Zanzibar : Prison Island Tour

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Introduction: A Unique Slice of Zanzibar’s Heritage

This Zanzibar Prison Island tour offers a fascinating combination of history, wildlife, and scenic beauty, making it a popular half-day adventure. While we haven’t personally experienced it, reviews suggest it’s a captivating escape just a 20-minute boat ride from Stone Town.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see the famous giant land tortoises, the historical curiosity of the island’s prison ruins, and the stunning coral reefs for snorkeling. It’s a well-rounded trip that balances education, wildlife, and relaxation. One thing to keep in mind, though, is that some tours have mixed reviews about guides and activities like snorkeling, which might not always be included as initially described. This tour is ideal for those wanting a quick yet meaningful glimpse into Zanzibar’s past and present, especially if wildlife and history appeal to you.

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Key Points

Historical intrigue of the prison ruins, once used to isolate rebellious slaves
Giant tortoises that are over 100 years old, offering close-up animal encounters
Beautiful boat ride on a traditional dhow, with scenic views of Zanzibar’s coastline
Snorkeling opportunities amidst vibrant coral reefs for underwater enthusiasts
Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
Cost-effective experience at $60 per person, offering good value for wildlife and history

Looking for more options in Zanzibar City? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

An Overview of Prison Island: History and Highlights

Prison Island’s name hints at its past, but today it’s more about preserving the giant tortoises and showcasing local history. Originally, the island was used to house rebellious slaves owned by an Arab landowner, and a prison was built to keep offenders isolated. Interestingly, the prison was never really used, adding a layer of intrigue to its story. Now, the island is home to a sanctuary for these ancient tortoises, some believed to be over 100 years old, originally imported from Seychelles and the Comoros Islands.

The tour typically begins with a boat ride on a traditional dhow, which adds to the authentic Zanzibar experience. The crossing takes roughly 20 minutes, providing a chance to enjoy the sea breeze and scenic views. Once on the island, your guide will lead you through the ruins, sharing stories about its past, while you get up close with the land’s most famous residents—the giant tortoises.

What to Expect from the Prison Island Experience

The Journey to Prison Island

Most tours include hotel pickup and drop-off, which simplifies logistics. The boat ride, often praised for its scenic charm, is a highlight. Reviewers mention the boat is a motorboat rather than a traditional dhow, contrary to some descriptions, but the ride still offers lovely views over the water. Expect to be on the island for around 3-4 hours, including travel time.

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Exploring the Historic Ruins

Once ashore, visitors can explore the prison ruins, which are visually compelling and filled with stories. While the tour guides often share historical insights, some reviews note that guides may not spend much time explaining the site, leaving visitors to explore on their own. A few travelers wished for more detailed commentary, but the chance to walk around freely allows for personal discovery.

There's plenty more to explore in Zanzibar City

Meeting the Giant Tortoises

The sanctuary is the star of the show. These tortoises are surprisingly gentle, and watching them shuffle through the trees is a gentle spectacle. Reviewers have shared how fascinating and cute these creatures are, some over a century old. The opportunity to observe and take photos of these giants offers a memorable highlight, especially for animal lovers.

Snorkeling and Marine Life

The tour description often mentions snorkeling in the clear waters surrounding the island, with vibrant coral reefs to explore. However, some reviews reveal that snorkeling might not be included or available at the time of the tour, and it’s worth confirming when booking. If included, you’ll enjoy the chance to see colorful fish and underwater scenery, perfect for underwater photography.

Practical Details and Value

Pricing and Value

At $60 per person, this tour is competitively priced, especially considering hotel transfers, a guided tour, and island entry are included. For wildlife enthusiasts, the chance to see ancient tortoises, combined with historical insights, makes it a solid deal. Some reviews suggest that the tour can be rushed or that guides sometimes provide limited explanations; therefore, it might be worth requesting a more personalized experience or joining a smaller group.

Timing and Duration

The entire experience usually lasts around half a day, making it suitable for those wanting a quick yet enriching escape from Stone Town. Early mornings are often best to avoid crowds, and afternoons can sometimes be busier. The pickup service ensures smooth logistics, but travelers should be ready at their hotel reception about 5 minutes before the scheduled departure.

Guides and Group Size

Contentions include some guides being less engaging, rushing through the tour or not providing detailed explanations. This seems to be a common theme across reviews, with some travelers noting that guides play their phones or don’t spend much time on site. If you prioritize a more in-depth guided experience, consider asking for a guide with good reviews or a smaller group.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is ideal for wildlife lovers eager to get up close with giant tortoises and explore Zanzibar’s colonial past. It suits travelers with a curiosity for history and a relaxed attitude towards guided excursions. Those keen on snorkeling should double-check whether this activity is included on their specific tour date, as it’s not guaranteed. It’s also perfect for families or couples looking for a scenic, half-day activity without the need for extensive planning.

Final Thoughts on Value and Experience

Prison Island offers a thoughtfully curated mix of history, wildlife, and scenic beauty. The highlight for many will be the giant tortoises—a rare chance to stand beside creatures over a century old—and the chance to explore the island’s ruins. The boat ride itself is an atmospheric start, and the coral reefs nearby provide a lovely underwater backdrop if snorkeling is available.

While guides vary and some visitors feel the explanations could be more detailed, the freedom to wander and photograph adds charm. The overall cost at $60 offers good value, especially considering the included boat transfer, entrance fee, and guided tour. It’s a straightforward and enjoyable experience, perfect for those short on time but eager to see a different side of Zanzibar.

FAQs

Is snorkeling included in the tour?
Snorkeling is sometimes mentioned as an activity, but reviews indicate it might not always be included or available. It’s best to confirm with the operator before booking.

How long does the boat ride take?
The crossing from Stone Town to Prison Island takes roughly 20 minutes by motorboat.

What is the tour price?
The tour costs about $60 per person, which generally covers transportation, entry fees, and guided tours.

Are hotel pickups available?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics easy.

Can I explore the island on my own?
Absolutely. After the guided portion, you’re free to walk around, take photos, and enjoy the scenery at your own pace.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children often enjoy seeing the tortoises and exploring the ruins, though supervision around water and the ruins is advised.

Final Words

This Zanzibar Prison Island tour is a charming, affordable way to connect with local history, meet gentle giant tortoises, and enjoy scenic water views. It’s perfect for travelers who value wildlife, history, and nature in a relaxed setting. While guides may vary in depth of explanation, the overall experience remains memorable. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, history buff, or just seeking a scenic half-day trip, Prison Island offers a taste of Zanzibar’s diverse character, wrapped in a package of stunning views and gentle adventures.