Private Stone Town Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank Tour

5.0 (15 reviews) 7 hours Free cancellation Private tour

out of 5

15 reviews

5.0

Private Stone Town Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank Tour — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Private Stone Town Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank Tour, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

This private tour offers an exclusive, personalized experience combining the best of Zanzibar’s culture, nature, and history. Begin with a guided walk through the historic streets of Stone Town, exploring hidden alleys and learning about the island’s rich heritage, spice trade, and diverse influences. Next, relax at Nakupenda Beach, a pristine, peaceful sandbank with crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling, away from the crowds. Finally, take a short boat ride to Prison Island, home to giant Aldabra tortoises and vibrant coral reefs perfect for snorkeling. This tour uniquely blends history, wildlife, and stunning landscapes, tailored just for your group, making it a memorable and authentic Zanzibar adventure.

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At a glance

Duration: 7 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–15
Guide: English, French
Operated by: Yasco guide zanzibar

Ages: Adults (6–80 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Tour guide
Included: Entrance fees: Entrance fee
Included: Private transportation: Private boat
Included: Government fees: This is marine conservation tax
Included: This tour lunch is included and normally we are prepare see food with fries eg octopus ,praws , lobstar ,tuna fish and calamari(squid). But if you don't wan't the sea food other option is chicken.
Included: Use of snorkeling equipment: Snorkeling equipment will be provided when you want to do snorkeling

Itinerary

Stone Town

2 hours

Step back in time on this immersive Stone Town Walking Tour, a must-do experience for visitors to Zanzibar. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city with a local guide who brings the narrow alleyways, ancient architecture, and vibrant history to life. Discover the cultural crossroads where Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences meet, and learn about the people, politics, and trade that shaped Zanzibar's storied past.

Whether you're fascinated by history, culture, or photography, Stone Town offers a unique glimpse into a living museum of Swahili coastal life.
Prison Island - Changuu Private Island

2 hours Admission included

Leave the bustle of Stone Town behind and set sail across Zanzibar’s blue waters to Prison Island, a peaceful hideaway steeped in mystery and charm. Known locally as Changuu Island, this former detention site has evolved into one of the region’s most fascinating natural and historical attractions.

On this guided experience, you’ll uncover stories of the island’s colonial-era use as a quarantine zone and never-used prison, walk among century-old giant Aldabra tortoises, and enjoy free time to snorkel or relax along the island’s sun-soaked shoreline.

This isn’t just a beach trip — it’s a journey into the lesser-known chapters of Zanzibar’s past, blended with tropical beauty and rare wildlife encounters.
Nakupenda Beach Nature Reserve

3 hours Admission included

Nakupenda, which means "I love you" in Swahili, isn’t just a name—it’s a feeling. Just off the coast of Stone Town, this pristine sandbank rises from the sea like a mirage. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, Nakupenda Beach is the ultimate escape for those seeking beauty, simplicity, and untouched nature.

This tour is more than just a beach visit — it's a full experience. Swim in warm turquoise waters, sunbathe on the soft white sand, snorkel among colorful fish, and enjoy a freshly prepared seafood picnic served right on the sandbank.

Whether you’re seeking romance, relaxation, or natural beauty, Nakupenda delivers a postcard-perfect slice of Zanzibar.

Meeting point and pickup

You can be picked up from your accommodation or go straight to the meeting point.

Meeting point

Mizingani Seafront Hotel is in Stone Town, Zanzibar, right on Mizingani Road by the ferry terminal, next to Forodhani Gardens and near the Old Dispensary.