A single-day boat trip from Stone Town that pairs a secluded sandbank picnic with a cultural stop at Prison Island. Expect snorkeling, giant tortoises, and a seafood lunch on white sand.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A dhows’ wake parts the blue as the dhow slips past coral outcrops and into open water; within an hour the city hum fades and the ocean begins to set the day’s tempo. On this full-day excursion from Stone Town, travelers trade the narrow alleys and carved doors for two very different island experiences: the powder-white solitude of Nakupenda Sandbank and the shaded, history-steeped shores of Prison Island (Changuu).
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8–10 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for people with basic mobility; involves short walks, boarding boats and swimming/snorkeling in shallow water.
Wildlife
History
Prison Island (Changuu) was used in the 19th century as a quarantine station and later held a small prison; remnants of that era remain alongside the introduced tortoise population.
Conservation
Menai Bay and surrounding reefs are sensitive to overuse—choose operators who follow reef-safe practices, limit anchoring on coral, and use reef-friendly sunscreen.
Reserve your spot on the Nakupenda Sandbank and Prison Island Full Day Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Protect coral and skin—choose reef-safe sunscreen and reapply after swims.
Wear water shoes
Shallow reef and sandbank edges can be sharp; water shoes protect feet when wading.
Morning departures are calmer
Wind and chop increase afternoon; choose a morning trip for the best snorkeling visibility.
Secure valuables
Bring a dry bag for phones and cameras—boats can be unstable and waves may splash.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects your skin and reduces damage to coral during snorkels and beach time.
Snug-fitting mask or snorkel set
Operators provide equipment, but a personal mask ensures better visibility and comfort.
Water shoes
Useful for stepping on reef flats and rocky island shores without discomfort.
Lightweight sun hat and UV clothing
Provides sustained sun protection during multi-hour exposure on exposed sandbanks.