Tours & experiences

Full Day Tour: Prison Island, Nakupenda Sandbank & Stone Town

About this experience

Explore the stunning sights of Zanzibar on this full-day tour, featuring visits to Prison Island, Nakupenda Sandbank, and Stone Town. Discover the rich history of Prison Island, once a refuge for freed slaves, and enjoy the pristine beauty of Nakupenda Sandbank, perfect for relaxation and swimming. The tour also includes a walk through the vibrant streets of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can immerse yourself in local culture and history. Lunch and soft drinks are provided to keep you energized throughout the day.

- Full-day tour exploring Zanzibar’s historical and natural wonders
- Visit the historic Prison Island and learn about its fascinating past
- Relax on the soft sands of Nakupenda Sandbank with swimming opportunities
- Enjoy lunch and soft drinks included to enhance your experience

At a glance

  • Duration: 9 hr
  • Private experience

Choose your tour option

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

Full Day Tour: Prison Island, Nakupenda Sandbank & Stone Town
Pickup included

Plan your experience

Time on the tour9 hr
Getting therePickup offeredSee pickup details
Guide languagesGerman (live guide), ru (live guide), English (live guide), Italian (live guide), French (live guide), Spanish (live guide)
Tour arrangementPrivate experience

Set aside 9 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

  • Private transportation
  • Admission fee
  • Lunch
  • Use of Snorkelling equipment

Itinerary and highlights

Nakupenda Sandbank - A Hidden Paradise
- Pristine, Uninhabited Sandbar - Unlike crowded beaches, Nakupenda is a secluded, picture-perfect stretch of white sand in the middle of the ocean.
- Disappearing Island - The sandbank is only visible at low tide, making it a rare and magical experience.
- Private Beach Feel - Most tours limit visitors, so you get a peaceful, uncrowded escape.
- Fresh Seafood BBQ - Many tours include a beachside lobster/fish grill with tropical fruits—far better than a restaurant meal!

Prison Island - More Than Just Tortoises
- Giant Aldabra Tortoises - Some are over 100 years old! You can feed and interact with them (rare opportunity).
- Historical Quarantine Prison - Explore the ruins of a 19th-century British-built detention center (used for yellow fever isolation).
- Great Snorkeling Spot - The coral reefs around the island are vibrant and full of marine life.

Perfect Balance of Adventure & Relaxation
- Snorkeling + Swimming - Crystal-clear waters at both stops.
- Instagram-Worthy Scenery - The contrast between the white sandbank and turquoise ocean is breathtaking.
- Wildlife Encounter - Unlike typical beach tours, you get close-up time with giant tortoises.

Convenience & Local Experience
- Short Boat Ride - Only 15-30 mins from Stone Town (no long, exhausting transfers).
- Small-Group or Private Options - Avoid crowded tourist boats.
- Local Guides & Fresh Food - Many tours support local fishermen and chefs.

Step into history with a guided tour of Stone Town, the cultural heart of Zanzibar and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This vibrant, labyrinthine town is a living museum of Swahili, Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences — a place where every narrow alley and ornate wooden door has a story to tell.

On this immersive tour, you'll walk through centuries-old streets and discover:

The House of Wonders (Beit-al-Ajaib) – once the tallest building in East Africa and a symbol of Zanzibar’s Omani heritage.

The Old Fort – a 17th-century fortress now hosting shops, performances, and local artisans.

The Sultan’s Palace (Palace Museum) – offering insight into royal life on the island.

The Old Slave Market and Anglican Cathedral – a powerful reminder of Zanzibar’s role in the East African slave trade.

The Darajani Market – a bustling local market filled with spices, fresh produce, and everyday life.

Meeting and pickup information

  • we provide pick up all area of zanzibar please add your location

Languages and tickets

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

Tour operator

  • Dhow And Jeep Tours

Meeting points and locations

Accessibility and practical details

  • 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 9 hr.
What are the pickup arrangements?
we provide pick up all area of zanzibar please add your location
Which guide languages are listed?
German (live guide), ru (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 6–12; Adult tickets: age 13+. 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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