Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank Review: BBQ Lunch Included

So, you’re possibly dreaming of those postcard-perfect Zanzibar beaches, right? It could be that Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank are possibly on your radar. This combo trip, including a BBQ lunch, is actually one of the super well-liked excursions. Is that so? Well, I figured I’d, you know, share my thoughts to potentially assist you make the best option. So, buckle up, it’s almost as if we are going on a virtual adventure!

Setting Sail: The Boat Trip to Prison Island

The boat ride, really starting from Stone Town, is usually the first taste of the adventure. Is that so? Usually, it’s a dhow, one of those traditional wooden boats. To be honest, it’s a pretty good vibe right from the get-go. That is so since you are getting sunshine, the sea breeze is actually in your hair. Plus, Stone Town definitely receding in the distance is usually a killer view. Oh, well, is that so that the trip itself is around 30 minutes? That is so when it really depends on the sea conditions. So, sometimes it could actually be a bit bumpy, just as an heads up!

Prison Island: More Than Just a Jail

Now, here is a little history for ya. Basically, Prison Island’s original role was supposedly to house prisoners. And so it never fully fulfilled that role. It tends to be that it was meant to be a quarantine station, and is that right? The name, well it just kinda stuck. I mean basically nowadays, this place is super well-known due to its giant tortoises. Yes, giant tortoises, as a matter of fact, basically they are the real celebs here.

Meeting the Giants

Coming nose to nose with tortoises is quite the experience, I want to say. Seemingly these fellas actually have some considerable size, like up to, more or less, 200 years old! Actually, you could pet them, is that you can? Plus, arguably take some memorable pictures. I actually learned, so to speak, their diet usually consists of greens. Who would’ve thought? So, if you intend to take photographs (and you clearly do), potentially plan around any tour bus schedules since the place usually gets extremely full. Just maybe.

The Prison Ruins

Okay, while the tortoises have my heart, like you will find there are some abandoned buildings to peek at. Is that so? To be honest, they provide an spooky reminder of this destination’s past. I find walking around, just a bit, to sort of let your thoughts go could certainly give you some pause about that is so that the place’s purposes were? Is that a bit dark? Ok then! How about we proceed towards the sandbank?

Nakupenda Sandbank: A Slice of Paradise

So, this place, Nakupenda which implies “I love you” in Swahili, this sandbank is completely unreal. Picture white sands, just around the warm, blue Indian Ocean… It actually can be pretty heavenly. I noticed so very quickly there are a lot of birds that gather here too it’s almost that the birds know they aren’t actually hunted on. You, just take photos, go walking, unwind, take in a little sun. Is that so? If you enjoy swimming, you should possibly carry some swimwear!

Snorkeling Time!

Very many trips potentially include some snorkeling right here. Which I think is extremely good. The waters happen to be very crystal clear, plus seemingly there will be an array of, like, colorful fish to spot. Remember, do please listen closely to your instructors for instructions on secure snorkeling practices, too it’s almost like your snorkeling security tips will affect everyone elses. Then be aware that, just a little, the sea lifestyle be respected. In some respects, basically no pressing about the coral reefs!

BBQ Lunch: A Feast on the Sandbank

The BBQ lunch, actually often part of this excursion package, is typically set up ideal on the sandbank. Oh, and by the way I actually think I could, I mean I must say, basically that fish. Like, seriously the fish. I am aware you could have additional choices that are often provided (chicken etc) so I will make a point about basically eating your load of ocean bounty for that unique island flavor. By the way there were things such as fruit, rice, and sauces. I actually do suggest double checking when you book is it that, say, the vegetarian or vegan alternatives will be possible when on location or whenever scheduling, is that it can actually go on for a few hours if one waits too much time ahead!

A Word on the Food

This is so depending upon who is hosting, right? Generally, anticipate grilled seafood or chicken, plus typically there is a lot of rice, some fruits, plus, perhaps sauces. Just by the way, do make sure you actually talk about any dietary requirements. Like upfront. Just because being caught out isn’t necessarily an enjoyable experience, so to speak!

Things to Note Before You Go

Like before running to reserve tickets. We should actually think of those factors so you get pretty the most out from ones experience.

Sun Protection

Basically this can’t be said often enough, but please protect yourself, mainly with strong sun screen, more or less a hat, just some sunglasses! Keep in mind how harsh the sunrays could certainly get in the heart of Zanzibar. Oh, be it when sun bathing and basically out floating. It looks like staying guarded really keeps a single happy through everything!

What to Wear

So, that usually includes some gentle, at the end of the day, comfortable clothing. A bit just as swimwear below that. This is very essential that there is a pair of sandals so they have zero worries traversing over hot sands. Similarly, it seems there needs to be a wrap/cover-up. Should someone desire some modest measure while going from a coast towards location, and just perhaps protecting from sunburn.

Tide Timing

So, something crucial: Nakupenda is simply visible based on tides! The sandbank tends to disappear totally during high tide. Make a point, maybe before ones day, too actually make certain the excursion matches favorable conditions. I feel as though you could ask any local tour company so that you’ll get assistance.

What to Bring

Let me suggest packing the best. A towel, maybe for drying off. And certainly some dollars, you probably may choose a gift or perhaps maybe some beverages which aren’t typically supplied! Then maybe ones digital cam, of course, I indicate if images/videos do not exist? Had someone enjoyed whatever trip? Just by the way! Lastly be mindful that will zip-lock purse/waterproof container can completely safeguard electronics/valuables with splashing as soon as crossing regarding boats.

Was it worth it? Final Thoughts

Ok, now the big question. Basically would I actually suggest the Prison Island plus Nakupenda sandbank tour together with BBQ lunch break? It really is easy to respond – sure, almost always I suppose. Should be prepared though due, in many respects, basically some groups, that. Generally it appears its something worthwhile watching those tortoises plus just perhaps experiencing which excellent lunch across some picturesque sandbar, right then its probably an incredible daytime journey on my watch at the very least!