Prison Island & Giant Tortoises

Prison Island & Giant Tortoises gallery 1

New Tour
Zanzibar

4

hours

Tour type

Half Day
Duration

Half Day (4 Hours)
Language

Arabic, English, French, German +4
Group Size

20

Overview

Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island, is a small island located about 30 minutes by boat from Stone Town. Despite its name, it was never actually used as a prison! Instead, it served as a quarantine station for yellow fever cases and later became a prison for rebellious slaves.

**Why You'll Love This Tour:**
✓ Meet giant Aldabra tortoises – some over 100 years old!
✓ Snorkel in pristine waters around the island
✓ Explore historic prison buildings
✓ Relax on beautiful white sand beaches
✓ Learn about Zanzibar's colonial history
✓ Perfect for families and history buffs

The island also offers fantastic photo opportunities with its picturesque views of Stone Town and the surrounding ocean. A small café is available for refreshments.

                                    Highlights:
                                     🐢 Meet giant tortoises over 100 years old
 🏛️ Explore historic prison buildings
 🤿 Snorkel in crystal clear waters
 🏖️ Relax on pristine white sand beaches
 📸 Amazing photo opportunities of Stone Town skyline

                                

Itinerary

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Meet your guide at the Stone Town waterfront at 9:30 AM. Board your traditional dhow or speedboat for the scenic 30-minute journey to Prison Island. Enjoy views of Stone Town's skyline as you depart.

Arrive at Prison Island and meet the famous giant Aldabra tortoises. Your guide will share their fascinating history and you'll have plenty of time to observe, photograph, and even feed these gentle giants.

Explore the old prison buildings and quarantine station. Learn about the island's role in Zanzibar's history, from its days as a detention center to its current status as a protected reserve.

Change into your swimsuit and enjoy snorkeling in the crystal clear waters around the island. Spot colorful fish and coral. Relax on the beautiful white sand beach or take a refreshing swim.

After a wonderful morning, board your boat for the return journey. Arrive back in Stone Town around 1:30 PM, with plenty of time to explore the city or enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

Tour Cost & Information
                                        Price: 
                                                                                            $55.00
                                                 $45.00
                                                                                        per person
                                        
                                    
Included:
 Return boat transfers
 Entry fees to Prison Island
 Professional English-speaking guide
 Snorkeling equipment
 Bottled water
 Time with giant tortoises
Not Included:
 Lunch
 Alcoholic beverages
 Tips for guide (recommended $5-10)
 Personal expenses
 Travel insurance
What to Bring:
 Sunscreen
 Hat and sunglasses
 Swimsuit and towel
 Camera
 Cash for souvenirs/drinks
 Snorkel gear (optional, provided)

Frequently Asked Questions

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Yes, the tortoises are very gentle and used to visitors. You can safely approach and even feed them with guidance from the keepers. They love being scratched on their necks!

Parts of the island are accessible, but the terrain can be uneven around the beach areas. Please contact us in advance to discuss specific requirements.

The oldest tortoises on the island are over 100 years old! They were a gift from the British Governor of Seychelles in 1919.

Yes! There's a beautiful beach where you can swim. We also include snorkeling time around the island's reefs.

Lunch is not included, but there is a small café on the island selling snacks, cold drinks, and light meals. You're also welcome to bring your own picnic.