Description
Prison Island Day Trip – Giant Tortoises & Snorkeling Adventure
The Prison Island day trip is a unique excursion from Stone Town, Zanzibar, offering history, wildlife, and marine exploration. Visitors can meet giant Aldabra tortoises, learn about the island’s past as a quarantine and prison site, and enjoy snorkeling in clear turquoise waters. Ideal for families, nature lovers, and adventure seekers, this tour combines history, wildlife, and coastal scenery.
Prison Island, also known locally as Changuu Island, is a short boat ride from Stone Town. The island’s calm beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich history make it a perfect day trip for travelers seeking relaxation and discovery.
Discover Prison Island
Your Prison Island day trip begins with a scenic boat ride from Stone Town harbor. Upon arrival, a guide shares the island’s fascinating history, including its use as a quarantine station for yellow fever and its association with Zanzibar’s colonial era. Visitors can explore the historic prison ruins while enjoying stunning ocean views.
The main attraction is the giant Aldabra tortoises, some over 100 years old, freely roaming the island. Travelers can feed, photograph, and learn about these remarkable reptiles. Afterward, guests can enjoy snorkeling in the shallow coral reefs surrounding the island, spotting colorful fish, starfish, and other marine life. Many travelers combine this tour with a Stone Town Walking Tour or Spice Plantation Tour for a full cultural and natural Zanzibar experience.
Activities and Highlights
During a Prison Island day trip, visitors can enjoy:
- Meeting and feeding giant tortoises
- Exploring historic prison ruins
- Snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs
- Relaxing on pristine sandy beaches
This combination of wildlife, history, and marine adventure makes Prison Island a must-see destination.
What to Expect
Duration: Half-day or full-day from Stone Town
Activities: Boat ride, wildlife interaction, snorkeling, photography
Highlights: Giant Aldabra tortoises, coral reefs, historic ruins, scenic beaches
Travel Tips: Bring sunscreen, water, snorkel gear, and a camera
Why Choose a Prison Island Day Trip?
A Prison Island day trip offers a mix of history, wildlife, and marine fun. Interact with giant tortoises, explore ruins, and snorkel in clear waters—all in a single excursion. Pair this tour with a Stone Town Walking Tour or Spice Plantation Tour for a complete Zanzibar experience. This day trip is perfect for families, solo travelers, and anyone seeking a memorable adventure close to the city.
Tips for Visitors
- Start early to avoid midday crowds
- Bring sun protection and water
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the ruins
- Combine with nearby Zanzibar attractions for a full day