Zanzibar: Prison Island Boat Trip & Snorkelling

Zanzibar: Prison Island Boat Trip & Snorkelling — a detailed look at this popular excursion

Exploring Zanzibar’s Prison Island through a guided boat trip offers a blend of history, wildlife, and relaxing beach vibes. While this tour is fairly straightforward, it packs in enough diverse experiences to justify its modest price point of $60 per person. We love how the trip combines cultural curiosity with nature and leisure, making it a great option for those who want an authentic, yet manageable, day out.

What really appeals is the chance to see the immense giant tortoises, walk through the forgotten prison ruins, and enjoy the peaceful beaches—all in a few short hours. Plus, the boat ride itself offers stunning views of Zanzibar’s coastline. One thing to keep in mind: the boat ride can be choppy, so this experience may not suit those prone to seasickness.

This tour suits travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic day that combines history, wildlife, and beach time. It’s ideal for families, history buffs, and anyone eager for a taste of Zanzibar’s more secluded side.

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Key Points

Affordable price for a full-day adventure combining history, wildlife, and beach relaxation.
Guided tour includes insightful commentary about the island’s history and its giant tortoises.
Ideal for wildlife lovers and families wanting a gentle, nature-focused experience.
Boat ride can be choppy, so prepare accordingly if seasickness is a concern.
Time on the island includes swimming, sunbathing, and wildlife spotting, making it a versatile day out.
No meals or hotel transfers included, so plan to bring snacks and cash.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What the tour involves and why it’s worth considering

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Zanzibar’s lesser-known treasures. Starting from Stone Town, the journey by boat takes you across the waters to Changuu Island, a small island packed with history and natural beauty. The boat itself is a common part of the experience, often described as enjoyable, but worth noting that the ride can be rougher than some might expect. Travelers with a tendency toward seasickness are advised to take precautions.

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The island’s history and ruins

Once you arrive, the main historical attraction is the prison ruins, built in 1893. Interestingly, the prison was never used, which adds a layer of curiosity to the site. Many reviews highlight the incredible atmosphere of the crumbling walls and the stories they could tell. As one visitor noted, “The ruins are quite atmospheric, and it’s fascinating to think this place was supposed to hold prisoners that never arrived.”

Along With the prison, you’ll see what stands as a quarantine hospital, giving a sense of Zanzibar’s colonial past. While these ruins are primarily for photo ops and casual exploration, they deepen the experience, offering insight into the island’s layered history.

The star of the show: giant tortoises

No visit to Prison Island is complete without meeting the famous giant tortoises. Brought to the island in the 1820s, some of these gentle giants are over 100 years old. They are friendly, slow-moving, and quite photogenic, making them a highlight for all ages. Several reviews mention the joy of getting up close to these creatures and learning about their care from the knowledgeable guides.

It’s worth noting that interacting with the tortoises is a highlight that can be enjoyed at your own pace, whether you want to take selfies or simply observe their slow, deliberate movements.

Beach and snorkelling opportunities

After exploring the ruins and tortoises, most tours give you ample time to relax on the island’s white sandy beaches. The water is clear and inviting for swimming or snorkelling — although the quality of snorkelling can vary depending on the day and tide.

Guests often say that the peaceful atmosphere of the island makes it a perfect place to unwind, sunbathe, and listen to the gentle lapping of the waves. Bring your own snorkel gear or use the opportunity to swim in the sea and enjoy the vibrant marine life beneath the surface.

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What’s included and what’s not

This tour, operated by Uforo tour and travel, includes the boat transfer, entrance fees, a guided tour, and the chance to see the giant tortoises. You are encouraged to bring your own snacks, water, and sunscreen, as these aren’t provided.

Not included are hotel pickup and drop-off (you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point next to Forodhani garden), and any meals or drinks. The tour lasts roughly a half-day, making it manageable even for those with busy itineraries.

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Practical tips for booking and enjoying the trip

The meeting point is straightforward: next to Forodhani Garden near the Old Fort — keep an eye out for guides with your name.
Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring the ruins and walking on the beach.
Pack essentials like a hat, sunscreen, camera, snacks, and cash for souvenirs.
Prepare for a potentially rough boat ride—if seasickness is a concern, medication or wristbands might help.
The guided tour offers valuable context but remember it’s a group experience, so patience with other travelers is advisable.

Authentic insights from reviews

An assortment of reviews offers practical tips and highlights. Many mention the stunning views from the boat, which make the ride worth the price alone. One reviewer shared, “The boat trip itself was scenic, and the guides offered a lot of interesting info about the island’s history. The tortoises are just adorable.”

Others appreciated the laid-back vibe: “It’s perfect for a relaxing day, with plenty of time to soak up the sun and swim. Just be prepared for the choppy waters if you’re prone to seasickness.” Several families remarked on the friendly, informative guides, making the experience accessible and engaging for kids and adults alike.

In-depth look at the experience

The boat ride

The journey from Stone Town to Changuu Island is often described as scenic, with views of Zanzibar’s coastline and the Indian Ocean. The boat is typically a small group or shared vessel, lasting about 20-30 minutes each way. Reviewers advise bringing motion sickness remedies if you’re sensitive to choppy waters, as some found the ride “more turbulent than expected.”

Exploring the ruins

Once on the island, you’ll walk around the crumbling prison walls and hospital remnants, with a guide pointing out interesting facts. The atmosphere is quite peaceful, and many find it fascinating to imagine the prison as a defunct relic of Zanzibar’s past. A guide named Hassan, according to reviews, is particularly knowledgeable and engages visitors with stories about the island’s colonial-era history.

Meeting the giant tortoises

The main draw for many is the giant tortoises, which are friendly and approachable. Some of these creatures are over a century old, and visitors can feed or simply observe them. Multiple reviews mention how gentle and calm the tortoises are, making them a favorite for photos and family fun.

Beach time and snorkelling

The island’s beaches are described as serene and uncrowded, perfect for sunbathing or a quick splash in the sea. Snorkelling conditions can vary, but the clear waters often reveal vibrant marine life. Many visitors appreciate having ample time to relax after the tour’s sightseeing, emphasizing the importance of bringing enough water and snacks—since food options are limited on the island.

Final thoughts: who is this tour best for?

This Zanzibar Prison Island tour offers a balanced mix of history, wildlife, and leisure at a reasonable price. It’s particularly appealing if you’re eager to explore beyond the typical tourist spots and enjoy some peaceful beach time. Families will appreciate the gentle tortoises and manageable pace, while history enthusiasts can indulge in the stories behind the ruins.

However, those with mobility issues or sensitivity to seasickness may want to reconsider, as the boat ride can be choppy, and walking involves some uneven terrain. The lack of included meals or hotel transfers makes it less suitable for travelers seeking a fully catered experience, but it’s perfect for those who prefer a flexible, affordable day out.

In all, this tour offers memorable views, interesting history, and adorable wildlife — making it a worthwhile addition to your Zanzibar itinerary.

FAQs

Is the boat ride to Prison Island long?
The boat ride is approximately 20-30 minutes each way, depending on sea conditions. It’s a scenic part of the experience but can be choppy if you’re prone to seasickness.

Are meals included in this tour?
No, meals and drinks are not included. It’s recommended to bring snacks and water for your comfort.

Can I snorkel on the island?
Yes, there’s an opportunity to snorkel, but the quality depends on the weather and tide. Bring your own gear or use what’s available locally.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. Kids tend to love the giant tortoises and the open beach space. Just keep an eye on them near the water and during the boat ride.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring a hat, sunscreen, camera, snacks, water, and swimwear. Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces.

Do I need to book in advance?
While you can reserve your spot, this tour allows for flexible bookings with a full refund if canceled 24 hours ahead. It’s advisable to book ahead during peak seasons.

To sum it up, the Zanzibar Prison Island Boat Trip & Snorkelling offers a well-rounded, affordable day of exploration, wildlife encounters, and relaxation. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a gentle adventure with plenty of photo-worthy moments, especially if they enjoy learning about history and hanging out with giant tortoises. Just remember to prepare for the boat ride and bring essentials for a comfortable, fun-filled day.

You can check availability for your dates here: