Zanzibar City
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Prison Island

NATURE TOUR

Explore Zanzibar through its beautiful nature & wildlife.

BEST SELLER

Join one of our most popular tours!

UNIQUE EXPERIENCE

See giant tortoises that are over 150 years old!

Enjoy a Half-Day Excursion Packed with Adventures

Join us for a half-day excursion to Prison Island, which once served as a prison and has now been transformed into a luxurious hotel. Our journey will begin with a boat ride from the shores of Stone Town, and we will anchor 5 kilometers away on the stunning beach of Prison Island. You will have the opportunity to explore a sanctuary for giant tortoises and go snorkeling in the coral reef surrounding the island during the tour.

Don’t just read about it, see it!

Check out our Prison Island tour video

ABOUT THE TOUR

A former prison,

giant tortoises,

and snorkeling

This island is named after the prison that was built in 1893. The prison was originally intended to house violent prisoners from the mainland and people sick with yellow fever. However, the prison is now owned by a hotel. In addition to the prison, the island is also home to a tortoise sanctuary.

The sanctuary contains a large colony of giant tortoises that were imported from Seychelles in the late 19th century. During your visit to the sanctuary, you will learn about efforts to protect the tortoises. These creatures have an average weight of 200 kg and many of them are over 150 years old.

You’ll have the opportunity to touch them and take photos. Moreover, the island is home to a stunning colony of peacocks. For the remainder of the trip, you can choose to either snorkel around the coral that fringes Prison Island and enjoy the marine life or simply relax under the warm sun until we return to Stone Town.

Book Your Prison Island Tour

PRICE

50 USD per person

DURATION

2.5 Hours

TYPE

Private boat trip

INCLUSIONS

  • Pick up from the Stone Town area
  • Boat from Stone Town
  • Snorkeling gear
  • Professional local guide
  • Drinking water and snacks

EXCLUSIONS

If you’re coming from outside Stone Town and need a transfer, it’ll cost you 70 USD per car. Each car can fit up to four passengers and includes a round trip.

USEFUL INFORMATION

Remember to bring your swimsuit, sunscreen, towel, and underwater camera.

COMBINE

It’s very easy to combine the Prison Island tour with the Stone Town tour. It’s a wise decision especially if you come from further away on the island. You can stay for sunset drinks too.