Your Zanzibar experience begins with a journey into the island’s fascinating history and extraordinary natural beauty.

Start with a scenic boat trip from Stone Town to Prison Island, officially known as Changuu Island. Despite its name, the island is now better known for its population of giant Aldabra tortoises. Some of these remarkable animals are more than 100 years old. Walk through the island sanctuary, observe the tortoises up close and enjoy time to explore the island’s peaceful surroundings.

Your guide will also introduce you to Prison Island’s fascinating past. The island was associated with quarantine facilities and was once intended for use as a prison, forming part of Zanzibar’s complex history as a major trading centre in the Indian Ocean.

From Prison Island, continue by boat to the spectacular Nakupenda Sandbank, one of Zanzibar’s most beautiful marine escapes. Depending on the tides and sea conditions, the sandbank rises from the turquoise Indian Ocean as a brilliant stretch of white sand surrounded by clear tropical water.

Take time to swim, snorkel, sunbathe or simply relax on the sand while enjoying the panoramic ocean views. There is no need to rush. This is the part of the day where humanity briefly remembers that sitting on a beach is a perfectly respectable activity.

While you enjoy Nakupenda, our team will prepare a delicious Zanzibar-style seafood BBQ. The menu may include freshly prepared local fish, prawns, octopus and lobster, accompanied by seasonal tropical fruits and refreshing soft drinks.

Vegetarian and vegan meal options are also available with advance notice.

After lunch and time at the sandbank, return to Stone Town for a guided exploration of Zanzibar’s historic centre.

Walk through the narrow streets and discover the city’s distinctive Swahili, Arab, Indian and European influences. Explore colourful markets, historic buildings and important landmarks while your professional guide brings Zanzibar’s fascinating past to life.

Depending on the tour schedule and access, highlights may include the Old Fort, House of Wonders, Sultan’s Palace area, Darajani Market and the historic Slave Market area.

Learn about the sultans who ruled Zanzibar, the island’s role in Indian Ocean trade, the spice trade and the many cultures that shaped modern Zanzibar.

By the end of the day, you will have experienced three very different sides of Zanzibar: its history in Stone Town, wildlife and heritage on Prison Island, and tropical island life at Nakupenda Sandbank.