Prison Island Half-Day Tour From Zanzibar

The Prison Island Half-Day Tour from Zanzibar provides visitors with a unique opportunity to explore the island’s rich history and natural wonders. Guests embark on a captivating boat ride to the former quarantine station and holding pen for enslaved people, where they can interact with giant Aldabra tortoises and indulge in swimming and snorkeling in the vibrant waters. With hotel transfers included, this immersive experience not only offers insights into Zanzibar’s past but also showcases the island’s picturesque scenery. However, the true allure of this tour lies in the stories it has to tell, waiting to be discovered by the intrepid traveler.

Good To Know

1. The Prison Island Half-Day Tour from Zanzibar offers a 30-minute boat ride to Changuu Island, where visitors can swim, snorkel, and explore historical sites.
2. The island has a complex history, having served as a quarantine station and a holding pen for enslaved people, with ruins and ancient Aldabra tortoises to discover.
3. Snorkeling equipment is provided, allowing visitors to observe vibrant marine life and coral formations in the clear, calm waters surrounding the island.
4. The tour is led by a guide, though the quality of the guiding service can vary, and early visits are recommended to avoid crowds.
5. Moderate fitness is required, as the tour involves a rough boat ride and shallow water walking, and the tour is not wheelchair accessible.

Tour Overview

The Prison Island Half-Day Tour offers a 30-minute boat ride from Stone Town to the historical Changuu Island, also known as Prison Island.

This half-day trip provides the opportunity to explore the island’s rich history, which includes its use as a yellow fever quarantine station.

Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.

The tour includes hotel transfers and entrance fees, and both morning and afternoon departures are available.

With an overall rating of 4.0 from 32 reviews, the tour is a popular choice for those seeking an immersive experience on this picturesque island.

Island’s History

Changuu Island, also known as Prison Island, holds a rich historical significance. Originally used as a quarantine station to house those infected with yellow fever, the island later served as a holding pen for enslaved people.

Visitors can explore the remnants of the island’s dark past, which include the ruins of a prison and slave chambers.

Today, the island is home to a colony of giant Aldabra tortoises, some over 150 years old. These majestic creatures, along with the island’s stunning natural beauty, make it a popular destination for travelers seeking to learn about Zanzibar’s complex history and appreciate its diverse wildlife.

Visiting the Tortoises

Visitors to Prison Island can look forward to an up-close encounter with the island’s most famous residents – the giant Aldabra tortoises. Some of these impressive creatures are over 150 years old, providing a rare chance to see these ancient reptiles up-close. Visitors have the option to feed the tortoises for an additional charge, which can be a thrilling experience. To help capture the moment, the tour includes the use of snorkeling equipment, allowing guests to swim in the island’s clean waters.

Tortoise Facts
Age	Some over 150 years old
Breed	Aldabra Tortoises
Activities	Feeding (extra charge)	Swimming

Snorkeling and Swimming

Snorkeling in the island’s clean waters is an encouraged activity for visitors. The tour provides snorkeling equipment, allowing guests to explore the underwater world surrounding Prison Island.

Visitors can observe the vibrant marine life and coral formations, seeing the natural beauty of the Zanzibar coast. While snorkeling is optional, it’s a popular way to fully experience the island’s aquatic attractions.

Swimming is also permitted in the designated areas, with the clear, calm waters providing a refreshing respite from the tropical heat.

Travelers are advised to bring their own towels and swimwear to make the most of these activities during the half-day excursion.

Guided Tour Insights

A professional guide leads the half-day tour, providing valuable insights into Prison Island’s captivating history and guiding visitors through the key attractions.

Travelers can expect a mix of reviews regarding the quality of the guiding service, with some describing the guides as excellent while others critiquing poor communication.

It’s recommended to visit the island early to avoid crowds and ensure a better experience.

While the guides generally receive positive feedback, it’s important to manage expectations, as the quality can vary.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Kisauni Airport or Zanzibar hotels, making it convenient for travelers.

A professional guide is included to accompany the group throughout the excursion. The journey to Prison Island takes around 30 minutes by boat from Stone Town.

Snorkeling equipment is provided, though travelers are encouraged to bring their own gear if they prefer.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and a moderate level of physical fitness is required due to the need to walk through shallow water to reach the boat.

Gratuities and souvenir photos are available for purchase, but food and drinks aren’t included in the tour price.

Visitor Experiences

Visitors have shared a mix of positive and critical experiences on the Prison Island tour. Many have highlighted the beautiful scenery, friendly guides, and interesting historical insights.

However, some noted the need for preparation due to potentially rough waters and walking in shallow water to reach the boat.

The quality of the guiding service has received mixed reviews, with some visitors describing the guides as excellent while others criticized their poor communication.

Recommendations suggest visiting the island early to avoid crowds and ensure a better overall experience.

Important Considerations

Travelers should prepare for the potential challenges of the Prison Island tour. The boat ride can be rough, and visitors may need to walk through shallow water to reach the island.

While snorkeling equipment is provided, bringing one’s own gear is recommended for a better experience. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so a moderate fitness level is required.

Plus, the quality of the guiding service can vary, with some travelers noting poor communication from their guides. To avoid crowds and ensure a better visit, it’s advisable to schedule the tour early in the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Reschedule or Modify My Tour Booking?

To reschedule or modify a tour booking, travelers should contact the tour provider directly. Most offer flexible policies that allow changes or cancellations within a specified timeframe, often up to a few days prior to the scheduled tour.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Island?

Travelers can bring their own food and drinks to the island. However, an on-site restaurant is available if they prefer to purchase meals and refreshments there. Outside food and beverages are permitted, but not required, during the tour.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Hidden Costs?

The tour includes hotel transfers and entrance fees, but any additional activities like feeding the tortoises or purchasing food/drinks at the on-site restaurant will incur extra costs. Gratuities and souvenir photos are also available for purchase.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs or Take Photos on the Island?

Travelers can purchase souvenir photos on the island. However, other souvenirs must be purchased separately, as they are not included in the tour. Guests are encouraged to bring their own cameras to capture the scenic views and wildlife.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for the Tour?

The tour has a free cancellation policy up to 3 days before the scheduled departure. Travelers can get a full refund if they cancel within this timeframe, though gratuities and souvenir photos are available for purchase on the island.

The Sum Up

The Prison Island Half-Day Tour from Zanzibar offers a unique opportunity to explore the island’s rich history and natural wonders. Visitors can witness the majestic Aldabra tortoises, snorkel in vibrant waters, and gain insights into Zanzibar’s past as a quarantine station and slave holding pen. With convenient hotel transfers, this immersive experience provides a captivating blend of history and scenic beauty.