Explore Zanzibar’s Prison Island: Discover history, snorkel in clear waters, and meet Aldabra tortoises on this half-day tour from Stone Town.
Explore Zanzibar’s Prison Island: Discover history, snorkel in clear waters, and meet Aldabra tortoises on this half-day tour from Stone Town.
- Zanzibar Island - A short and picturesque boat journey from the center of Stone Town takes visitors to Prison Island, a serene escape with an intriguing history. Officially called Changuu Island, it is renowned today for its colony of Aldabra giant tortoises, gifted from the Seychelles in 1919. These gentle creatures, some over a hundred years…
- Zanzibar Island - A short and picturesque boat journey from the center of Stone Town takes visitors to Prison Island, a serene escape with an intriguing history. Officially called Changuu Island, it is renowned today for its colony of Aldabra giant tortoises, gifted from the Seychelles in 1919. These gentle creatures, some over a hundred years old, wander freely within a sanctuary, providing visitors with a rare opportunity to engage with one of the world’s longest-living species.
Just 30 minutes from Zanzibar’s lively capital, the island is a paradise for wildlife lovers and a popular destination for those in search of clear waters and sunlit relaxation. The surrounding reefs are perfect for snorkeling, featuring vibrant marine life and calm, warm waters that attract both novice and seasoned swimmers.
Historically, Prison Island has had various roles. Initially intended as a quarantine station for yellow fever cases, a prison was later built in the late 19th century under British colonial rule. However, despite its name and the imposing stone building that remains, the prison was never actually used to detain inmates from Stone Town.

- Visit to Prison Island
- Sunbathing
- Snorkeling Stops
- Professional Guide
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in an air conditioned vehicle (If Option Selected)
- Use of Snorkeling Equipment
- Visit to Prison Island
- Sunbathing
- Snorkeling Stops
- Professional Guide
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in an air conditioned vehicle (If Option Selected)
- Use of Snorkeling Equipment
- Prison island Entrance and National Park fees Twenty $ per person paid in cash on Spot
- Transfer from outside Stone Town city will be Extra charged
- Prison island Entrance and National Park fees Twenty $ per person paid in cash on Spot
- Transfer from outside Stone Town city will be Extra charged
A trip to Stone Town reveals the captivating Prison Island, a tranquil retreat steeped in history and natural splendor. This island is inhabited by Aldabra tortoises, which were introduced from the Seychelles in 1919, and they wander freely across the terrain. Situated just about a half-hour from Stone Town, the island is an ideal location for…
A trip to Stone Town reveals the captivating Prison Island, a tranquil retreat steeped in history and natural splendor. This island is inhabited by Aldabra tortoises, which were introduced from the Seychelles in 1919, and they wander freely across the terrain. Situated just about a half-hour from Stone Town, the island is an ideal location for snorkeling in its pristine waters and relaxing on its serene beaches.
The island boasts a distinctive historical importance. Initially, it served as a quarantine station before the British constructed a prison for Stone Town in the 1890s. However, the prison was never actually utilized. Today, visitors can explore the remnants of the prison structure, along with the verdant surroundings that make this island a favored spot for both history enthusiasts and nature admirers.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.