Zanzibar’s Nakupenda & Prison Island: Honest Review

Zanzibar, now this name conjures up images of turquoise waters, pristine beaches, plus a dash of spice, and maybe so too an amazing vibe. I mean, if you are like I am, you’ve probably heard whispers about the Nakupenda sandbank and Prison Island tour, it’s very popular. It is that quintessential half-day trip that appears in basically every Zanzibar travel brochure, isn’t it? So, is it seriously worth your time, or is that just seriously clever marketing? Well, let’s explore, very much like real explorers.

Setting Sail: What to anticipate From the Boat Trip

Picture this: You hop onto, like your real friendly local dhow boat, so its probably painted in colors that seem extremely cheerful, very, very typically Zanzibari you see. You know, the kind that actually looks perfect for Instagram? Very probably. As a matter of fact the ocean breeze is in a way doing its level best to tousle your hair, the sun’s just warming your face, plus the promise of adventure basically hangs in the air like, well, the scent of cloves from a nearby spice farm! The ride itself? I mean, it’s actually rarely smooth, lets be real, right? Expect some rocking and rolling, basically as you cruise across the Indian Ocean. Yet, isn’t that seriously half the fun? Plus, you often get to, like meet fellow travelers from all over, now that is definitely adding a cool social aspect to the trip. Anyway, depending on your tour operator, the boats typically come equipped with some basic amenities, too it’s almost like restrooms, plus maybe shade if that sun seriously starts feeling angry. Though, for some this journey time is basically chill-out time, some might find the boat trip slightly boring depending on what you’re hoping for.

Nakupenda Sandbank: Paradise or a Mirage?

Okay, now Nakupenda which sort of means “I love you” in Swahili now isn’t that neat?, so should definitely conjure thoughts of a secluded, romantic getaway. But the reality? Well, basically it really depends on when you go. That is, If you arrive during peak season, don’t get it twisted, it’s going to feel more like a beach party than your desert island escape, so just a heads-up. Expect quite a lot of people, and boats, and also a serious scramble to secure that little, now slightly elusive, piece of sand. So if crowds basically aren’t your thing, very seriously think about booking your trip during the off-season or, if that’s really possible, opting for an early morning tour, in a way for example. Okay, now having set some expectations in reality, Nakupenda sandbank definitely still does have its own undeniable charm. It is like that clear turquoise water really is picture-perfect, the sand seemingly soft underfoot, plus that feeling of definitely being surrounded by nothing but ocean…it’s sort of pretty special, right? That is, some tour operators very often include a grilled seafood lunch right on the sandbank itself, too it’s almost a very delightful touch, but so keep in mind that this does attract a few, like very persistent seagulls. Just you know, seriously prepare to protect your plate. Seriously.

Prison Island: More Than Just Tortoises

So Prison Island, also sometimes known as Changuu Island, has this pretty interesting past, that is for sure! Turns out, that despite its name, this location was actually never, like your full-blown prison. It really started out as a place for quarantining yellow fever victims back way in the 1860s. The actual main draw for most people that visit? The giant Aldabra tortoises, is that very surprising? I really didn’t think so. Okay, these cool creatures, many of whom are apparently over 100 years old, roam relatively freely around a designated area. You get to feed them, which is pretty memorable, and take some, slightly obligatory, photos. Very awesome! Beyond the tortoises, the island basically offers some interesting historical buildings to explore and also very pretty good snorkeling opportunities in the nearby coral reefs, actually a nice addition. While a lot of the island’s structure may seem slightly worn now, and to be honest maybe a bit sad, it adds basically to the whole slightly unique and sort of fascinating atmosphere, very mysterious in a way.

What could potentially go wrong? Some Serious potential pitfalls

I am here, in a way to try to keep things totally transparent so there are few possible downsides to basically bear in mind. Okay, firstly, now the persistent beach vendors on Nakupenda? So can be a bit relentless. Seriously. They really will try to sell you everything from jewelry to sunglasses, just so you’re prepared to politely but, very firmly, decline if you are like not interested. Another thing: those pesky sunburns! The Zanzibari sun, just to forewarn you, so is really unforgiving. Seriously, make sure you slather on some very good high SPF sunscreen, wear a hat, plus seek shade whenever you possibly can. Like your seriously important thing. Finally, so keep in mind that the tour price typically doesn’t include everything. Things like drinks and also snorkeling gear rentals might come at that additional cost. Very easy for expenses, just to creep up, basically make sure you have all information. I think a tour guide very really helps smooth a lot of these things out.

So, should you take this trip or not? My Verdict

So, is the Zanzibar half-day trip to Nakupenda with Prison Island that seriously worth it? As a matter of fact, very likely, actually depending on what you’re searching for in the way of a holiday. Is that trip a very tranquil, isolated escape? At peak times I can argue that its really not. Is that a pretty cool way to spend half a day experiencing that amazing beauty of Zanzibar, seeing unique wildlife, plus learning a little about the area’s past? Totally yes. Just so go in with, sort of realistic expectations, so pack your sunscreen, plus probably bring that sense of adventure. You very probably could just end up, absolutely, loving it, too. Very amazing!