Prison island in Zanzibar tour overview
Our best-recommended Prison Island tour in Zanzibar offers a better mix of history, wildlife, and spectacular scenery. The brief boat trip from Stone Town, Prison Island, or Changuu Island, which was a former quarantine station and an old slave prison. Now it is a fascinating place where you can see the ancient ruins, learn about its fascinating history, and meet the face of the island's mythical giant tortoises, where among them some of them are 100 years or more old.
The tour suits history enthusiasts, nature enthusiasts, and those interested in experiencing something unique in Zanzibar. While walking around the island flora, you are also treated to the amazing scenes of the Indian Ocean, making it thus ideal for relaxing and taking photographs.
With our local guides present, the tour of Prison Island offers interesting commentary on the island's history and makes the trip as educational as it is beautiful. Whatever the reason for visiting the island, this tour is one that will not soon be forgotten and must be done as part of your Zanzibar holiday.
| Package | Duration | Inclusions | Price (Per Person) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Prison Island Tour | 3 Hours | Boat transfer, guide, entrance fee | $40 |
| Private VIP Tour | 4 Hours | Private boat, guide, entrance fee, refreshments | $70 |
| Combo Tour (Prison + Nakupenda Beach) | Full Day | Prison Island tour, snorkeling, seafood lunch | $90 |
| Group Tour (4+ People) | 3 Hours | Boat transfer, guide, entrance fee (discounted) | $35 |
Things you can do while on Prison Island, Zanzibar
While visiting Prison Island, you can:
- Visit Historical Sites: See the remains of the ancient prison and quarantine facilities, learning about the island's historical significance.
- Interact with Giant Tortoises: Encounter the Aldabra giant tortoises, which are over a century old, and learn about current conservation projects.
- Relax on Pristine Beaches: Relax on the white sandy beaches of the island, soaking up the peaceful atmosphere.
- Snorkeling: Dive into the clear waters to see the rainbow-colored sea creatures around the coral reefs.
About maps of Prison Island
Even though personal maps of Prison Island may not be easily available, the island itself is rather small and easy to navigate. Guides are usually present to escort visitors and take them around the key points of interest.
The reason to be named as Prison Island
Prison Island, or more commonly known as Changuu Island, derived its name because a prison complex was built on it in 1894. Although it was intended to be used to incarcerate violent criminals, it never was. Instead, the island had been quarantined in the case of yellow fever patients.
Opening hours of Prison Island
Prison Island is accessible every day. Tours typically begin early in the morning, and the final departures depart Stone Town late afternoon. It is advisable to ask locally about timing.
The history of Prison Island, Zanzibar
Initially unused, Changuu Island was used during the 1860s by Arab slave traders as a holding camp for rebellious slaves. The island was purchased in 1893 by the British First Minister of Zanzibar to construct a prison, which was completed in 1894 but never utilized to jail anyone. It was rather a yellow fever quarantine station.
Price/cost for Prison Island entry fee
As of available data, the entrance to Prison Island costs about $4 USD per person. There could be boat fees and charges for optional guided tours added on top.
Wildlife you can expect to watch out for on Prison Island
The island is renowned for having a population of Aldabra giant tortoises. There are also peacocks and certain bird species found around. Varied marine life has been found in the surrounding waters, so snorkelling is a popular thing to do.
How to plan your Prison Island tour
To ensure a memorable experience:
- Reserving: Reserve your tour with trustworthy operators that offer packages according to your interests.
- Timing: Morning visits are advisable to benefit from cooler weather and evading crowds.
- What to Pack: Bring sunscreen, comfortable shoes, swimsuits, a hat, and a camera to take in the island's scenery.
The price for Prison Island in Zanzibar.
The price differs based on the package:
- Standard Tour: Approximately $40 USD per person with boat transfer, guide, and entrance fee.
- VIP Private Tour: Around $70 USD per person, including private boat services and other facilities.
- Combo Tours: There are accessible options involving Prison Island tours bundled with other sites, like Nakupenda Beach, available at different prices.
How to get to Prison Island from Stone Town
Arriving at Prison Island is easy:
- Boat Ride: A short boat ride from Stone Town, which normally takes about 25 to 30 minutes, will take you to the island.
- Booking: You can book transport with local tour operators or directly at the Stone Town waterfront.
Price inclusions for The best prison island tour you should visit with price/cost package
- Entry Fee
- Boat Transportation Fee
- Tour Guide Fee
- Snorkeling Gear Rental
- Government Charges and Taxes
- Environmental Conservation Fee
Price exclusions for The best prison island tour
- individual items
- Tips and gratuities for the driver's guide
- Tours that are optional but not included in the schedule
- Insurance for travel
- Visa charges
- Optional meals
Frequent Asked Question (FAQs) about our best prison island tour
1. What do I do on Zanzibar's Prison Island?
You can stroll on old ruins, see giant tortoises, swim on the beach, and snorkel in transparent water.
2. Why is the island called Prison Island?
It was built as a prison in 1894 but later as a yellow fever quarantine camp.
3. How do i get to Prison Island from Stone Town?
It takes almost 25 to 30 minutes from Stone Town to reach Prison Island using a boat.
4. What is the working hour in Prison Island?
Prison Island has its own daily activity schedule, and tours are done mostly between morning and late afternoon.
5. What is the history of Prison Island?
The island was formerly used by Arab traders to imprison disobedient slaves before serving as a British prison and subsequently a quarantine station.
6. How much is the entrance fee to Prison Island?
The entrance fee is approximately $4 a person, apart from boat transport and guided tours.
7. Do they have a map of Prison Island?
Official maps are not the norm, but the island isn't large and simple to navigate with a guide.
8. What does a Prison Island tour cost?
Regular tours are $40 a person, whereas private and combination tours are as much as $90.
9. What wildlife can I see on Prison Island?
The island is home to Aldabra giant tortoises, peacocks, and other birds.
10. How do I organize my visit to Prison Island?
Book in advance, visit early in the morning to beat the crowds, and bring essentials like sunscreen, swimwear, and a camera.