Prison Island Tour: A Must-Visit Historical and Nature Experience in Zanzibar

Prison Island Tour is one of the most iconic and unforgettable excursions for travelers visiting Zanzibar. Also known as Changuu Island, this picturesque destination is located just 5.6 kilometers from Stone Town and is accessible by a short 20–30-minute boat ride.

At Unique Zanzibar Tours, we proudly offer expertly guided Prison Island Tours that combine fascinating history, wildlife encounters, and turquoise waters — all in one incredible half-day experience. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking to relax in paradise, this tour is a must on your Zanzibar itinerary.

🏝️ What is Prison Island?

Prison Island — locally known as Changuu Island — was originally used as a quarantine station during the 19th century and was intended to house prisoners. However, it never actually served its intended purpose as a prison. Today, it stands as one of Zanzibar’s top tourist attractions, famous for its giant Aldabra tortoises, pristine beaches, and historical ruins.

🐢 Meet the Famous Giant Tortoises

Undoubtedly, the highlight of the Prison Island Tour is the giant Aldabra tortoises. These majestic creatures were gifted to Zanzibar from the Seychelles in the 1910s and have since flourished on the island. Amazingly, some of them are more than 100 years old!

Meanwhile, our guides at Unique Zanzibar Tours will walk you through the conservation center, where you can interact with, feed, and take photos with these gentle giants. Truly, it’s an experience that delights both adults and children.

🏛️ Explore the Historical Ruins

Beyond its natural beauty, Prison Island holds deep historical significance. In fact, your guided tour will take you through:

• The Old Quarantine House: Once used for yellow fever patients, the building is now a fascinating glimpse into Zanzibar’s colonial past.

• Prison Ruins: Learn about the original plans to incarcerate rebellious slaves, and why the prison was never fully used.

• British Colonial Architecture: Explore the remaining colonial-era structures, which make excellent photo spots and provide historical context to Zanzibar’s diverse past.

🌊 Enjoy Snorkeling and Relaxation

After exploring the tortoises and ruins, you’ll have the chance to relax on white sandy beaches or go snorkeling in the surrounding coral reefs. Notably, the clear waters around Prison Island are teeming with colorful marine life, making it a perfect spot for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.

Additionally, we provide snorkeling gear and offer assistance for first-timers, so you can safely enjoy the marine beauty.

⏱️ Prison Island Tour Itinerary (Half Day)

Here’s what to expect on your tour with Unique Zanzibar Tours:

• 🚤 Boat Transfer from Stone Town to Prison Island (approx. 20–30 mins)

• 🐢 Giant Tortoise Sanctuary visit

• 🏛️ Historical Ruins guided tour

• 🌊 Snorkeling / Beach Relaxation

• ⛵ Return to Stone Town

Tour Duration: 3 to 4 hours
Departure Times: Morning or Afternoon (flexible)
Includes: Boat ride, guide, entry fees, snorkel gear, bottled water

💼 What’s Included in Our Prison Island Tour Package?

✔️ Return boat transfers from Stone Town
✔️ Entrance fees to Prison Island and Tortoise Sanctuary
✔️ Professional English-speaking guide
✔️ Snorkeling equipment
✔️ Bottled water
✔️ Pickup/drop-off (optional with additional fee)

🧭 Why Choose Unique Zanzibar Tours?

At Unique Zanzibar Tours, we are a local, experienced, and community-based company that has proudly served guests for over 10 years. Because of this, we believe in authentic, informative, and friendly experiences, ensuring your tour is both educational and memorable.

Here’s what sets us apart:

✅ Licensed and friendly local guides
✅ Flexible booking options
✅ Affordable prices with no hidden costs
✅ Private and group tour options
✅ Eco-conscious and community-supportive practices

When you book with us, you’re not just joining a tour — you’re supporting local livelihoods and cultural preservation.

📝 Travel Tips for Prison Island Tour

🧴 Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses — Zanzibar sun can be intense!
🩳 Wear swimwear if you plan to snorkel or swim.
📷 Don’t forget your camera — the island is full of photo-worthy scenes!
💰 Bring a little cash for tips or small island souvenirs.

📍 How to Book Your Prison Island Tour

Booking is easy! You can reserve your tour directly with us via:

🌐 Website: www.uniquezanzibartours.com
📱 WhatsApp: +255 745 724 162
📧 Email: info@uniquezanzibartours.com
📍 Visit us in Stone Town office (near Forodhani)

We recommend booking a day in advance during the high season to guarantee availability.

🔁 Combine with Other Tours

Want to explore more? Combine your Prison Island Tour with these top-rated Zanzibar experiences:

🌆 Stone Town Walking Tour
🐠 Safari Blue Full-Day Tour
🌿 Spice Farm Tour
🐬 Dolphin Watching Tour

Ask us for combo discounts when booking multiple tours!

✅ Final Thoughts

The Prison Island Tour offers something for every traveler — rich history, wildlife, stunning views, and fun activities. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, with friends, or as a family, this tour is one of the best ways to experience the magic of Zanzibar.

Let Unique Zanzibar Tours make your visit even more meaningful with expert guidance and local insight. Book your tour today and discover why Prison Island is one of Zanzibar’s top must-visit destinations!