Prison Island Tour

When it comes to exploring Zanzibar beyond the beaches, the Prison Island Tour offers a fascinating blend of history, wildlife, and scenic beauty. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, the overwhelmingly positive feedback and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect. From the impressive giant tortoises to the charming ruins and gorgeous sands, this trip promises a well-rounded day out that balances adventure with relaxation.

What truly stands out about this experience are three key aspects: the chance to interact with the enormous Seychelles tortoises, the opportunity to snorkel in reasonably rich marine waters, and the scenic beauty of the island itself. Added to these are the historical ruins which, although never used as a prison, lend an intriguing glimpse into Zanzibar’s past. One thing to consider is the entry fee of approximately $15 USD per person, which isn’t included in the tour price, so budget accordingly.

This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy a mixture of wildlife encounters, light history, and beach time, all wrapped into one accessible half-day adventure. If you’re looking for a relaxed, visually stunning outing that’s easy to fit into a busy Zanzibar itinerary, this experience could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Wildlife: Get up close and personal with giant tortoises, some over 150 years old.
• History: Explore the ruins of the prison built in 1893, which was never put into use.
• Snorkeling: Enjoy decent snorkeling options close to Stone Town, perfect for a quick underwater fix.
• Beach Relaxation: Lounge on pristine, white sands and take in stunning sea views.
• Food & Atmosphere: Matthews restaurant offers a charming setting with good seafood and a relaxed vibe.
• Guided Experience: Led by friendly, professional guides, often speaking multiple languages for a comfortable tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Experience Breakdown

Getting There and the Transport

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel in Stone Town, making it super convenient and hassle-free. The boat ride to Prison Island takes about 30 minutes—a pleasant, breezy trip that sets the tone for the day. The boat is included in the tour, and you’ll be accompanied by an experienced guide, which makes all the difference when navigating the logistics and sharing local insights.

Prison Ruins and Historical Insights

Upon arrival, you’ll see the old prison complex, built in 1893. It’s intriguing that the prison was never used for its intended purpose, which adds a layer of curiosity to your visit. While the ruins themselves aren’t extensive, they offer a tangible connection to Zanzibar’s colonial past. This stop is particularly popular among history buffs or those simply curious about the island’s layered story.

Giant Tortoises: The Main Attraction

The enormous Seychelles tortoises are undoubtedly the stars of Prison Island. Brought over by Sultan Said Majid in the 1820s from Seychelles, their presence now forms a major part of the island’s charm. We loved the way some of these gentle giants are over 100 years old, with an average weight of around 200 kg. Feeding the tortoises is an optional activity, available at a small fee, but be ready to watch out for their snapping beaks—these creatures are peaceful but not shy about showing their teeth if they think you’re offering food.

According to a recent reviewer, “Boucher praised the guide’s kindness and their excellent French-speaking skills,” which made the interaction even more memorable. The tortoises’ slow, majestic movement is a stark contrast to the lively surroundings, and many visitors find feeding and petting them both relaxing and amusing.

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Snorkeling and Marine Life

While not the most extensive snorkeling spot, Changuu Island offers a reasonable chance to see local marine life. The tour provides snorkeling gear, including life jackets, masks, and flippers, so you can dip under the surface and enjoy some underwater sights. The waters are relatively rich, especially considering the proximity to Stone Town, making this a great quick snorkel for those who don’t want a full-blown marine expedition.

Beach Time and Relaxation

One of the highlights is the chance to relax on the white sands of Prison Island’s beaches. The shallow, calm waters make it ideal for unwinding, swimming, or simply soaking up the sun with a cold drink. The scenery here is picture-perfect, with clear blue waters contrasting against the soft sands—just the kind of spot to recharge after walking around the ruins or watching the tortoises.

Dining at Matthews Restaurant

The tour includes a visit to the island’s well-regarded Matthews restaurant, known for its delicious seafood and tapas-style dishes. The setting, with sea views and a relaxed atmosphere, complements the overall chill vibe of the island. While no food is included in the tour price, many find the restaurant’s offerings to be a highlight—perfect for a leisurely lunch or a refreshing drink.

Practical Details and Cost Analysis

The $40 per person price seems reasonable considering it covers professional guides, boat transfers, snorkeling gear, and government taxes. You also get a bottle of mineral water, which is a nice touch. However, it’s important to note that entry to the island costs about $15 USD, so factor this into your budget.

An extra consideration is the $45 USD charge for pickup from beach hotels, which is on top of the tour price and applies per vehicle (up to 6 people). If you’re staying in a beach resort, it’s worth calculating whether it’s better to meet the group at Stone Town or pay the extra fee.

The Experience From the Reviews

One traveler, Boucher, summed up their experience as “Perfect! Very serious, very kind guide who speaks French very well. I recommend!” This hints at the high level of professionalism and friendliness you can expect. Their guide’s language skills and attention to detail can make a significant difference in how smooth and enjoyable the trip feels.

Another insight from reviews is that most visitors value the combination of history, wildlife, and beach relaxation, making this tour versatile and appealing to a wide range of interests.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a quick, well-rounded escape from the city. It’s particularly appealing if you love wildlife encounters (tortoises), enjoy light history, or simply want a beautiful beach day close to Stone Town. It’s also great for those who appreciate good guides and local cuisine with stunning sea views.

However, if you’re seeking a full-day adventure with extensive snorkeling or diving, or you have mobility issues, this might be a bit limited. The tour’s relaxed pace and short duration make it an excellent half-day option for most visitors.

Final Thoughts

The Prison Island Tour offers a balanced mix of history, wildlife, and leisure at a reasonable price point, especially considering the included activities and convenience. You’ll get to see the iconic tortoises that have become a symbol of Zanzibar, explore the fascinating ruins, and enjoy some beachside relaxation with fantastic food.

While the entry fee is an additional cost, it’s well worth it for the chance to stand among the gentle giants and explore the island’s tranquil beauty. The tour’s small group size, friendly guides, and the overall laid-back vibe make it a great choice for travelers wanting an authentic, memorable day.

In short, if you enjoy wildlife, history, and beach time without long travel commitments, this tour offers excellent value and a genuine taste of Zanzibar’s diverse charms.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts around half a day, with about 30 minutes traveling each way and time allocated for exploring the ruins, feeding tortoises, snorkeling, and relaxing on the beach.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Stone Town and boat transfers to the island.

What is the cost of entrance fees?
Entry to Prison Island is approximately $15 USD per person, paid on arrival and not included in the tour price.

Can I feed the tortoises?
Yes, feeding the tortoises is available at a small fee, and it’s a popular activity. Just be cautious of their snapping beaks.

Is snorkeling suitable for beginners?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, and the waters near the island are suitable for a quick, easy swim for most levels.

Are there any health or mobility restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back or respiratory issues, wheelchair users, or those with certain health conditions. Babies under 1 year and people over 95 are also discouraged from participating.

In summary, the Prison Island Tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience that combines history, wildlife encounters, and leisure. It’s especially perfect for those wanting a meaningful yet relaxed multi-activity day close to Zanzibar’s vibrant Stone Town.

You can check availability for your dates here: