Prison Island and Stone Town Private Tour in Zanzibar

Experience the Best of Zanzibar with a Private Prison Island and Stone Town Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Zanzibar and want a well-rounded glimpse of its unique attractions, a private tour that combines Prison Island and Stone Town could be an ideal choice. While it might not cover everything in exhaustive detail, it offers a flexible, personalized way to see some of the most iconic spots with knowledgeable guides. The tour typically lasts around four to five hours, with enough flexibility to fit into your schedule.

What we love about this experience is the opportunity to get close to the famous Aldabra giant tortoises on Prison Island, explore vibrant local markets, and walk through the narrow alleys filled with history and culture in Stone Town. The comfort of private transportation, bottled water, and a tailored pace adds to the convenience. However, some travelers mention that the tour’s organization could be improved, especially regarding timing and entrance fees.

This tour suits travelers who want a structured yet intimate look at Zanzibar’s highlights without the hassle of figuring everything out on their own. It’s perfect for those with limited time but eager to combine nature, history, and local life.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour means you control the pace and focus on what interests you most.
• Authentic Encounters: See giant tortoises, peacocks, and explore bustling Stone Town sights.
• Convenience: Includes round-trip transfers from any Zanzibar hotel, making logistics smooth.
• Value for Money: At $89.99 per person, it offers a comprehensive snapshot rather than a rushed visit.
• Guided Insights: Knowledgeable guides enrich the experience with context and stories.
• Flexible Duration: 4-5 hours fits easily into a day without feeling rushed, but be aware of potential delays.

Exploring Prison Island: A Close-Up of Giant Tortoises and More

Prison Island, officially called Changuu Private Island, is the first stop on this tour. It’s a chance to see the rare Aldabra giant tortoises, some of which can live up to 300 years. The oldest tortoise on the island has reached 197 years, making them living, breathing relics of history. It’s a pretty special encounter—these gentle giants are surprisingly interactive, and you can get close enough to feed or just marvel at their size and calm demeanor.

Beyond the tortoises, the island is home to peacocks, dik dik antelopes, and remnants of prison ruins. The ruins, historically used as quarantine stations, add a hint of the island’s past. Visitors often appreciate the relaxed atmosphere, where you can wander around the lush surroundings or enjoy the panoramic views of Zanzibar’s coast.

Some reviews mention that the main highlight here is the tortoises, with one reviewer stating, “the only thing worth seeing on prison island is the turtles,” but still valuing the experience. Others note that the island isn’t overly large, so a two-hour visit allows ample time for photos, feeding the tortoises, and soaking in the tranquility.

It’s worth noting that admission to Prison Island costs around $15 per person, so budget accordingly. The tour includes round-trip transfers, so once you’re there, you’re free to explore at your own pace.

Discovering Stone Town: Culture, History, and Bustling Markets

After the island visit, your guide will take you to Stone Town, the historical heart of Zanzibar. This part of the tour typically lasts about two hours, and you’ll visit key sites like the Old Fort, Forodhani Gardens, Darajani Market, and the House of Wonders (Beit el Ajailb). These spots offer a window into Zanzibar’s vibrant culture and complex history.

The Old Fort, built in the 17th century, is a striking silhouette against the city skyline and a reminder of the island’s past of trade and conflict. At Forodhani Gardens, you might catch local vendors selling flavorful street food—although, since this is a guided tour, you’ll probably stay with the group and not dive into the food stalls unless included.

The Djidiani Market is a lively place to observe daily life and browse local produce and goods. Along the way, you’ll stop at the former Slave Market, now the Anglican Cathedral, offering insights into Zanzibar’s darker history. The House of Wonders is a grand building symbolizing the island’s past prosperity, now a museum filled with relics.

A key advantage of this private tour is that your guide can tailor the visit based on your interests. Some reviews highlight the guides’ depth of knowledge, describing them as “very good” and “full of know-how,” which helps you understand the stories behind the sights.

However, some travelers note that the entrance fees—like the $5 at the Slave Market—are not included in the tour price, so be prepared with a bit of cash. Also, the tour doesn’t delve deeply into every site but provides enough context for a memorable overview.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What’s Not

For $89.99 per person, this private tour offers excellent value, especially considering it covers both Prison Island and a comprehensive city tour. The package includes private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and the flexibility to explore at your pace.

Remember, entrance fees are paid separately: $15 for Prison Island and $5 for the Slave Market site. Bringing some cash for these small costs ensures you won’t be caught off guard.

While most reviews agree that guides are knowledgeable and friendly, some mention organizational hiccups—like scheduling delays or the guide forgetting initial arrangements. It’s worth being patient and communicating your needs, as guides seem genuinely eager to make your visit enjoyable.

The pick-up service makes logistics hassle-free, especially if you’re staying in Zanzibar City. Given the tour’s duration, it fits well into a half-day plan, leaving room for other activities later in the day.

Real Traveler Insights: Highlights and Considerations

From positive reviews, one traveler stated, “Very comfortable vehicle to show you around, understanding drivers,” highlighting the comfort and ease of the transport. Others appreciated the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, describing them as “very good” and “great” at sharing insights.

However, some reviews reveal areas for improvement. For instance, one reviewer was disappointed because they did not receive the air-conditioned vehicle promised and felt the organization was lacking, with waiting times and unclear timing. These experiences serve as a reminder to stay flexible and communicate any concerns during the tour.

A common thread among reviewers is the value for money: for just under $90, travelers get a personalized experience that combines nature and history, often with guides who are engaging and eager to share their knowledge.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of wildlife, culture, and history without the hassle of organizing multiple separate excursions. It’s great for those with limited time but an interest in seeing the main highlights of Zanzibar.

Families, couples, or small groups will appreciate the private nature of the tour, allowing for a relaxed and personalized day. It’s particularly suitable if you value local insights and want to avoid overly commercialized or rushed experiences.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Prison Island and Stone Town private tour offers a solid introduction to Zanzibar’s most beloved sights. The inclusion of personalized guides and convenient transportation makes it a practical choice for travelers who prefer comfort and tailored experiences.

While some minor organizational issues are noted, the highlights like the giant tortoises and historical sites make this tour a worthwhile addition to your Zanzibar itinerary. It delivers good value for those wanting a guided overview rather than an independent, self-led exploration.

If you’re after an efficient, enjoyable way to see both the natural and cultural sides of Zanzibar without breaking the bank, this tour ticks many boxes. Just keep in mind entrance fees and stay flexible — and you’ll have a memorable day discovering this vibrant island.

FAQs

What’s included in the tour price?
The cost covers private transportation, bottled water, and an air-conditioned vehicle. Entrance fees to Prison Island ($15) and the Slave Market ($5) are separate.

Can I customize the tour?
As a private experience, the guide can tailor the visit to your interests, focusing more on wildlife, history, or local culture.

How long does the tour last?
Typically around 4 to 5 hours, allowing enough time to enjoy both Prison Island and a comprehensive city tour of Stone Town.

Is this suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, most travelers find it suitable, especially since transportation is private and comfortable. Always consider individual mobility needs.

Are there any hidden costs?
Apart from entrance fees, no additional costs are expected. Bringing some cash for small expenses or tips is advised.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, cash for entrance fees, and maybe a camera to capture the giant tortoises and historic sites.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup from any hotel in Zanzibar is offered, making the start of your day hassle-free.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Zanzibar’s wildlife and history, perfect for those who want a guided experience that balances comfort, knowledge, and authenticity. It’s a good value option for travelers who want to maximize their time without sacrificing quality or insight.