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Ocean

Nakupenda Sandbank Tour

Swim, snorkel and relax on the “I Love You” sandbank

  • DurationHalf day
  • Group4–20 people
  • LocationOff Stone Town
  • From$70

Start from

$70/ person

  • No payment needed to enquire
  • Hotel pickup can be arranged
  • Local Zanzibari guides
  • Fast replies on WhatsApp
Ask a question +255 675 366 829

Overview

What to expect

Nakupenda island Tour

Looking for a dreamy escape from the ordinary? Our Nakupenda Sandbank Tour offers an unforgettable day on one of Zanzibar’s most beautiful and pristine locations — Nakupenda Beach, which means “I Love You” in Swahili.

Just a short boat ride from Stone Town, this stunning sandbank surrounded by crystal-clear waters is the perfect place to relax, swim, snorkel, and enjoy freshly grilled seafood under the tropical sun.

What to Expect on Your Nakupenda Sandbank Excursion

Traditional dhow boat ride from Stone Town

Beach time on a white sandbank that disappears with the tide

Snorkeling in turquoise waters with tropical marine life

Seafood BBQ lunch with lobster, fish, calamari & tropical fruits

Sunbathing & swimming in paradise

What to Bring?

Swimwear & towel

Sunscreen & sunglasses

Flip flops or water shoes

Camera / GoPro

Light cover-up or beachwear

Why Choose Our Nakupenda Sandbank Tour?

Best value & top-rated experience
Clean boats & professional guides
Fresh food cooked on the beach
Ideal for Instagram-worthy photos
Family-friendly and safe

Our Nakupenda Beach tour is not just a trip — it’s a postcard-perfect experience that you’ll remember for years to come.

Nakupenda Sandbank Tour photo 1
Nakupenda Sandbank Tour photo 2
Nakupenda Sandbank Tour photo 3
Nakupenda Sandbank Tour photo 4

Highlights

Why you'll love it

  • Snorkelling among colourful fish and coral
  • Sunbathing and swimming on the sandbank
  • Seafood BBQ lunch — octopus, lobster, squid & prawns
  • Chicken and vegetarian options available
  • Seasonal tropical fruits

Itinerary

Itinerary

  1. Hotel Pickup (Optional)

    If your hotel is outside Stone Town, pickup can be arranged in advance to transfer you to Stone Town, the departure station for the tour

  2. Departure from Stone Town

    • Board a traditional dhow or motorboat from Stone Town Beach.
    • Enjoy a 25–30 minute scenic boat ride with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean.
  3. Arrival at Nakupenda Sandbank

    • Step onto the stunning white sandbank, where the soft sands and crystal-clear waters create a breathtaking tropical paradise.
    • Relax under shade tents or soak up the sun.
  4. Swimming & Snorkeling

    • Dive into the warm, shallow waters and snorkel among colorful fish and corals.
    • Snorkeling equipment is provided upon request.
  5. Fresh Seafood Lunch on the Sandbank

    Indulge in a delicious seafood feast, including:

    • Grilled fish & lobster
    • Prawns, calamari & octopus
    • Tropical fruits & refreshing drinks
  6. Relaxation & Free Time

    • Enjoy sunbathing, taking photos, and strolling along the shore.
    • Admire the ever-changing sandbank, which disappears with the tides.
  7. Return to Stone Town

    • After a day of relaxation, board your boat for the scenic ride back to Stone Town Beach.
    • If you’re staying in Stone Town, you can explore more on your own or return to your hotel.
    • Otherwise we will transfer you back to your hotel (if pickup/dropoff is arranged) 

Prices

Price per person

Larger groups pay less per person.

1 – 2 persons
$80
3 – 5 persons
$55
6 – 10 persons
$48
11 – 25 persons
$40

What's included

  • Professional Tour guide; English, French, Spanish, Italian.
  • Local Boat
  • Swimming Equipment
  • Lunch (Seafood BBQ, Chicken, or Vegetarian options)
  • Tropical Fruits
  • Soft Drinks
  • All government Taxes
  • Hotel Pick up/ Drop-off; for extra charge.

NOTE: Transport costs are not included in the listed prices, as they depend on your hotel’s location. Contact us for a quote that includes transfer costs based on your hotel.

Good to know

Nakupenda Sandbank Tour: questions & answers

Can I combine this tour with other activities?

Yes! We offer combo tours, such as:

  • Nakupenda + Prison Island (Tortoises & Beach Paradise)
  • Nakupenda + Stone Town (Culture & Relaxation)
  • Nakupenda + Safari Blue (Ultimate Ocean Adventure)
What should I bring?
  • Swimsuit & towel
  • Sunscreen & hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Waterproof phone case
  • Some cash for extras
Is the tour suitable for children?

Yes! Kids love the clear waters and playing on the soft white sand.

Can I book a private tour?

Yes! We offer private tours for couples, families, or groups who prefer a more personalized experience. Contact us for pricing and availability.

What is the best time to visit Nakupenda Sandbank?

The best time is morning to early afternoon, as the sandbank is affected by tides. It’s best to visit during low tide for the full experience.

General FAQs

Booking, pickup & payment

How do I book this tour?

Tap “Book this trip”, fill in your date, number of guests and hotel, and send the message to us on WhatsApp. You can also email us. We reply quickly with availability, pickup time and the final price.

Do I have to pay in advance?

No. You can book now and pay later — there is no upfront payment to reserve your spot. We share the payment options once your booking is confirmed.

Can I cancel or change my booking?

Yes. Cancel at least 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, or ask us to move your tour to another day.

Is hotel pickup included?

Hotel pickup and drop-off can be arranged from anywhere in Zanzibar. For most tours transport is charged separately because the price depends on where you stay — send us your hotel name and we'll include it in your quote.

Which languages do your guides speak?

Our local guides speak English, and we can arrange French, Spanish or Italian-speaking guides on request.

Are the tours suitable for children?

Yes, most tours are family-friendly. Tell us the ages of your children when you book and we'll recommend the best options.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Your safety comes first. If the weather or sea conditions make a trip unsafe, we will contact you to move it to another day or suggest another tour.

Nakupenda Sandbank Tour

$70/ person

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