Zanzibar: Prison Island, Stone Town, & Spice Farm Tour

This popular full-day tour offers a well-rounded taste of Zanzibar’s vibrant culture and natural beauty. It’s a great way to see some of the island’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning logistics yourself.

What we love about this experience? First, the expert guides who bring local history and stories to life, making each site feel meaningful. Second, the beautiful boat ride to Prison Island that is both scenic and fun, giving you a chance to spot some of the island’s famous giant tortoises. Lastly, the delicious lunch at the spice farm, offering fresh local flavors in a lush rainforest setting.

One possible consideration? The day can be quite busy with lots of sites to cover, so if you prefer a slow pace or want more time shopping, this might feel a little rushed. Still, it’s perfect for travelers who want a rundown in one trip.

This tour suits those interested in history, culture, and natural beauty — perfect for first-time visitors or anyone wanting to tick off Zanzibar’s top attractions efficiently.

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Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary covers Stone Town, Prison Island, and a spice farm in one day
Expert guides provide fascinating insights and local stories
Great value for the inclusive price of $64 per person, with lunch and entrance fees covered
Flexible booking options allow reservation now and pay later
Travel logistics are well-organized, with hotel pickup and drop-off included
Authentic experiences like spice tastings and turtle sightings enrich the trip

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Zanzibar City

Starting the Day with Hotel Pickup and Convenient Transfers

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup, which is a big plus — no need to worry about finding your way to meeting points or booking separate transport. The collection is punctual, and the ride to Stone Town offers a chance to relax or ask questions about what’s ahead.

Exploring Stone Town’s Unique Urban Scene

Once in Stone Town, your guide (often Abdul, according to reviews) begins to reveal the fascinating layers of history behind Zanzibar’s capital. Expect to walk through narrow, winding streets lined with buildings that showcase a mix of African, Arab, Indian, and European influences. Reviewers highlight guides like Khamis as particularly friendly and knowledgeable, sharing insights into local culture and history.

You’ll see sites like markets, mosques, churches, and the famous Darajani bazaar, which offers a glimpse into local daily life. Although many visitors mention how vibrant and photogenic Stone Town is, some note that a two-hour visit might feel a bit rushed if you’re eager to explore further or shop for souvenirs. Still, the emphasis on storytelling makes a short walk feel rich and immersive.

Boat Ride to Prison Island: A Scenic Adventure

Next, you’ll hop on a boat for a roughly 20-minute trip to Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island. The boat ride itself is a highlight, with reviewers mentioning how much fun it is to sail across the turquoise waters, often accompanied by sights of boats racing by or the chance to snap great photos.

Once on Prison Island, history buffs will find the old prison building intriguing—built in 1893 and originally meant for dangerous prisoners and the sick. The island is famous for its giant tortoise sanctuary, where visitors can get close to tortoises imported from Seychelles in the 19th century. Reviewers love seeing these magnificent creatures wander freely, with some noting how friendly and approachable the tortoises are.

A few reviews mention that Prison Island itself doesn’t have a lot of buildings or attractions, but the giant tortoises and the peaceful setting make it worthwhile. The island’s natural beauty paired with the charming history makes it a memorable stop.

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Walking Tour of Stone Town Continues

After returning from Prison Island, the tour continues with a walk through more of Stone Town, where guides share stories about Zanzibar’s past as a trading hub and the story behind various buildings. This part of the experience is packed with insights, from the architecture to cultural customs.

Many reviews appreciate guides like Sultan or Abdul for their friendly demeanor and local knowledge. They often answer questions about Zanzibar’s diverse influences, from the spice trade to the island’s role in historical slave trade routes.

There's plenty more to explore in Zanzibar City

Visit to a Spice Farm: A Sensory Feast

The afternoon takes you to a lush spice farm set in rainforest surroundings. This is one of the most-loved parts of the tour, especially because of the chance to taste, smell, and see spices like cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, turmeric, and nutmeg growing in their natural environment.

Walks through the spice farm reveal how each plant is cultivated, with guides explaining their uses and significance. Visitors frequently describe the experience as both educational and tasty — sampling fresh fruits and spices, and even trying some local dishes like spiced rice with fruits.

The spice farm also offers an opportunity for souvenir shopping, with stalls selling freshly ground spices and other local products. Many travelers mention the guide’s enthusiasm and patience in explaining everything, making the experience feel interactive and fun.

Lunch and Final Moments

The day wraps up with a generous lunch at the spice farm, featuring local dishes like rice, fish, chicken, and fresh fruits. Reviewers often highlight how flavorful and authentic the food is, a perfect ending to a busy day of sightseeing.

Practical Tips and What to Bring

Travelers are advised to bring sunglasses, a sun hat, camera, drinks, and cash for souvenirs or extra snacks. The tour lasts around 8 hours, so packing a bottle of water and some snacks is recommended, especially since lunch can be quite late (around 3 PM).

Overall Value and Experience

At $64 per person, this tour offers a lot of value — covering all major highlights with an experienced guide, transport, and meals included. Based on reviews, many agree that the organization is smooth, and the guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share local insights.

Some reviewers mention how the tour can be quite packed, with limited free time for shopping or lingering at sites. Still, the balance of historical, cultural, and natural attractions makes it an excellent overview for first-time visitors or those short on time.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re eager to see the main sights of Zanzibar in one day, enjoy storytelling from passionate guides, and love tasting local spices, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially suited for travelers looking for good value, with everything arranged for a hassle-free experience.

However, if you prefer a slower pace, more time shopping, or a focus on just one aspect (like just Stone Town), you might want to explore other options or customize your trip.

The Sum Up

This tour packs a punch by combining Zanzibar’s vibrant history, stunning natural scenery, and fragrant spice culture into one manageable day. It’s a well-organized, engaging experience that delivers great value, especially considering all logistics, entrance fees, and meals are included.

The knowledgeable guides and authentic experiences — from the giant tortoises on Prison Island to the aromatic spice farm — ensure you walk away with a deeper appreciation for Zanzibar’s diversity. It’s perfect for curious travelers who want a comprehensive, fun, and educational snapshot of this enchanting island.

While it’s a busy day and might feel slightly rushed at times, the overall experience is rewarding and full of photo-worthy moments. We’d recommend it for first-timers, families, or anyone eager for a taste of Zanzibar’s colorful culture and history — all wrapped up in one hassle-free package.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, making it a full-day experience.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a generous lunch featuring local dishes like spiced rice and fruits is part of the package.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, camera, drinks, cash for souvenirs, and snacks, especially since lunch can be later in the afternoon.

Are entrance fees covered?
Yes, the tour includes entry fees for the spice farm and Prison Island (if you select that option), ensuring no surprise costs.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, with attractions like the giant tortoises and cultural sites. However, it may be too long for very young children or those with limited mobility.

Can I customize the tour?
Customizations aren’t specified, but reviews highlight that logistics and communication are smooth, so you could inquire about additional options or guides in other languages.

Exploring Zanzibar’s top sights in a single day has never been easier or more enjoyable. With friendly guides, tasty local food, and unforgettable sights, this tour offers a vibrant and authentic taste of the island’s charm.