Zanzibar: Private Prison Island and Nakupenda Beach Day Trip

Discover the history of Prison Island and see the ruins, the giant tortoises reserve and see the baby tortoises in the nursery. Enjoy a boat ride to Nakupenda Beach and swim in the crystal-clear water
Embark on a private full-day adventure to Prison Island, Nakupenda Beach, and the Giant Tortoise Sanctuary. Enjoy a boat ride to Prison Island, where you can see the giant tortoises and explore the ruins of the former prison. Then, head to Nakupenda Beach for a swim and a delicious seafood lunch.

After a pickup at your hotel, you’ll start this fun day with a visit to Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island or Quarantine Island. In 1893, the former British prime minister of Zanzibar purchased the island and built a prison complex on it, but it never served its intended use. It was used as a quarantine station for yellow fever cases.

Today the building is a ruin, but it serves as a guesthouse for tourists. Visit the giant tortoises’ reserve, where you will admire, pet, and even feed these magnificent, ancient, peaceful creatures. In 1919, four Aldabra giant tortoises, a gift from the governor of Seychelles, were brought here.

They find Prison Island a great environment and bred freely. Today, many tortoises are welcoming you, and the first settlers are still among them. There is also a nursery for baby tortoises, where you can see baby tortoises of different ages.

After your visit to the island, board a boat for a 30-minute ride to Nakupenda Beach. Nakupenda means “I Love You,” and you will feel loved there – gentle sand spilling over your feet while walking, mellow waves caressing your body, and super-friendly personnel tending your needs.

Swim, sunbathe, and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters. After a dive, enjoy a sumptuous beach lunch, including grilled shrimps, squid, octopus, lobster, and langoustine – depending on the daily catch.

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.