From Zanzibar: Half-Day Prison Island Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Zanzibar and want to experience a blend of history, wildlife, and stunning coastal scenery, the Half-Day Prison Island Tour offers a compact, engaging excursion. While we haven’t personally done this tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of what you can expect.

What makes this trip appealing? First, the traditional dhow ride immerses you in local maritime culture. Second, the opportunity to meet giant tortoises—some over 100 years old—is both charming and unique. Third, the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters among vibrant fish and coral adds an adventurous splash.

A potential consideration? The boat ride may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with mobility issues or back problems, as some reviewers mentioned difficulties with getting into and out of the boat. This tour is best suited for travelers who are eager for a quick cultural and natural fix without spending long hours on the water.

This experience appeals to those who love a mix of history, wildlife, and coastal activities, especially if you’re short on time but want a well-rounded taste of Zanzibar’s charm.

Key Points

• Includes snorkeling equipment and guide for an effortless experience.
• Visit a historically significant island known for its giant tortoises.
• Enjoy a traditional dhow ride, adding authentic local flavor.
• Tour duration is around 3 hours, perfect for a half-day adventure.
• Limited mobility considerations may impact participation.
• Flexible options for pickup and drop-off enhance convenience.

This 3-hour journey packs in a surprising amount of sights and experiences. Starting from the historic heart of Stone Town, you’ll either meet your guide there or be collected from your hotel—depending on the option you select. From there, the highlight begins: a scenic boat transfer aboard a traditional dhow.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Dhow Ride: Sailing into Zanzibar’s Coastal Atmosphere

One of the most charming parts of this tour is the water taxi to Prison Island. The traditional dhow, with its wooden structure and colorful sails, offers travelers a chance to see Zanzibar from the water, with sights of the coastline and perhaps a glimpse of local life along the shore.

While some reviewers noted that the boat might be challenging for those with limited mobility or back problems, most agree that the ride itself is a scenic highlight. The short transfer usually lasts around 30 minutes, giving you enough time to relax, take photos, and enjoy the breeze.

Exploring Prison Island: History and Wildlife

Once on the island, you’ll be greeted by the sight of more than 50 giant tortoises, some over a century old. As one reviewer noted, “You can feed the tortoises and get up close for photos,” which is a major draw for animal lovers and families alike. The tortoises roam freely, and their slow, deliberate movements create a peaceful, almost meditative atmosphere.

Along With the tortoises, the island is home to peacocks and antelope, which you might spot wandering around—adding to the island’s appeal as a natural sanctuary. The history of Prison Island itself is quite interesting; it was originally used as a quarantine station, and later, as a prison. While the tour emphasizes the natural aspect, many guides share snippets about the island’s past—though details might vary depending on your guide.

Snorkeling: A Splash of Underwater Beauty

After exploring the island, you’ll have the chance to snorkel along the coast. The crystal-clear waters are often packed with colorful fish and coral formations, making it a rewarding activity for snorkelers of all levels. One reviewer mentioned that the water clarity might not always be perfect, but most find it enjoyable and worth the effort. Snorkel gear is provided, and with a bit of patience, you’ll likely see some beautiful marine life.

End of the Tour: Return to Zanzibar

Following your time on the island, you’ll hop back aboard the dhow for the return trip. The tour concludes back at the meeting point in Stone Town or your hotel, depending on your booking options. The transfer times are typically short, making this a convenient, half-day addition to your Zanzibar itinerary.

At a price of $78 per person, this tour offers good value, especially considering the combination of wildlife encounters, cultural insights, and coastal scenery. The all-inclusive fare covers entrance fees, snorkeling gear, water, and transport—meaning no hidden costs.

However, some reviews highlight that the snorkeling might not meet all expectations, with one guest feeling “cheated” when told the water might be less clear. It’s worth noting that the tour is flexible, and snorkeling is optional. If your main goal is to see the tortoises and enjoy a scenic dhow ride, this fee is quite reasonable.

The guided aspect enriches the experience, providing context and local insights. The guides are generally knowledgeable, though the quality of commentary might vary—one reviewer appreciated the “really interesting” tour, despite some weather issues.

From the reviews, it’s clear that most visitors enjoy the authenticity of the dhow ride and the opportunity to interact with the giant tortoises. Many appreciated the chance to feed the animals and capture memorable photos. The scenic views of the coastline and the tranquil island atmosphere are often emphasized as highlights.

On the downside, some travelers found the boat ride challenging, especially if they have mobility issues or discomfort with boats. There’s also a mention of disappointing water clarity which might impact snorkelers hoping for vibrant underwater scenes.

What sets this tour apart is the balance between natural beauty and cultural history—the tortoises are a very unique feature that few other attractions in Zanzibar can match. It’s especially appealing if you love wildlife, history, or simply relaxing on the coast.

This experience is best suited for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and culture seekers who want a quick but rewarding outing. It’s ideal for travelers with moderate mobility, comfortable with boat transfers, and looking for a well-rounded, half-day adventure.

Those looking for luxurious, private, or longer tours might find this a bit too brief or basic, but for most, it offers a satisfying taste of Zanzibar’s natural and historical charms.

This tour delivers authentic charm and variety in a manageable timeframe. The guided insights, the opportunity to feed giant tortoises, and the snorkeling potential make it a compelling choice for many travelers.

If you enjoy small-group adventures with a focus on nature, local culture, and scenic waters, this tour hits the mark without breaking the bank. The scenic dhow ride adds a lovely touch of tradition, and the chance to meet ancient tortoises is genuinely memorable.

However, be aware of the mobility considerations and water clarity issues some travelers noted. Still, most guests leave feeling satisfied and with plenty of photos and stories to share.

In short, if you’re after a balanced, authentic, and picturesque experience during your Zanzibar stay, this half-day Prison Island Tour is certainly worth considering.

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, if you select the option with hotel pickup, you’ll be collected from your accommodation and dropped off after the tour.

How long does the boat transfer take?
The boat ride on the dhow typically lasts around 30 minutes, offering a scenic and relaxing journey.

Are snorkeling masks and equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, so you can explore the waters off the coast without needing to bring your own equipment.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most likely yes, especially for families with kids who enjoy animals and water activities. However, be mindful of mobility issues or boat difficulty, as some reviewers mentioned.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
Feeding and taking photos with the giant tortoises is a standout feature, along with the scenic dhow ride and snorkeling opportunity.

Can I participate if I have limited mobility?
The tour is not recommended for people with limited mobility or back problems, mainly due to boat transfer challenges.

What should I pack for the tour?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, camera, and any personal items needed for snorkeling or beach time. Water is provided, but snacks are not included.

To sum it up, this half-day tour of Prison Island offers a lively mix of wildlife, history, and coastal scenery, making it a solid addition to your Zanzibar itinerary—especially if you want a fun, authentic experience that’s both relaxed and memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here: