Zanzibar Day Prison Island, Nakupenda Sandbank with Lunch
A half-day tour to the giant land tortoises, home that were imported from Seychelles in the late 19th Century with a no longer used prison also on the island. Explore the romantic Nakupenda Sandbank..

Summary
A half-day tour to the giant land tortoises, home that were imported from Seychelles in the late 19th Century with a no longer used prison also on the island. Explore the romantic Nakupenda Sandbank..
Highlights
- Discover Prison Island and meet the tortoises that live there
- Snorkel in the beautiful clear waters
- Get the chance to discover and learn the stories of the buildings
- Dive into the pristine, crystal-clear waters of Nakupenda Sandbank
- Explore vibrant coral reefs while snorkeling
Full description
Come and experience a unique place called Prison Island by enjoying the ride to the island on a traditional dhow and learning more about Zanzibar’s history. Prison Island gets its name from the prison built to condemn Zanzibari citizens to be isolated from the island.
The prison was previously owned by an Arab to house his rebellious slaves, the prison was never actually used, and the island is now home to a tortoise sanctuary and a hotel. Prison Island is 20 minutes away from Stone Town by boat and has spectacular coral reefs for you to enjoy.
Giant tortoises shuffle through the trees, with the infinite patience that old age brings. Originally thought to be from the Comoros Islands and Seychelles, some of these tortoises are thought to be over 100 years old.
End your day in the true paradise of the Nakupenda Sandbank where you will enjoy a lunch, fruits and soft drink. Nakupenda means “I love you” in Swahili, the local language of Tanzania. The moment you see and step foot on this sandbank you will fall in love with this little island.
Discover the beautiful underwater world around this sandbank with snorkelling and greet all the little colourful fishes, other sea life and the most magical reefs.
Includes
- tour guide
- seafood lunch
- fresh fruits
- soft drink
- bottled water
- nakupenda sandbank
- prison island

Excludes
- Tip(optional)
- Hotel pick up-drop off
- Prison island fees entrance 15 USD per person
- Marine conservation fees 3 USD per person
Meeting point
The meeting point is close to the entrance of the Cape Town Fish Market Restaurant in Forodhani, Stone Town.