Zanzibar: Prison Island Guided Tour with Giant Tortoises

Stone Town, Tanzania



Discover Prison Island on a short boat ride from Stone Town, meet the famous giant tortoises, explore historic ruins, swim in clear turquoise waters, and relax on beautiful white-sand beaches.

Highlights

  • Enjoy a scenic boat ride from Stone Town to Prison Island
  • See Aldabra giant tortoises, one of the island's main attractions
  • Meet gentle giant tortoises over a century old
  • Capture Zanzibar’s soul in one journey
  • Step into haunting ruins of the past

Description

Begin your unforgettable Zanzibar experience with a convenient hotel pick-up by our professional driver. You will be transferred to Stone Town harbour, where your local guide welcomes you before boarding a traditional boat for a scenic sail across the turquoise Indian Ocean. After a short boat ride, arrive at Prison Island (Changuu Island) a peaceful island rich in history, nature, and wildlife. Your guided tour starts with a walk through the historic prison ruins, originally built by the British in the 1890s and later used as a quarantine station. Your guide will share fascinating stories about Zanzibar’s colonial past and the island’s role in protecting Stone Town from disease outbreaks. Next, visit the island’s most famous residents the Aldabra giant tortoises. Some are over 150–200 years old, making them among the oldest living creatures on Earth. Learn about their conservation, feed them under supervision, and enjoy memorable photo moments. Afterward, enjoy free time to swim or snorkel in the clear waters surrounding the island, where colorful fish and coral reefs create a perfect marine escape. You may also relax on the white sandy beach and admire the panoramic views of Stone Town across the sea. Once the tour concludes, return by boat to Stone Town, where your driver will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel, ending the experience comfortably and stress-free.

Includes

Hotel pick-up and drop-off Round-trip boat transfer to Prison Island Professional local tour guide Entrance fee to Prison Island Tortoise conservation visit Bottled drinking water

Excludes

Snorkeling equipment (available on request) Personal beach items (towels, swimwear, sunscreen) Meals and snacks Personal expenses Tips

Important Information

  • This tour involves a boat transfer, so it is recommended for guests who are comfortable traveling by sea

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

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