Highlights
- Discover the rich history of Zanzibar on a private tour of Stone Town & Prison
- Explore the ancient Prison Ruins on Changuu (Prison) Island
- Visit a Former Slave Market site, Freddie Mercury House & other historical sites
- Spot the Aldabra tortoises, one of the oldest and largest tortoises in the world
- Enjoy a relaxing boat ride to Prison Island across the crystal-clear water
Description
Smarten your Zanzibar vacation by visiting these 2 top attractions, a day full of experience. Captivating history and the current life of Zanzibar locals.
Prison Island Tour:
As you arrive in Stone Town, begin with a 15-minute boat ride offshore straight to the illustrious historic prison of Changuu Island, known commonly as Prison Island. Cruise across the crystal-clear turquoise water to go discover a peaceful island filled with history, nature, and some wildlife. Explore the ancient prison ruins which were erected by the British colony of Zanzibar.
Upon arrival, you'll be welcomed by the calm beauty of the Indian Ocean and lush scenery. Our local expert tour guide of your language, will share stories of the island's fascinating past. Once intended to house prisoners, it was instead used as a quarantine station for people entering Zanzibar to prevent yellow fever and is now a tranquil nature escape.
Then, visit a sanctuary for Aldabra tortoises, the main attraction — one of the largest tortoises in the world, some over 100 years old weighing up to 200 kilos, also known to be one of the longest-living creatures in the world. Learn about these giant land tortoises that were brought to Zanzibar from Seychelles. Luckily, one of the four original tortoises sent as a gift from the governor of Seychelles to the Sultan of Zanzibar is still alive at 202 years old.
Also spot peacocks with large and brilliant feathers which have made them the symbol of beauty, royalty, and good fortune for Prison Island. Interact with these amazing creatures and take pictures.
Take some time to relax on the beach, swim in the warm water, and capture the scenic views.
Stone Town Tour:
After a 15-minute boat ride back from Prison Island, learn more about Zanzibar’s history and explore Stone Town’s unique character on a private guided tour.
In 2000, Stone Town was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its cultural and historical richness. The town's 19th-century architecture reflects the diverse influences of Swahili culture, with Arab, Indian, & European elements.
Start your Stone Town tour by exploring the Forodhani Garden, House of Wonder (currently under renovation), Arab Sultan's Palace, Old Fort, and the house where Freddie Mercury was born. Stroll through the narrow streets of the Old Town to the City Market where locals sell fresh fruits and utensils.
Observe the vibrant hustle and bustle of the fresh fish auction while learning about the history of everything you see around. A few minutes' walk away from the City Market, explore the famous Old Slave Market site and the Anglican Church. See the slave monuments and small slave chambers in which slaves were kept starving while waiting to be sold to new owners.
This tour is a blend of wildlife, history, and relaxation - perfect for couples, families & solo travellers.
Get dropped off back at your hotel at the end of the tour.
Includes
Private Hotel pickup & drop-off (if selected)
Private Boat ride to Prison Island & return
Entrance tickets to Prison Island (12 USD per person)
Prison Island & Stone Town Private guided tours
Private local tour guide of your language
Giant Aldabra Tortoises observation & interaction
Entry tickets to Former Slave Market Historical Center (10 USD per person)
Bottles of Drinking Water
Marine Conservation fees (10 USD per person)
Excludes
Meals
Personal expenses
Important Information
- Carry your sunscreen for your own skin protection against the sun during summer
- Bring at least a towel to cover yourself to avoid getting wet due to splashing water during the boat ride, in case the ocean is wavy, which is rare
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
