Viator · group up to 60 pax

Zanzibar City Tour, Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank with BBQ

5.0(14)Zanzibar1 hour
VIATOR5.0(2)TRIPADVISOR5.0(12)

Description

Embark on a full-day Zanzibar adventure starting with Prison Island, where giant tortoises roam and history whispers from the old colonial prison. Then, escape to the pristine Nakupenda Sandbank, a white-sand paradise in the turquoise sea, and savor a delicious BBQ lunch on the beach as you swim, sunbathe, and snap unforgettable photos. Finally, step into the heart of Zanzibar with a Stone Town tour, wandering winding streets, colorful markets, and historic landmarks like the Old Fort and Freddie Mercury’s birthplace, while uncovering the island’s rich culture and heritage. This all-in-one experience blends history, relaxation, and local life for a truly unforgettable day.

Tour Options

Come to meeting point
  • Come to meeting point : This tour option does not include Transfer (pick up and drop-off from any hotel or address.)
Tour with pick-up and drop-off
  • Pickup included
Private Tour
  • Private Tour: This option is private tour with pick-up and drop-off from any hotel or any address in Zanzibar. Pickup included

Itinerary

Admission not included120 min

Prison Island (Changuu Island) is a beautiful escape just off the coast of Zanzibar, rich in history and natural charm. Originally built as a prison, the island is now best known for its gentle giant Aldabra tortoises, some of the oldest living creatures in the world. As you wander through the island, you’ll also encounter colorful peacocks freely roaming the grounds, adding a magical touch to the serene surroundings. With its soft white sands, clear turquoise waters, and breathtaking ocean views, Prison Island offers a peaceful retreat and unforgettable photo opportunities. Discover this iconic island with Ziocean Tours and Travel for a truly memorable Zanzibar experience.

Admission not included180 min

Nakupenda Sandbank is a breathtaking slice of paradise that appears in the middle of the turquoise Indian Ocean, just off the coast of Zanzibar. This stunning white-sand island is surrounded by crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, relaxing, and taking unforgettable photos. During the experience, you’ll enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch prepared fresh on the beach, featuring a selection of grilled seafood, meats, and tropical fruits. Soak up the sun, feel the soft sand beneath your feet, and enjoy the peaceful ocean breeze as you dine in this unique setting. Whether you’re looking to unwind, swim in warm shallow waters, or simply enjoy nature’s beauty, Nakupenda Sandbank with BBQ lunch offers a truly magical island escape.

Admission included120 min

Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Stone Town, the historic heart of Zanzibar and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through narrow winding streets filled with bustling markets, carved wooden doors, and colorful architecture that reflects centuries of Arab, African, Indian, and European influence. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Old Fort, House of Wonders, Freddie Mercury’s birthplace, and the former Slave Market, learning powerful stories that shaped the island’s past. Experience local life as you pass spice stalls, mosques, and lively squares. This guided tour offers a fascinating insight into Zanzibar’s heritage, traditions, and daily life, making Stone Town an unforgettable cultural experience.

Highlights

Optional food preference for vegetarian/vegans (please let us know if you are vegetarian or vegans)
Nakupenda Sandbank
Round boat trip
Prison island
Savor a fresh seafood BBQ feast, accompanied by bottled drinking water, refreshing soft drinks, and tropical fruits a perfect beachside dining experience.
Professional tour guide
Stone town tour
Hotel pickup and drop-off (Optional)

What's included

Included
Optional food preference for vegetarian/vegans (please let us know if you are vegetarian or vegans)
Nakupenda Sandbank
Round boat trip
Prison island
Savor a fresh seafood BBQ feast, accompanied by bottled drinking water, refreshing soft drinks, and tropical fruits a perfect beachside dining experience.
Professional tour guide
Stone town tour
Hotel pickup and drop-off (Optional)
Not included
Personal expenses
Marine conservation fees and entrance fees for Prison Island

Pickup Locations & Times

This tour can be arranged as either a group or a private guided experience. We offer flexible options travelers can be picked up directly from their hotel reception or provided address, or they may choose to meet us at the designated meeting point.

Traveller Ratings

5.0
14 reviews
5
14
4
0
3
0
2
0
1
0

Important Information

  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Reviews(14)

B
Blair_C
June 17, 2026
There was some confusion...

There was some confusion about the meeting point based on the map and quite a delay while others arrived but we had a great time out on the water. We enjoyed a seafood lunch, swimming and plenty of time at the coral atoll and the highlight of Prison Island were the tortoises. The guides were very good and recommend the day tour.

C
Chantel_M
June 8, 2026
Grateful Customer turned family!

This company got it right! This was my 1st time to Zanzibar and this was the 1st activity of my trip. The company reached out to me as soon as I booked so I appreciated the attentiveness. They were very responsive throughout to ensure I was taken care of. Most important were the tour guides! I felt like family and we had a blast the entire day. I didnt feel rushed and the guys are now like family. I WILL recommend this company to everyone I know who’s visiting Zanzibar.

H
Happiness28131877829
May 16, 2026
It was fabulous

We had a wonderful day with this company, the tour was amazing and everything were well organized. Highly recommended

3
319lastkiss
May 12, 2026
Wonderful day

Everything came together perfectly for a wonderful day: the transfer from the hotel in a clean, air-conditioned car with a punctual driver, the sunshine and stunning scenery, the generous meal, the attentive service from the agency (vegetarian option, French-speaking guide), and our guide Souleymane, who was very friendly and helpful. He explained and showed us each place thoroughly. It would be helpful to mention that the visit to the former slave market is an additional charge so that travelers can budget accordingly. We highly recommend Ziocean Tours and Travel.

7
776issah
May 10, 2026
Zanzibar tower

We had a great day!!

A
abrazakk
May 8, 2026
Best trip

My Experiencing with this tour was more than I expected. By 8am the driver was already waiting for us at the reception. We were later join by my tour guide Muhsin was a pleasure to be around. He took us through a Zanzibar history along the entire route and he welcomed every question we had. He guided and gave valuable instructions on how to approach every activity to get the most out of it. He also assisted with the photography and the capturing the most moment of our trip. Guide and driver were also very patient and never rushed. Highly recommended this tour if you want a peace of mind and want it a well curated tour by seeing majority of the island in one day.

Z
ZanOne_Zanzibar
April 28, 2026
Best Trip Ever

What a beautiful day it was! We had a lovely to Prison Island, Nakupenda SandBank Beach and Stone Town. Our guide was very excellent, he was very knowledgeable and informative. He spoke very good English and always charming. The Island itself was gorgeous and the tortoises were amazing. The food at Nakupenda SandBank was delicious and what can i say about Stone Town! General this was my best Trip Ever, 5* from both my wife and I. Highly recommend all the guests visiting Zanzibar to do this tour!!

I
idrissakhi
April 3, 2026
Is my plan to go back in another time ⏲️

It was really And unforgettable trip in my whole life It was a happy 😊 moment

Y
yusufabassa
February 1, 2026
Wonderful holiday in Zanzibar

Best trip, best guide, best driver, amazing beach, delicious BBQ lunch, good history in stone town and turtle island prison totally we hade a wonderful holiday with this company. Highly recommend

N
N6739WEfatmas
February 1, 2026
Our beautiful holiday in Zanzibar

Perfect day in Zanzibar! Interesting History in Stone Town, beautiful Nakupenda beach and delicious BBQ lunch, well organized and great service. Would definitely recommended.

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