Don't leave Zanzibar without visiting Prison Island

General information:

During your visit to Zanzibar, you will find plenty of activities to do, one of which will be a visit to Prison Island.

Its controversial name alludes to its past, as some sultans of Zanzibar brought their slaves to this island with the intention of keeping them inflexible.

Also known as Changuu Island, it is located about 30 minutes by boat from Stone Town.

The island had been bought by Arabs in ancient times, who decided to build a real prison there when Zanzibar became a British protectorate. Although the prison never functioned as such, its entire structure was eventually transformed into a charming complex that adorns the natural beauty of the island.

This exciting tour, which has a great historical component, can be complemented with Nakupenda beach and even the spice tour. This combination of sites will allow you to have a much broader perspective of everything that Zanzibar can encompass.

Itinerary details

Zanzibar is a mix of cultures and heritages ranging from Arabs, Indians, Africans and Europeans; all this combo forms the essence of the island.

Zanzibar has had to go through some extremely difficult times in its past, which will be perfectly explained during the tour as you go through the different places of attraction.

On the island you will learn more about the history of slaves where you can visit sites such as the Mangapwani slave chamber, swim around the island and take photos with the famous giant tortoises.

• Prison Island: When the Arabs occupied the island in 1860, they broke the island's natural virginity. At that time, Prison Island became a temporary shelter for slaves with revolutionary aspirations. The island was also used during the yellow fever pandemic to isolate sick people.
• Snorkeling on Prison Island: Nature has been very generous with the natural environment of Prison Island, as it has a beautiful archipelago for swimming. Its warm waters, measured waves and deep blue color that can blend with the sky are simply incredible.

In addition, the waters of Prison Island have a huge and beautiful fish reserve, where you can enjoy exotic species such as the clownfish and the emperor angelfish.

• Photograph with the giant tortoises: This island is home to giant tortoises, which are between 70 and 100 years old. Our guides will not only take you to take these classic Zanzibar photos, but will also teach you about the habits of these imposing creatures.

Prices and inclusions

The price of this tour, during which you will discover the history and beauty of Zanzibar, is $35. It lasts approximately 3 hours.

By paying for this tour you will have the following benefits covered:

• Round trip to the experience.
• Boat passage.
• Snorkeling clothing if required.
• Entrance fee.
• Trained and specialized guide.
• Government tax rates.

Hotel pickup and drop-off are agreed upon when booking the tour.

Our guides have the quality of being multilingual: English, Russian, German, Spanish and Italian.

Terms and conditions

Cancellations :

If the client wishes to cancel the excursion, he/she must contact us in writing and wait for our response so that the excursion can be cancelled. Likewise, the refund will consist of a percentage of the amount paid, since the value of the expenses incurred will be retained.

If, on the other hand, the cancellation is made by us, which may exceptionally occur due to unforeseen circumstances or situations of force majeure, we will be notified as soon as possible and another date will be agreed for the excursion.