3 Days in Zanzibar
starts from$225Per Person
About the 3-Day Zanzibar Tour
Three days covers Zanzibar's cultural, historical, and coastal highlights at a pace that feels like travel rather than a checklist. Stone Town on Day 1 gives you the city properly — the Anglican Cathedral built on the old slave market site, the Darajani market in the morning, the narrow streets where Omani, Indian, and Swahili architectural influences sit within metres of each other, and Forodhani Gardens at sunset when local vendors set up the best value seafood on the island. Day 2 is Prison Island by boat — the giant Aldabra tortoises, the building's layered history as quarantine station and colonial prison, and the clear waters around the island for snorkeling. Day 3 takes you to Nakupenda Sandbank, a shallow-water sandbar that appears at low tide surrounded by turquoise sea, with a fresh seafood lunch prepared on the beach itself.
None of these three days overlap in character. You move from history to wildlife to open water without repeating the same type of experience twice, which is what makes this combination particularly well-suited to travelers who have limited time and want to leave with a genuine sense of the island rather than just its beaches.
Day-by-Day Itinerary: 3-Day Stone Town, Prison Island & Nakupenda Tour
Day 1: Stone Town Exploration
Your Zanzibar adventure begins with a guided tour of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walk through the labyrinthine streets, visiting historical landmarks such as the Sultan's Palace, the House of Wonders, and the Old Fort. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant markets where you can sample local cuisine and purchase handmade crafts. Enjoy a relaxing evening in a luxury Stone Town hotel.
Day 2: Prison Island & Giant Tortoises
Start your day with a boat ride to Prison Island, known for its historical significance as a former quarantine station and home to the giant Aldabra tortoises. After learning about the island’s past, you’ll have time to explore the beautiful surroundings, snorkel in the clear waters, or relax on the beach. Return to Stone Town in the afternoon for a cultural experience, including a visit to the Old Slave Market.
Day 3: Nakupenda Sandbank & Seafood BBQ
On your final day, head out to Nakupenda Sandbank for a full day of relaxation and fun. This pristine sandbank, surrounded by turquoise waters, is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. Enjoy a freshly prepared seafood BBQ for lunch, complete with tropical fruits. After a serene day at the beach, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel or airport for your departure.
3-Day Stone Town, Prison Island & Nakupenda — Photo Gallery
Tour Prices 2026/2027
- ✓ Clean guesthouses in or near Stone Town
- ✓ All activities and entrance fees
- ✓ Transport between sites
- ✓ English-speaking guide
- ✓ 3–4 star hotels or boutique guesthouses
- ✓ En-suite bathrooms, breakfast included
- ✓ Pool access at most properties
- ✓ Same activities throughout
- ✓ 4–5 star hotels and beach resorts
- ✓ Premium rooms, spa access
- ✓ Private beach frontage where available
- ✓ Full board dining options
All prices include activities, entrance fees, guide, and transport listed in the itinerary.
Contact us for a personalised quote based on your dates, group size, and accommodation preference.
What's Included in This Package
Professional English-Speaking Guide
Knowledgeable guide throughout the tour, providing insights into each destination.
Boat Transport
Boat trips to and from Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank.
Accommodation
Luxury accommodations in Stone Town for 2 nights.
Meals
Breakfast and lunch provided daily, with a special seafood BBQ on Day 3.
Bottled Water
Complimentary bottled water throughout the tour.
Pick-Up and Drop-Off
Hotel pick-up and drop-off from any location in Zanzibar.
What's Not Included
International Flights
Flights to and from Zanzibar are not included in the package.
Personal Expenses
Any personal expenses such as souvenirs, laundry, and additional snacks.
Tips and Gratuities
Tips for your guide, driver, and other service providers are not included.
Alcoholic Beverages
Alcoholic drinks are not part of the tour package.
Accommodation Options
All accommodations are in Stone Town or nearby, giving you easy access to evening dining at Forodhani Gardens and morning departures for island activities. We confirm specific properties when quoting based on availability and budget.
Budget Guesthouses
Clean, centrally located guesthouses in Stone Town or within easy transport of the main sites. Private rooms with fans or basic air conditioning. Same activities and guide quality as higher tiers.
Mid-Range Hotels
3–4 star properties in Stone Town or north-coast beach locations. En-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, breakfast included, and pool access at most properties.
Luxury Resorts & Boutique Hotels
Premium beach resorts on the north or east coast, or restored colonial-era boutique hotels in Stone Town. Private beach access, spa facilities, and full restaurant service.
Why This 3-Day Combination Works So Well
Stone Town Exploration
Discover the rich history and architecture of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, including landmarks such as the Sultan’s Palace, House of Wonders, and Old Fort. Walk through the narrow alleys, where the cultural blend of Swahili, Arab, Persian, and Indian influences come to life.
Giant Tortoises at Prison Island
Visit the historical Prison Island and meet the famous Aldabra giant tortoises, some of which are over 100 years old. Learn about the island's fascinating past as a former quarantine station and enjoy the chance to feed these gentle creatures.
Scenic Boat Ride
Enjoy a relaxing boat ride from Stone Town to Prison Island, offering stunning views of the Indian Ocean. As you glide over crystal-clear waters, you'll be treated to dramatic coastal scenery and the opportunity to spot marine life.
Nakupenda Sandbank
Relax on the pristine white sands of Nakupenda Sandbank, surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. This serene location is perfect for snorkeling, swimming, and enjoying a delicious seafood BBQ with tropical fruits.
