Prison Island Tour

Welcome to Prison Island Tour Zanzibar! Play with the tortoises, snorkel and admire beautiful marine life.

Prison Island Tour Zanzibar: History of the Island

Prison Island Tour – explore Changuu also known as Prison Island which was intended to be a prison hosting criminals.

Actually, the Island is only 1 km in length and around 230 meters wide. Earlier, it had been owned by an Arab slave trader who wanted the Island to prevent slaves from escaping. Later, there was a prison built in 1803 which was initially destined to be a house for criminals from the mainland. Next, the Island became a yellow fever quarantine station. You will be astonished to hear the fascinating history of the Island.

Prison Island Tour Zanzibar: Activities

Visitors can see the authentic prison building. It still stands on the Island and is used as a guest house. The guide will explain this interesting history in detail. Although it never became a prison hosting criminals, it’s started to be home for giant tortoises which were brought there from Seychelles in 1820. They were a gift from the Seychelles government. The prison has become a shelter for the animals. They became new dwellers of the prison cells.

This sanctuary contains creatures which are over 150 years old. You will get a chance to touch them and take a photo. The tortoises are very friendly, they come up close to socialize. Moreover, you can feed these gentle giants which creates a truly unforgettable connection with wildlife. On the Island you will also get to see stunning peacocks and have the opportunity to snorkel and admire beautiful marine life. It’s a perfect place for topping up your tan and relaxing over the coast.

Why Prison Island Tour Zanzibar Belongs on Your Itinerary

You should prioritize a visit to Prison Island because it offers a rare blend of somber history and vibrant natural beauty. First, you depart from the Stone Town shores on a scenic boat ride across turquoise waters. Once you arrive, you immediately encounter the island’s most famous residents: the prehistoric Giant Aldabra tortoises, as we mentioned earlier.

Furthermore, the historic quarantine station and prison ruins provide a profound glimpse into Zanzibar’s complex past. After you explore the stone corridors, you can head to the surrounding coral reefs for an exceptional snorkeling session. The colorful marine life and crystal-clear visibility ensure that your underwater adventure matches the excitement of the land tour. Ultimately, this excursion packs education, relaxation, and wildlife into a single afternoon, making it a mandatory stop for any traveler.