About this Nakupenda trip
Nakupenda is Swahili for 'I love you', and the sandbank earns the name on a clear day: a strip of white sand surrounded by shallow turquoise water a short boat ride from Stone Town.
The sandbank changes size with the tide and has no trees or buildings. We set departure times by the tide table so you arrive when there is sand to walk on and water clear enough to snorkel.
Highlights
- White sand and shallow water off Stone Town
- Snorkelling over nearby seagrass and coral patches
- Optional seafood lunch prepared by the crew
- Easy to pair with Prison Island
Nakupenda trip itinerary
Timings are a guide. This trip is timed to the tide, so we confirm exact times when you book.
- StartMeet at your Stone Town hotel or the waterfront at the time set by the tide.
- 30 minBoat ride out to the sandbank.
- 2 hrSwim, snorkel and relax. Lunch is served here on the lunch option.
- EndBoat back to Stone Town before the sandbank covers.
Your private options
Private boat
Your own boat, timed to the tide, with seafood lunch.
With Prison Island
Add the giant tortoises on the way.
All our Zanzibar activities are private: only your group takes part. Upgrades are quoted on request.
Transfer from your hotel
The tour price above does not depend on where you stay. Getting to the start is priced separately, per vehicle for up to 6 guests, return. If you stay near the start, pickup is included.
| Your hotel area | Trip starts at | Return transfer |
|---|---|---|
| Stone Town & airportStone Town, Shangani, Mbweni, airport area | Stone Town | Included |
| West coastFumba, Chukwani, Bububu, Mtoni | Stone Town | $90 |
| South-east coastPaje, Jambiani, Bwejuu, Michamvi, Dongwe | Stone Town | $110 |
| North coastNungwi, Kendwa | Stone Town | $130 |
| North-east coastMatemwe, Kiwengwa, Pwani Mchangani, Pongwe | Stone Town | $120 |
| South tipKizimkazi, Makunduchi | Stone Town | $130 |
Not sure of your area? Tell us your hotel name and we confirm the price. See all transfer prices.
What's included
- Boat with crew and guide
- Snorkel mask and fins
- Bottled water and seasonal fruit
- Seafood lunch and soft drinks (lunch option)
- Pickup from hotels in the Stone Town & airport area
Not included
- Transfer from other areas (see transfer prices below)
- Alcoholic drinks
- Tips
Add-ons
- Prison Island stop
- Seafood lunch
- Private boat
Children and groups
Good for families who are comfortable on a small boat. Bring sun protection for children, since shade is limited. Group rates are available for six or more travellers.
Booking and cancellation
Send us your date, number of travellers and hotel. We confirm availability and the full price in USD before you pay. Changes and cancellations follow our booking terms. If weather or sea conditions make a trip unsafe, we reschedule or refund it.
Nakupenda trip FAQs
Why does the start time change?
The sandbank is only fully exposed around low tide. We give you the exact time when you book.
Is there shade?
There are no trees or buildings. Bring a hat, cover-up and reef-safe sunscreen.
Can vegetarians join the lunch option?
Yes. Tell us when booking and the crew will prepare a vegetarian meal.
Make it a full day
This trip is part of our Stone Town, Prison Island & Nakupenda Day.