Prison Island and Nakupenda – From Fumba and Mangapwani

Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank Tour – From Fumba and Mangapwani

Combine the history and giant tortoises of Prison Island with the turquoise waters and white sands of Nakupenda Sandbank on a privately guided Zanzibar day tour arranged by Cruzeiro Safaris.

This memorable marine excursion includes hotel transfers from Fumba and Mangapwani, an English-speaking guide and scheduled attraction entrance fees. Travel by boat, explore Prison Island and relax beside the clear waters surrounding Nakupenda Sandbank.

Tour Highlights

• Scenic boat journey from the Stone Town area
• Guided visit to Prison Island
• See the island’s famous giant tortoises
• Learn about the history of Prison Island
• Visit the beautiful Nakupenda Sandbank
• Enjoy time beside Zanzibar’s turquoise waters
• Privately guided excursion
• Hotel transfers from Fumba and Mangapwani

What to Expect

Your excursion begins with pickup from your hotel or an agreed location in Fumba or Mangapwani. The final pickup time will be confirmed after booking.

Travel with your guide to the boat departure point and board a local boat for the journey to Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island. The crossing offers views across the waters surrounding Zanzibar.

On Prison Island, discover the site’s history and visit the giant tortoise area. Your guide will provide information about the island and help you explore the scheduled visitor areas.

Continue by boat to Nakupenda Sandbank, a temporary stretch of white sand surrounded by clear tropical water. Depending on the tides, weather and sea conditions, enjoy time for relaxation, photography, swimming or simply appreciating the marine scenery.

After the experience, return by boat and meet your driver for the transfer back to Fumba or Mangapwani.

Visit Prison Island

Prison Island is located offshore from Stone Town. Although buildings were originally constructed for use as a prison, the island later served other purposes and is now one of Zanzibar’s best-known visitor attractions.

The island is particularly famous for its giant tortoises. Visitors should follow the guide’s instructions and treat the animals respectfully throughout the experience.

Relax at Nakupenda Sandbank

Nakupenda Sandbank is known for its white sand and surrounding turquoise water. Its appearance, size and accessibility change with the tides, making every visit dependent on natural marine conditions.

The exact amount of time spent at the sandbank may vary according to tides, weather, sea conditions and the captain’s safety assessment. Swimming is optional and should only be undertaken when conditions are suitable.

Responsible Animal and Marine Encounters

• Do not climb on, sit on or restrain the tortoises.
• Only feed animals when permitted and using authorised food.
• Do not leave plastic or other waste on the island or sandbank.
• Avoid touching or removing coral, shells and marine life.
• Follow all safety and conservation instructions from the guide and boat crew.
• Children must remain under adult supervision.

Who Is This Tour For?

This excursion is suitable for couples, families, friends and small private groups. It is ideal for travellers who want to combine Zanzibar’s history, wildlife and tropical marine scenery in one day.

Guests should be comfortable boarding a local boat and walking across potentially uneven, wet or sandy surfaces.

Included

• Hotel transfers from Fumba and Mangapwani
• Private transportation
• English-speaking guide
• Guided Prison Island visit
• Visit to Nakupenda Sandbank
• Scheduled attraction entrance fees
• Return transfer to the original pickup point

Not Included

• Meals unless specifically confirmed as included
• Drinks
• Tips and gratuities
• Personal expenses
• Optional purchases and souvenirs
• Snorkeling equipment unless expressly confirmed
• Activities not listed in the confirmed itinerary
• Transfers from locations outside Fumba and Mangapwani unless arranged in advance

Important Information

• Rates are valid for travel from 1 January to 31 December 2027.
• All bookings are subject to availability.
• The minimum booking requirement is two adults.
• Children are charged at 75% of the applicable adult rate.
• The final pickup time will be confirmed after booking.
• Please provide your hotel name and location when making your reservation.
• The tour is subject to suitable tides, weather and sea conditions.
• The captain may change the order, timing or route for safety or operational reasons.
• Nakupenda Sandbank’s size and visibility vary according to the tide.
• The tour may be rescheduled or cancelled when marine conditions are unsafe.
• Children must be accompanied and supervised by a parent or guardian.
• Please disclose relevant health or mobility concerns before booking.

What to Bring

• Swimwear
• Towel and change of clothes
• Comfortable sandals or water shoes
• Sun hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
• Waterproof bag
• Drinking water
• Camera or waterproof phone cover
• Small amount of money for personal purchases
• Personal medication, if required

Book Your Prison Island and Nakupenda Tour

Experience Zanzibar’s history, famous giant tortoises and beautiful marine scenery in one privately guided excursion. Book the Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank Tour with Cruzeiro Safaris for convenient transfers from Fumba and Mangapwani.