hours and ends at 1500 hours for a duration of 7 hours.

10. What is the best time to do Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank?

You can do the tour on any day of the week. Just check the weather for the day you plan to snorkel, since windy days aren’t good for snorkeling. 

Mobile: +254-721-242-711
WhatsApp: +254-721-242-711
Reservations: +254 718-179-967
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://africanspicesafaris.com