Zanzibar Tanzania
Guided experiencePrison Island Giant Tortoise & Snorkeling Adventure
Set sail from Stone Town on a traditional motorized wooden boat to Changuu Island, commonly known as Prison Island. Originally intended as a quarantine station, the island is now home to a famous sanctuary for giant Aldabra tortoises, originally gifted from the Seychelles. Explore the historical colonial cells, observe these magnificent gentle giants, and enjoy an optional snorkeling session in the shallow coral reefs surrounding the island. *Snorkeling depends on current weather, safety assessments, and wind conditions.*
Key facts
- Starting Location
- Stone Town waterfront pier (Forodhani area)
- Ending Location
- Stone Town waterfront pier (Forodhani area)
- Optimal Duration
- 3 to 4 Hours
- Walking Information
- Easy walking (approx. 1 km on flat sandy and paved island paths)
- Travel Logistics
- Motorized wooden boat and light walking
- Practical Information
- Swimwear, towel, change of clothes, camera, sun protection, and reef-safe sunscreen
- Safety Information
- Snorkeling may be permitted depending on water conditions, weather, safety assessments, seasonal conditions and current park guidance
- Seasonal Notes
- Available year-round, but water visibility and boat ride comfort are optimal during calm wind periods
- Starts from
- Stone Town
Tour map
This tour covers the Zanzibar area.
Starts in Stone Town.
Indicative route, not turn-by-turn directions.
Itinerary
Morning Assembly
Stone Town Boarding
Meet your guide at the Stone Town waterfront pier. Receive a safety briefing and don your life jacket before boarding a traditional motorized wooden boat.
Boat Voyage
Scenic Ride to Changuu Island
Enjoy a relaxing 25-minute boat transfer across the crystal-clear waters of the Zanzibar channel, taking in panoramic views of the Stone Town shoreline.
Island Arrival
Giant Aldabra Tortoise Visit
Arrive on Prison Island. Walk to the tortoise sanctuary to observe these ancient creatures, some of which are over 150 years old. Feed them fresh leaves under the supervision of sanctuary staff.
Historical Exploration
Quarantine Station Ruins
Stroll through the historical ruins of the quarantine station built in 1893, learning about the island's past use as a quarantine site for yellow fever and a prison that never actually housed prisoners.
Shallow Snorkeling
Reef Snorkeling & Beach Walk
If weather and water conditions permit, gear up with snorkeling equipment to swim over the shallow coral reef surrounding the island. Discover a variety of colorful reef fish and starfish.
Midday Return
Boat Transfer back to Stone Town
Board your boat for the return trip to the Stone Town waterfront pier, catching a refreshing Indian Ocean breeze.
Arrival
Waterfront Drop Off
Arrive back in Stone Town, where you can easily transition to lunch or a city walking tour.
What's included
- Private or shared motorized wooden boat transfers to and from Prison Island
- Prison Island conservation entry fees and tortoise sanctuary tickets
- Services of an experienced English-speaking Local Guide
- Snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, life jacket)
- Chilled bottled mineral water
What's not included
- Hotel pickup and return transfers to Stone Town pier (available on request)
- Gratuities and tips for your boat crew and guide
- Personal meals, snacks, or beverages on the island
Book this tour
Send your dates and pickup point and we will confirm availability.
Book Prison Island Giant Tortoise & Snorkeling AdventureFrequently asked questions
Can we ride or sit on the giant tortoises?
No. Touching the tortoises gently is permitted under staff supervision, but sitting on, riding, or feeding them unapproved food is strictly prohibited for their health and welfare.
Is the boat trip safe for non-swimmers?
Yes, the boat is equipped with life jackets for all passengers. Non-swimmers can comfortably enjoy the island, the historical ruins, and the tortoise sanctuary without snorkeling.
How far is Prison Island from Stone Town?
It is located approximately 5.6 kilometers (3.5 miles) northwest of Stone Town's waterfront.