Zanzibar: Tortoises, History & Sandbank Seafood Feast
Tour Highlights
Meet the famous giant tortoises of Prison Island
Discover the fascinating history of Changuu Island
Cruise across Zanzibar’s turquoise Indian Ocean waters
Relax on a beautiful white-sand sandbank
Swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters
Enjoy a fresh Zanzibar-style seafood feast by the ocean
Take stunning photos of Zanzibar’s tropical scenery
Experience a perfect mix of history, wildlife, beach, and local cuisine
Discover some of Zanzibar’s most fascinating sights on a memorable day combining history, nature, ocean adventure, and delicious local food.
Begin your experience with a visit to Prison Island (Changuu Island), where you’ll learn about the island’s fascinating history and meet its famous giant Aldabra tortoises. Get close to these gentle creatures, take photos, and explore the beautiful island surroundings.
Continue by boat to a stunning Zanzibar sandbank, surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters. Relax on the white sandy beach, swim in the Indian Ocean, and enjoy time snorkeling and discovering the colorful marine life.
To complete the experience, enjoy a delicious fresh seafood feast served by the ocean, with a taste of Zanzibar’s local flavors and tropical atmosphere.
This is the perfect excursion for travelers who want to combine Zanzibar’s history, wildlife, beautiful beaches, snorkeling, and authentic seafood cuisine in one unforgettable day.
Itinerary
08:30 – Hotel Pickup
Begin your day with a comfortable pickup from your hotel in Zanzibar and transfer to the boat departure point.
09:30 – Boat Ride to Prison Island
Cruise across the Indian Ocean to Changuu Island (Prison Island) while enjoying beautiful coastal views.
10:00 – Prison Island & Giant Tortoises
Explore the island, learn about its history, and meet the famous giant Aldabra tortoises. Enjoy time for photos and exploration.
11:30 – Sandbank & Snorkeling
Continue by boat to a beautiful Zanzibar sandbank. Swim, snorkel, relax on the white sand, and enjoy the crystal-clear turquoise waters.
13:00 – Seafood Feast
Enjoy a freshly prepared seafood meal by the ocean, featuring local Zanzibar flavors. Vegetarian options can be arranged upon request.
14:30 – Free Time at the Sandbank
Relax, swim, take photos, or simply enjoy the peaceful tropical surroundings.
15:30 – Return Boat Trip
Cruise back toward Zanzibar while enjoying the ocean views.
16:30–17:30 – Hotel Drop-Off
Arrive back at your hotel after a full day of history, giant tortoises, snorkeling, sandbank relaxation, and a delicious seafood feast.
Pickup is available from any hotel or agreed meeting point in Kiwengwa, Zanzibar.
Please wait at your hotel’s main pickup/drop-off lobby or reception area. Our driver will come to the designated pickup point and find you there.
Please clearly provide the exact hotel name and pickup location when making your booking.
Our driver will confirm your booking details and pickup arrangements before departure.
Please be ready and waiting at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
If your hotel has a specific pickup procedure, please follow the hotel’s instructions and remain at the agreed meeting point.
Look for the Maryam Tours Zanzibar driver/vehicle and have your booking details available.
Important: To avoid delays, please make sure your pickup location is clearly stated and be ready on time.
Drop-Off
After the tour, enjoy a comfortable boat and vehicle transfer back to your hotel or accommodation in Zanzibar. Our driver will ensure you are safely dropped off at your agreed location, usually between 16:30 and 17:30, depending on sea and traffic conditions.
What to Bring
Swimwear and a change of clothes
Towel
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Hat or cap
Comfortable sandals
Waterproof bag for valuables
Camera or smartphone
Drinking water
Cash for personal expenses
Your booking confirmation
Snorkeling equipment, if you prefer to use your own
Inclusions
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Boat transfer to Prison Island and the sandbank
Prison Island entrance fee
Giant tortoise experience
Guided historical visit of Changuu Island
Sandbank visit
Snorkeling experience
Snorkeling equipment
Fresh seafood lunch/feast
Drinking water
Professional local guide
All applicable boat and activity fees
Exclusions
Personal expenses
Alcoholic and soft drinks
Tips and gratuities
Travel insurance
Personal photography or video services
Towels and personal beach items
Hotel pickup outside the agreed service area, if applicable
Any activities or services not specifically mentioned under Inclusions
Check-In
Please be ready at your hotel reception 10–15 minutes before the scheduled pickup time.
Bring your booking confirmation.
Provide your hotel name and location when booking.
Keep your phone available for contact with our driver or guide.
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for swimming and beach activities.
Please bring sunscreen, a towel, and swimwear.
Pickup times may vary depending on your hotel location, traffic, and sea conditions.
[first_name][booking_date]Please provide your hotel name and location when booking for pickup arrangements.
Be ready at your hotel 10–15 minutes before pickup.
The itinerary may change slightly due to weather, sea conditions, tides, or operational circumstances.
Swimming and snorkeling are subject to sea conditions and guide instructions.
Giant tortoises are wild animals, so interaction should always follow the guide’s instructions.
Seafood lunch is included; vegetarian options can be arranged with advance notice.
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Please inform us in advance about any special requirements or dietary restrictions.
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time.
Cancel at least 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund.
Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour are non-refundable.
No-shows are non-refundable.
If the tour is cancelled due to unsafe weather or sea conditions, you may choose an alternative date or receive a full refund.
