A Zanzibari vacation can include a visit to amazing Prison Island, a small island in the Indian Ocean located 5.6 km northwest of Stone Town, Unguja. The island is 800 meters long and is also referred to as Changuu, a Swahili name after a fish that is common in the nearby waters. From Stone Town beach, it only takes around twenty-five minutes to get there by a local boat.
The island was once populated until Majid bin Said, the first Sultan of Zanzibar, gave it to two Arab slave owners in the 1860s, who used it as a jail for renegade slaves.
When Zanzibar became a British protectorate in 1893, Lloyd Mathews bought the island from the Arabs and built a real prison. Consequently, the prison was never used, although the building work was finished in 1894, the prison is now converted into a lovely resort.
Four enormous Aldabra turtles were given to the island in 1919 as a gift from a British governor in the Seychelles. The tortoises on Prison Island flourished, and by 1955, there were 200 of them living there.
The primary allure of the island lies in its renowned Giant Tortoises, known for their remarkable lifespan of up to 200 years. The Giant Aldabra Tortoises are a renowned tourist attraction on Prison Island, Zanzibar. They can reach a length of approximately 122 cm and boast an average weight of 250 kg (550 pounds). These tortoises are recognized as some of the longest-lived animals globally, with the oldest tortoise on Prison Island estimated to be around 196 years old. Their presence adds a unique and fascinating element to the island’s charm. During this tour, you’ll have the opportunity to delve into the history of these captivating creatures and gain insights into the history of Prison Island itself.
Upon reaching the island, you can engage in the unique experience of feeding and interacting with the tortoises. If time permits, consider taking a leisurely stroll through the forested interior, where a diverse array of birds, vibrant peacocks, bats, and enchanting butterflies can be observed. Be on the lookout for the shy and elusive Duikers, a distinctive small antelope species, adding to the island’s fascinating biodiversity.
An experienced local tour guide will accompany you, providing detailed explanations about each point of interest throughout the excursion.
Apart from the giant tortoise, the crystalline waters surrounding Prison Island offer an excellent opportunity for snorkeling and beach relaxation. For enthusiasts of swimming and snorkeling, this tour is perfect. Exploring the underwater world around the prison offers intriguing sights of Changuu Island. It’s important to keep in mind the historical ties to slavery associated with this location. Whether you prefer simply relaxing or engaging in a swim, this tour caters to a variety of preferences, making it an ideal choice for anyone.
Certainly! You have the option to combine a visit to Prison Island with a trip to Nakupenda Beach (Sandbank Picnic). This combination allows you to experience the fascinating Giant Tortoises on Prison Island and enjoy the pristine beauty of Nakupenda Beach for a delightful sandbank picnic. It’s a great way to blend history, wildlife, and relaxation into one comprehensive and memorable excursion.
When you book a Prison Island tour us the package will typically incorporate snorkeling gear. Opting to book with us ensures that we handle the coordination of your selected activities for you.
As the Zanzibar Prison Island tour is a half-day excursion, we recommend combining it with another half-day tour like the Stone Town Tour, the Spice Tour, or the Jozani Forest Tour for a more comprehensive experience. If your accommodation is outside of Stone Town, please be aware that additional transport costs may apply. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for further details on this matter or any other inquiries regarding the Zanzibar Prison Island Tour or the boat trip to Prison Island Zanzibar.
Trip highlights
-Take a locally built wooden boat to Prison Island
-Shop at Stone Town’s Darajani Market.
-Feeding Prison Island’s enormous tortoises
-Swimming and unwinding on the beach
TOUR PRICES
Please note that transportation costs are not included in these prices as they vary depending on your hotel’s location. Kindly get in touch with us, and we will furnish you with the complete pricing based on your hotel’s location!
1 to 2 individuals: $55 per person
3 to 10 individuals: $50 per person
11 to 25 individuals: $45 per person
Price includes:
Tour guide proficient in English, French, German, Italian.
Entrance fees
Complimentary drinking water
All government fees
Hotel pick-up/drop-off (additional charges apply).