A Day Out At Prison Island & Pange Sandbank
Prison Island & Pange Sandbank, Stone Town, West/Urban Region, Zanzibar - Tanzania
Offered in: 
English 
Italian 
German 
Spanish 
French
Duration
7 Hours (Approximately)Tour Type
History, Adventure & NatureAge
Children with 3 Years & aboveCut-off Time
12 Hours before start timeChildren Need to be Accompanied By at Least One Adult
Our Advice/Tips:
- Plan Your Trip Early: Secure your spot on popular tours in advance to avoid last-minute disappointments and ensure the best time slots for a relaxed, stress-free experience.
- Carry Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect your skin from Zanzibar’s strong sun while exploring beaches, sandbanks, and outdoor attractions.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: Choose lightweight, comfortable footwear for walking on sandy beaches, rocky paths, and island trails without slipping or hurting your feet.
- Pack Swimwear & Towels: Essential for swimming, snorkeling, or sunbathing on soft white sands, so you can enjoy the water without worrying about your clothing.
- Bring a Waterproof Bag: Keep your phone, camera, wallet, and other valuables safe from water, sand, or unexpected splashes during island adventures.
- Respect Wildlife: Admire giant tortoises, marine life, and other animals responsibly; avoid touching, feeding, or disturbing them to protect the ecosystem.
- Plan for Photos: Early morning or late afternoon light is perfect for capturing beautiful memories of beaches, turquoise waters, and island landscapes.
Suitable For:
- Families – Perfect for parents and kids to enjoy together, from watching giant tortoises to swimming in calm, shallow waters and building sandcastles on soft beaches.
- Couples – Ideal for a romantic getaway, offering peaceful beaches, stunning sunsets, and quiet spots for relaxing together amidst turquoise waters.
- Solo Travelers – Great for exploring at your own pace, taking memorable photos, swimming, snorkeling, or simply enjoying some peaceful island time.
- Nature Lovers – A paradise for those who enjoy wildlife and scenic beauty, including encounters with giant tortoises, vibrant marine life, and pristine natural surroundings.
- Adventure Seekers – Perfect for those looking for light adventure like snorkeling over coral reefs, riding boats to sandbanks, and exploring hidden island trails.
- Photography Enthusiasts – Offers countless photo opportunities with crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, playful wildlife, and colorful sunsets over the islands.
- Friends Groups – A fun destination to share with friends, from swimming and snorkeling to relaxing on sun-drenched beaches and enjoying island activities together.
- Beach Lovers – Ideal for those who simply want to soak up the sun, relax on soft white sands, and take refreshing dips in turquoise, calm waters.
We’re excited to offer you a special deal! Use promo code #SAVE25 to get 25% off your next booking.
Hurry Up — offer ends soon!
Description
Set off on a full-day Zanzibar adventure to Prison Island, where history, wildlife, and coastal beauty come together. Your journey begins with a scenic boat ride across the turquoise waters to Changuu Island, historically used as a prison and later as a quarantine station. Today, the island is best known for its well-preserved ruins and its population of Giant Aldabra Tortoises, some of which are over a hundred years old. Walk along sandy paths shaded by trees as your guide shares stories of the island’s past while you observe and photograph these gentle creatures up close. After exploring the historical remains and tortoise sanctuary, enjoy leisure time along the island’s shoreline. Colorful tropical fish and coral reefs thrive just offshore, creating a scenic coastal backdrop. The calm and peaceful setting also allows time to rest, swim, if we have much time or simply enjoy panoramic ocean views before heading to Nakupenda Sandbank for the next highlight of your island experience.
Next, glide across the sparkling Indian Ocean to Nakupenda Sandbank, a pristine stretch of white sand surrounded by crystal-clear waters. This idyllic destination is perfect for Swimming, Snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the sun-drenched sand while taking in the breathtaking surroundings. As part of the experience, enjoy a freshly prepared Seafood Picnic served right on the sand, offering a delicious taste of Zanzibar’s coastal flavors. The calm waters and scenic beauty create a serene setting, ideal for soaking up the tropical atmosphere. With its combination of adventure, natural beauty, and tranquility, this excursion provides a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. Whether you are traveling as a couple, with family, or solo, Nakupenda Sandbank captures the essence of Zanzibar’s tropical charm. After fully enjoying the sandbank and the surrounding waters, you will be transferred back to your hotel, concluding a day filled with unforgettable memories of Zanzibar’s coast.
What's Included
- Service of Informative, friendly and Experienced Professional Tour guide
- Pick up and drop off from your hotel in private car with air condition
- Freshly-prepared delicious seafood lunch on the Island
- Waiting Charge, Fuel Surcharges & Service Fees
- Snorkeling Gears (life jacket, mask & flippers)
- VAT (18% charged by the Government)
- Different seasonal fruits available
- Comfortable Wooden Dhow
- Snacks and beverages
- Entrances Fees
What's Excluded
- Visa fees (US $50 / US $100 for American or Irish Passport holders)
- Any domestic connection flights on arrival or departure
- Gratuities for Guide (please tip separately)
- Anything not mentioned in the inclusions
- Mandatory Inbound Travel Insurance - Visit visitzanzibar.go.tz
- International Flights
A Day Out At Prison Island & Pange Sandbank – FAQs
Yes, We do! Hotel Pick-Up and Drop-Off are included in your final price, so there’s no extra charge for transportation from your accommodation. We’ll make sure you’re picked up on time and start your journey smoothly!
The tour starts with a convenient hotel pick-up or from a designated meeting point, which will be confirmed with you when you book. The tour typically begins with a scenic boat ride from Stone Town City to Prison Island, a historic gem in the Zanzibar Archipelago. Upon arrival, you’ll discover Giant Tortoises, explore the quaint ruins of the Old Prison and Quarantine Station, and enjoy the Island’s Lush Tropical Vegetation and Pristine Beaches.
A Day Out At Prison Island & Pange Sandbank is a full-day tour, conducted from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM including a scenic boat ride from Stone Town to Prison Island (Changuu Island). Key highlights include visiting the Giant Tortoise Reserve, exploring the Historic Prison & Quarantine Ruins, strolling along White Sandy Beaches of Pange SandBank, enjoying the Tropical Vegetation, and optionally Snorkeling among Colorful Coral Reefs and Marine Life.
Yes, non-swimmers can still enjoy the boat ride, wildlife, and beach relaxation. Life jackets are usually available.
Tours may be rescheduled or adjusted for safety if sea conditions are rough or weather is unfavorable.
The price for a Day Out At Prison Island & Pange Sandbank varies depending on how many people are in your group and whether it’s a private or shared experience. Generally, the per-person rate decreases as the group size increases.
Yes, You can! We do accept credit and debit card payments for your convenience.
It’s best to consult a doctor first, as boat rides may be bumpy depending on sea conditions.
USD and EURO are the most widely accepted currencies on this tour. Paying with either makes transactions smooth and hassle-free during your experience.
Drone use may require special permission from Local Authorities. Always check regulations before flying.
Yes, visitors can pet and feed the Tortoises, but always follow the guide’s instructions and avoid rough handling to ensure their safety.
