Review: Nungwi, Prison Island, Nakupenda Sandbank Escape

Thinking about a trip that includes Nungwi, Prison Island, and Nakupenda Sandbank? Well, it’s certainly among the trips folks suggest when you’re in Zanzibar, and for pretty good reason. The whole thing kind of sells itself as this day-long escapade packing in local history, some cool wildlife spotting, and time out on a sandbar that is really beautiful. Sounds dreamy, doesn’t it? This is an account of how my experience went. I’ll share a bit of what was great and maybe some things that you, like your guide, will want to consider.

Setting off From Nungwi

Nungwi, up at the northern tip of Zanzibar, is often where this little adventure starts. I mean, that area has its own pull with the beaches and all, it really is the postcard view you expect. The morning started pretty early; well, it had to, so we could beat some of the crowds you know? Jumping on one of those traditional dhow boats is really a bit of fun, just feeling the ocean breeze as we are heading to Prison Island. As a matter of fact, if you’re the kind that easily gets seasick, perhaps pop some medication because that ride may, just a little, test you, you know?

Prison Island: More Than Just a Name

So, Prison Island – yeah, turns out that its story is quite something, alright? So it was meant as a spot to stick rogue prisoners back in the 1860s, yet that purpose kind of vanished. Basically, the island became better known as a quarantine station to deal with yellow fever outbreaks. Pretty dark history, right? Yet the real showstopper? That, actually, is the giant tortoises. They are ancient and, you know, seriously cool. Those creatures are ambling around and happy to pose a little, you could say, for pictures. That part of the visit felt very touristy, yet getting up close with these creatures, as a matter of fact, made it worthwhile, in a way. Keep your distance respectful, so you don’t disturb their environment, that’s the only important rule I want to say.

Nakupenda Sandbank: A Slice of Paradise?

After Prison Island, that next stop is Nakupenda Sandbank, which loosely means “I love you” in Swahili – sweet, right? Yet, it truly is something. As a matter of fact, that sandbank is small, like, tiny. It is really a bit of sand popping out of turquoise water. I mean, talk about postcard material, it’s virtually paradise, alright? They usually set up lunch there: think grilled seafood, tropical fruits, the works, you know? The thing, still, is that everyone else has the same idea, it’s almost always very busy. Basically, I’d say try to savor the vibe, take some photos, then get out into that clear water, that would make your trip better.

Snorkeling in the Zanzibar Waters

They tend to toss in a snorkeling opportunity as part of the trip, so get involved! Now, the reefs are okay, I mean, you might see some fish, some coral. What’s seriously good? That warm water, alright? Visibility just depends on the day. But I have to tell you to not expect the Great Barrier Reef, more like a little peek at sea life. That said, slipping beneath the surface does make that whole trip feel much more complete, that’s if the tides are good.

Things to Consider Before You Go

Okay, before you reach for that credit card and book this trip, let’s think about stuff, okay? This little jaunt can be very popular. We all want paradise to ourselves, and getting away from the mob, it could be said, really is a pipe dream, actually. So consider going off-season maybe. Also, haggle the cost a little. I have found out the opening price you’re given can drop just a little with a bit of good-natured chat, you know? Plus, really be aware of responsible tourism practices, very important. Don’t mess with the wildlife; you can take only pictures, you leave only footprints; very important stuff. As I was saying, it keeps those locations looking amazing, so we get to continue enjoying them.

Is It Worth The Money?

You might ask: should I take the Nakupenda sandbank tour? Here is my take: if you realize and are prepared to see many tourists, so the landscape is a little shared, then probably. What can’t be refuted is the scenery’s breath-taking splendor. As a matter of fact, Prison Island offers a brief yet captivating window into Zanzibar’s history and biodiversity. Taking everything into consideration, from the moment of departure at Nungwi to the time of snorkeling into the bright waters, each aspect holds a particular allure. Just make sure that expectations line up to what it actually is, for you not to have regrets when everything’s over.